Summer Isolation: Life on a Remote Maine Island

Every summer, Scott Kern retreats to Sand Island, an isolated corner of Casco Bay, off the coast of Maine. His summer home lacks modern conveniences like running water and electricity, providing a rare escape from urban life's hustle and bustle.

Kern's parents acquired joint ownership of the island in the 1990s. The small, 1.5-acre landmass, a mere 15-minute boat journey from Portland, serves as Kern's sanctuary for three months a year, where he lives a simple life dictated by natural rhythms.

During his stay, Kern relies on a gas generator, a grill, and a deep freezer, transforming a makeshift dwelling he fondly refers to as his 'Garden Shed Tree Fort.' Constructed from recycled building materials, the fort suits his minimalist needs perfectly.

Supplies are fetched infrequently; a slower-paced boat ride to Portland is a 45-minute commitment. Typically, Kern stocks up every three to five weeks, sourcing fresh water from a nearby island café in substantial 30-gallon batches.

Though often queried about his bathroom setup on the island, Kern prefers to steer the conversation towards more meaningful topics, reflecting on the significant experience of living on what he calls 'Planet Sand.'

Finding Belonging on a Bare Island

His connection to Sand Island runs deep. Purchased as unimproved land covered with sand and untamed nature, it required significant adaptation and creativity. Despite its barrenness, devoid of docks or structures, Kern has nurtured a sense of comfort and belonging.

Initially, Sand Island was an infrequent camping spot, but over time those stays extended as Kern found solace from feeling out of place elsewhere. His parents' love for the adjoining seas and sailing further fuelled his affection for this slice of seclusion.

Island Living: A Path to Recovery

Kern credits the island with playing a pivotal role in his sobriety journey. Once battling addiction and health problems, the island’s tranquility offered a compelling draw for rejuvenation and change.

His early return visits to the island were marred by late mornings clouded by hangovers. Witnessing the joyous simplicity of day-visitors spending time with family pushed Kern to question his own life choices. Nearly seven years sober, he reflects on the transformation that the island has inspired.

Nature’s Influence on Mental Wellness

Life on Sand Island is laborious yet rewarding. Days are spent constructing protective rock barriers against erosion and fixing essential gear. Scott shares these experiences on his YouTube channel, set to upbeat tunes from his battery-operated radio.

Social interactions are cherished. A spontaneous influx this past summer saw 60 visitors arrive in one day. Observing families connect in the island's untouched beauty offers moments of profound warmth and community.

Surrounded by nature, and detached from the constant hum of technology, Scott finds the island a source of mental health. If a brief encounter with nature can revive the spirit, continuous immersion for months is bound to be transformative. For Kern, the remote island is both a retreat and a healer.