The 15 best Airbnbs in Maine, from an apartment in Portland to a cottage inside Acadia National Park

March 1, 2021

If you buy through our links, we may earn money from affiliate partners. Learn more.

Maine offers East Coasters a scenic seaside getaway, scenic fall leaf-peeping, and a cozy winter escape.
Maine is especially ideal for easy access to the outdoors, picturesque scenery, and plenty of lobster.
We found top-rated Maine Airbnbs for various budgets, ranging from $65 to $395 per night to start.

Though vaccine rollouts are underway, many travelers are still seeking safe vacations within driving distance. For East Coasters, Maine is a charming coastal getaway ideal in every season.

Whether you want to snap a photo of the iconic Portland Head Lighthouse, hike in stunning Acadia National Park, watch the waves roll in, or explore downtown Portland, Maine has it all and then some.

Popular Reviews

For those worried about whether Airbnbs are safe, consider that experts say staying at an Airbnb as opposed to a hotel is actually one of the safest travel options right now due to fewer interactions with others. Airbnb also rolled out the Enhanced Cleaning Protocol, which all hosts must now adhere to that includes strict policies on personal protective equipment, approved disinfectants, and requires all hosts and guests to agree to a new safety mandate.

However, it’s important to note that there is still no guarantee as to safety right now. We recommend following guidelines and advice from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, and practicing safety measures including wearing a mask, washing your hands, and maintaining social distancing.

If you do decide to head north to Maine, be sure to read their local guidelines for the most up-to-date info. Currently, travelers from visiting from anywhere besides New Hampshire or Vermont will require a negative COVID test or a 10-day quarantinte.

If a trip to Maine is still on your radar, there are plenty of affordable and beautiful Airbnb options to consider.

I chose the best Maine Airbnbs based on the following parameters:

All listings are for entire homes, in line with current expert recommendations for safety.
All are highly-rated Airbnb listings with a rating of 4.8 or higher.
Decor isn’t run of the mill. All properties incorporate unique furniture, accents, and exceptional attention to detail.
The properties range in price from $65 to $395 per night to start, though peak seasons may see higher rates.
Homes have availability in the coming weeks and months, as of the time of publishing, or are so special, they’re worth booking far in advance.

These are the best Airbnbs in Maine, sorted by price from low to high.

Lakefront cottage in Waltham, $65

Book this lake cottage starting at $65 per night

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.

This listing has a few scattered dates open over the next several months. More dates open up in the fall.

Sleeps: 5 guests/2 bedrooms

Rating: 4.94

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb’s Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.

Beachy bolthole in Lisbon, $67

Book this beach apartment starting at $67 per night

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.

One recent reviewer gave the property five stars, saying “Close to restaurants and close to Topsham, which is a good shopping area. The apartment is very clean, comfortable, and very well decorated. It had everything we needed for our stay.”

This Airbnb still has scattered dates open over the next few months, including a few summer weekend dates still available. There is wide-open availability starting in the fall.

Sleeps: 2 guests/1 bedroom

Rating: 4.96

Village cottage in Camden, $73

Book this Camden cottage starting at $73 per night

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!”

There are still some dates including a few summer weekends available in the next few months, but this listing is filling up quickly.

Sleeps: 2 guests/1 bedroom

Rating: 4.84

Kettle Cove apartment in Cape Elizabeth, $115

Book this cove apartment starting at $115 per night

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.

This property has limited availability until the fall, but inventory is subject to change.

Sleeps: 4 guests/1 bedroom

Rating: 4.97

Cozy cabin in Freeport, $126

Book this cabin starting at $126 per night

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.

April still has a few open dates and May is wide open.

Sleeps: 2 guests/1 bedroom

Rating: 4.98

Camp Wigwam lake cottage in Greenwood, $139

Book this cottage starting at $139 per night

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.

There’s still plenty of open dates over the next few months, though summer is already quickly filling up.

Sleeps: 5 guests/2 bedrooms

Rating: 4.95

City nest in Portland, $143

Book this city apartment starting at $143 per night

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.

This property has plenty of availability for the next several months.

Sleeps: 4 guests/2 bedrooms

Rating: 4.87

Tree house in Georgetown, $192

Book this tree house starting at $192 per night

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.

This Airbnb is extremely popular and has limited availability.

Sleeps: 2 guests/1 bedroom

Rating: 4.96

Oceanside house in Trenton, $195

Book this oceanfront home starting at $195 per night

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.

There are still scattered dates and weekends available over the next few months, with full availability starting in September.

Sleeps: 6 guests/1 bedroom

Rating: 4.95

Historic home in Portland, $202

Book this historic home starting at $202 per night

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.

This listing has a few dates open in March and April with plenty of open dates starting in May.

Sleeps: 5 guests/2 bedrooms

Rating: 4.99

Timber-frame cottage in Pownal, $229

Book this timber-frame cottage starting at $229 per night

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.”

There are scattered dates open over the next few months and full availability starting in September. It may be worth booking a fall getaway now.

Sleeps: 4 guests/1 bedroom

Rating: 5.0

Charming country cottage in Boothbay Harbor, $234

Book this cottage starting at $234 per night

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.”

This popular property has limited availability, but there are still a few scattered dates available in April and June.

Sleeps: 3 guests/2 bedrooms

Rating: 4.99

Classic Maine house in Phippsburg, $238

Book this classic home starting at $238 per night

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.

This property is very popular and has very limited availability, but there may be cancellations.

Sleeps: 8 guests/4 bedrooms

Rating: 4.92

Seaside cottage on Somes Sound, $364

Book this seaside cottage starting at $364

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.

This popular spot is a rare find within Acadia National Park and books up fast. There are still a few dates open in May and June with more dates available starting in the fall.

Sleeps: 3 guests/1 bedroom

Rating: 5.0

Luxury canopy tree-house in Sanford, Maine, $395

Book this luxury canopy tree-house starting at $395 per night on Airbnb

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.

This listing is very popular and books up fast. Most dates are booked up until November, so it’s worth booking this listing well in advance of a future fall or winter trip.

Sleeps: 4 guests/2 bedrooms

Rating: 4.96

More great East Coast Airbnbs

The best cabins in the Catskills
Unique and affordable Airbnbs in the Hudson Valley
The best Airbnbs in the Adirondacks
The best Airbnbs in New England
The best Airbnbs in Cape Cod
The best Airbnbs in Rhode Island
The best Airbnbs in Connecticut
The best Airbnbs in Vermont

Axel Springer, Insider Inc.’s parent company, is an investor in Airbnb.

You can purchase syndication rights to this story here.

Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. We frequently receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected].

Source: Read Full Article