Vacation rentals in Southwest Harbor

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Southwest Harbor

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Top guest favorite
A charming entrance features a pale pink door with multiple small panes, framed by a decorative gable. Colorful flower pots with purple and blue blooms are placed on either side, enhancing the welcoming appearance of the white exterior wall.
Apartment in Tremont
5 out of 5 average rating, 244 reviews

Nest:a place of rest, retreat, or lodging

The NEST is located in a small community on the "quiet side" of Mount Desert Island, home of Acadia National Park. This beautiful, light filled, fully equipped apartment is available year round for guests. With it's own private entrance and sliding door to an east facing 2nd story deck, it has views of the mountains and clear night skies. Located on a small "farmette". Easy access to the beach, hiking trails and restaurants. This apartment is a perfect retreat for the off-season. (Read on)

Guest favorite
A fire pit area is surrounded by four Adirondack-style chairs, set on a grassy patch. Views of the harbor and surrounding trees provide a tranquil backdrop, with the cottage’s red exterior visible in the corner of the image. The scene captures a peaceful outdoor gathering space.
Cottage in Southwest Harbor
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 156 reviews

Southwest Harbor Cottage

Enjoy unparalleled views of bustling Southwest Harbor and the beauty of Acadia National Park from the comfort of Eagle's Nest. Perched on a granite cliff, this thoughtfully designed little home provides for your every need. For anything else, take the ten minute stroll into the village, where you'll find plenty of local shops and restaurants. You can access the water via a set of stairs leading from the property to the shoreline. End your days on the deck and keep your eyes peeled for seals!

Top guest favorite
The charming A-frame cabin is framed by lush trees, featuring a sloped roof and a welcoming red door. The front deck hosts two seating areas, complemented by vibrant seasonal flowers in terracotta pots, creating a serene outdoor space.
Cabin in Southwest Harbor
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 229 reviews

Poet's Cabin - Year-round Acadia A-Frame Getaway

If you're looking for a beautiful cabin in the woods on the Quietside of Mount Desert Island, you've found it! A perfect spot for couples, solo travelers, families of 3 & friends. Cute, cozy & charming, Poet's Cabin is newly renovated w/ Brentwood queen bed, sleep sofa, stainless oven, DW & microwave. Serene porch to relax on. Private yet convenient setting - close to ocean, hikes, downtown Southwest Harbor, 5min from Acadia's Seawall Beach, Bass Harbor Lighthouse, Echo Lake Beach, & more!

Guest favorite
A cozy cottage is nestled on a waterside deck, surrounded by lush greenery. The scene features a calm harbor reflecting the blue sky and fluffy clouds, with rocky shores and distant homes visible along the waterfront.
Cottage in Southwest Harbor
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 136 reviews

Seaside Cottage, Southwest Harbor & Acadia

Our cozy family cottage on the "Quiet Side" of Mount Desert Island has panoramic views of Southwest Harbor and the Cranberry Islands. Watch the tide and boats come and go from your bed! High tide splashes below the cantilevered deck. Quaint downtown shopping & dining is just 3/10 mile along a sidewalk. Several access points to Acadia National Park less than 5 miles away; downtown Bar Harbor is a 25 minute drive. The cottage is ideal for couples or families with supervised children.

Top guest favorite
A view of Bass Harbor is captured, featuring a fishing boat docked in the calm waters. Surrounding trees display autumn foliage, while the horizon reveals a distant outline of land under a soft, overcast sky.
Guesthouse in Tremont
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 201 reviews

Fairview Cottage

DOGS WELCOME. Our guest home is best suited for a family of 4. Come enjoy the fresh air and beautiful blue skies of Maine. Sunny, charming two story home with views of the Atlantic Ocean from Bass Harbor. The Bass Harbor/Swan Island Ferry is located at the end of our driveway. Bas Harbor is a working harbor so there is always something to watch. Close to Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, Acadia NP. We have 5G Wifi. Your guest house is completely private with a private entrance.

Top guest favorite
A rustic cabin is nestled among trees, featuring a wraparound deck with sliding glass doors and multiple windows. The outdoor area includes a seating arrangement around a fire pit and a mix of stone and paved pathways, with natural landscaping enhancing the serene environment.
Cabin in Southwest Harbor
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews

Seawall Cabin - Peaceful woods retreat in Acadia

Enjoy the peace, tranquility, and solitude of your private and secluded luxury cabin tucked into the woods and just minutes away from the ocean and some of Acadia's best oceanside views and hikes. A true nature retreat. Listen to the ocean waves and the clang of buoy bells around the fire pit at night. The charming town of Southwest Harbor is 7 minutes away. Walk to the legendary Charlotte's Lobster Pound at the end of the road. Easy and beautiful 25 minute drive to Bar Harbor.

Guest favorite
A bright and airy sunroom features large windows allowing natural light to fill the space. An inviting wooden bench sits against the wall, complemented by a colorful rug. Bar stools are positioned along the counter, enhancing the open design of the room.
Cottage in Southwest Harbor
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 127 reviews

Cheerful 3-Bedroom Cottage moments from ocean

Mimi's Cottage is your getaway home located in the heart of Mount Desert Island. Acadia National Park is next door, as well as lighthouses, the ocean, and many outdoor activities for the whole family. We offer a welcoming rental experience for large and small groups. We are within moments of the ocean and our quaint little village of Southwest Harbor. Mimi's Cottage is thoughtfully furnished for young and old, and offers the perfect space for your Downeast Maine adventures.

Top guest favorite
A cozy living space features a blue armchair and a sofa adorned with a fish pattern. A white coffee table sits in front, showcasing decorative items. A dining area with wicker chairs is visible in the background, along with a well-equipped kitchen and air conditioning unit.
Apartment in Southwest Harbor
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 197 reviews

The barnacle

This three bedroom, second floor apartment is located in the heart of downtown Southwest Harbor. Perfect for people who want to have all that town has to offer right at their fingertips! This apartment is surrounded by many wonderful restaurants, boutiques and art galleries. It is located right across the street from the Island Explorer bus stop. We are a short walk to the harbor and surrounded by all Acadia National Park has to offer. CHECK IN IS ANYTIME AFTER 4PM

Guest favorite
The main living area is designed with an open concept, featuring large windows that provide sweeping views of the harbor. A comfortable sofa and a coffee table are present, alongside a modern television. The kitchen and dining area are visible in the background.
Condo in Southwest Harbor
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 131 reviews

2BR Condo Downtown SWH + Ocean Views [Driftwood]

This newly renovated 4th Floor Condo was completed in 2022. Enjoy a private deck and your view of Southwest Harbor! The open concept design of the main living space of the home is great for groups to enjoy together! **In 2023 we switched from Window A/C Units to Portable A/C Units to reduce noise from road in bedrooms** Location Highlights: -4min Drive to Bass Harbor -18min Drive to Acadia National Park [Hulls Cove Entrance] -20min Drive to Downtown Bar Harbor

Top guest favorite
A bright living area features large windows that allow ample natural light, with a view of the outdoors. A comfortable sofa and a small coffee table are positioned on a light carpet, while decorative lamps provide additional lighting. Colorful curtains adorn the windows.
Apartment in Tremont
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 193 reviews

Duck Cove Apartment

Enjoy salty sea air when you stay at this vacation rental apartment in Bernard, Maine! Bring along your own kayaks to take advantage of the waterfront property. Just a few miles from Acadia National Park and a 20-minute drive to Bar Harbor , the space allows you and your favorite travel companions to explore the beautiful surroundings with ease! It doesn't get any better than beautiful ocean views, direct water access, and the best lobster in the country;

Top guest favorite
The exterior of Summit Bungalow features a dark-shingled facade with large windows adorned with flower boxes. A welcoming porch leads to the entrance, flanked by green grass and a stone pathway, while a mature tree provides shade nearby.
Bungalow in Mount Desert
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 111 reviews

Delightful Bungalow - Northeast Harbor & Acadia

Welcome to Northeast Harbor and Acadia National Park! SUMMIT BUNGALOW is a cozy home that is a block away from water views and within easy walking distance to town. Hiking, carriage trail walks and biking, time spent on the water, and restaurants, are ready for you to enjoy! Within town is a library, public tennis courts, and numerous shops to explore. Begin your mornings with coffee on the porch swing and end the day over-looking the spacious backyard.

Top guest favorite
An airy living area features a skylight enhancing natural light, complemented by light-colored wooden flooring. A cozy blue sofa is positioned beside a small wooden dining area. A potted plant adds a touch of greenery, while the kitchen appliances are subtly integrated into the space.
Apartment in Southwest Harbor
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 139 reviews

Cozy Quietside Retreat

On the west (“quiet") side of Mount Desert Island, 2 min from Acadia NP hiking trails, Echo Lake Beach, downtown Southwest Harbor; 25 minto Bar Harbor. Our location is beautiful and quiet, surrounded by woods. Apt is on the 2nd level; it offers privacy: your own driveway, entrance and deck. It feels secluded. 2024: new deck and heat pump (air conditioning, no humidity!)

Popular amenities for Southwest Harbor vacation rentals

When is the best time to visit Southwest Harbor?

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Avg. priceﺩ.ﺇ735ﺩ.ﺇ661ﺩ.ﺇ694ﺩ.ﺇ735ﺩ.ﺇ933ﺩ.ﺇ1,102ﺩ.ﺇ1,194ﺩ.ﺇ1,223ﺩ.ﺇ1,098ﺩ.ﺇ1,102ﺩ.ﺇ808ﺩ.ﺇ826
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the best places to stay in Southwest Harbor?

    Stays near the downtown area, around the harbor, and in peaceful neighborhoods are often praised for walkable dining, shops, and scenic views. You can find vacation rentals and cozy inns with easy access to local attractions.

  • What are the best things to do in Southwest Harbor with kids?

    Engage kids with outdoor adventures, visit tide pools, enjoy boat rides on the harbor, or try interactive exhibits at local maritime centers. Community parks and ice cream stands provide easy family-friendly fun.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Southwest Harbor?

    Explore harborfront paths, browse local galleries, and join guided tours highlighting maritime history. Hiking, kayaking, and sampling regional seafood are frequently suggested ways to connect with the area’s coastal character.

  • How is the weather in Southwest Harbor?

    Southwest Harbor has cold, snowy winters around 9–35°F (-13–1°C), and milder, pleasant summers ranging from 53–80°F (11–27°C). Rain is possible year-round, so packing waterproof layers is helpful.

  • When is the best time to visit Southwest Harbor?

    Late spring through early fall is frequently suggested for milder weather and outdoor activities, with temperatures reaching 66–80°F (19–27°C) in summer. Fall draws visitors for colorful foliage and quieter streets.

  • What are the best places to visit in Southwest Harbor?

    Visit the small downtown area for local shops and galleries, explore nearby trails in Acadia National Park, and take in the scenery from local piers. Maritime museums and boatyards highlight the area’s seafaring traditions.

  • What are some hiking trails in Southwest Harbor?

    You can explore family-friendly paths like Wonderland Trail, try Ship Harbor Trail for coastal views, or venture into Acadia National Park for a variety of forest and shoreline hikes. Trails often wind through spruce woods and rocky shores.

  • What are some family activities we can do in Southwest Harbor?

    Families can explore nature trails, join boat tours on the harbor, visit local maritime museums, or enjoy picnics at community parks. Seasonal ice cream shops, playgrounds, and interactive exhibits also appeal to a range of ages.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas from Southwest Harbor?

    Explore Acadia National Park for hiking or scenic outlooks, wander historic Bar Harbor’s shops, or visit local lighthouses on neighboring peninsulas. You can also join wildlife-watching excursions along the coast.

  • Are there any pet friendly accommodations available in Southwest Harbor?

    Pet-friendly accommodations can be found in various Southwest Harbor neighborhoods, including rentals near the waterfront and forested areas. Many hosts provide information on nearby trails and parks suitable for pets.

  • What are some local tips for visiting Southwest Harbor?

    Reserve popular boat tours and dining spots ahead during summer, bring layers and rain gear for changing weather, and explore quieter trails during early mornings. Chatting with local shop owners can lead to insider recommendations.

  • What is Southwest Harbor known for?

    Southwest Harbor is known for its harbor views, maritime heritage, and being a gateway to outdoor activities near Acadia National Park. The town draws many for laid-back coastal living and traditional boatbuilding.

  • What are the best hidden gems to explore in Southwest Harbor?

    Discover quieter coves, secret picnic areas, and pocket beaches near the harbor, along with lesser-known art galleries. Locally owned bookstores and small seafood shacks often provide a distinct taste of the town’s character.

  • What are the best foods to try in Southwest Harbor?

    Locally caught lobster, seafood chowder, blueberry pie, and fresh baked goods are frequently suggested in Southwest Harbor. Many restaurants highlight New England traditions using regional ingredients.

  • What should I bring for a trip to Southwest Harbor?

    Pack layers for shifting weather, sturdy shoes for trails, rain gear, and a hat for sun protection. A camera can capture harbor views and hiking memories, while reusable water bottles suit outings in nature.

  • What is the nightlife in Southwest Harbor like?

    Southwest Harbor has relaxed nightlife with welcoming pubs, local bars, and spots where you can enjoy live music, conversation, and regional brews. Many venues highlight a friendly, laid-back atmosphere typical of coastal Maine towns.

  • What are the most popular events or festivals in Southwest Harbor?

    Southwest Harbor has annual traditions such as holiday parades, art fairs, and maritime celebrations, especially around summer and autumn weekends. Community events often feature local crafts, live music, and seasonal food.

  • Are there family friendly vacation rentals in Southwest Harbor?

    Southwest Harbor has many family-friendly vacation rentals, with options near parks, the harbor, and quiet neighborhoods. These homes typically include kitchens and open living spaces suited for group gatherings.

All about Southwest Harbor

Southwest Harbor, a town just off the coast of northern Maine, is New England at its most picturesque, where streets lined with clapboard houses sit amid pine trees and where sailboats bob along the inlets of Somes Sound. Located on the southern shore of Mount Desert Island, the township is the more serene counterpart to bustling Bar Harbor on the island’s northeast side.

Take a stroll along the coast for idyllic views of the sound and Little Cranberry Island, a tiny, artistic community that can be reached by ferry. Turn inland and head downtown to explore classic New England shops selling local blueberry jam and tourmaline jewelry, as well as handmade crafts with a nautical theme. Settle in for dinner at one of the harborside restaurants, where you can enjoy Maine’s best-known staple — fresh lobster.

Just moments outside downtown is the 47,000-acre Acadia National Park, where you’ll find 158 miles of hiking trails and 27 miles of historic, scenic roads. The Great Head Trail takes you 1.7 miles along the coastline and through hardwood forests, passing by an early-1900s tea house. The area is also a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking, and you can paddle along the shoreline of Somes Sound while harbor seals and other marine life come to greet you.

What are the top things to do in Southwest Harbor?

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park, which covers half of Mount Desert Island, is known for its unspoiled expanses of rocky headlands, forests, and wetlands, which are protected from the Atlantic Ocean by high mountains. The old carriage roads running through the park weave through U-shaped valleys and past granite domes. The Southwest Harbor side of the park is less mountainous than the Bar Harbor side, but you can find several scenic, level trails that will lead you to picnic spots by the water.

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

The Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, which stands at the entrance to Bass Harbor and Blue Hill Bay, sits on a cliff on the very southern tip of Mount Desert Island within Acadia National Park. The structure dates back to 1855 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988. Today, the lighthouse is a private home, but a path takes visitors up to the light and bell. While you are there, you can take the wooden steps to the granite boulders below to see the lighthouse from the harbor.

Great Cranberry Island

A short ferry trip will bring you from Southwest Harbor to Great Cranberry Island, just to the east of town. The largest of the Cranberry Isles, it measures just two miles long. You can visit the History Museum on the island, walk the beautiful trail to the shore, and cross over to tiny Crow Island on foot at low tide. A highlight of the year here is the Ladies Aid Fair, held annually in August since 1900, with handmade quilts on display and crafts and baked goods for sale.

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Southwest Harbor

  • Total vacation rentals

    Explore 510 vacation rentals in Southwest Harbor

  • Nightly prices starting at

    Southwest Harbor vacation rentals start at ﺩ.ﺇ110 per night before taxes and fees

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 28,570 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly vacation rentals

    330 properties offer extra space & kid-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly vacation rentals

    Find 190 rentals that welcome pets

  • Vacation rentals with a pool

    10 properties feature pools

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    170 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wi-Fi availability

    500 of Southwest Harbor vacation rentals include wi-fi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Self check-in, Gym, and BBQ grill across Southwest Harbor rentals

  • 4.9 Average rating

    Southwest Harbor stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.9 out of 5!

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