Entire home

Oceanfront; Stunning views of Cadillac. Acadia & Schoodic nearby. Kayaks, too!

Cottage in Gouldsboro with kitchen and balcony

Photo gallery for Oceanfront; Stunning views of Cadillac. Acadia & Schoodic nearby. Kayaks, too!

view across Frenchman Bay to Acadia NP and Bar Harbor
Tree Tops Cottage
Cruise ship anchored ascoss the Bay
fragrant honeysuckle on the deck
Paddle into the bay from our waterfront

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 379.0 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, Acadia National Park's Visitors Center
  • Place, Village Green
  • Place, Bar Harbor Whale Watching
  • Airport, Bar Harbor, ME (BHB-Hancock County - Bar Harbor)

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 3)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Futon

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Oceanfront; Stunning views of Cadillac. Acadia & Schoodic nearby. Kayaks, too!

Located on Frenchman's Bay on the scenic Schoodic Peninsula and just a short drive to Bar Harbor, Tree Tops Cottage is a private and charming guest house on a beautiful coastal property. Guests are encouraged to enjoy five acres of woodlands, gardens, and a peaceful, protected, pristine shore front. High in the branches of old pines, the 3-level cottage boasts panoramic views of the mountains of Acadia National Park, small islands, seasonal cruise ships at anchor, lights of Bar Harbor at night, and the occasional lobster boat working from local fishing villages. If Acadia National Park is on your itinerary, we are 30 miles from the main entrance on Mount Desert Island. Those who prefer a quieter hike will find numerous trails nearby on Schoodic Peninsula. If you prefer to stay at your vacation home, you can wander along garden paths to the water's edge where you can launch one of our kayaks and paddle into Flanders Bay, pass Seal Rocks, and pull up on a sandy beach for lunch and a swim. The protected cove is the perfect place to try kayaking in the finest paddling waters in the area, or striking out in an exploration of the many islands that make up the calm side of Frenchman's Bay. Take your camera as you look for nesting bald eagles, and walk along our shore to find sea heather in season. At day's end, relax in a hammock or chair by the water or on one of your decks to watch the tide ebb and flow, and capture a spectacular sunset.

The first level master suite has a half bath for your convenience. Double French doors open onto the deck where you can enjoy morning coffee in the company of ever-present hummingbirds. The main level has a full bath, generously furnished kitchen/pantry and living area with dining table, relaxing chairs, a cozy nook for reading or napping, and a fireplace that adds to the comfort and charm. An elevated screened porch provides a captivating environment for alfresco dining or relaxing on the chaise lounge, A gas grill is provided for your culinary pleasure. In addition, there is a desk for work or games, a television, and additional sleeping accommodations for one person.

Whether you are looking for a destination to relax in the Schoodic and Bar Harbor area, enjoy the gardens and explore Downeast Maine, or want an active vacation to hike, bike, or paddle, Tree Tops Cottage welcomes you. The on-site owner is an excellent resource for all activities in the area, especially biking, hiking, and paddling. Tree Tops Cottage provides a unique setting to experience the best that beautiful Downeast Maine has to offer. Situated close to the water with three levels and stairs, it is best suited for adults and children 12 and older.

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Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 13–17
12 or older
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds, gather used towels and store extra beds
Remove personal items and take out the rubbish
Return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
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 indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the area

Gouldsboro

Located in Gouldsboro, this cottage is near theme parks and by the ocean. Bar Harbor Whale Watching is a popular attraction and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Acadia National Park's Visitors Center and Cadillac Mountain. College of the Atlantic Natural History Museum and George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Gouldsboro, ME

What's nearby

  • Bartlett Maine Estate Winery - 7 min drive - 7.2 km
  • Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf - 54 min drive - 56.3 km
  • Acadia National Park's Visitors Center - 58 min drive - 59.9 km
  • Acadia National Park - 59 min drive - 61.7 km

Getting around

  • Bar Harbor, ME (BHB-Hancock County - Bar Harbor) - 32 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Tracey's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Chase's Restaurant - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪SUBWAY - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Downeaster - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Downeast Mexican Takeout - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Oceanfront; Stunning views of Cadillac. Acadia & Schoodic nearby. Kayaks, too! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Oceanfront; Stunning views of Cadillac. Acadia & Schoodic nearby. Kayaks, too!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Oceanfront; Stunning views of Cadillac. Acadia & Schoodic nearby. Kayaks, too!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Oceanfront; Stunning views of Cadillac. Acadia & Schoodic nearby. Kayaks, too! located?

Situated by the ocean, this cottage is within 9 miles (15 km) of Bartlett Maine Estate Winery, Sullivan Harbor Farm and Grindstone Neck Golf Course. Chapter Two Art Gallery and Tidal Falls are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 136 out of 138 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 138 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 138 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 138 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 138 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Kathie G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This site was a gorgeous house and location, with stunning views from the back deck and upper screened-in porch, and a 4-min. walk to the boathouse and water. Also wonderfully generous hosts, easy access to the Schoodic Peninsula and Mt. Desert Island, and a very comfy king-size bed!
The Corea Heath loop trail is only 15 mins from the house, with beautiful views, cool lichen, lots of boardwalk and a few benches in just the right places..
One of many sunsets from the back deck and upper porch.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Katie L.

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

Amazing cottage

This was our 3rd year staying at this cottage and we loved everything about it! Location, perfect! View, perfection! Our hosts, amazing! Everything you need is at your fingertips and the cottage was perfect, as usual. John, Ann and Brandy are wonderful hosts and we will be back for year 4 next year!
View from deck
View from dock/ platform
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kristin L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely best VRBO experience we have ever had! Our hosts were awesome and the cottage was beautiful and fully equipped with everything we needed to enjoy our week exploring Acadia on both MDI and the Schoodic peninsula. Highly recommend- our host, John, invited us for a ride in Frenchman’s Bay on his boat and with my hubby suffering from a touch of motion sickness from a sailing excursion previously we had to decline. Enjoyed a happy hour with our hosts in their gorgeous main house overlooking the meticulously maintained gardens. It was a pleasure to meet such wonderful hosts and would love to come back!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kelly y.

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

Peaceful

We’ve have stayed at many VRBO’s, this was by far the best experience we’ve ever had. John and Ann went above and beyond making sure our home was well stocked, clean and comfortable. The surrounding gardens are gorgeous and the view from the screened in porch was simply beautiful. We can’t wait to return.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael B.

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

Relax with a View

What a wonderful stay we had! It was awesome to have the perspective of the tree tops, the water, and the Acadia Hills. The cottage is so well done and peaceful and the gardens so enchanting. The enclosed porch, large deck and master bedroom all with a view make this a special private getaway. Impeccable hospitality, with just the right amount of communication. Easy access to Acadia National Park, especially Schoodic point which is our favorite and love the sunset view from Cadillac Mountain. John found and mailed a lost cargo strap, that’s service supreme! All in all the perfect place to be on retreat enjoying one of the best parts of Maine.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl R.

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

Fantastic cottage and host!

This cottage exceeded our expectations. From the moment we pulled up and were welcomed by our gracious host, John, to our last morning cup of coffee on the deck, we were able to enjoy and relax. We HIGHLY recommend John’s cottage and we plan to return!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennie W.

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

A Week in Paradise

Everything about this property was amazing! The hosts were always quick to respond before our arrival and made sure we didn’t need anything during our visit. They have everything you need there and the views are stunning. We felt so relaxed and comfortable during our stay and definitely plan to return soon. We sat on the deck a lot and just enjoyed nature. Definitely a 10/10 experience!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bonnie R.

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

Tree house with a view

It was a beautiful, clean, tree house with gardens, and beach front views. The hosts greeted us and left fresh flowers and cheese, fruit and wine. We felt very special. They also took us out in their boat which we will always remember. We would stay here again. It was wonderful.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Katie L.

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

Lovely cottage and views

As our second time staying here, the views do not get old! Such a wonderful home base from our trip. The cottage is so comfy and had everything we needed. The deck, the screen porch, the deck by the water! Already planning our next stay! The hosts are amazing, friendly and full of good information about the area hiking and places to eat. You will not be disappointed about anything staying here. We miss it already!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elisabeth W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We couldn't have picked a more perfect spot to celebrate our 45th anniversary. Not only did we have totally sunny days throughout, but this adorable cottage provided everything we hoped for. The views from all three levels of the house were stunning! Waking up every morning in the beautiful, light-filled bedroom was perfect. There are so many charming spaces inside and outside the house to relax in.Our favorite finds this week: Sundew Trail near Schoodic Point; Grindstone Neck (exquisite in the late afternoon); Jordan Pond trail loop; the whole town of Winter Harbor, especially Humble Grumble Cafe; Musquito Brewing Company; Maine Kiln Works on Gouldsboro Road; and Tunk Joy Bakery in Steuben (both their amazing Thursday night sourdough wood-fired pizzas and their Saturday morning brunch; both events also had live music!)John and Ann were such warm, friendly and gracious hosts. The gardens and grounds are full of gorgeous flowers, and we loved the dahlia bouquet that greeted us on the screened porch, as well as the cheese, crackers, fruit and wine! We thoroughly enjoyed the ride on their Downeast cruiser one afternoon, accompanied by the delightful dog, Brandy -- what a special experience! Thank you both for sharing your home and this peaceful spot in the world. Hope to return someday!
View of fog from top floor
Porch at sunset
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brittany C.

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

Second wonderful stay!

This was our second trip to John’s place and it was just as lovely as the first time. We enjoyed the screened in porch and incredible view of the mountains and ocean. John left us some wine, cheese, fruit, and crackers and helped us with our bags. We had a relaxing week hiking, visiting Bar Harbor, and just hanging out at home. We were even able to see tons of fireworks from the porch on the 4th of July! There’s also a new deck and dock for kayaking and exploring low tide. We had a lovely stay and would recommend staying here highly!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kenneth K.

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

Solitude in Paradise

This cottage is appropriately referred to as in the tree tops, close to the main house yet very private. Very beautiful and extremely gracious of the host to allow full use of his property walking through the gardens and walking down to the water. John is nearby either in person or by phone to support you and whatever you need for your trip. The bottom line is would I stay here again and the answer is yes and that’s all you need to know
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rose W.

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

Amazing view of Acadia/Bar Harbor

Our stay here was amazing!! John is a great host (with the sweetest puppy co-host), and the cottage is a great place to get away from the crowds and relax. You can see Cadillac Mountain and Bar Harbor across the Bay. There is a small walk down to the boat launch with kayaks there to see the Bay. Kayaking to the small island right across the water was a highlight. Although it was foggy and buggy the first night, my boyfriend and I had a wonderful trip and plan on coming back as soon as we can!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

karl b.

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

Acadia getaway

Everything about the stay was to good for words. John and Carolyn were just the best host ever, and puppy brandy. The property was better in person than in the pictures. John and Carolyn had everything ready for us and gave us great ideas of what to try to do and see in the area. We needed more than a week to take it all in. Acadia was beautiful and if someone is thinking about going this would be the perfect place to stay. If not I would definitely add it to a bucket list of places to go.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Tom B., Carmel, IN

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

Couldn’t be better

This property was located with views of Frenchmen’s Bay. We had a number of meals and drinks on the deck early in the morning and evenings. The property was well equipped and spotless. John was a most gracious host as was his dog Brandy. It is a great location, less than an hour to Bar Harbor and Acadia NP. Only minutes from the Schoodic area of the park and Winter Harbor. Gouldsboro is much less hectic than Dessert Island and we really enjoyed the quiet solitude. There was easy access to numerous restaurants and Lobster pounds. Our week there was fantastic and went by much too fast. Highly recommended.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kristin S., Phoenix, AZ

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

Dream Vacation!

John’s Treetops Cottage is all that is promised and more. From his personal greeting (including the tail-wagging welcome from Brandy the golden retriever) right up to a private tour of the bays on his vintage boat, it was a perfect vacation. The cottage is absolutely beautiful and felt just like home away from home. This is one of those rare VRBO gems that is even better than its photos…the cottage itself and surrounding scenery are just so lovely. We had everything we needed, and we so enjoyed all the amenities including a kayak trip out onto the waters of the bay right out front. We enjoyed the screened in balcony during a rainstorm, and the outside deck in the sunshine. The place really feels like a private retreat. This is truly a special place and we hope to return someday soon.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katie P.

Very lovely view the place is so peaceful and tranquil

We loved the cottage which is unique and made with quality finishes throughout. The property is truly beautiful and the kayak cabin area along shore is so nice to sit and relax. There are many good restuarants nearby and we went to Bar Harbor and cadillac mountain a few times as Well as Closer by Winter Harbor, Birch Harbor, and Correa a working loster harbor. All picturesque and made For a nice drive. Carolyn referred me to a local practioner for a massage that was fantastic and we found a fun place to go Apple Picking on the West side of Ellsworth. Johnston’s Apple farm and, although early in the season; we picked a basket and just now finished them- early Maine Apples are delicious! This is a really lovely cottage and the hosts are happy to help, but leave you to your privacy. I would gladly return and highly recommend for a quiet stay in beautiful Coastal Maine!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2018

10/10 Excellent

Robyn B.

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

BEYOND AMAZING!

The Tree house cottage way exceeded our expectations! John greeted us outside in the midst of arriving during Hurricane Lee and helped us get all our luggage into the cabin. He was able to get us in a few hours early as well which we were byline grateful after driving the last 16 hours through the night and the storm. Flowers, cheese and wine were waiting for us upon arrival as well. The cabin was clean and cozy and we didn't want to leave. After long days of hiking we couldn't wait to return to the cabin to settle in for dinner and reading by the indoor gas fireplace. Thankfully, we were able to take his kayaks out on the water for a wonderful adventure to the island across the bay. John also took us out for an amazing boat ride in his fully restored boat! Great conversation and seal watching completed the evening. I cannot express my gratitude to John on making our stay beyond memorable. He also came outside at 6am to see us off the following Saturday. We will most certainly love to come back to Maine and will ONLY consider staying at this property again. Thank you so much!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Linda S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property far exceeded our expectations. Everything was perfect and we were well taken care of by our hosts. We were very comfortable inside and enjoyed the outside of the property as well. The views were spectacular from all 3 levels of the home. We took advantage of using the kayaks provided in the bay. The location was convenient to Acadia NP, Schoodic Point, grocery stores, restaurants and gas.
Sitting area at waterfront
View from waterfront.
Sunset view from deck
Front entrance
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

James B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a remarkable stay. John and Ann were great hosts and we thoroughly enjoyed our time. The surroundings were absolutely beautiful and stunning. We could not have picked a more perfect place. Everyday was breathtaking. All our accommodations were perfect. It as so hard to leave. We would stay again in a heartbeat.
View from the deck
Sunset
Fountain just off deck
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Peter H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A great stay, in a great location, with great views and easy water access. The hosts are welcoming, knowledgeable, and eager to make you feel comfortable. The cottage is three floors, with a superb deck. Every floor offers great views of Frenchman's Bay and Acadia. Comfortable and cosy, you are literally among the treetops! A grand stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lynda W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a marvelous property. The house is beautifully done and tastefully decorated, The hosts are lovely people and were eager to ensure our stay was comfortable as possible. We could not have asked for more.
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful location with extraordinarily gracious hosts. Beautiful waterfront, and many watercraft choices. Close enough to Acadia to enjoy the Park, but far enough away to avoid the craziness. We enjoyed our week so much we’ll be doubling it next year.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kim C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful stay and was everything the posting said it would be. The hosts are extremely generous in sharing their property, gardens and kayaks to access the quiet water off of their property. We loved it.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Russell W.

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

Unbelievable time

Perfect location to get everywhere we wanted to go along with the friendliest hosts!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

About the host

Hosted by John Bernardin

Host profile image

Why they chose this property

This property immediately impressed us, and so obviously met every criteria for a home on the Maine coast: VIEW!! An amazing panoramic view of Frenchman Bay, the waterfront of the property, the beautiful mountains of Acadia, the lights of Bar Harbor at night, and the charm of the Schoodic Peninsula, with a spectacular section of Acadia Ntl. Park in our neighborhood, for biking, hiking, paddling,and exploring the many villages and arts activities.

What makes this property unique

A short drive if you want to visit Mt. Desert Island and Bar Harbor, or just 15 minutes to Winter Harbor: restaurants, galleries, shopping, and the beautiful Schoodic Section of Acadia Ntl. Park.
The cottage is very private, roomy, completely and tastefully decorated and supplied, and quiet, surrounded by perennial gardens and 2 outdoor spaces, both with gorgeous views.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

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