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Ocean front cottage Matinicus Island, ME. Seclusion at the Mermaid's Rest.

Photo gallery for Ocean front cottage Matinicus Island, ME. Seclusion at the Mermaid's Rest.

Property grounds
Exterior
Outdoor dining
Property grounds
Exterior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Barbecue grill
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Matinicus, ME
  • Markey Beach
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
    ‪214 min drive‬
  • Samoset Resort Golf Course
    ‪216 min drive‬
  • Rockland, ME (RKD-Knox County Regional)
    ‪218 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Single Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Single Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Ocean front cottage Matinicus Island, ME. Seclusion at the Mermaid's Rest.

Oceanfront house on Matinicus Island with open ocean views. 4 bedrooms with deck facing ocean. Enjoy the best lobster in Maine - Walking distance to beaches and island trails. A great place for a quiet retreat or a family gathering! Remote fishing island with working harbor, nature trails, rocky coves, and 2 sand beaches. Birds and flora galore. Great place for photography, beachcombing, and artists. Seasonal puffin and fishing trips available for charter.
Free transportation to/from ferry or airstip when owner is on island.
Use of truck while on island.

Property manager

Geoff Mitchell

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Outdoor space
Barbecue grill

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House Rules

Check in after 1:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 19
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
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Pets

Pets allowed: limit 2 total
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 10
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Matinicus

Located in Matinicus, this holiday home is by the ocean. Vinalhaven Historical Society and Owls Head Transportation Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Owls Head Lighthouse and Marshall Point Lighthouse. Coastal Children's Museum and Sail Power and Steam Museum are also worth visiting.
Map
Matinicus, ME

What's nearby

  • Markey Beach - 15 min walk - 1.3 km

Frequently asked questions

Is Ocean front cottage Matinicus Island, ME. Seclusion at the Mermaid's Rest. pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at Ocean front cottage Matinicus Island, ME. Seclusion at the Mermaid's Rest.?

Check-in begins at 1:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Ocean front cottage Matinicus Island, ME. Seclusion at the Mermaid's Rest.?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Ocean front cottage Matinicus Island, ME. Seclusion at the Mermaid's Rest. located?

Situated by the ocean, this holiday home is 0.8 mi (1.2 km) from Markey Beach and within 25 miles (40 km) of Rockland Ferry Terminal and Strand Theater. Farnsworth Art Museum and Owls Head Lighthouse are also within 25 miles (40 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 28 out of 28 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 28 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 28 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 28 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 28 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Clifford M.

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

Fantastic

Just the perfect getaway from it all. Superb location. House had everything and then some. Hosts and locals so friendly and informative. Visited because ancestors lived there years ago; even got info on some of them! Plane ride was a part of the fun. Great job Stan of Penobscot Air Hosts were wonderful and loaned us a car to get around. Best rental I’ve ever had
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melinda M.

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

Wonderful property and stay

The house was well appointed with everything we might need during our visit. It was clean and well maintained. Our host was there to greet us and show us everything we needed to know about the house. When anything came up they were responsive and attentive but not intrusive. I've stayed in several houses on the island over the last 20 years and the Mermaid's Rest is among the best.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Anne C., EASTHAMPTON

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

Perfect getaway A+!

So peaceful. After a difficult few months, it was exactly the respite we needed. Everything we needed was there. Breathtaking view. Lobsters delivered fresh to our door. John and Ann were the perfect hosts. We will be back!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Matthew G.

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

A very special place

If getting off the grid is a priority and you are seeking some peace and solitude with an incredible view, you would be hard pressed to find a better place. Geoff, John and Ann our wonderful hosts and helped make any of the logistical challenges of spending a week away on a remote island much more realistic. Not only are they lovely hosts and have taken wonderful care of this beautiful cottage, they even made sure that we were picked up and dropped off at the wharf while loaning us a pickup truck for the week. The cottage is stocked with all the essentials you would need including beach chairs and bicycles to explore the island. There are even neighbors to help add a little more fun to your time here, including delivering freshly caught lobsters right to your door or arranging for a boat ride out to metinicus Rock to see seals and puffins. The fact that the cottage is dog friendly as well was a huge plus for our family. We would recommend without hesitation.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kim B.

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

Outstanding island vacation!

The location is beautiful and private with all amenities included. The owner is charming and accommodating. An island get-away that is comfortable, relaxing and offers lots of walking, birding, beaches and beautiful vistas. Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Anna J.

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

Unbeatably beautiful!

We had been meaning to travel to Matinicus for a long time and The Mitchells were the warmest, most considerate hosts! They picked us up at the dock, showed us all the important details of the well-appointed home, and let us borrow their truck and bikes! The house is perfect with the most incredible view of Criehaven and Matinicus Rock! They even had wifi but we didn’t need it - we were too busy exploring the island, enjoying the peace and quiet, and spotting wildlife like seals and countless birds. Well-stocked, spotless, and cozy home. We loved every second and hope to return!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dinesh N.

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

Blissful

Phenomenal property. One of our best experiences.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Janine G.

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

Honeymoon Bliss

This property is the best! Know where you are and you will not be disappointed - meaning you are off-the-grid on an island with no amenities. Hot Water never ran out. Water pressure for sink and bathroom could get very low at some points so you just wait for it to come back stronger. What the listing doesn't tell you: 1. John and Ann are awesome hosts. Greeted us at the airport and walked through house then gave us space the rest of the trip 2. Except when John came back to drop off a gorgeous lobster for dinner one night 3. Location - even on a small island, it was great 4. Adult bikes too - I believe John said 7 bikes total between adult and child 5. Bathroom - no pics on the listing but small, nice, and very clean. 6. Drinking Water good 7. House super stocked - even with beach towels, beach chairs, Cornhole, paper goods, baking needs and spices. We were on our honeymoon. A great place to disconnect and be in our own bubble. He likes camping, I like 5 star hotels - this cottage AND the island worked for us both! Flew Penobscot Island Air - Highly recommend Carried in all provisions and 2 large dogs Island Bakery is YUM YUM YUM Everyone on island that you might run into is very nice and chill. Beautifull LARGE sandy beaches - great for swimming - some days/hours we were the only ones on the beach. Majestic Hiking and walking trails. Very special place. All our love to Matinicus Island!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tanya D.

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

Unbelievable Site with Amazing Hosts!

We were truly amazed at how stocked this home was with all amenities you could think of! Don't worry about taking condiments with you, it's all there including paper plates, napkins, paper towels, soap, laundry soap, flash lights, extra batteries, first aid supplies, books, games, etc. The only thing you need to bring with you are bath towels, your clothes, meals/snacks and beverages. This is a wonderful location and the hosts (John & Ann) are amazing!! There are rocks to climb outside of the home by the sea shore with tons of sea glass to find. The rental came with the use of a truck which was very helpful to get all of our belongings to the house and to the beaches on the North and South ends. The host (John) even brought us over fresh lobsters he had just caught at a very good (unbeatable) price! They were so delicious! Our pets were even welcomed at the home. There were dog bowls on site and tie out areas for them. There's several bikes to use if you'd prefer to bike on the island. There are at least 6 beach chairs and beach towels to use as well as kids beach toys/sand bucket & shovel. We can't wait to go back next year! We took a boat onto the island and flew back off the island. The flight crew even drove us over to our vehicles at the ferry (marina). This is a must stay at location!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ian K.

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

Magical secluded island

What an amazing place. John and Ann are the most wonderful and helpful hosts and gave us tips and guidance on everything. The house is on a picture postcard part of the island and had everything you could need (even a truck to get around). If you want a holiday that is off the beaten track where you can disconnect and reconnect with nature, it’s the perfect place.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

John P.

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

% adults, two dogs and everyone had a nice relaxing stay.

If you like to get away, and enjoy the simple pleasures of walking, ocean views, helpful owners fun beaches and enjoy each others company, this is a great place. Just take everything you need and plan carefully your transportation to and from and it is wonderful
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ryan M.

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

Exceeded Our Expectations

Even though this place had five-star reviews and the pictures looked very promising, it is impossible to understand what an incredible spot this is without seeing it yourself. Boasting a "million-dollar view," you are literally perched right on the ocean, feeling at one with the sea and seagulls. The house is stocked with more than you could possibly need, so there is no need to stress about forgetting anything. Our hosts thought of every way to help us before we could think of it ourselves. We nearly canceled, because just before the trip, my wife injured herself and was on crutches. But Geoff, John and Ann went out of their way to help us get around, lending us their truck for our stay. We learned during our stay that the spirit of this island is one of generosity and cooperation, and our hosts fully embodied that. We loved it so much we ended up extending our visit! Once again, they came together to help us with those logistics and we are so thankful to have had the extra time. This was a dream of a vacation and we already can't wait to come back!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

rusty S.

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

beautiful

Great location and charming house!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

April L.

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

Perfect

Quiet, immaculate, amazingly well stocked - but not at all cluttered, puzzles, books, maps, rock scrambling, slow coffee (including fi ings if we overlooked bringing any)...we hiked West Point and Matinicus Trails, read on Southern Sands and Markey Beaches, took naps and socialized with old friends. House even has its own basket of new dog blankets we covered the couch with. Really comfortable place, views out to Criehaven and Matinicus Rock lighthouse...
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Bethany D.

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

Perfect place for a family trip

My family had a wonderful time at this beautiful place. Our dogs lounged on the porch, we explored the island and enjoyed every second of it including the amazing lobsters. I highly recommend staying here if you are looking for a relaxing time.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Natasza R.

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

Amazing week

From the boat ride there through the entire week we had an amazing stay. The house was great and had everything we could possibly need. John was the most gracious host and made us feel welcomed. Thank you
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca B.

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

Island getaway

Cabin was beautifully situated on the bay. We enjoyed sitting on the deck watching the birds, the fog and the tide. Had fun exploring the island by bike and truck, and feasted on fresh lobster.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Sarah D.

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

Beautiful

Beautiful and peaceful location. Outstanding hospitality. A truly wonderful experience.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Robin H.

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

Peaceful oceanside getaway

We were looking for a quiet place to relax and decompress by the ocean and we found it. Incredible hosts, water taxi captain, and island native neighbors. If you want quiet, peaceful, privacy this is the place. Amazing views, so quiet and incredibly dark nights. Everyone was so friendly, we felt like we were natives. Thank you to all involved for such a great time.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Tony M.

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

Breathtaking, peaceful views - 'a great spot' location

First, Matinicus is a true lobstering, working island - take a moment to observe the flow of the day and how the locals live a life that seems out of a novel. A beautiful place that time has left intact... thankfully. The cottage is wonderful. The hosts are very generous in providing everything you may need, a home-form-home experience. The location, as many locals described it, is 'a Great Spot!'. It is placed in a cove above a rocky shore where seagulls and wildlife make their home, and where you will observe the tide timelessly breathing life in and out of the cove. The garden adds to the ambiance and the way the cottage is located, you feel that you are the only ones on the cove. The large windows brings the outside in, and the very clever slats under the window brings in the sea breeze, a very clever and practical feature. The beds are comfortable, the rooms are a good size and the cottage has a homely, cozy feel. The gray/white building you see on the photos to the left of the main cottage is in fact a barn, where our hosts keeps all sorts of helpful things including the bicycles that our kids used during our stay. Lobsters can be delivered to you directly, we ordered them for every night we were there - and they were the best we had ever had. The air-delivery-service is great, we got a few items delivered from the mainland and it was not expensive; a fun experience seeing your beer fly in. Matinicus is a walking island, you will get in your steps - we averaged ~20K steps daily, and the two beaches are very nice. The walking paths near the south beach has some exceptional views. Markey's beach is smaller but perfect. You can fish for pollock from the rocks. John, our host, checked in with us at the start of our stay to give us some helpful topics and to ask if we needed anything. On our last day he left us his truck so we could transport our things to the dock as we took the state ferry back to Rockland. Lastly, our 5 month French Spaniel, Beau had the time of his life, the dogs on the Island are very well socialized, we got a dog visitor every morning, called Maverick, that played with Beau and we were also able to let Beau off the leash for most of out time there. A great and unique experience that we will remember and talk about often. We hope to return another time.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

sonja r.

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

Excellent Matinicus Stay

The house has everything you’ll need for a lovely stay on Matinicus. You just bring the food.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Carrie I.

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

Beautiful retreat

Mermaid’s Rest cottage was a fantastic getaway. We especially appreciated having the ocean at our feet, as well as a view from the bedroom window. The camp is far enough back from the road that traffic noise is virtually nonexistent. As people familiar with Matinicus, we knew what to expect on the island. The listing was accurate, and the camp well-appointed. On our list of needed linens and paper products, we only had to bring bath towels and washcloths for ourselves, everything else was there. Having a truck at our disposal was very helpful. We highly recommend this spot!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

ALICIA FRICK L., Ipswich MA

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

Beware. Returning to “normal “ life is difficult.

My daughter-in-law and I were greeted at the dock by the property owners, and given a ride to their house. That set the tone and defined them - caring, attentive, ready to help in any way. The location of the house is heavenly. My son and daughter-in-law own a house in coastal Maine, but my husband and I have been renting for 50 plus years; I have seen a lot of rental properties and this one was uniquely well stocked. Full of super thoughtful details. I guess I should stop! I don’t really want hordes of visitors taking over Matinicus. I’m feeling very possessive about it. Oh yes, one important warning... even though we were there just for an overnight, it’s such a serene environment, removed from people and noise, that we both felt that it was difficult to come back to the “normal” level of conversation and noise. Definitely not a place for everyone. But for us, it was magical.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

jonna c.

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

Just Wonderful!!!

This property is close to docks and the small town buildings: school, Playground, recycling, adorable library and church grounds. John and Ann are gracious hosts. John provided 4 large lobsters for us. They were the best we’ve had in memory. The home was very clean and had everything to make our stay comfortable. The view from the deck was the amazing. We spent most of our “home” time on this deck. This is the best place to stay to get away from a hectic life and to perfect your cribbage game! 😀
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Julie P.

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

Cozy MILLION Dollar View Living

Enjoy the ocean? You are on the edge with rolling boulders and chatty (screeching - all in your perspective!) gulls. A front row seat to the ever changing weather of Penobscot Bay, Maine, with its glorious fresh air in its various forms. And, the days we live for, travel to the island for, the clouldless blue island sky days. To be on the edge of the sea and be given that gift - a treasure, just like this cottage! I hope to return again, and again! Thank You ! The weather I had late June early July, ten days on island four with sunshine, one glorious blue. The rest you ask? Claustrophobic inducing fog. If you are prone, plan ahead! Have fun! On the edge of the sea!
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2020

About the host

Hosted by Geoff Mitchell

Host profile image