PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home | Cottage in Harpswell
Cottage




Available rates:
3 Bedroom Cottage in Bailey Island, Harpswell
HISTORIC ISLAND COTTAGE
Built in 1918, The Gills is an original summer cottage perched above the sea at the very end of Bailey Island. Secluded far from the road, nestled in a grove of pine and spruce, the house is pure tranquility. Each beautifully appointed room is both comfortable and authentic.
Enjoy naps on the porch swing or walk to nearby beaches, restaurants and shops. Explore tide pools along the rocky coastline. Go sailing or kayaking. Fish for striped bass from the rocks, just steps from the porch. Enjoy fresh lobster pulled from the ocean that morning by one of the local lobstermen.
Whatever you choose to do, it all comes back to the view. Clear and calm one day, misty and grey the next. Sit back and watch the sea and sky change with the weather. Hour by hour. Minute by minute. Always beautiful. Always different.
The Gills will give you the opportunity to slow down, and remember how good it feels to do nothing at all, surrounded by friends and family.
THE GILLS sleeps 6 - with two queen beds and two twin beds.
*
*
*
THE GILLS GROUP
THE GILLS GROUP is a collection of oceanfront cottages that can be rented together for larger groups or intimate events. The cottages are adjacent, each with its own spectacular ocean views.
For larger groups - please check out the other GILLS GROUP cottages (Jaquish Lane and The Red House).
Jaquish Lane sleeps 12 (VRBO property # 733483) and The Red House sleeps 4 (VRBO property # 1063510). Renting two (or more) of THE GILLS GROUP cottages together is the perfect way for larger groups to be “together” while still having a space of your own.
*
*
*
BAILEY ISLAND
25 minutes from Brunswick and Bowdoin College. 40 minutes from Freeport and L.L.Bean. 50 minutes from Portland - Bailey Island is the perfect place to unplug, relax and recharge.
*
*
*
THE OWNER
My name is Carter Smith and I am the owner of THE GILLS GROUP (The Red House #1063510, Jaquish Lane #733483 and The Gills). I was born on Bailey Island and after traveling the world I know that this little island is special. As both a photographer and filmmaker, I travel quite a bit and I've furnished the houses with things I've collected from around the world (and around Maine). These are not just "rental properties"to me . These are houses I've designed and furnished with love and attention to detail - places where I spend time with family and friends whenever I get the chance. Places that I love sharing.
*
*
*
FROM THE GUESTBOOK
"We fell in love with the cottage as soon as we climbed the steps to the porch and saw the expansive ocean views."
Julia K.
"You have created a beautiful retreat that captures a time when life was slower and the focus was on what is truly important - those we love."
Cynthia M.
"Walking into The Gills was like taking a step back into another time. Every room feels like it has a story to tell."
Alison C.
"There are special touches in every room, and the owner has gone above and beyond with great mattresses, linens and towels"
Aja M.
"We loved starting each day on the porch with our coffee - watching the lobster boats, seabirds, and the changing colors of the ocean"
Kelly B.
"The location is breathtaking, with wonderful sunrises and sunsets."
Kim F.
"This place has stolen our family's hearts."
Michelle K.
*
*
*
IMPORTANT NOTE:
This cottage is perfect if you're seeking an authentic Maine experience and love historic homes - BUT - The Gills is over 100 years old and has all of the quirks of an old home. There are changes in the level of the floor at several of the thresholds between rooms. The original horsehair plaster in the upstairs bedrooms and hallway is intact - and imperfect in places. The original canvas floor runner on the stairs is still in place - and shows it's age with the wear of the many people who have enjoyed this magical cottage. As the owner - and lover of historic homes - I have chosen to keep these original details intact. If you are expecting something glossy and perfect and new - then The Gills is probably not the cottage for you. If you love the authentic charm of a truly historic home - the quirks and odd details that can't fully be shown in a photograph - then you just may fall in love. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact our property manager David Johnson - Dave@thegillsgroup.com
Keywords: Private, Oceanfront, Family, Cottage
PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home is located in Bailey Island. PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home provides accommodation, featuring View, Bedding/Linens, Internet, among other amenities. This Cottage features View, Bedding/Linens, Internet, to make your stay a comfortable one.
PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home has 3 Bedrooms , 2 Bathrooms, and max occupancy of 6 people. The minimum rental for this property is 1 nights, but this can change depending on the season you plan on staying. Previous guests have given good rated it, and VRBO labeled it a top-rated Cottage because of the excellent services rendered by the owner or manager of this Cottage, and has consistently provided great experiences for their guests. Most families or guests that use it recommend it to their friends and some of them are repeat guests. Cottage has a friendly neighborhood, and the Bailey Island has interesting places to visit. If you want to learn more about the Cottage in Bailey Island, such as places to visit and things to do nearby, you can check below to learn more.

This Property is OneKey Eligible
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible vacation rentals, villas, cottages, cabins, and more when you book on Vrbo.
Amenities
Policies
Reviews
Reviews
FAQ's
Is this Bailey Island cottage pet-friendly for guests?
No, pets are not allowed at this property. Check the guest reviews to learn what guests had to share.
Does the Bailey Island cottage have a swimming pool?
No, this Bailey Island cottage does not have a swimming pool. Check the Facility Overview section for details about the pool and other available facilities.
How much does it cost per night to stay in Bailey Island cottage?
Best-rates for the Bailey Island cottage starts from $616 per night with includes Laundry, View, Bedding/Linens, Internet, Parking, Ocean View, Fireplace/Heating, Guest Services, Child Friendly, TV, Balcony/Terrace, Security/Safety, Sports/Activities, Entertainment, Wellness Facilities, Barbecue/Outdoor Cooking, Kitchen with all other facilities. RBO matches every traveler with their perfect accommodation, whether you are traveling with a group, friends, family, or pets.
Is Bailey Island cottage a family-friendly place to stay?
Based on the information we have received from the owner or our partner, this is considered to be a family-friendly property. Families have rated this cottage Good or guests have recommended them suitable for families. As reported by the owner or manager, the cottage has specified that children are welcome. Please see details about suitability for your family or inquire with the property to learn more.
Is the Bailey Island cottage wheelchair accessible or offer services for disabled guests?
Based on the information received from our partner, the Bailey Island cottage has not specified they are wheelchair accessible. Likewise, there is not an elevator specified as being available at the property. Specific accessibility details may be addressed in the property details section of this page.
What is the minimum night stay policy for the Bailey Island cottage?
Based on the information reported by the owner or manager, the Bailey Island cottage indicates 1 day stay policy at this cottage. Guests are cautioned that the minimum stay policy may differ based on seasonality or availability and may be at the discretion of the owner or manager.
What cancellation policy is in place for Bailey Island cottage?
Based on the information reported by the owner or manager, details for the cancellation policy for the Bailey Island cottage are as follows: Cancellation policy Guests are cautioned that the cancellation policy may differ based on seasonality, availability, or current travel restrictions. Guests should also be aware that this policy may be subject to change and should be confirmed prior to booking. More details may be available on this page in the property description. However, early check-in or late check-out can sometimes be negotiated between the guest and the owner or the manager of this property.
People Also Ask
Vacation Rentals Near Bailey Island, Harpswell
-
Most Popular
-
Most Popular
-
Highest Price
-
Lowest Price
-
Highest Rating
-
Lowest Rating
- Air Conditioner
- Parking
- TV
- Parking
- View
- Accessibility
- Air Conditioner
- Parking
- Pool
- Parking
- Pet Friendly
- View
- Air Conditioner
- Parking
- View
- Air Conditioner
- Parking
- Pet Friendly
- Parking
- TV
- View
- Parking
- TV
- View
- Parking
- TV
- View
- Parking
- Pet Friendly
- TV
- Air Conditioner
- Parking
- TV
- Parking
- TV
- View
- Air Conditioner
- Parking
- Security/Safety
- Air Conditioner
- Parking
- TV
- Air Conditioner
- Parking
- TV
- Air Conditioner
- Parking
- TV
- Parking
- TV
- View
- Parking
- Pet Friendly
- TV
- Parking
- TV
- Balcony/Terrace
- Parking
- TV
- View
- Air Conditioner
- Security/Safety
- Bedding/Linens
- Parking
- Pet Friendly
- TV
- Air Conditioner
- Parking
- Pet Friendly
- Air Conditioner
- Parking
- TV
Why is Rent By Owner Bailey Island Your Choice for Vacation Rentals
Find your dream vacation rental on Rent By Owner, where adventure meets comfort in every corner. RentByOwner features a broad mix of accommodations, from charming country cottages and chic city apartments to tranquil beachfront villas and cozy mountain cabins. Whether you're yearning for a delightful bungalow by the bay, a grand estate over the dock, or a snug lodge in a quaint village, we've got the perfect spot for you.
Prepare to unleash your inner explorer with our unique lodgings, including floating houses, whimsical treehouses, and picturesque farmhouses, or stick to the classics with duplexes, flats, and guesthouses. Choose the simplicity of a studio or the luxury of a suite. For outdoor enthusiasts, we offer tents in hidden campsites, RVs, mountain cabins, boat rentals, chalets in snowy havens, and caravans in lush gardens. Rent By Owner truly has something for everyone.
Every holiday rental, from a humble hut to a lavish resort, guarantees a memorable stay with cozy beds, functional kitchens, and welcoming living areas. Ideal for families, couples, or solo adventurers, our rentals are more than just a place to sleep—they're your home away from home. Book your next vacation with us and embark on a unique retreat crafted for relaxation and adventure. We also offer annexes for added privacy, designer lofts for a modern touch, and motels for quick stays. Explore beachside bungalows, countryside ranches, and urban condos. Find your perfect getaway, whether it’s a quiet den in the forest or a bustling inn by the island. At RentByOwner, our properties include everything from houseboats and barns to court-style quarters and garden retreats.
To make your booking experience even more convenient, we help you compare prices and inventory so you can find and book your vacation rental on popular platforms like Airbnb, Expedia, Vrbo (previously HomeAway), TripAdvisor (FlipKey), Booking.com, and HomeToGo. We work with these trusted sites to offer you a seamless booking process, ensuring that your perfect vacation rental is just a few clicks away.