Family-friendly vacation rentals in Frenchboro

Escape to an Antique-Filled Farmhouse on Great Cranberry

Enjoy a short boat ride to the island. Dine under a brass chandelier in a dusky red-walled room with a pumpkin-pine floor, gazing over the water. Soak in the original claw-foot tub of this 1840s island getaway. Several bikes are shared with 2 other units, if they are occupied. With the new distancing rules, guests in this unit may prefer to enjoy the ocean view from our lawn across the road The Antique Unit is the original part of the compound-a salt water farm house. My neighbor traced the house back to 1799. The large dining room overlooking the ocean has a refinished original pumpkin pine floor ; the WiFi is located there. The spacious full service kitchen was remodeled in 2010. All cooking accessories are provided. The second floor bedrooms are accessible by a rather steep stairway of the period. There is a half bath between the "Peach Room" with 2 twin beds and the "Pink Room" with 1 double bed. There are 2 bedrooms on the first floor--the "Lavender Room" with 1 double bed and the "Gold Room" with 1 queen bed. The full bath, on the first floor, has the original clawfoot tub with an added shower. All linens are provided. The cozy living room has antique décor and a flat screen satellite TV!. The Antique Unit of the house is surrounded by fields on the barn side and across the street, extending down to the shore. Our private shore path runs down the left side of the view. There is a large deck overlooking the view. This deck is shared with the tenants in the "New" Unit, if that unit is occupied. Guests work with each other to arrange days and times of use or enjoy mingling together. A small "Zen" garden currently under construction occupies the space between units on the quiet side of the house. Our water comes from a well. We ask our guests to be mindful of this and be alert to any "running" of toilets and to stagger their use of the shower, dish washer and clothes washer. Water left running will overheat the well pump and cause it to shut down. That will cause both the Antique and "New" Units to lose water. There are 3 units in this compound, They share the fire pit, outside lobster cooker, gas and charcoal grill, 10 bikes and the use of 3 cars for transportation to and from the dock which is about 1 mile away. The Cranberry Explorer shuttle ( 8 passenger golf cart) runs from the dock to the end of the island every 1/2 hour from 10-5 in the summer. You can signal it to pick you up or drop you off in front of the Red House Compound. The Red House is located in Great Cranberry Island. To get there, you park your car for free in one of our spaces in Northeast Harbor and take either the Beal and Bunker Ferry (leaves Northeast at 7:30AM, 10AM, 12PM, 2PM, 4PM and 6PM, costs 8$ per person each way) or one of 3 water taxis. Water taxis go on your schedule. They charge a flat fee for the whole boat. 2 of the water taxis can take 6 people, the 3rd takes up to 21 people, . Rates start around $38 and get higher as the hour gets later. If you have a group a water taxi may be more economical, depending on the hour. If you need transportation on a special schedule, such as after dining out on the mainland, a water taxi is a good option. If you have fewer than 6 people, you may be able to share a water taxi. Please see "Guest Access"and "other things to note" for the "New" Unit listing for this property .Gt. Cranberry Island is 3 miles long and 1 mile wide at the widest point.The island is accessible by passenger-only ferry leaving Northeast Harbor 6 times daily in season and by 3 water taxis. Please see "guest access" section under the "New" Unit for details. You park free in our space in Northeast Harbor. We supply an island car for transportation to and from the dock, 10 bicycles to explore the streets and lanes, lawn games, wifi, satellite TV WiFi. There is a general store by the dock with basic groceries and a limited organic selection, soft serve ice cream, cafe, fresh baked goods daily, fresh fish by order. The Cranberry House Museum operated by the Historical Society has interesting exhibits showing life on the islands through the centuries . Old movies are shown free in the upstairs theatre (they would like a donation) on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday nights. Popcorn and drinks are available for $1. There are numerous art exhibits and special events throughout the summer. Cranberry House also has Hitty's Cafe- an outdoor restaurant serving lunch and snacks and breakfast and dinners by advance order. The Heliker-Lahotan Foundation hosts up and coming visiting artists throughout the summer. They have periodic openings where the public is invited. The Great Cranberry Congregational Church has seevices at 5 PM on Sundays, usually with a pot luck meal following. There is a small gym in the basenent of the church which is free for anyone to use-just sign in. The Cranberry Explorer is a free (donations accepted) 8 passenger golf cart which leaves the dock every 1/2 hour giving tours and transportation down the main road of the island. The Red House is located on the main road about axmile from the dock. Great Cranberry Island is really a place to get away from the "T-Shirt District"and all the touristy crowds of Bar Harbor. Our guests are free to roam the foot paths and explore the rock bound coast ,enjoying the many peaceful, scenic vistas which are a natural part of island life. If we are on the island, we like to meet and greet our guests. Our residence is actually in Scarborough, Maine , 3 1/2 hours away but we spend a great deal of time on the island. We are always in contact via cell phone, text or email. We also have a caretaker who can help with any problems in our absence. The home is surrounded by fields that stretch down to the shore. Great Cranberry Island is accessible by passenger-only ferry or water taxi. Leave the car in NE Harbor and transport luggage in the host’s island car. Visit the store, museum, and cafe. The Cranberry Explorer leaves the dock every 1/2 hour daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. They go right by The Red House and will pick off and drop off guests. On the mainland, the Island Explorer buses leave from the dock in Northeast Harbor and go all over Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. They have bike trailers for the rider's bicycles and there is no charge-they are underwritten by LLBean. Our guests may use our bikes for transportation on Great Cranberry Island only. To get to the island, you park your car(free-we supply stickers) in one of two lots in Northeast Harbor and take the passenger-only ferry. The ferry, the Beal and Bunker Mailboat, leaves Northeast Harbor 6 times daily between 7:30 AM and 6 PM making 6 round trips between the harbor and 2 to 3 islands. The fare is $8 per person with a 10 trip ticket. I buy back any unused trips, There are 3 water taxis which run at your command from approx. 6 AM to 11 PM. Water taxis actually can be more economical depending on the number of guests and the time of day. We provide an island car for our guests to use to transport themselves and their luggage to and from the dock upon arrival and departure. If we are on the island, we will pick you up and drop you off. There are 3 cars which may need to be shared if any of the cars needs repair when all 3 units are occupied. See above for the Cranberry Explorer information. Because the general store has a fairly limited inventory, our guests my want to bring their favorite groceries. There is a Shaw's supermarket and a Hannaford supermarket and John Edwards health food store in Ellsworth, the last large community before the road crosses onto Mount Desert Island. In Bar Harbor, there is a Hannaford and AandB Naturals, a nice health food store.

Indoor spaces · Kitchen · Value

Garage, a Modern Oasis

An architectural gem in Acadia, designed with soaring ceilings, walls of glass, and effortless indoor-outdoor flow. From elaborate landscaping to finest interior finishes, every element was chosen with intention. Interiors are appointed like a boutique hotel: premium furnishings, curated local art, and the finest bedding. Multiple living areas and a shaded deck, an enclosed carport alongside ping-pong, and a basketball half-court. EV charging on-site. As featured in Fine Homebuilding, June 2023.

Indoor spaces · Kitchen · Amenities

Harborside~Seaglass Beach~Dock~5 min to Acadia

Harborside on Main is a lovingly restored, traditional coastal New Englander cottage located on the hillside above beautiful Southwest Harbor, just 1 mile from Quietside Acadia’s best oceanfront hiking trails. Steps outside the maritime village of SW Harbor with semi-private ocean access, seaglass beach, dock, firepit, and a short walk to all village amenities: the town pier, local bars, restaurants with live outdoor music overlooking the marina, & a private charter on a wooden Friendship sloop.

Kitchen · Family · Heating

Quaint Oceanfront Island Cottage, off Bar Harbor

Feel the stress melt away at Barnacle Hall, a peaceful, romantic getaway w/ stunning water views, just steps to the sea. This snug & welcoming cottage is tucked away in tranquil Burnt Coat Harbor, with its own private rocky beach and a bluff with radiant Maine island sunsets. Truly unwind, stepping into a by-gone era in this quaint cottage, w/ a charming stone fireplace w/ woodstove. Rustic-feeling, with full services. Families welcome! Wifi now available. [NOTE: Not a great option for Acadia]

Kitchen · Family · Amenities

Southwest Harbor Hideaway in the Woods of Acadia

This eclectic buoy wonderland is the perfect hub for your vacation! Great for families & groups. 2 primary suites w/ king beds, king-bunk room & A/C throughout, nestled in the woods on the Quietside of Mount Desert Island! Amazing backyard entertaining area. Tons of amenities: kayaks, paddleboards, bikes, cornhole, & large firepit w/ firewood! Private yet convenient - close to the ocean, hikes, downtown SW Harbor, 5min to Acadia's Seawall Beach, Bass Harbor Lighthouse, Echo Lake Beach & more.

Family · Indoor spaces · Getting around

Hot Tub Time Machine

Step into a vibrant world with this collection of paintings that celebrate color and texture. Enjoy pristine beaches and forest and spread out in this 2600 sq ft house with cathedral ceilings, 2 fireplaces, sauna and well stocked kitchen. Explore the island and it's hikes and fine sand beaches or take a dip in the quarry. Discover a dramatic narrative with this striking home that juxtaposes nature and fantastic mythical creatures Please read “other details”, we are on an island.

Kitchen · Indoor spaces · Hospitality

Artsy Tiny House & Cedar Sauna

Our family is excited to share our tiny house with you! Located on our artist collective farm, this is our favorite place on earth. It’s off grid, cottage core, and has a beautiful & fragrant cedar sauna. We are 27 minutes from Acadia National Park and surrounded by truly gorgeous local beaches. We offer super comfy beds, an outdoor shower, twinkle lights, summer nights filled with fireflies, bright maples in the fall, and cozy winter movie nights in a bed alcove like on a boat.

Family · Kitchen · Accuracy

The Barnacle Cottage near Acadia

Charming tidal shore front, simple cottage located in very quiet area on desirable Lopaus Point, in the fishing village of Bernard. Lovely ocean views with spectacular sunsets. Great place to use your kayak, canoe, wading boots & bicycle. Full bathroom with shower. Open concept downstairs with kitchen/dining/living room and a grand piano, with a library of nice books. SECOND LEVEL: Half bath. 2 bedrooms with 1 double bed and 1 single bed each. Alcove with a youth bed.

Indoor spaces · Kitchen · Hospitality

4 BR Big Waterfront Home w/ Beach! [Coastal Haven]

Coastal Haven is a 75 year old 4BR Oceanfront property that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean on the Quietside of Mount Desert Island. The living room has windows ceiling to floor facing the Ocean allowing for tons of natural light to come in the home. The large deck and furniture are awesome for relaxing after a long day hiking! Distances: -5min to Bass Harbor -8min to Southwest Harbor -25min to Acadia National Park [Cadillac Mtn Entrance] -27min to Downtown Bar Harbor

Indoor spaces · Kitchen · Nearby

Sweetwater - Bright, Airy, Modern

Named for its sweet views of the ocean inlet just beyond the front patio, Sweetwater is a serene Scandinavian-modern retreat nestled on the "quiet side" of Mount Desert Island — home to the beloved Acadia National Park. Whether you're gathering family or escaping with friends, this thoughtfully designed cottage offers everything you need for a restorative Maine getaway, just minutes from the Park's most cherished trails, swimming holes, and hidden gems

Indoor spaces · Family · Access

Quiet Family & Pet Friendly Home! [Owls Nest]

Owls Nest is a private home in a quiet neighborhood in Bass Harbor that was recently renovated in 2023! The home is spacious with a fully stocked kitchen. The property is in a quiet neighborhood surrounded by woods and you will not be disturbed by neighbors! Distances: -2 min to Island Cruises Dock (Bass Harbor) -7 min to Downtown Southwest Harbor -26 min to Acadia National Park [Cadillac Mountain Entrance] -28 min to Downtown Bar Harbor

Family · Indoor spaces · Quiet

Meadow Point Cottage

Meadow Point cottage is located on a very quiet five acre property with panoramic views of Frenchman's Bay and Mount Desert Island. It takes about thirty minutes to drive over to MDI and Acadia National Park. The property has a private beach for kayaking and woods with a picnic area and fire pit. It is a wonderful spot for walking and viewing wildlife; ducks, eagles, shore birds, seals and deer.

Indoor spaces · Family · Location