The Most Remote Small Town In Maine Is The Perfect Place To Get Away From It All
By Andrea Verschuyl|Published October 30, 2023
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Andrea Verschuyl
Author
Having grown up in Washington, Andrea is a self-admitted Pacific Northwest snob. In their opinion, there's simply nowhere else in the country with the Evergreen State's beauty. After attending university, Andrea devoted themselves to writing full-time. They're thrilled to represent Washington for Only In Your State while pursuing other professional and personal projects. They currently reside in Olympia, where they enjoy leaf-blowing their yard, perfecting homemade ramen, cuddling with their three tiny dogs, and feeding their pufferfish, Sea Biscuit.
Located twenty miles from Maine's coast in the heart of beautiful Penobscot Bay, Matinicus Island is one of the state's most isolated— yet inhabited— places. Encircled by indigo water and buffeted by ocean winds, this tiny community is a world unto itself.
Though Indigenous peoples frequented Matinicus to hunt and fish long before Europeans arrived to the area in the 1600s, the island was never densely populated. In fact, Matinicus' population was higher in 1790 than it was in 2020 by a whopping six people! Nowadays, only 53 individuals call this rugged spot their year-round home.
Life in this remote community adheres to island time, but Matinicus locals are incredibly industrious, with livelihoods in fishing and construction. Though Matinicus has thus far escaped the droves of seasonal tourists who descend on mainland towns, it's cultivated a budding hospitality industry. This smattering of hotels and vacation rentals accommodates the rare individuals willing to travel so far out of the way.
Speaking of that journey, options to reach Matinicus Isle are limited to air and water. A 2.5-hour ferry runs reliably from nearby Rockland, but boat owners may also rent local moorings. For the most spectacular arrival, charter a flight with Penobscot Island Air. The aerial views are unrivaled, but rest assured, whatever mode of transportation you choose will infuse your trip with a welcome adventure.
For being so tiny, activities on the island are remarkably diverse! Local trails meander over rolling terrain, delivering hikers to breathtaking territorial views and charming vignettes of small-town life.
Most importantly, embrace the opportunity to slow down. Besides the few who call Matinicus home, few people will ever have the chance to get to know this unique community.
If you’ve been looking for the most remote place in Maine to visit, then this is it! Matinicus Isle awaits, boasting memorable adventure, divine natural beauty, and fascinating history. And if you’re looking for the perfect place to spend a few days while you’re here, check out the “Isle Be Back” House on Airbnb!
