Entire home

THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate cottage with oceanfront views and AC!

Photo gallery for THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate cottage with oceanfront views and AC!

A sunset view over a body of water with two wooden chairs facing the horizon. - THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate cottage with oceanfront views and AC! (Harpswell)
A cozy living room with a view of a rocky shoreline. - THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate cottage with oceanfront views and AC! (Harpswell)
A wooden door leading to a porch with a view of a body of water. - THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate cottage with oceanfront views and AC! (Harpswell)
A narrow, dark-tiled bathroom with a window offering a view of the sea. - THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate cottage with oceanfront views and AC! (Harpswell)
A view through a doorway to a coastal scene with waves, rocks, and grass. - THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate cottage with oceanfront views and AC! (Harpswell)
THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate cottage with oceanfront views and AC! provides amenities, such as golfing on-site and a garden. This cottage is a great place to bask in the sun with a beachfront location and sunloungers. Guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4110 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available

Add dates for prices

About this property

THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate cottage with oceanfront views and AC!

  • THE RED HOUSE
    The 116 year old Red House at the head of Mackerel Cove was built when most of Bailey Island was wild and undeveloped - and once you've spent time here it's clear why this spot was chosen to build. You FEEL the ocean just steps away wherever you are on the property - and each night the sun sets directly in front of you across the water.

    This place is magic.

    A house where no matter what you are doing - cooking dinner with loved ones - reading a book on the porch - spending a lazy day in bed - the sea is always present - steps away or right outside your window.
    *……..and yes there is a half bath upstairs, you may need to look a little to find it though, just like the Hardy Boys did on their adventures…….
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    THE BEACH
    The private pebble beach is the perfect place to launch kayaks at any tide. Exploring from the water is one of the best ways to experience Casco Bay. The tide pools in front of the house are something kids (of all ages) love.
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    THE VIEW
    Spending time here always comes back to the view. Clear and calm one day, misty and grey the next. Watch the sea and sky shift with the weather. Hour by hour. Minute by minute. Always beautiful. Always different.
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    THE BIRDS
    From heron and gulls to Eider and even bald eagles, this sheltered spot is a birdwatchers dream. I watched a pair of sea ducks guide their ducklings along the shore. Herons fishing in the tide pools at low tide. A bald eagle at the end of the wharf. Whatever you see, you can be sure that it's going to be beautiful.
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    NEW OWNERSHIP
    The Red House is now owned by Little Harbor Properties and managed by Safe Harbour Property Management - Safe Harbour is the same management team that you had when The Gills Group owned The Red House so please expect the same great service. This also means THE GILLS GROUP still has a collection of oceanfront cottages that can be rented together with The Red House if available for larger groups or hosting intimate events. The cottages are all a short walk from each other and are the perfect place to be "away" while still being "together".

    THE GILLS GROUP cottages are Jaquish Lane (VRBO 733483) which sleeps 12 and The Gills (VRBO 318909) which sleeps 6.
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    EVENTS
    The Red House with spectacular sunsets on the west can be booked with THE GILLS GROUP cottages, JAQUISH and THE GILLS offer the ability to host events such as weddings etc. and can be booked with THE RED HOUSE when available as an lodging accommodation for wedding guests etc. Event fees vary depending on the size of the gathering and number of guests at JAQUISH and THE GILLS. Contact the property manager for more information.
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    LOCATION
    Mackerel Cove - Bailey Island - Harpswell - Maine.
    There are many other properties in the area - but there are very few that rise above the (sometimes crude) comfort that passes for acceptable in a "summer island cottage".


    BAILEY ISLAND
    20 minutes from Brunswick and Bowdoin College. 40 minutes from Freeport and L.L.Bean. 55 minutes from Portland.


    PETS
    Pets are welcome at The Red House and will incur a fee of $60 per night per pet. This is non-negotiable. Everyone says, "My pet would never damage anything," but sadly, experience has proven that's not always the case.

Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach
  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car recommended
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1.5 bathrooms
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Garden
  • Gas grill
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • Up to 23 kg per pet

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Thin carpet in public areas
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: 500$ fee if cleaner thinks indoor smoking occurred

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near an outlet shopping centre
  • Near the bay
  • Near the marina
  • Near the ocean
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Golf
  • Kayak
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • No carbon monoxide detector or gas appliances (host has indicated there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Garden
  • Local artist showcase
  • Locally-owned and organised tours and activities
  • Some LED lighting used
  • Unit size: 1,186 square feet

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

Rentals exceeding 2 weeks require a mid-stay clean. Guests can forgo the extra cleaning but still will be charged.
For multi-week rentals, a property fee of $139 will be charged for each additional week (partial or full) of your stay.
No EV vehicle charging on premisses. This also includes no running extension cords to exterior or interior outlets at the rental to charge your EV.

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
1 total (up to 23 kg per pet)
Note from host: $60 /night

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
500$ fee if cleaner thinks indoor smoking occurred

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Located in Bailey Island, this cottage is on the beach. Freeport Historical Society and Clay Play are cultural highlights, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit LL Bean Flagship Store and Maine Street. Land's End Gift Shop and Ash Cove Pottery are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and power boating nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling and ecotours. Visit our Bailey Island travel guide
View more Cottages in Bailey Island
Map
Harpswell, ME

What's nearby

  • A lighthouse, rocky coastline, and a house by the sea during sunset.
    Casco Bay
    1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Mackerel Cove
    1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Land's End Gift Shop
    5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • beach near Mackerel Cove Lot
    17 min walk - 1.5 km
  • beach near Bailey Island
    4 min drive - 2.5 km

Getting around

  • Brunswick Station
    34 min drive
  • Portland, ME (PWM-Portland Intl. Jetport)
    62 min drive

Restaurants

  • Dolphin Marina & Restaurant
    35 min drive
  • Cook's Lobster & Ale House
    5 min drive
  • Erica's Seafood & Lobster Shop
    35 min drive
  • Bailey Island General Store
    2 min drive
  • Salt Cod Cafe
    4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate cottage with oceanfront views and AC! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

How much is parking at THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate cottage with oceanfront views and AC!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate cottage with oceanfront views and AC!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate cottage with oceanfront views and AC!?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate cottage with oceanfront views and AC! located?

Nestled on the beach, this Bailey Island cottage is within a 5-minute walk of Casco Bay, Mackerel Cove and Land's End Gift Shop. Bailey Island Bridge and Cobwork Bridge are also within 3 miles (5 km).

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THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate cottage with oceanfront views and AC! Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 60 out of 62 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 62 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 62 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 62 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 62 reviews

9.6

Cleanliness

10

Location

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful retreat

Beautiful views from a charming cottage with kind neighbors. Eclectic styled home which we enjoyed. Would stay again!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Breathtaking

What a lovely home and stay! Beautiful view. Beautiful location. Home had everything we needed. One funny thing: I guess I didn’t read the home details clearly because we found the second bathroom 3 days in. :) highly recommend visiting the driftwood inn. Enjoy!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exactly as advertised. Amazing property

We were sold on the Dog Friendliness of this property but we will be coming back for the views. This is literally a slice of heaven. We stayed with our two labs and our 3 year old son and everyone had a blast. The house is beautifully renovated to fit the modern lifestyle with the quaint beach house theme. The dogs were able to run free on the beach front and roll in the tall grass. The lack of television was the best pet of the trip. Games, books, music and conversation fill the space and allow you spend time with the ones you love. Highly recommend this home to anyone looking to visit Maine.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing time on Bailey Island ...

This was our 3rd vrbo stay in Harpswell and our first on Bailey Island. We went for part of the week on our own and cousins joined us there for a couple of days. We were thrilled to bring our Boston Terrier along, too! The house is rustic yet elegant in some ways (amazing steam room, well equipped kitchen, comfortable beds & bedding). Like many other reviewers, we spent tons of time on the lovely porch relaxing and enjoying the always beautiful view of the water, birds, boats, and sunrises and sunsets. When we did venture out, we loved eating at Sundrenched on Bailey Island, buying yummy treats at the Wild Oats Bakery in Brunswick, enjoying lobster rolls from Bailey Island General Store, or walking for 5 minutes to Lands End and Bailey Island Beach. The house was pleasant and comfy and had everything we needed. We really appreciated that the owner cared about the environment (unbleached paper towels, recycling, encouraging water conservation, use of Mrs. Meyer's soap). The neighbors and property managers were nice and helpful, too. We were sad to leave but were so happy we chose somewhere so amazing to stay. Bailey Island had a lovely magic of its own, and seemed to stay cooler with a pleasant breeze most of the time than some other parts of Harpswell! Thanks for sharing this lovely home with our family!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We liked the location and the house very well. The sunset view is excellent, and the ducks were a treat to watch from the porch. The two restaurants just down the road were friendly, and we had memorable breakfasts and dinners there. This is a relaxing place that I hope to return to someday.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property is on the ocean. Cute inside. Bathroom downstairs is a bit dark but amazing! Great owners, wonderful stay. Find the half bath was fun.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Serenity and Peace with a View!

This is a stunning place to stay. Every detail has been well thought out and you cannot beat the view. The cottage is a great balance of luxury and rustic charm and we so enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
No complaints. As advertised. Rustic, immaculate, beautiful home, with a view to die for. Locals are friendly and wildlife is abundant. Will be returning!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

a very special spot

absolutely loved our dreamy week at this magical property, with a view that can't be beat. every detail in the house was so thoughtful and we felt right at home. we hope to come back very soon.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
My partner and I desperately needed a full reset getaway and this couldn't have fit the bill more. We also had our dog with us. This was (as described and intended) isolated and quiet and tranquil. The house is also incredibly designed on the interior. At first blush, you could look past it, but every inch of this home is designed with intention and mindfulness to the vibe: oceanside, secluded, rustic, authentic. It's awesome. Highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing vacation home

We couldn’t wait to return to this home for our second trip to Bailey Island. The home is very comfortable with everything you could need, including books, games, and every necessary kitchen gadget. We spent every evening watching the sunset from the porch and had a wonderful time exploring the bay in our rented kayak. We also took advantage of the amazing steam shower. The property manager was very responsive and friendly. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect place to spend the week!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Perfect Spot

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay on Bailey Island! The house was perfect for our trip. We loved the unique characteristics of the home and the steam shower was an added bonus. Our son had fun looking for sea glass and exploring. We could have stayed on the back porch the whole trip. We recommend checking out Giant’s Stairs Trail, Lands End, Stover’s Beach, and Portland Lighthouse. Fishnet Cafe, The General Store, Cook’s, Salt Cod Cafe, Dolphin Marina & Restaurant, & Royal River Grillhouse all had great food. We can’t wait to come back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect relaxing getaway

The perfect relaxing getaway… the house is exquisitely decorated and ready for a very comfortable stay. The waterfront view and evening sunsets were perfect and made the whole trip worth while. The steam shower was as added bonus!! Great location for several restaurants, not far from shopping and sightseeing. We rented a kayak for the week and had an amazing time exploring the harbor and neighboring islands. Will definitely be back! Minor details- Kitchen could definitely use some wine glasses, Tupperware, and a can opener!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cove side jewel box

What a delightful home! From the perfectly distressed exterior to the thoughtful and creative interior. It totally encapsulates the feeling of being in coastal Maine. Handpicked antiques and fabrics abound in the living area and the bedrooms. The house is small but feels spacious due to well planned lighting and open areas. The addition of the steam shower room with a window overlooking the cove is inspired. What better way to view those gorgeous sunsets! The dock at the house is the perfect spot for morning coffee watching the lobster boats come and go from Mackerel Cove. Brunswick is not too far away for grocery shopping and the occasional visit to the laundromat. All questions, problems, discussions about the house, Maine, New England sports or Chocolate Labradors can be directed to and answered by the wonderful property manager Dave Johnson, who is an invaluable resource. We have loved it here.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A perfect location, funky, fun interior design, and lovely owners that were quick to respond to any questions. We especially loved the private, rocky beach and beautiful sunsets. We loved our stay and will definitely be returning!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Brilliant!

A perfect holiday. Stunning. The Red House must be seen to be believed. Unbeatable on the water location with views to die for.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Special Place

The red house is in the most beautiful setting and was a lovely stay for a family getaway. We’d love to come back!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing week on Bailey Island

Our family had a wonderful stay at this picturesque cottage. We will greatly miss the beautiful view from the porch. Our girls loved collecting sea glass out front and watching the wildlife. Very relaxing week in Maine with great location and accommodations.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely experience

The property was lovely with well maintained amenities. This was not an issue just a note: the keys were not in the lock box when we arrived. The door was unlocked and keys were on the counter. When we tried to leave, it appears the box may have been broken but we put them in there anyway as that is what was requested. Views were amazing. We left behind a map of the island for the next guest with a bunch of things we did. We hope to come again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Perfect Setting On Mackerel Cove

My husband and I spent a glorious week at The Red Cottage. The restoration of the cottage has clearly been a labor of love. Our experience felt authentic, yet we were not lacking for conveniences and amenities during our stay. The cottage provides the perfect setting to watch Mackerel Cove, an active harbor. We enjoyed watching the boat traffic. The porch is a cool, breezy place to reach, and to watch the ocean and skies shift shape throughout the day. In fact, I think we spent more time on the porch than we did anywhere else in the house! Do not miss sunset on the dock. Dave was the consummate host, attentive to every detail during our stay. We cannot recommend The Red Cottage highly enough. We look forward to returning.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Honeymoon Heaven

We spent a dreamy week at the Red House in mid-June for our honeymoon. Highlights were the views of the water from every room, watching ducklings and herons, the glorious sunsets, the comfiness of the bed, and the charming furniture and decor (the lady lamp in the living room was my favorite!) Bailey Island is a special place, and the Red House is a perfect rental to experience it from. Would love to come back again some day!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Disliked: Cleanliness

Great Location, Lousy Water

We loved the house and the location. Great walking distance to Lands End and the General Store. Wonderful ocean views and the dogs had a blast swimming and investigating the tidal pools. The house was well appointed with books and utensils. Unfortunately, there were a number of problems with the place. First was the water. It has hydrogen sulfide gas which is highly toxic. We complained and the manager had someone put in a filter which didn't solve the problem. They gave us some water and we bought more but taking a shower and washing dishes was a noxious process. Many of the dishes and pans were dirty. The upstairs screens were torn to shreds by the winds and let in mosquitos, which we were surprised to see. We don't mind paying high fees and rents but this place just didn't justify the expense.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

August 2021

We had a fantastic stay. The house was all we hoped it would be in terms of comfort and space. We enjoyed Bailey Island and the surrounding area but spent so much time just relaxing at the house, on the porch overlooking the water. Cozy and comfortable. The kids loved it too.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Most peaceful little escape

Loved the island and loved the property. Kids were happy expiring the tide pools, the dock, and playing on the lawn. Such a special place!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful properties in a very special place

Beautiful properties in a very special place
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021