Maine is one of the most stunning US states with so much nature and outdoor activities to enjoy. From endless beach days on the rocky shores to dense forests and stunning lakes, there is plenty to enjoy in Maine.
If you’re looking for a remote retreat nestled in a forest, check off iconic lighthouses from your bucket list, or simply wish to stroll the cobblestoned streets of Portland and enjoy world-class museums and restaurants; well you’re looking at the right place. Maine has got you covered!
To spend your holidays in such an epic location, you can’t go down the ordinary road and stay in a boring, standardized hotel. There’s only one way you can enjoy Maine and it’s by choosing an authentic and unique accommodation such as a cottage in Maine.
Cottages provide the homely comforts that a hotel just doesn’t. As well as being kitted out with all the amenities you would need, you’ll find a space that’s easy to relax and unwind in, be close to all the best attractions and be affordable too.
If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry, because I have prepared a list of the very best cottages in Maine for you below. Whether you are a backpacker or planning an epic trip with your friends, you’d find a cottage best suited to your needs.
Let’s get into it!
In a Hurry? Here’s Where to Stay in Maine for One Night
Pine Point Cottage
Looking for a retreat by the beach, in a sleepy village with nothing but peace and tranquillity marking your days? This cottage offers it all with its perfect location and welcoming décor. Plus, you get all that at a great price!
- Scarborough Beach State Park
- Palace Playland
- Portland
Is this amazing Maine Cottage booked for your dates? We’ve got your back with our other favorite properties below!
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Staying in a Cottage in Maine
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Cottages in Maine are purposefully designed and situated in a way that allows guests to have a captivating beach experience.
Choose any coast or island you wish to visit, and a cottage will be there to accommodate you – perfect for anyone on an East Coast road trip!
In addition to being situated near the beach, almost all the cottages in the state come with well-maintained gardens along with picnic benches and BBQ facilities outside. It is only through cottages in Maine that you get to experience an amazing time cooking and dining with loved ones with beautiful views of the water, mountains, and greenery all around.
The entire purpose of visiting a place like Maine is to take a break from the day-to-day grind, disconnect from technology, and spend as much time in nature as possible. To choose any other accommodation in Maine will defeat the purpose and you’d find yourself a large distance away from the nearest beach and hiking trails.
Another factor that makes the cottages in Maine stand out is their wooden décor and cozy and rustic style. Most cottages on the beach are built like a cabin, and while they have all the modern amenities, the warmth and a classic décor give the impression of stepping back in time. I mean who doesn’t like a little trip down memory lane and a blast from the past!
What to Look For in a Cottage
Since Maine is all about that kick-back-and-relax life, there are abundant options of cottages to choose from. However, not all of them might be ideally located or have the best amenities to make your stay comfortable. You must learn what makes the cottages in Maine stand out, so you can choose only the best for yourself, regardless of your budget.
One thing to make sure is that your chosen cottage comes with all the accessories and amenities to make your beach stay convenient. Ensure that the cottage you choose offers lots of towels, laundry facilities, cleaning products, and an indoor fireplace.
Another amenity to prioritize is kitchen and cooking facilities. While there are plenty of small towns near the beach, most guests prefer to have their cookout parties near the beach, and for that, you’d need outdoor dining facilities, a fully-equipped kitchen, and most importantly, coffee machines.
Some cottages are actually B&Bs in Maine, so it’s a good idea to check that you are renting an entire rental unit to ensure you have a private vacation home.
Fortunately, the aforementioned facilities are common in Maine cottages and easily found. You can choose a cottage from our informed list or you can check out Vrbo for plenty more options.
Pine Point Cottage
- > $$
- > 4 Guests
- > Indoor fireplace
- > 20 minutes from Portland
Acadia Cottage
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Breakfast provided
- > A short distance away from Acadia National Park
Bar Harbor Cottages and Suites
- > $$$
- > 2 Guests
- > Barbeque Facility
- > Located in Bar Harbor in the Mount Desert Island region
Seaview Cottage
- > $$$
- > 4 Guests
- > Beach essentials
- > Private beach access
Vintage Waterfront Cottage
- > $$$$
- > 12 Guests
- > Keypad entry
- > Waterfront deck
Classic Island Cottage
- > $$$
- > 6 Guests
- > Lovely deck and patio
- > Cottage on Peaks Island
Private Room in a Cottage
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Washer
- > Lake access
The Top 10 Cottages in Maine
There’s something about Maine and all its promising adventures that fills us with adrenaline and excitement. I bet you can’t wait to start planning your trip to this state and its rustic escapades.
And the first most exciting step is choosing accommodation. To save your time sifting through the endless options, I have created this list of unique accommodations for all kinds of travelers. Let’s get started!
Overall Best Value Cottage in Maine – Pine Point Cottage
The reason this cottage made the top of our list is that it has something to offer to all kinds of travelers. This cottage is located in the sleepy village of Pine Point, making it suitable for those looking for a peaceful retreat.
Most importantly, this village is surrounded by water on all three sides, offering lots of water activities to the guests. Then we have Portland just 20-minutes away, so you can have your pick of food and nightlife entertainment from Rose City.
The cottage can accommodate up to four people, making it suitable for a small family or a tight-knit group of friends. If you wish, you can spend your entire vacation in this snug and cute cottage by the beach. You get the entire house to yourself, including the fully equipped kitchen, living room, dining area, and all four bedrooms.
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
Best Budget Cottage in Maine – Acadia Cottage
What if we tell you that you can travel to Maine on a budget and still have the whole experience of living in the coziest cottage by the Atlantic coast? This economic Acadia Cottage in the heart of Maine guarantees the most unforgettable moments with its rich décor and amazing location.
Since it’s located in the Open-Hearth Inn that has been there since 1820, you are supplied with the most delicious muffins and coffee/tea every morning. The cottage is located just a stone’s throw away from Acadia park’s first picnic benches. You can easily walk up to the beach or enjoy the numerous hiking trails in the park leading up to mountains and lighthouses. If you were ever wondering where to stay in Acadia National Park, this is it.
You get access to the entire cottage that includes one bedroom with a queen bed and a bath. You are also welcome to use the hot tub and the outdoor kitchen.
Budget Tip: Dorms in Maine start from $10USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!
Best Cottage for Couples – Bar Harbor Cottages and Suites
Nothing says a special date than a retreat in one of the prettiest cottages in Maine. The Bar Harbor cottages are surrounded by well-maintained gardens, giving the whole property lush and exotic aesthetics.
The cottage comes with a bedroom containing one large double bed, and a fully-equipped kitchen where you can cook your favorite meals. You also get outdoor furniture where you can hang out and enjoy the amazing view all around.
Don’t forget to make use of the hiking, biking, and kayaking activities available for your entertainment. Other major attractions near the cottage include Frenchman Bay, The Abbe Museum, and Acadia National Park.
Romantic Cottage in Maine for Couples – Whitetail Cottage
This dreamy cottage is for couples who want something other than a beachfront experience. Those in need of a more ‘cabin in Maine’ experience will love this wooden cottage in Trenton, Maine. Recently constructed, this cabin-like cottage offers warmth and coziness all around.
You have all the modern amenities you need to stay nestled in the woods for days including a kitchen, Wi-Fi, and smart TV for entertainment. You even have an outdoor dining area so you can get the full cabin-in-the-woods experience.
Whenever you feel like reconnecting with society and nature, simply walk the numerous hiking trails that lead to Acadia National Park located but a few miles off. Here you will find several authentic lobster ponds, restaurants, shops, and even attractions including the Kisma Animal Preserve, Great Maine Lumberjack Show, and Wild Acadia Fun Park.
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 REIBest Cottage in Maine for a Group of Friends – Seaview Cottage
What could be a better plan than getting to spend your days off with your favorite people, in a house that gives you access to a private beach in Maine? We can hardly think of any! This cottage guarantees a dreamy vacation allowing four guests to sleep with its three bedrooms. The entire cottage has a comfy and open décor, allowing light and the outside view to spill inside.
The two-story cottage provides a stunning view of Casco Bay and many other islands nearby along with access to a private beach. You can chill, relax, and enjoy the best days of your lives here. You also get a fully-equipped kitchen that opens onto the patio and backyard garden.
Over-the-Top Luxury Cottage in Maine – Vintage Waterfront Cottage
Have you ever wanted to disconnect from the world and spend a few days in absolute luxury with great waters a few steps away? If yes, then this cottage in Westport, Maine is your ticket to it!
The spectacular property is majestic and includes the main cottage and the guest quarters. The outdoor area of this cottage is just as spacious as the indoors with a waterfront deck, outdoor furniture spread all over along with picnic tables and a fire pit.
You can spend your days in this oasis, boating, kayaking, and swimming. When you’ve had your fill of water activities, you can also walk, hike, and bike around the green hills surrounding the cottage and the three preserves on the island. If you just want to kick back on the dock, then enjoy the view of the seals, ospreys, and eagles that are regulars on the beach.
Best Cottage for Families in Maine – Classic Island Cottage
This classic cottage on a hilltop Peaks Island is just the place to spend some quality time with family, and give the kids a chance to create some amazing childhood memories. The cottage is cute, cozy, and designed just for families. There are three bedrooms, one of which is children-themed with baby blue hues and plenty of natural light seeping in.
The quaint island village with friendly neighbors and the vintage cottage make it feel like you have stepped back into simpler times. The beach too is frequented by families and locals, making it a wholesome place to be in general.
Best Cottage in Maine for Backpackers – Private Room in a Cottage
Just because backpackers look for the cheapest accommodations possible doesn’t mean they can’t bag a clean and cozy room in a lovely cottage by the lake. This cottage is one of the best Airbnbs in Maine for those travelling on a budget.
It can be found nestled in the Lakes Region in a tiny town in Maine is every backpacker’s paradise. It is affordable, has laundry facilities, and is just a walking distance away from the White Mountains National Forest.
Here, the backpackers can mingle with other travelers, share their stories, and enjoy tons of activities together such as hiking, swimming, kayaking, and fishing on a private beach.
Not only do you get a clean and practical room with a bunk bed, but also access to all the downstairs areas of the cottage including the kitchen, the living room, and the beautiful patio.
Most Beautiful Cottage in Maine – Stone Cottage in Isle au Haut
In the beautiful small town of Isle au Haut, you’d find this gorgeous cottage with classic and vintage beauty. The cottage will transport you to a Jane Austen Novel, with its rich and retro décor.
The cottage offers five bedrooms that sleep more than 12 people, a massive kitchen and dining room, and a wrap-around porch. It’s the kind of place where you are compelled to put your phones away and enjoy some one-on-one time with nature and the lovely people around you.
The Stone Cottage has a beloved history and was once used as an accommodation by Eleanor Roosevelt on her way to Campobello. The property borders Acadia National Park where you can enjoy endless outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, kayaking, etc.
Best Cottage For Views – Robinson’s Cottage
If you wish to spend your vacations waking up to a beautiful view every single day, then this cottage is for you. Located on the picturesque pond, the wooden cottage offers super clean and well-stocked accommodation to its guests.
It comes with two bedrooms, one containing a single bed and the other with three single beds. You also get a kitchen to cook your meals, barbeque, and a patio to enjoy the amazing view.
This cottage is best suited for families with children, given that there is a children’s playground on the property and the entire neighborhood is family-friendly. Friends and couples looking for a beautiful retreat will also enjoy their time in the cottage with picturesque views.
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 Cottages in Maine
Vacationing in the state of Maine is all about rocky coasts, chasing waves, kayaking, boating, and spending days lounging on the beach, enjoying the sun, and just plain relaxing. If you’re embarking on a New England road trip, what better way to ease the suffering of driving than by staying near crystal-clear waters.
Other than iconic views, picturesque gardens, lobster pounds, and isolated islands, it is also the best cottages in Maine that will surely make your holiday unforgettable. Choose a location and accommodation that best suits your traveling style and start planning a trip to remember.
It makes perfect sense to only seek unique accommodations in Maine.
Are you traveling to Maine from outside the country? Make sure nothing sets you back by getting travel insurance for your trip.
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