
Holiday houses in Southwest Harbor
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Top-rated holiday rentals in Southwest Harbor
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Relaxing and cozy A-Frame, Maine woods, “Birch”
Come relax in our newly constructed, 4 season modern A frame on the Blue Hill Peninsula. Located in the beautiful town of Brooksville, only 10 mins from Holbrook Island Sanctuary, 15 minute scenic drive to Blue Hill and Deer Isle/Stonington or 1 hour to Bar Harbor/Acadia National Park. Stocked with everything needed to enjoy a relaxing getaway- EV Charger too! Is the property not available when you need it? “Maple” A Frame is just next door. See separate listing for availability OR to book both.

Pilot House
Named for a boat shipwrecked on its shore nearly a century ago, Pilot House boasts gorgeous views of the working harbor and outlying islands. The oceanfront house on spacious grounds is comfortable and up-to-date, with water views from the large high-end kitchen, open-plan living and dining areas, master bedroom, lower-level guest room, and upper deck. Outside spaces include front and back gardens and a small waterside platform for watching the boat traffic. Town center is a short walk away.

Quiet side ranch home SW Harbor. Prime MDI locale
This comfortable home named the Autumn Lodge located in the lively picturesque village of Southwest Harbor can be enjoyed year round. Classic ranch home with open updated design and decorated with the colors of fall. Fully equipped kitchen with granite counters, dishwasher, and informal kitchen dining on the bar. Gas log fireplace. Private outdoor space. Harbor frontage on opposite side of the street. In town location walkable to restaurants & shops. Check out my other listing.

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.

Nest:a place of rest, retreat, or lodging
The NEST is located in a small community on the "quiet side" of Mount Desert Island, home of Acadia National Park. This beautiful, light filled, fully equipped apartment is available year round for guests. With it's own private entrance and sliding door to an east facing 2nd story deck, it has views of the mountains and clear night skies. Located on a small "farmette". Easy access to the beach, hiking trails and restaurants. This apartment is a perfect retreat for the off-season. (Read on)

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!

Wayfarers cabin in Acadia, 5 minute walk into town
Charming 3 bedroom, 1 bath traditional wooden cabin, situated on 8 acres in Southwest Harbor. Walk into town easily for restaurants, galleries and boutiques. Or walk to the town dock for an adventure to another island. Ferries leave daily to explore outer islands. Acadia easily explored from here, with parts of Southwest Harbor being National park land. 5 minutes drive to Acadia National Park -Flying Mountain and Valley Cove are very close by. Ask Marc for a hiking map to explore Acadia.

Evergreen Hill in Acadia National Park
Evergreen Hill is a cheery cedar cape set up on a private half acre of fir and native blueberry. Just a mile from Acadia trails and beaches, this humble cottage has a peaceful island vibe, relaxing family spaces, a fenced yard, and great front porch, with no dog or cleaning fee. Eat lobster year round, visit Bar Harbor, take the family on a boat ride to see Mount Desert Island's 26 peaks from the water. Come in winter to work and play, hike the snow covered mountains, ice skate and XC ski.

"Yellow Door”
The Yellow Door | A Quietside Retreat Skip the Bar Harbor traffic and settle into the "Quietside" of the island. Yellow Door is a high-end, 2-bedroom apartment in Southwest Harbor, designed and built by one of the area's most respected local builders. It’s got that clean, custom craftsmanship that feels less like a rental and more like a home. The Layout: Bedroom 1: 1 King Bed Bedroom 2: 1 Queen Bed Bath: 1 Full Bath The Vibe: Exquisitely decorated with a focus on local design.

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.

On the water. Walk to Southwest Harbor
If you want to be near the action of an active and interesting harbor, this is the place for you. You will have a front row seat to spectacular morning sunrises over the harbor, the comings and goings of the fishermen and the many boats docked at the marina and anchored in the harbor. This spacious four bedroom, two and a half bath home is located at the Great Harbor Marina just half a mile from downtown Southwest Harbor. Walk to restaurants, art galleries, specialty shops and more.

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.
Popular amenities for Southwest Harbor holiday rentals
Stay near Southwest Harbor's top sights
Other great holiday rentals in Southwest Harbor

Amazing Views- Central to Acadia

Harborfront Getaway | Minutes to Acadia

Secluded 3 BR House on Somes Sound! [Sound View]

Brigadoon Cottage

Rustic Retreat on MDI

Camp Ripples lake cottage.

Secluded retreat steps from seashore & NEH Village

Kinfolk Cottage a family friendly vacation home!
When is the best time to visit Southwest Harbor?
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. price | $339 NZD | $305 NZD | $321 NZD | $339 NZD | $431 NZD | $509 NZD | $551 NZD | $565 NZD | $507 NZD | $509 NZD | $373 NZD | $382 NZD |
| Avg. temp | -7°C | -6°C | -1°C | 6°C | 13°C | 18°C | 21°C | 20°C | 16°C | 9°C | 3°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.
Quick stats about holiday rentals in Southwest Harbor

Total holiday rentals
Explore 510 holiday rentals in Southwest Harbor

Nightly prices starting at
Southwest Harbor holiday rentals start at $51 NZD per night before taxes and fees

Verified guest reviews
Over 28,570 verified reviews to help you choose

Family-friendly holiday rentals
330 properties offer extra space and kid-friendly amenities

Pet-friendly accommodation
Find 190 rentals that welcome pets

Holiday rentals with a pool
10 properties feature pools

Rentals with dedicated workspaces
170 properties have a dedicated workspace

Wi-Fi availability
500 of Southwest Harbor holiday 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!
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- Acadia National Park
- Acadia National Park Pond
- The Camden Snow Bowl
- Sand Beach
- Farnsworth Art Museum
- University of Maine
- Rockland Breakwater Light
- Maine Discovery Museum
- Schoodic Peninsula
- Maine Lighthouse Museum
- Moose Point State Park
- Bass Harbor Head Light Station
- Hollywood Slots Hotel & Raceway
- Cellardoor Winery
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