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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
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

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

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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Private setting at ocean's edge and next to sandy beach

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  • Washer
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10.0 out of 10, (17 reviews)
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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 - 16 min walk - 1.4 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. 30 out of 30 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 30 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 30 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 30 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 30 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Kristina l.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely fantastic - John and Ann are wonderful and we loved the visit to the island. I'd always thought of Matinicus as so far out there on the coast but inside the house I felt like I had everything I'd ever need in normal life. The island itself was also magic. From walks to the beach, to the mesmerizing view from the deck to stops at the bakery, hiking through the trails, or even gathering fresh eggs, it was the perfect adventure. You won't regret going here!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nancy V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Matinicus is magical. The property is beautiful, quaint, and cozy. Deck space was ample, grille was a bonus. Kitchen was well-stocked with equipment and some basic supplies to our surprise. Living room and sun room were very nice spaces to relax together, take a phone call or meeting, cozy up with a book. Bedrooms were all simple, well-lit with natural light, most with ocean views. Bathroom was small, but adequate. Laundry room and surplus supplies were definitely a bonus. There are copious books, many locally-oriented, many for children. There are a variety of games (we contributed one of our favorites to the supply), sand and outdoor toys, coolers, blankets, binoculars, it’s just an endless list of how thoughtfully put together this cabin is. John and Ann were fantastic hosts, helping us with logistical details, picking us up from the ferry, answering odd questions, etc. they were always available and never imposing. They were warm, kind, and felt like family, taking their time to show us around the house and make sure everything was perfect for us. Matinicus is such a special place, and this cottage is now our cozy favorite, with space for everyone. We spent two weeks, which felt more like 30 days, and still came to an end so quickly. Our kids and guests that joined later in our trip are already asking for a return next year. As for the island, there are so many spots, plants, berries, and unique features to discover. Every day can be exceptionally different.
Stayed 14 nights in Jun 2025

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

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

Lauren F.

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

Most Wonderful Experience!

The Mitchell's and the islanders are delightful, eager to help and teach about the island's ways. The house was incredibly well stocked with really anything you might need! A perfect private spot for children and animals to romp outdoors from sunrise to sunset! Thank you for a most memorable holiday !
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2019

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

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

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

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

Chris H.

Perfect for relaxing, reading, hiking, eating, drinking or anything else.

My wife and I took our 5 kids (3 of whom are teens) away for a couple of nights and took a chance as we knew nothing of Matinicus or this house. Begin: a lovely and peaceful scenic ferry ride on the state ferry. 2 hours and not a single complaint. Arrive: no Wifi. No data. Still no complaints. A few minutes after arriving our family hopped into the back of a pick up truck (new to the kids) and took a short ride on to the cottage. Everything was clean, organized and quite possible the most picturesque place I’ve ever stayed. Bikes for the kids. Outdoor and indoor games to keep em busy. Settled: we spent day one on a sandy beach by ourselves and day two on another sandy beach. Both were pristine. The evenings allowed for the most invedible star gazing one could imagine. The sky was littered with bright stars and a few planets to boot. Mr Mitchell brought us lobsters each night before dinner at a very fair price. I think we consumed more than we could count. There is a bakery nearby with delicious homemade cookies and baked goods. You can grab a can of soda or an ice cream sandwich but not much else. We brought food for our stay. The water on the island is safe however we were favoring bottled water so you may want to consider bringing a few jugs. Otherwise the water is fine. We hiked to The West Point for an amazing sunset and enjoyed the east side for sunrises. If go carts and boardwalks are your thing, this is not fOr you. No restaurant. No bar. Just scenery, birds, peace, fresh lobster, pristine beaches and plenty to just take in.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2018

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the host

Hosted by Geoff Mitchell

Host profile image
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