If you are planning a trip to Maine, or want to explore more of your home state, you’ve come to the right place. Not only is Maine full of history, fascinating small towns, and delicious seafood, it is home to over half a million acres of public land. Having such an abundance of space to explore makes Maine an adventurer’s paradise.
Be surrounded by deep greens, dense forests, and towering mountains. Take in the fresh air, and enjoy towns with relatively sparse populations that don’t overwhelm the natural environment.
Maine’s coastline is another iconic highlight. With harbors large enough to house naval fleets and thousands of tiny islands peppering the shoreline, there is so much to discover that you may have to extend your trip.
Acadia National Park has one of the best scenic byways in the country which sweeps through the hills, full of pine trees, and along the beautiful coast.
When it comes to finding a place to rest your head each night, you should check out the many available holiday rentals in Maine. To find yourself in the midst of nature, or with lakefront and coastal views, staying at an Airbnb in Maine is the way to go.
Read on to find out why, and discover our favorite Airbnbs!
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 4 Airbnbs in Maine
The Cabin in Skowhegan
- > $$
- > 5 Guests
- > Large loft
- > Firepit
Yurt Tent Glamping
- > $
- > 4 Guests
- > Remote and rustic
- > The Maine experience
The Wiscasset White House
- > $$$$
- > 12 Guests
- > River views
- > Huge home
Loft in Bar Harbor
- > $$
- > 1 Guest
- > Private kitchen and bath
- > Acadia National Park
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Maine
Maine remains a state relatively untouched from the relentless expansion of hotels and tourist hot spots. Despite having some of the best scenery in the country, hotels aren’t exploiting the beauty.
Luckily for you, this leaves more space to wander, and more hidden gems waiting to be uncovered.
Even in Bangor and Portland, two relatively large cities, alternative accommodation, and boutique hotels run the show, as local residents open their homes to show you the historical beauty of their towns.
In Maine, you can expect plenty of vacation homes. The local feeling of the properties adds another layer to your stay, along with access to some of Maine’s most pristine areas.
Come and find cabins in the woods, cottages on the beach, and Victorian-era homes in sleepy towns.
The 15 Top Airbnbs in Maine
Now that you know a little more about Airbnbs in Maine, lets take a look at the state’s best Airbnbs!
The Cabin in Skowhegan | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Maine
Come discover a wonderful rural life at this Airbnb cabin in Maine.
Away from the noise of the big smoke, have nothing and nobody around you. Surrounded by rolling green lawns and beautiful gardens, you and the crew will have plenty of space to take in the fresh air.
Each evening you can light up the fire pit and cook s’mores and tell spooky stories. Head inside to the spacious home that has enough space for everyone to gather and play cards.
The bottom floor has a queen bed, while the loft has multiple single beds. Grab your friends and head to this secluded cabin in Skowhegan.
Yurt Tent Glamping | Best Budget Airbnb in Maine
Pack your long johns, and camp out at this yurt Airbnb in Maine. Enjoy the solitude of being deep in the woods, spend time by yourself in peace, with a loved one or with friends.
The yurt has a surprising amount of interior space, so you won’t feel cramped on rainy days if you have other guests.
There is Wi-Fi access to stay in touch, or you can disconnect and go fully off grid.
Use the complimentary kayaks to explore the lake, and stroll the hiking trails around the Pine Forest Wooded Sanctuary.
Sebago Lake, Portland and the White Mountains await, as does a warm campfire each night.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIThe Wiscasset White House | Over-the-Top Luxury Airbnb in Maine
For insane luxury and beauty there is no better Airbnb in Maine than The Wiscasset White House.
On a picturesque riverfront property, this historic home has a wrap around veranda and endless views. The sprawling property has a total of six bedrooms spaced out over three floors, four of which have their own en-suite bathroom.
The kitchen is fit for a gourmet chef and will do well in helping prep an amazing dinner for the whole group.
Cuddle up in front of the fireplace, and enjoy the brilliant surround sound system to play tunes throughout the home.
On 43 acres you will have plenty of room to roam, and the hills are perfect for sledding in the winter.
Loft in Bar Harbor | Perfect Maine Airbnb for Solo Travelers
Be just five minute away from Acadia National Park at this studio Airbnb in Maine.
Right in the center of Bar Harbor, the home is within walking distance of many shops, restaurants, and bars. The space is surrounded by historic Victorian homes in a sleepy neighborhood.
Just a few blocks stand between you, and both sunrise and sunset, although in different parts of the town.
When you aren’t enjoying the views or exploring Acadia, you can retreat to your own private adobe. Complete with a kitchen, private bath and comfy bed, the studio also has a loft room if a friend ever chooses to come hang out. This is definitely one of the best places to stay in Bar Harbor.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Maine
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Maine!
Timeless Tides Cottage | Most Romantic Airbnb for Couples
Take your loved one on a romantic excursion to the lakefront and stay at Timeless Tides Cottage – a beautiful a-frame cottage just 350 feet from the river.
Each night, with no one to disturb the view, you can watch the sunset over the Weskeag River. Cook up a lovely meal on the outside grill, and hang out on the deck until the stars sparkle above.
At this cottage you can enjoy your own private dock, where you can try to spot bald eagles and blue herons.
Situated just ten minutes from the picturesque town of Rockland, there is easy access to shopping, restaurants, lighthouses, and museums to add to your romantic stay.
Cottage on the Lake | Best Airbnb in Maine for Families
Take the family to Camp Wigwam and have an Airbnb experience you won’t forget.
This lakefront cottage on North Pond offers great views and plenty of opportunities to spot birdlife, including bald eagles. There is plenty of space for the kids to run around, and is close to hiking, boating, skiing, and ice-fishing depending on the season.
At the end of each day, you can hang out as a family around the campfire and make the most of the beautiful setting.
The TV has Netflix hooked up, so you can settle the kids down for a movie while you enjoy a glass of wine.
The Smitten Cabin | Best Cabin on Airbnb in Maine
The Appleton Retreat features this beautiful, and perhaps even the best Airbnb cabin in Maine, Smitten. Encompassed in total privacy and silence, you are able to hear the quiet calls of nature and the rustling of the leaves.
The cabin backs on to protected lands which gives undisturbed nature all around. To the south you will find a fresh stream, and a trail heads north of the cabin to a secluded pond.
Such is the remote location, it is the best for those looking for a real escape and chance to disconnect.
Great during all seasons, why not bring along your hiking boots and cross country skis, and see what else you can find?
Secluded Shore Cottage | Best Cottage on Airbnb in Maine
Along the flowing Benjamin River you will find a modern cottage, the best of it’s kind on Airbnb in Maine.
The wide windows let the sun flood the living space, and give picturesque views out to the river and beyond. The secluded cottage does what any great cottage should do – slows down life and provides a quiet getaway.
Interestingly, the river empties at low tide giving you a change of scenery twice a day.
The cottage has internal heating keeping the space warm year-round. However if you are visiting during the summer, the nearby towns are bustling with energy, and farmers’ markets open up in every small town.
Modern Maine Beach House | Best Beach House on Airbnb in Maine
The inspiring design of this modern cabin is an excellent waterfront getaway for a group of family and friends.
Wake each morning to the water lapping the shore, and the coastal breezes flowing through the home. When you aren’t hanging out on the porch, explore the town’s interesting antique stores and restaurants.
The home is just ten minutes from the main streets of Ellsworth and Blue Hill. Meanwhile, a beautiful 25-mile drive will get you to Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor.
Enjoy private beach access where you can swim every day, and at night, light up the campfire and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Cozy Camp Cabin | Best Airbnb with Jacuzzi
Grab your mates for an awesome adventure to the mountains of Western Maine.
You can relax around a cozy cabin that will feel more like the youthful days of summer camp.
Gather around the fire pit, and fire up the outdoor grill to enjoy dinner under the stars. Later, warm up in the jacuzzi and listen to the sounds of nature.
The cabin is well situated close to numerous outdoor activities. It is just minutes from the Appalachian Trail, nearby to Maine’s fourth-largest lake, and has access to Sugerloaf, a premier ski mountain.
Waterfront Home on the Coast | Best Airbnb with a View
Come and unplug at this Airbnb in Maine. Seemingly miles from civilization, you can disconnect and watch the sunset into the water every night.
The home has two fireplaces to cuddle up in front of, including one in the master bedroom.
If you want to bring along a bigger group, the home can accommodate a further four guests with pull-out couches and air mattresses. It is also able to accommodate a baby, or toddler, thanks to high chairs, baby gates, and toys.
Cook dinner on the grill and relax in the hot tub, forgetting about the stresses of the world.
Canoe Shop Barn | Best Airbnb for a Weekend in Maine
As one of the best Airbnbs in Maine, this home is a unique space located close to many adventurous activities. Grab your partner and enjoy a wonderful weekend getaway in a barn!
Upon walking inside, you will quickly feel at home in this 120-year-old converted barn. The bright sunlit living areas and cosy loft have a romantic and rustic vibe that will make your weekend feel special.
At night, dine outside under fairy lights strung between the trees and the barn. Later, you can build a warm fire and nurse a bottle of wine.
For daytime activities you will be close to lakes and hiking on the A.T.
Cabin on Pushaw Lake | Best Airbnb in Maine for a Group of Friends
Gather up your friends and head to this spacious Airbnb in Maine. With an open-plan living area, there will be plenty of space for everyone to relax and hang out.
Sit around the center fireplace and catch up, or head outside and enjoy your own personal fire pit right by the water.
Head down to the lake to enjoy boating, swimming, and fishing in the summer, or ice fishing and snowmobiling in the winter.
It’s just a small community near the north side of the lake, but you will feel like you have nature all to yourself. Enjoy evening sunsets over the lake before beginning the nightly activities.
Modern Lakehouse | Most Beautiful Airbnb in Maine
Built in 2020, this Airbnb in Maine is incredibly easy on the eyes. As you walk in, the bright interior has a fun beach vibe and provides awesome views of the lake just feet from the porch.
Have plenty of room to move about, with roomy couches and bar stools for drinking cocktails. The chic house design makes every room feel special. Each window floods the space with light so you never lose sight of the beautiful lake.
Kick back on the porch’s rocking chairs, or jump in the Jacuzzi. Read a book on the front lawn, or wander down to your own private lakeside beach.
Coyote’s Den | Most Unique Airbnb in Maine
Created in the style of an Iroquois Longhouse using bent maple poles, this is the most unique Airbnb in Maine for an unforgettable adventure.
Located off the grid among moss covered woods, the house is completely shut off from the world offering the chance to live rustically in nature.
Heat up the wood stove, your only source of heat, and relax with your loved on in this cozy tiny home. Roam the seven-acre forests along nature trails, passing fairy houses and various art installations. You can pet the goats, fowls, and mini horses on a farm full of misfit animals.
This interesting escape will be sure to live on in your memory.
Airbnb Experiences
Do you fancy a day trip to go with that nice little apartment?!
Airbnb Experiences is a feature offered by Airbnb that allows hosts to offer unique, curated activities to guests – or to anyone who’s interested in, even if they’re not staying at an Airbnb property. These experiences can range from cooking classes and guided tours to art workshops, outdoor adventures, and more.
Airbnb Experiences was created to offer travellers a deeper connection with a destination by offering truly unique experiences, all led by locals who are both knowledgeable and passionate about their city.
Some personal highlights of my Airbnb Experiences include a tapas bar-crawl in Granada, a Samurai workshop in Kyoto, and a graffiti spotting bike ride around Bogota.
What to Pack for Maine
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Maine Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Maine Airbnbs
Well, there you have it, the best Airbnbs in Maine. For those excited to get out and discover this state, staying at a local cabin, cottage, or beach house is one of the best ways to do it.
Enjoy a day full of adventure, on land or on the water. At night, cook up a feast and eat under the stars, or venture down to one of Maine’s many small towns and try the local eats.
Staying at an Airbnb in Maine will put you close to all these activities while giving you a greater insight into the beauty of the Pine Tree State.
Before your adventure to Maine, consider grabbing yourself some travel insurance.
- Check out our Backpacking USA guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in the USA too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of the USA.
- A great way to see the country is by taking an epic road trip around the USA.
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