Vacation rentals in Southwest Harbor

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Southwest Harbor

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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, 227 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 couple's getaways, solo travelers, families of 3 & friends. Cute, cozy & charming, Poet's Cabin is newly renovated w/ Brentwood queen bed, sleep sofa, stainless oven, dishwasher & microwave. Serene porch to relax on. Private yet convenient setting - close to ocean, hikes, downtown Southwest Harbor, 5min from Acadia's Seawall, Bass Harbor Light, Echo Lake Beach & more.

Top guest favorite
An aerial view captures the coastal cottage set on a granite ledge beside the Penobscot River. Surrounding trees in autumn hues frame the property, and the tranquil water reflects the colorful foliage, creating a serene natural setting.
Home in Hampden
5 out of 5 average rating, 133 reviews

Cozy Cottage on the Penobscot — Panoramic Luxury!

Escape to your private waterfront retreat where tranquility meets luxury. Our Coastal Maine Cottage style home rests on a granite ledge that disappears twice daily with the tide. Enjoy a sun-filled interior with cherry floors, a gourmet kitchen, and a private deck for sunrise coffee or evening wine. Wake to sweeping Penobscot River views & unwind by the fire pit at river’s edge. Just 12 minutes to downtown Bangor, with easy access to urban amenities, Bar Harbor, and Acadia Park. @cozycottageinme

Top guest favorite
A newly constructed yurt is surrounded by tall trees in a forest setting. It features a green exterior with large windows and a welcoming front porch. The structure is elevated on a wooden deck, providing access to the serene lawn area shaded by scattered trees.
Yurt in Southwest Harbor
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 143 reviews

Old Acadia Ranger Yurt at Long Pond

Newly Constructed. Old Acadia Ranger Yurt, a 25 ft. Yurt nestled in the pine and maple forest 1/4 mile from Long Pond and Acadia National Park hiking trails. New construction includes a full bath with a large walk-in shower, kitchen with gas stove/oven, microwave, refrigerator, dinette table w/ seating. Bedding includes, 1 Queen sized bed, 1-fold down double couch, Queen bed in loft, and 1 rollaway cot. Towels and bedding provided. Four (4) guests only (no exceptions). Pets are not permitted.

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
A cozy porch is featured at the entrance, highlighted by rustic wooden beams and comfortable seating. Surrounding greenery and distant crops create a serene countryside backdrop, enhancing the peaceful setting of the cottage.
Cottage in Trenton
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 681 reviews

Whitetail by the River, Acadia National Park 10m

Whitetail Cottage - 4 MILES TO MDI- nestled between woods edge & rolling meadows w/views distant views of the Jordan River! Tiny home with WIFI is ONLY 10 MILES to Acadia National Park -a hikers paradise! Minutes to Mount Desert Island but secluded enough to disconnect &get back to nature. Enjoy a stroll to the water, privacy, breathtaking sunsets,stargazing & local wildlife! Perfect for 2 & cozy for 4. Short drive to MDI,Acadia, Bar Harbor,Ellsworth,Southwest Harbor,Shops & Lobster Pound

Guest favorite
A light-filled living area features a comfortable couch draped with a quilt. A rustic wooden coffee table sits on a soft area rug, while a simple TV stand holds an entertainment console. A staircase leads to the upper level, complemented by nautical decor.
Barn in Tremont
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 332 reviews

The Seamist Cottage - Converted Historic Barn

Cozy, fully converted historic barn within easy walking distance to the rocky shore of Bass Harbor, a busy lobstering port. An ideal, pet friendly, home base while exploring Acadia National Park. The Seamist is located on "the quietside" of the island. Six minutes from Southwest Harbor and thirty minutes to Bar Harbor, the Seamist also offers guests private hot tub access! Two guests maximum, not a suitable space for children. Please keep allergies in mind when booking. No smoking.

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 wooden deck features two white wicker chairs surrounded by potted flowers. A small table is positioned nearby, and a sliding door leads into the apartment. The setting is encircled by lush greenery, providing a sense of privacy.
Apartment in Southwest Harbor
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 200 reviews

The Bird's Nest

The Bird's Nest is an elevated efficiency apartment with views of Somes Sound, Southwest Harbor, and the mountains of Acadia. There is a small efficiency kitchen and a sunny second floor deck to enjoy the view while having a peaceful breakfast or evening meal. While the property is secluded and private, we do have our own private wooded trail that drops right into town, where you can enjoy Southwest Harbor's restaurants and shops, or catch the free Island Explorer bus.

Top guest favorite
A spacious deck offers views of the sunset over the cove, framed by trees. Comfortable seating includes a sectional sofa and wooden chairs. A guitar rests against the sofa, inviting relaxation amid the serene outdoor setting.
Cabin in Tremont
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 120 reviews

"Starry Nights", secluded cottage with ocean views

Soak in spectacular sunsets from this peaceful, secluded cabin overlooking the serene waters of Sawyer's Cove in Blue Hill Bay. Nestled near Seal Cove harbor on the quiet side of Mount Desert Island, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom retreat offers a perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty. Start your day with a cup of coffee or unwind in the afternoon with your favorite drink on the spacious open deck, all while taking in sweeping ocean views that never get old.

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 exterior view of a charming building located next to a landscaped area. The building features white siding, large windows, and air conditioning units. Nearby, stone pathways and bare trees create an inviting sense of space, leading toward the main entrance.
Apartment in Southwest Harbor
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 224 reviews

Coastal Wind

Enjoy a stylish experience at this centrally-located apartment. Located in the heart of downtown southwest harbor. This apartment is located within walking distance to many wonderful restaurants and boutiques. A short drive to all Acadia National Park has to offer. This is an open studio apartment with a king size bed and beautiful walkin shower. All brand new furniture. It has only a microwave no other form for cooking.

Top guest favorite
A light-filled studio space features a king-size bed with a light-coloured patterned bedspread, accompanied by two reclining chairs and a small table. Multiple windows provide ample natural light, while wood ceilings and floors enhance a warm atmosphere.
Apartment in Deer Isle
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 337 reviews

The Reach Retreat

Coastal, light and airy, this studio is perfect for those seeking to explore all that Deer Isle has to offer! Located on the Eggemoggin Reach, you will have access to hiking trails, kayaking, sailing, shopping, and lobsters from the lobster capital of the world, Stonington! We are so lucky to live on this beautiful island and are looking forward to sharing a piece of our paradise with you!

Popular amenities for Southwest Harbor vacation rentals

When is the best time to visit Southwest Harbor?

MonthJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg. priceG$41,873 GYDG$37,686 GYDG$39,570 GYDG$41,873 GYDG$53,179 GYDG$62,810 GYDG$68,044 GYDG$69,719 GYDG$62,601 GYDG$58,204 GYDG$43,130 GYDG$42,292 GYD
Avg. temp-7°C-6°C-1°C6°C13°C18°C21°C20°C16°C9°C3°C-3°C

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 530 vacation rentals in Southwest Harbor

  • Nightly prices starting at

    Southwest Harbor vacation rentals start at G$6,281 GYD per night before taxes and fees

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 27,730 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly vacation rentals

    340 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

    180 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wi-Fi availability

    520 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!

Destinations to explore

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