If you’re looking for a breath of fresh air, look no further. Long Island is here.

No, I’m not crazy. You just need to remove “New York” and replace it with “Maine”. And there you have it: fresh air.

National Geographic style scenic coasts, shell grazing paradise, a beach where the sand literally sings, dense forests boasting frequent deer sightings, a road with more bunny paraphernalia than you could ever dream of - all on an island! Am I selling this yet?

This fresh version of Long Island is located off the coast of Portland, Maine in what they call Casco Bay. Despite having lived in New England for approximately my entire life, I had no idea that these islands existed. But now that I do, let me tell ya, I’ve mentally committed to hopping on a ferry and visiting them every year for the rest of my time on this planet.

So here I am, digitally standing (sitting) in front of you, in the middle of a pandemic, telling you how to achieve ultimate relaxation.

Step 1: Book a trip to Long Island, Maine.

Step 2: That’s literally it. You’re done. You’re welcome.

Hot travel tips time. Buckle up.

Groceries: Whole Foods has a service called Provisions. Shop in-store at their Portland location, tell them you’re heading off to be an island bum, pay a small fee per box and BAM: groceries delivered to the island later that day via ferry (note: potentially only on Tuesdays). A bunch of stores in the area do this, but I was told Whole Foods succeeds with flying colors. I like food so I needed flying colors, ya feel me?
Adult beverages: There is a store (Boathouse Beverage & Variety) on the island that you should 150% support while there, but if you’re going to be sipping on a lot of bubbly, I would suggest bringing some bottles with you to save a few dollars.
Ferry: Casco Bay Lines operates out of Portland with year-round service. Tickets must be bought in-person. Dogs can come too and a vacation where you watch your dog explore rocks, ocean and miles of ferns (with a tick collar) is the best kind there is.
Transportation: The island is technically walkable and you can bring bikes, but the golf cart life is the life for me. Convenient and just plain badass. Super easy process of emailing another human. Happy to provide those details.
Rental: My only criteria for a rental was a porch with a view on which I could sip both coffee and wine. Man, did this place blow me away. Our host was amazing too. Please note: I share this information under the condition that no one on the entire internet can book it the week I want to next year. Okay? Okay.
COVID: One day this won’t be an issue, but for now, this is a great spot for a social distance vacation, particularly if you’re within driving distance. Respectful mask wearers on the ferry and otherwise you can stay as many feet as you want to from other humans.

Some other things I can confirm:

Byers & Sons Long Island Bakehouse = Fabulous sandwiches, but call ahead.
Ed Shack/Hardshell Cafe = Great lobster roll and an even better view.
South Beach = Sandy, best option for a bit of room between groups.
Fowler’s Beach = Very Maine-esque with rock formations and passing lobster boats.
Cushing Point = Rocky beach but holy shells!
Bugs = Do not travel without bug spray. Warning you now.
Where The Crawdad’s Sing = Fantabulous beach read to start and finish on your trip.

Safe Travels,

xx Tay