Experience the quintessential New England charm of this Prospect Harbor retreat. Unwind by the firepit on the secluded back patio or relax in front of a gas fireplace, surrounded by elegant design and original accents. Prepare authentic Maine meals in an updated kitchen with sweeping granite countertops.
Reviews
1010 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 61138 sq ft
Popular amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free Wi-Fi
Air-conditioning
Add dates for prices
About this property
Joy Cottage Lighthouse & Harborview, an Ultimate ME Vacation Home
PRICING - All inclusive pricing makes booking your vacation easy. One price + VRBO - booking fee & Tax = Straightforward Reservation and No surprises
Paddle a kayak on the harbor or rent bikes to cruise to the Prospect Harbor Lighthouse. A secluded back patio invites you to unwind by the firepit after a fun-filled day. Highlights of your two-story rental include elegant design, a beautifully updated kitchen, and original New England accents.
LIVING AREA The inviting living area is outfitted with a plush sofa and two armchairs. Relax and watch favorite shows on the 47” TV. The gas fireplace creates added allure. The adjacent office area provides space to check email or write postcards. KITCHEN & DINING Prepare authentic Maine meals in the kitchen, appointed with a full suite of stainless steel appliances. Home chefs will also appreciate the sweeping granite countertops. When you’re ready to eat, gather around the table for six in the dining area. BED & BATH This home sleeps up to six guests in three bedrooms. Find quiet privacy in the master bedroom, furnished with a queen-size bed with hotel-quality linens. The en-suite bathroom features a luxurious clawfoot bathtub. The second bedroom holds a king-size, while the third bedroom is furnished with a queen-size bed. There are two full bathrooms. One on the first floor has a tub. The second bathroom includes a walk-in shower.
OUTDOOR AREA & AMENITIES Kick back on the front patio as lobster boats pass by on the harbor across the street. The dining table seats four to afternoon snacks. A flagstone patio in the backyard offers a private paradise. Recline under the shade of the gazebo as burgers sizzle on the gas grill. On starry nights, gather around the wood-burning firepit. The front yard and backyard are both surrounded by a picket fence, allowing furry friends to play in the soft grass.
EXTRA PERKS & MORE DETAILS Complimentary Wi-Fi and a washer/dryer are provided. Parking is available for three cars in the driveway. The living room fireplace is available for your enjoyment (the fireplace in the dining area is not operational).
THE LOCATION Located across the street from the harbor, you can walk 1-minute to a serene waterside setting. Rent kayaks for an exciting aquatic adventure. Located 0.3 miles away, the Prospect Harbor Lighthouse is an iconic landmark. Explore beautiful scenery at Corea Heath, a wildlife refuge located just 2 miles from your rental. Or venture 37 miles to visit Acadia National Park.
Take the Katie Grace ferry to Bar Harbor from Winter Harbor. Located less than five minutes from the house, the ferry will take about 45 minutes and the views are spectacular. As you cross the bay, you can expect to see wildlife —possibly nesting eagles — lighthouses and mansions and watch hardworking lobstermen hauling their traps. Bring your bikes!
More about Acadia National Park : Acadia National Park is approx a 60 minute scenic drive away. Or take the ferry. Two local companies offer visitors access from Winter Harbor (the village next door) and Bar Harbor. The Bar Harbor-Winter Harbor Ferry travels between Bar Harbor and Winter Harbor. The route through spectacular Frenchman Bay passes lighthouses, mountains, mansions, and working lobstermen. The Schoodic Ferry connects passengers, their bicycles, and leashed pets to the Bar Harbor from Winter Harbor and the Schoodic Peninsula. Relax as you cruise between Bar Harbor and Winter Harbor, unconcerned about traffic or parking during your 45-minute ferry ride. Coastal Maine Vacations requires a rental contract to be signed at the time of booking. If you would like to see a copy in advance please contact us.
Property amenities
Beach
Beach nearby
Internet
Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Parking on site
Kitchen
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Hob
Ice maker
Kitchen island
Microwave
Oven
Refrigerator
Toaster
Dining
Dining table
Bedrooms
3 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Bathroom
2 private bathrooms
Bathtub or shower
Hair dryer
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Fireplace
Living room
Separate dining area
Entertainment
Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
Outdoor areas
Fenced yard
Garden
Gas grill
Patio
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washer/dryer
Work spaces
Office
Comfort
Air conditioning
Heating
Pets
Pet friendly
Welcoming dogs only
2 pets total
Suitability/Accessibility
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Location highlights
In a rural location
In the mountains
Near a hospital
Near the bay
Near the marina
Near the ocean
On a river
Things to do
Birdwatching nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Hunting nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Mountain climbing nearby
Sailing nearby
Swimming nearby
Whale watching nearby
Winery tours nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
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:
Load and start the dishwasher
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Departure instructions are texted the day before you leave. Take one last look to be sure you have packed everything. Did you pack your phone charger? Did you log out of any streaming service?
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Pets
Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total pets
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
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 is a carbon monoxide detector 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 deadlock
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
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.
About the area
Located in Prospect Harbor, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a river. Egg Rock Lighthouse and Criterion Theater are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Mrs JC's WildLife Ecology Center and Grindstone Neck Golf Course. Prayer Labyrith and Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co are also worth visiting. Sailing and fishing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails and mountain biking nearby. Visit our Prospect Harbor travel guide
Corea Heath - Maine Coast Islands National Wildlife Refuge - North
5 min drive - 2.7 miles
Mrs JC's WildLife Ecology Center
9 min drive - 4.3 miles
Bartlett Maine Estate Winery
13 min drive - 7.6 miles
Getting around
Bar Harbor, ME (BHB-Hancock County - Bar Harbor)
43 min drive
Restaurants
The Bakery
8 min drive
christopher's at eagle hill
34 min drive
The Pickled Wrinkle
5 min drive
Bunkers Seafood And Spirits
8 min drive
Mollee's Pub Maine Annex
35 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Joy Cottage Lighthouse & Harborview, an Ultimate ME Vacation Home pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).
How much is parking at Joy Cottage Lighthouse & Harborview, an Ultimate ME Vacation Home?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Joy Cottage Lighthouse & Harborview, an Ultimate ME Vacation Home?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Joy Cottage Lighthouse & Harborview, an Ultimate ME Vacation Home?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Joy Cottage Lighthouse & Harborview, an Ultimate ME Vacation Home located?
Situated by the ocean, this holiday home is 1.8 mi (2.9 km) from Chapter Two Art Gallery and 2.1 mi (3.5 km) from Corea Heath - Maine Coast Islands National Wildlife Refuge - North. Mrs JC's WildLife Ecology Center and Schoodic Peninsula are also within 6 miles (10 km).
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Joy Cottage Lighthouse & Harborview, an Ultimate ME Vacation Home 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.
Lovely home with beautiful view. The house is n a beautiful quiet neighborhood with an amazing view. The kitchen was perfect as we cooked a lot. Beds are extremely comfortable.
We loved staying at this cozy seaside home for the week. We were able to recharge and unplug in this quiet neighborhood with scenic views. Close proximity to Acadia National park.
We enjoyed an amazing stay here! The location is absolutely stunning and is located in a very quiet neighborhood. The house was very comfortable with a great fenced in yard and firepit in the backyard, and was equipped with everything else you would need to enjoy a Maine getaway!
We loved the property and wish we could have spent more time there. Great access to Acadia National Park, especially the Schoodic Peninsula with awesome sunsets.
Stunning, comfortable home; wonderful place to stay as a family or close group. Owners are highly communicative/responsive, which is a plus. Strongly recommend.
Rick S.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified
8/10 Good
Diane
15 Sept 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The property was very nice and it was good to have the fenced yard for our dog and an outdoor area for sitting. We would like to have been closer to Acadia and Bar Harbor.
Loved the relaxing location and quiet. The house itself was wonderful and full of charm. I don’t believe the sheets were cleaned as there were dead bugs, grass and stains in all three beds, but otherwise the house was clean.
Shana M.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2023
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Amelia S.
7 Aug 2023
Very nice house
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Perfect
We came here for stargazing because this area has a fairly dark sky on the dark sky maps, and it was cloudy and rainy the whole time — BUT!!! This home was wonderful, warm, cozy and comfortable. A terrific place to come back to after a rainy day hike. We watched movies, played games, completed jigsaw puzzles, all courtesy of the thoughtfulness of the home owner. A wonderful, charming home. Thank you for the many nice touches!
RAD G.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified
8/10 Good
Julia A.
26 May 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Communication
Peaceful Retreat
We loved the views of the inlet and the cozy ambience. We also loved the firepit and fireplace. Beds were comfy.
Only improvements? Adjust the smoke detectors (which went off every time we cooked bacon) and please an alternative for coffee preparation.
Julia A.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
31 Aug 2023
Charming!
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Joy Cottage was the perfect for our trip to Maine. It is in a beautiful location and a good place to do various day trips from. And there is a lighthouse within walking distance!! Loved everything about it!
2 Couples were celebrating our 40th and 45th anniversary's with a New England fall color trip and Joy Cottage was our last stop before heading home.
The house and property were beautiful with lots of character. Apparently built 100 years ago and recently updated it was a fun place.
Very comfortable, clean and with all of the items needed.
We did make breakfast on 2 days and 1 dinner. Having a complete set of measuring cups and spoons would be helpful - we made what was there work.
Highly recommend this property and would stay again.
We had a lovely short family vacation in Downeast Maine. Our two young kids and dog enjoyed the fully fenced in yard. The surroundings were peaceful. The house is charming and incredibly tight (not drafty) for such an old home. It is clearly well-maintained. Our stay was so cool that we used the fireplace in the living room every night and never needed to turn on the A/C. The neighborhood is very quiet and peaceful, but keep in mind that you will have to drive a decent distance to get to any sort of grocery store, cafe, or restaurant. The Schoodic Peninsula portion of Acadia was close-by and blissfully empty during our visit. The main portion of Acadia is about an hour's drive away.
Property was very nice with attention to details. It was nice to have laundry and dishwasher available. The 3 bedrooms were nice. Minor, but would be nice to have a bit more counter space in master bath. Kitchen was very nice and well stocked with dishes and pans. Enjoyed how the house was decorated and the front patio with view fantastic. Back patio was a little buggy and weeds needed to be cut but did enjoy using the fire pit and gas grill. We loved the view but a little disappointed we could walk along the water. The view from the house was very nice and location to areas of interest was very good. We have never rented like this before, but we thoroughly enjoyed the experience and thank the owners for the opportunity.
Four adults and 2 pups. Lovely cottage with Prospect harbor views and the sounds of lobster boats and buoy bells. Quiet street. Fenced in yard for pups (or kids) to safely play. Sizable and well-appointed kitchen. Large dining and family rooms. 3 bedrooms (2 up, 1 down). Stairs are steep with shallow treads. Not ideal for elderly or small children (imo) ... hello downstairs bedroom. Only a few miles from Schoodic section of Acadia Forest Park offering both hike and bike trails without the crowds of the Bar Harbor version.
Verified traveller
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023
From a partner site
8/10 Good
Diane D.
25 Sept 2024
Review of Joy Cottage
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was more than happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
The cottage was immaculate. We wish it wasn't so far from Bar Harbor and Acadia, but it was manageable. It is technically waterfront, but we could not walk over to the water because we could not cross the large expanse of private property that was between us and the water. Otherwise, the house was very attractive, the furniture was comfortable. The kitchen was very well stocked. The stairs to the second floor were a bit challenging and not for people with mobility problems. However, there is a bedroom and full bath on the first floor. All in all, very nice place.
Diane D.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Brit C.
30 Jul 2024
Lived up to Expectations
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Our family of five thoroughly enjoyed our four day stay at Joy Cottage in July of 2024 while exploring Acadia NP. The details in the property description are accurate. The house is clean and well-stocked. Furnishings are comfortable with plenty of local charm. The stairs to the second level could be a bit tricky for some. The grounds are as advertised...harbor view, gardens, private backyard. We cooked two meals while there and used the propane grill....found every utensil and appliance we needed. Air conditioning worked great and was definitely needed. The peacefulness of this house and its setting cannot be overstated. We highly recommend.
We stayed for a week at this really cool old house. SO MUCH CHARACTER! This property was really nicely updated throughout. Was also decorated really nicely to reflect the history. Fenced in yard and back patio are amazing if you have a dog. Ocean/Bay view from the shore but no ocean access which I believe is how it is listed. Floors are really cool wide old boards - some decent gaps that you really cant clean between so I am not sure I would want a toddler crawling around as much. Stairs are also super steep for little ones. We had a major ant problem in the kitchen and had to throw away a lot of food - owners notified and offered to bring a can of ant spray. Contacted the owners 3 times during the stay and they were able to respond 2 of the times.
This was our first time to Maine but won’t be our last! The house is as described and pictures are right on point. It is a very unique house, a couple of neighbors gave us some history which was very interesting. Unfortunately tropical storm Lee joined us on Saturday but the house had a backup generator that was a lifesaver! We are from Fl so used to hurricanes but the generator made it easy. The stairs to the top rooms is a little steep, so just be cautious. There was plenty of room for the six of us comfortably. We also had a dog with us the whole yard is fenced in which was great. The beds were very comfortable and the house was very clean and had most everything we needed, (maybe a few more coffee mugs).This area is gorgeous! The sunset, the water view and the stars at night were beautiful. I highly recommend a visit the Schooner peninsula of Acadia, so close by and it is absolutely stunning and not crowded at all. It is about an to Bar Harbor and about an hour and 15 to the airport. I would recommend this house, thank you for a wonderful stay!
Renie B.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Clay C.
20 May 2024
Perfect home for a true Maine experience
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We loved this home, and we loved this experience. We had a group of 5 adults, and everyone had plenty of space to spend together and retreat to a private space when they wanted. We used the propane grill four times in a beautiful backyard patio area that included a fire pit for roasting marshmallows and making S’mores. The three young adults with us loved those experiences with Dad and Grandma. We loved the beautiful, unhindered view of Prospect Harbor and exploring the nearby rocky shoreline one expects when exploring Acadia National Park. The home had hardwood floors, everything you could possibly need in the kitchen, bathrooms and bedrooms. There was a new refrigerator, stove/oven, dishwasher, etc. with wonderful vintage furniture pieces and built in shelving. There is so much to appreciate about the home, and we would love to return to enjoy it again one day. The communication was always timely and extremely helpful both leading up to and during the trip. A very enthusiastic highest rating.
Clay C.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Ernie E.
14 Oct 2023
Wonderful, Wonderful, Wonderful
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
What a beautiful property. A quintessential Maine ocean front home (well, almost on the water)! The home is nicely furnished and very well appointed. What you want in a vacation rental on the Maine Coast. The location is excellent for viewing the area, including Acadia National Park and Schoodic Peninsula. What a beautiful area. I would recommend this property to anyone looking for a vacation rental in that area.