The 19 best Airbnbs in Maine for coastal scenery, outdoor fun, and plenty of lobster

City nest in Portland, Maine

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This spacious two-bedroom apartment has a cozy vintage vibe with high ceilings, a brick fireplace, and crown molding.

Close to all that Portland has to offer, it’s a short five-minute walk to the start of downtown and 15 mins to the Old Port. There’s a small, makeshift yoga room next to the balcony with two yoga mats, a foam roller, and two meditation cushions. Guests also have access to a coin-operated washer and dryer in the basement.

Remodeled 18th-century Victorian house in Portland, Maine

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And Airbnb Plus listing, this remodeled 18th-century Victorian feels light and airy thanks to soothing decor in whites, creams, light greys, and gentle blues. The open-plan main room features a comfy sofa and a love seat, a geometric rug, and a dining table that can fold down or out depending on how many need to dine.

The bedroom is a tranquil all-white space, and the bathroom includes a clawfoot tub. A deck off the second floor with rocking chairs makes for a nice place to enjoy the cup of coffee you can make downstairs at the kitchen’s coffee bar.

Historic home in Portland, Maine

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This chic two-bedroom property is an Airbnb Plus listing, which means it’s been vetted for exceptional quality and design, and includes one-of-kind details and curated amenities to ensure a comfy, above-average stay.

Original pumpkin pine floors, nine-foot ceilings, exposed brick, and sunny rooms are just some of the charms found in this 177-year-old Greek revival home. Plus, the lively city of Portland is right at your fingertips and many of the best spots are within walking distance.

Cottage on Somes Sound in Acadia National Park

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This seaside cottage actually sits inside the borders of Acadia National Park and overlooks the impressive Somes Sound. Completely surrounded by wilderness and ocean, the four-season home is full of windows for watching sunsets and includes a wraparound deck, a private yoga platform, and swimming rocks. 

While this is a newer listing, the hosts are highly-rated on other properties they’ve listed and all recent guests have given the property glowing reviews. My recommendation? Snag this listing while it’s still new before the price goes up.

Oceanside house close to Acadia National Park

Book this Maine beach Airbnb

Just a 15-minute drive from the beauty and splendor of Acadia National Park, this oceanfront cottage offers panoramic views of the waves, Mount Desert Island, and Cadillac Mountain. For lobster fans, three premier lobster pounds are within walking distance.

A large deck outfitted with a gas grill, fire pit, and roasting sticks makes for a nice spot to enjoy dinner, roast marshmallows, or watch a sunset. The property is also pet-friendly, so four-legged friends can join the trip.

Beachy bolthole in Lisbon, Maine

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It’s extremely rare to find a vetted Airbnb Plus listing for such an affordable price, but that’s what is waiting here in Maine along the Androscoggin River.

This beach-themed hideout is expertly designed with pops of breezy turquoise, white decor, and seashell accents.  This property is ideal for those seeking to get out of town and enjoy nature as both beaches and scenic walking trails are within easy driving distance.

Kettle Cove apartment in Cape Elizabeth, Maine

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Situated between Kettle Cove and Crescent Beach State Park, this home comes with water views and a great location. Two Lights State Park is less than a mile away, iconic Portland Head Lighthouse is right nearby, and Portland’s acclaimed local restaurants are just a short drive into the city. Ice cream lovers can also satiate their sweet tooth with a walk to Kettle Cove Creamery before falling asleep to the sound of gentle waves. 

While guests do have the entire first-floor apartment to themselves with a separate, private entrance, the apartment is attached to the main house and sits below the upstairs apartment, it might not be a good option if you’re looking for complete seclusion.

Charming country cottage in Boothbay Harbor, Maine

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This romantic escape features carefully curated antique furnishings in an idyllic natural setting. Lucky guests might even catch a glimpse of deer eating apples in the garden from the second-floor bedroom.

An Airbnb Plus listing, the home sleeps up to three guests and features calming all-white interiors with pops of fresh flowers. The balcony and large backyard are both ideal spots for enjoying a cup of coffee or winding down at the end of the day. The outdoor shower and fire pit are additional perks that set this listing apart. 

The hosts have a perfect 5.0 rating and consistently go above and beyond for guests. One recent reviewer raved, “Suzie left us a bottle of wine (sanitized!) and the most insane cheese to welcome us to the home. The design and decor was so charming and unique, and the location was excellent for hiking/outdoor activities and of course for eating some delish lobster. We loved the fire pit, which they graciously supplied ample wood for (and even refilled for us!). At the end of the stay, Suzie left us with some lovely fresh grown lavender to take home.”

  

Classic Maine house in Phippsburg, Maine

Book this Maine beach Airbnb

This recently built house is just an hour north of Portland and right by beautiful Popham Beach. Great for large groups and families, the four-bedroom home sleeps up to 10 guests.

Standout features include the eat-in kitchen with breakfast nook, cute decorations such as lobster pillows, and the screened-in back porch with rocking chairs. The home is stocked with everything from kitchenware and a washer/dryer to kayaks and beach toys.

Sophisticated loft in Kennebunk, Maine

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A chic beach retreat for a couple or solo adventurer, this home may be small, but it fits in all the essentials and then some. The Murphy bed folds up to create a comforting nook, and the home also features acouch, flat-screen TV, kitchenette, and full-sized bathroom.

The property sits on 13 acres of private land with an outdoor shower available for rinsing off sandy feet after a day spent at nearby beaches and lakes. In summer it makes for a nice home base to explore the gorgeous beaches of Kennebunk, and the host provides a beach pass. 

Modern farmhouse in Kennebunkport, Maine

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A restored barn is now a contemporary oasis with minimal Scandinavian-inspired modern furnishings, a farmhouse kitchen, and lots of wooden touches. However, there’s also a strong upscale feeling with a subway-tiled walk-in shower set behind a sleek glass panel wall that’s stocked with Kiehl’s toiletry products. Other features include modern light fixtures, soaringly-high windows that pour in light, and a nice patio. There are two bedrooms, plus an air mattress that is available for the sleeping loft. 

In the summer months, grab the provided beach chairs and cooler and head to Kennebunkport’s famous beaches, or take advantage of the bikes and helmet for a ride around town.

Cliff cottage near Jasper Beach in Machiasport, Maine

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This coastal Maine home was designed to feel like a ship, which is well-suited to its location atop a 130-foot cliff overlooking the ocean and surrounded by over 30 acres of woods, wildlife, and beaches. Hikers will particularly appreciate that 12 acres include private hiking trails available for use. 

Most rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows, including the master overlooking the ocean.

On themed motifs include a telescope, teak and brass accents, and blue and gold-colored nautical maps of New England. Nearby Jasper Beach is famous for its gorgeous and colorful stones. 

Lakefront cottage in Waltham, Maine

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I’m not sure what’s more alluring — this cottage’s serene lake setting or its incredibly affordable price point.

The waterfront listing is set on Graham Lake in the middle of a small working farm. During warmer months, guests can fish, kayak or canoe, while a gas fireplace creates a cozy atmosphere for chilly nights. In any season, the closed-in porch is a relaxing setting for catching a stunning sunset.

Camp Wigwam lake cottage in Greenwood, Maine

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This is a solid option for families since the property features two bedrooms, one of which is outfitted with bunk beds. Despite being inland, the lakefront location means you can still be on the water, which is fun in every season for outdoor activities ranging from skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing to hiking, boating, and swimming.

Guests also have access to kayaks, so getting on the lake is easy. 

Secluded cottage in Camden, Maine

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Enjoy a cozy couple’s getaway for well under $100 per night with this quiet cottage near the coast. Its secluded location may appeal to those looking for a place where social distancing is possible, but it’s also within easy walking distance to the nearby village for those who do want to explore the town. While the kitchen is small, it comes with all the basics, and the porch area is a cheerful place to enjoy a morning cup of coffee.

One recent reviewer found it to be “super cozy,” continuing on to say, “My girlfriend & I stayed here and had a wonderful time — it’s the perfect size for a couple. I found myself enjoying the little front porch the most. Close to some great hikes and the town of Camden is very charming. Great for a getaway!”

Cozy cabin in Freeport, Maine

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You may know this northern coastal spot as the home of L.L. Bean and its famous giant boot photo op, and if you plan to explore the area or check out the Adventure Schools of L.L. Bean, consider making this cute cabin your home base.

The four-season abode is open in all seasons, but during warmer months, guests can enjoy eating or relaxing on the outdoor patio. The owners also implement a fun “Take a Beer-Leave a Beer” policy: guests are welcome to an assortment of free beers in the fridge, and are invited to leave one behind to replenish the stash. The space is quaint and on the small side, so it’s best for couples who want to cozy up together or solo adventurers. 

Tree house in Georgetown, Maine

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If you’ve always wanted to sleep among the pine branches, here’s your chance. Part tree house, part tiny house, this spot is 25 miles from Portland and features two elevated structures connected by a rope bridge.

One area includes the King-sized bed and idyllic river views, while the second structure houses the small kitchen and dining area, as well as a screen-in porch complete with rocking chairs. Use of kayaks and canoes are included with the rental and the 21-acre property is shared with one other one-bedroom treehouse.

Timber-frame cottage in Pownal, Maine

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This upscale Airbnb Plus listing is an idyllic spot to post up in a woodsy inland setting. The loft-style cottage is a true cozy retreat with its A-frame, wood-burning fireplace, and chic but rustic decor. A fire pit outdoors completes the feel.

One recent review raves, “This is the perfect Maine getaway cottage. The location could not be better with a 15-minute drive to Freeport and a 25-minute drive to Portland. Vianna offered many ideas for things to do and made us feel at home with a bottle of wine and a note upon arrival. There was no detail spared, everything about the cottage was thoughtfully picked out and placed to give it a well put together look. Once we left, the first thought that crossed our minds was “when will we be back?” this place leaves you wishing your stay was longer.”

Luxury canopy tree house in Sanford, Maine

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Perched atop a spiral staircase, you’ll enter a tree-house with a luxe feel thanks to soothing timber walls, a farmhouse-inspired full kitchen with a vintage fridge, and a Queen-sized bedroom with a custom maple headboard.

The full bathroom guarantees there’s no roughing it, with a spa-like rainfall shower that even comes with a hint of forest views. Natural light pours in through multiple windows, lighting up a cute dining nook and a sleeping loft with an additional Queen bed.

Other perks include a hide-away projector and screen to stream movies on high-speed internet, a wood stove, and a deck with a grill and private hot tub.

FAQs

When is the best time to visit Maine?

Maine has draws in every season, but for the best weather consider a vacation from June to August. However, be aware that this also tends to be the most crowded and expensive season, particularly for beach vacations. 

Maine is also idyllic and offers prime leaf peeping during the fall season, particularly in areas like Acadia National Park. Winter also offers the opportunity to ski, sled, ice fish, and more. Cozy cabin rentals are especially appealing for cozying up by a fire in the colder months.

What area should I stay in on a Maine vacation?

Where you go in Maine depends entirely on your interests. Coastal regions like offer scenic lighthouse photo ops and beautiful beaches. Kennebunk is a popular beach area, as is Cape Elizabeth, Phippsburg, and more. 

Portland is an ideal city break teeming with delicious restaurants, local breweries, and cute boutiques. However, outdoor lovers won’t want to miss heading to Acadia National Park and nearby Bar Harbor for some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.

L.L.Bean lovers may also want to make a stop in Freeport to visit the original store, complete with a huge Bean boot out front.

Are Airbnbs safe?

The CDC has noted that travel in the US is safe for fully vaccinated individuals.

Additionally, experts say Airbnbs and vacation rentals are very safe. In fact, they offer a higher level of safety compared to hotels since interactions with others are minimized. Additionally, Airbnb has enforced a strict new Enhanced Clean Policy.

What is Airbnb’s cancellation policy?

Cancellation policies on Airbnb differ from home to home and are set by each host. For a full breakdown of Airbnb’s cancellation policies, read here.

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