
Southwest Harbor vacation rentals
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Top-rated vacation rentals in Southwest Harbor
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Popular amenities for Southwest Harbor vacation rentals
Southwest Harbor cottage rentals

Timeless Tides Cottage
We absolutely loved our stay at Carlow and Karen’s cozy little cabin. So many small details that did not go unnoticed and made our first family getaway so special- excellent communication, super comfortable beds and linens, a wonderful shower, small fairy lights that were so cozy at night. A beautiful yard with water views were priceless. The swing and the dock were a hit with the kids. We can’t wait to return!

Up Back Cottage
This cabin was such a peaceful, beautiful escape from the world. It truly looks better than the pictures- very spacious, comfortable, and relaxing. It's equipped with everything you could need. The skylight and screened porch was magical in the rain. Eric and Diane were excellent hosts- appreciated the instructions regarding the woodstove and the recommendation for a rainy day excursion to the Schoodic peninsula :) This is the perfect place for anyone interested in exploring Acadia or Bar Harbor. Can't wait to return!!

Lakefront Cottage on Tracy Pond, New Hampshire
Incredibly nice people. The owners are right next store and were working on installing a hot tub while we were there.Because of the small size, it was easy to climate control, which was very nice. Very peaceful, 7 minute drive to the grocery store and no more than a 20 minute drive from everything we did. We don't find ourselves in this part of Maine often, but my wife said we should stay here again if we ever need to be in the area, looking forward to enjoying the hot tub. As a bonus, there are two nice outdoor cats, and I bonded with Blizzard.

MaineStay Cottage #1 Bangor/Hampden full kitchen
If I found myself back in the area I would definitely stay here again. Ivy was extremely responsive and friendly and the rental was super clean and tidy and had everything we needed and more. The kitchen was fully stocked, the bathroom had extras should you have left anything behind and the welcome basket had snacks and enough coffee/tea and creamer to get you through a few days. We were also given a ton of towels which I can't appreciate more. I've stayed at places that give you two towels for like a weeks stay. The literal only downside was the cabins are close so our neighbor came home very late two nights in a row and the headlights and doors closing woke me up but it didn't wake my husband up so it's not an issue if you're not a light sleeper. I definitely recommend Ivy's place and really appreciate the attention to cleanliness she provides.

Cottage on the lake
Lovely little cottage on a quiet peaceful road. The lake is gorgeous to see through the windows or off the porch, the drive to Acadia and bar harbor is a breeze and Ellsworth Main Street has plenty to offer. Jackie and Kurt are great hosts!

Modern cottage with hummingbirds
Galen and Cindy were wonderful hosts! The cottage was incredibly comfortable and made my husband, daughter, and me feel right at home. The location is perfect—just about 30 minutes from Acadia National Park and close to great restaurants and shops. We truly enjoyed our stay and will definitely be back! 😊

The Cottage - close to Camden and Belfast
We LOVED staying in the cottage! It’s beautiful and cozy and stunning — even more amazing in person than the gorgeous photos :-) Iveta and her husband are so kind and helpful, you could not ask for more amazing hosts! Would love to stay here again.

The Otter Cottage at Bay Meadow Cottages
Great spot! Highly recommend!
Southwest Harbor house rentals

Ferry lodging @Acadia NP ( sleeps 14)
Worth the price.. place is perfect for family getaway! We experience the best sunset just 3mins away from the house. Host is very proactive... Thank you for the amazing stay!

Cove House
We have been going to this area of Maine for over fifty years. I found this gem several years ago and haven’t stayed anywhere since. I find it to be peaceful, walkable to the center via footbridge, it’s all that we want. Kathy is a great host, quickly responds to any questions or needs you may have. We always know we will have a great experience staying here.

Patten Pond Cottage
Seven stars out of five! We have stayed in numerous places in Maine over the years, and given a lot of five star reviews. This one surpasses them all, hence the off the charts grade. It is incredibly well provisioned, spotless, spacious, inviting, and has an enormous porch with a view so lovely it looks fake. You can't even hear your neighbors, let alone see them. We heard loons, crows, and one very belligerent owl, but not once did we hear our neighbors. The only way you will know the tenant is home, is that a car will park opposite on the side of the house from you. The fire pit makes it easy and convenient to host a fire, even if it is only for 45 minutes or so. Kayaks are provided along with life jackets. At night you can see millions of stars. Place is so peaceful and comfortable, we almost didn't make it into the park haha. We will definitely be back!

Parker Farm House
Amazing and beautiful place! Kitchen has species, butter and other nice little things! Just I just wish the residents were allowed to use the fireplace, it's real, not imitation.

Cape Lamoine
A group of us stayed at Camp Lamoine and were impreased with this property! It was close to Acadia National Park and other areas we decided to go. Spectacular yard and even had a place for a campfire! Comfortable inside and would stay again. Thanks!

BANGOR MAINE ENTIRE HOUSE QUIET NEIGHBORHOOD
It was a cute little house. Very close to the Maine Savings Amphitheater for the concert we went to! I would like to mention that there are planes and helicopters that go over the house throughout the night. If you don’t mind the noise, it’s a cute little area.

4bed Full House on Private Dr. w/ Large Yard
Beautiful home with a large backyard and super clean. Destioney is a considerate hostess; laid out dog bowls, snacks, water and much more! I would recommend bring earplugs if you're traveling with people who snore loudly or kids as the doors are hollow. Beds are very soft.

Lovely Cape Style Home near Acadia
lovely family home. Had every thing you would need. rules are explicit. it may be helpful to know that the one bathroom is on the second floor.Although family is not in the area, they were responsive in a short period of time. I would not hesitate to stay here again.
Other great vacation rentals in Southwest Harbor

Maine Wilderness Oasis: Hike Swim Kayak Fish
We were traveling up the east coast for 8 days with many stops along the way. This stay was by far the most like “home.” We were able to fully relax and enjoy the scenery! Beautiful home and very clean.

Large adorable 1 bedroom loft with ocean frontage
Brian's place was awesome! We had a great time. We enjoyed a fire in the fire pit by the water one night, and easy access to Acadia and Bar Harbor was ideal. We already are talking about going back

Milk House
The house is cozy and comfortable. Very easy to find. The host is great, very clear instructions.

Lakeside Landing
My husband and I spent our babymoon at Jennifer’s place, and waking up to the stunning lake view each day was just what I needed to unwind. I asked Jennifer if there was cooking oil available, and her mom kindly brought us a bottle of olive oil before our arrival—such a thoughtful gesture! We will definitely stay here again if we're ever in the area.

Acadia get away.! With pool and hot tub
I recently stayed with my family at this incredible Airbnb that exceeded all my expectations. This property offered a hot tub, a pool table, and a level of privacy and tranquility that made for a truly relaxing getaway. One of the highlights of our stay was being able to watch the northern lights from the hot tub – it was absolutely magical. We spent a week in Acadia, and the location was perfect, just 15-20 minutes from Bar Harbor or the nearest town. The hosts were very responsive, and the place was fantastic for families, being both kid and pet friendly. It was a week filled with unforgettable moments, and I can't recommend this place enough!

Acadia Beach shipwreck cottage Bar Harbor
Loved our stay here. One of my favorite Airbnb's we stayed at in Maine.

Lakefront Log Cabin on Pleasant Lake
The lakeside cabin was just what I needed. Quiet, private, and right on the water. My dog loved running in the yard and swimming in the lake. The cabin was comfortable with all the basics, and sitting on the porch watching the water was so relaxing. Perfect spot to unwind and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Green's Landing on Branch Lake
We had a wonderful weekend with friends for my husband's 40th birthday. Friday afternoon was beautiful for grilling and then a fire by the lake at night. Saturday was chilly and rainy which made for a great opportunity to take full advantage of the garage with multiple rounds of poker, some ping pong, pool, and darts. We had some sun again on Sunday for some relaxing on the dock and down time enjoying the beautiful view before heading home. Everyone agreed that they'd love to return.
Quick stats about vacation rentals in Southwest Harbor
Total rentals
480 properties
Nightly prices starting at
ﺩ.ﺇ110 before taxes and fees
Total number of reviews
24K reviews
Family-friendly rentals
310 properties are a good fit for families
Pet-friendly rentals
160 properties allow pets
Rentals with a pool
10 properties have a pool
Your guide to Southwest Harbor
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.
The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Southwest Harbor
The islands off the Maine coast experience some dramatic shifts in weather conditions over the course of the year, from blustery and cold to appealing and sunny. The best time to visit Southwest Harbor is from June to September, when the weather is at its warmest, the heat moderated by ocean breezes. Fourth of July is a fun time to visit, as the town launches a fantastic fireworks display over the harbor. August is when you’ll see the least amount of rain and be able to enjoy the outdoors at its best.
While the fall months here are well known for the spectacular foliage, the temperature quickly becomes brisk and rainy — November is the rainiest month. Maine winters can be icy, with temperatures staying well below zero in December through February, intensified by stiff winds and lots of precipitation. The local community center counteracts the chill with a holiday celebration that features crafts and artistic performances.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of vacation rentals are available in Southwest Harbor?
Uncover the perfect home-away-from-home with our diverse selection of vacation rentals in Southwest Harbor. From over 50 cottage rentals to over 200 house rentals, we've got you covered. For even more variety, explore our Airbnb Categories to find the ideal space for your getaway.
Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Southwest Harbor?
Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 160 vacation rentals in Southwest Harbor featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Southwest Harbor?
Four-legged friends are welcome in Southwest Harbor. Choose from more than 160 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.
How much does it cost to stay in house rentals in Southwest Harbor?
Experience the best of Southwest Harbor with our house rentals, starting at about $100 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.
Do cottage rentals in Southwest Harbor have self check-in?
Absolutely! We offer over 10 cottage rentals with self check-in in Southwest Harbor. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
Do cottage rentals in Southwest Harbor have wifi?
Absolutely! We offer over 50 cottage rentals with wifi in Southwest Harbor. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
Do cottage rentals in Southwest Harbor have a bbq area?
Absolutely! We offer over 30 cottage rentals with a bbq area in Southwest Harbor. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
Are there family-friendly cottage rentals in Southwest Harbor?
Southwest Harbor has more than 30 family-friendly cottage rentals. Amenities on the property may include high chairs, travel cribs, or strollers.
Are there Southwest Harbor vacation rentals on Airbnb with pools?
Yes! Dive into the perfect getaway at one of over 10 vacation homes with pools in Southwest Harbor, available on Airbnb. Make a splash and soak up the sun in style!
What are the most popular amenities for House Rentals in Southwest Harbor?
Enhance your stay in our House Rentals with the most popular amenities: over 80 homes with self check-in, over 150 homes with a bbq area, over 200 homes with wifi, and more. Indulge in the ultimate retreat, tailored to your preferences.
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- Acadia National Park
- Samoset Resort
- Northeast Harbour Golf Club
- Redman Beach
- Hermon Mountain Ski Area
- Kebo Valley Golf Club
- Indian Camp Beach
- Narrow Place Beach
- Rockland Breakwater Light
- Hero Beach
- Sand Beach
- Three Island Beach
- Bear Island Beach
- Lighthouse Beach
- Gilley Beach
- Pebble Beach
- Spragues Beach
- Farnsworth Art Museum
- The Camden Snow Bowl
- North Point Beach
- Orchard Beach
- Driftwood Beach
- Islesboro Town Beach
- Hunters Beach