THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room
Cottage in Bailey Island, ME
4 guests · 2 bedrooms · 2 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Great for petsBring all your friends and family, even the furry ones
Top-tier experienceOne of the higher cost properties in the area
About this cottage rental
THE RED HOUSE
The 100 year old Red House at the head of Mackerel Cove was built when most of Bailey Island was wild and undeveloped - and once you've spent time here it's clear why this spot was chosen to build. You FEEL the ocean just steps away wherever you are on the property - and each night the sun sets directly in front of you across the water.
This place is magic.
A house where no matter what you are doing - cooking dinner with loved ones - reading a book on the porch - spending a lazy day in bed - the sea is always present - steps away or right outside your window.
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THE BEACH
The private pebble beach is the perfect place to launch kayaks at any tide. Exploring from the water is one of the best ways to experience Casco Bay. The tide pools in front of the house are something kids (of all ages) love.
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THE RENOVATION
Everything in The Red House has been updated during the 2017 renovation. From plumbing to heating it's all brand new. Luxury beds and bedding in the two upstairs bedrooms. All new appliances in the fully equipped kitchen.
But it all started with the bathroom.
Built to accommodate 4 - the STEAM ROOM looks directly out to the ocean with the same magnificent views as the rest of the house. The upstairs "secret" half-bath is hidden behind a custom built rotating bookcase inspired by my 9 year old niece and her fascination with all things magical and mysterious. The living and dining spaces all have views of the ocean and have been furnished with a mix of local antiques and art.
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THE VIEW
Spending time here always comes back to the view. Clear and calm one day, misty and grey the next. Watch the sea and sky shift with the weather. Hour by hour. Minute by minute. Always beautiful. Always different.
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THE BIRDS
From heron and gulls to Eider and even bald eagles, this sheltered spot is a birdwatchers dream. I watched a pair of sea ducks guide their ducklings along the shore. Herons fishing in the tide pools at low tide. A bald eagle at the end of the wharf. Whatever you see, you can be sure that it's going to be beautiful.
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THE GILLS GROUP
The Red House is part of THE GILLS GROUP - a collection of oceanfront cottages that can be rented together for larger groups or hosting intimate events. The cottages are all a short walk from each other and are the perfect place to be "away" while still being "together".
The other GILLS GROUP cottages are Jaquish Lane (property 733483) which sleeps 12 and The Gills (VRBO 318909) which sleeps 6.
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EVENTS
The Red House (along with Jaquish Lane and The Gills) is uniquely set up to host an intimate wedding or family reunion. With open ocean views of the sunrise on the east side of the island (Jaquish Lane and The Gills) and spectacular sunsets on the west (at The Red House). Event fees vary depending on the size of the gathering and number of guests. Contact the property manager for more information.
There is not a television at The Red House - but there IS high-speed internet for streaming/watching on your own devices.
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THE OWNER
My name is Carter Smith and I am the owner of THE GILLS GROUP (The Red House, Jaquish Lane 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.
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LOCATION
Mackerel Cove - Bailey Island - Harpswell - Maine.
There are many other properties in the area - but there are very few that rise above the (sometimes crude) comfort that passes for acceptable in a "summer island cottage". That is not the case here. I have tried to think of everything a guest could want - from luxury mattresses topped with featherbeds to copper cookware to that oceanfront steam room. This is a rental for people who appreciate the details.
BAILEY ISLAND
20 minutes from Brunswick and Bowdoin College. 40 minutes from Freeport and L.L.Bean. 55 minutes from Portland.
PETS
Pets are welcome at The Red House and will incur a fee of $60 per night per pet. This is non-negotiable. Everyone says, "My pet would never damage anything," but sadly, experience has proven that's not always the case.
BOOKING
A booking using the "ONLINE BOOKING" feature is ONLY considered confirmed once you have communicated with the property manager.
The 100 year old Red House at the head of Mackerel Cove was built when most of Bailey Island was wild and undeveloped - and once you've spent time here it's clear why this spot was chosen to build. You FEEL the ocean just steps away wherever you are on the property - and each night the sun sets directly in front of you across the water.
This place is magic.
A house where no matter what you are doing - cooking dinner with loved ones - reading a book on the porch - spending a lazy day in bed - the sea is always present - steps away or right outside your window.
*
*
*
THE BEACH
The private pebble beach is the perfect place to launch kayaks at any tide. Exploring from the water is one of the best ways to experience Casco Bay. The tide pools in front of the house are something kids (of all ages) love.
*
*
*
THE RENOVATION
Everything in The Red House has been updated during the 2017 renovation. From plumbing to heating it's all brand new. Luxury beds and bedding in the two upstairs bedrooms. All new appliances in the fully equipped kitchen.
But it all started with the bathroom.
Built to accommodate 4 - the STEAM ROOM looks directly out to the ocean with the same magnificent views as the rest of the house. The upstairs "secret" half-bath is hidden behind a custom built rotating bookcase inspired by my 9 year old niece and her fascination with all things magical and mysterious. The living and dining spaces all have views of the ocean and have been furnished with a mix of local antiques and art.
*
*
*
THE VIEW
Spending time here always comes back to the view. Clear and calm one day, misty and grey the next. Watch the sea and sky shift with the weather. Hour by hour. Minute by minute. Always beautiful. Always different.
*
*
THE BIRDS
From heron and gulls to Eider and even bald eagles, this sheltered spot is a birdwatchers dream. I watched a pair of sea ducks guide their ducklings along the shore. Herons fishing in the tide pools at low tide. A bald eagle at the end of the wharf. Whatever you see, you can be sure that it's going to be beautiful.
*
*
*
THE GILLS GROUP
The Red House is part of THE GILLS GROUP - a collection of oceanfront cottages that can be rented together for larger groups or hosting intimate events. The cottages are all a short walk from each other and are the perfect place to be "away" while still being "together".
The other GILLS GROUP cottages are Jaquish Lane (property 733483) which sleeps 12 and The Gills (VRBO 318909) which sleeps 6.
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EVENTS
The Red House (along with Jaquish Lane and The Gills) is uniquely set up to host an intimate wedding or family reunion. With open ocean views of the sunrise on the east side of the island (Jaquish Lane and The Gills) and spectacular sunsets on the west (at The Red House). Event fees vary depending on the size of the gathering and number of guests. Contact the property manager for more information.
There is not a television at The Red House - but there IS high-speed internet for streaming/watching on your own devices.
*
*
*
THE OWNER
My name is Carter Smith and I am the owner of THE GILLS GROUP (The Red House, Jaquish Lane 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.
*
*
*
LOCATION
Mackerel Cove - Bailey Island - Harpswell - Maine.
There are many other properties in the area - but there are very few that rise above the (sometimes crude) comfort that passes for acceptable in a "summer island cottage". That is not the case here. I have tried to think of everything a guest could want - from luxury mattresses topped with featherbeds to copper cookware to that oceanfront steam room. This is a rental for people who appreciate the details.
BAILEY ISLAND
20 minutes from Brunswick and Bowdoin College. 40 minutes from Freeport and L.L.Bean. 55 minutes from Portland.
PETS
Pets are welcome at The Red House and will incur a fee of $60 per night per pet. This is non-negotiable. Everyone says, "My pet would never damage anything," but sadly, experience has proven that's not always the case.
BOOKING
A booking using the "ONLINE BOOKING" feature is ONLY considered confirmed once you have communicated with the property manager.
Amenities
Pets allowed
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Parking
Balcony or Patio
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Bailey Island, ME
$$$$
Ratings and reviews
10.0 / 10.0
This was our 3rd vrbo stay in Harpswell and our first on Bailey Island. We went for part of the week on our own and cousins joined us there for a couple of days. We were thrilled to bring our Boston Terrier along, too! The house is rustic yet elegant in some ways (amazing steam room, well equipped kitchen, comfortable beds & bedding). Like many other reviewers, we spent tons of time on the lovely porch relaxing and enjoying the always beautiful view of the water, birds, boats, and sunrises and sunsets. When we did venture out, we loved eating at Sundrenched on Bailey Island, buying yummy treats at the Wild Oats Bakery in Brunswick, enjoying lobster rolls from Bailey Island General Store, or walking for 5 minutes to Lands End and Bailey Island Beach. The house was pleasant and comfy and had everything we needed. We really appreciated that the owner cared about the environment (unbleached paper towels, recycling, encouraging water conservation, use of Mrs. Meyer's soap). The neighbors and property managers were nice and helpful, too. We were sad to leave but were so happy we chose somewhere so amazing to stay. Bailey Island had a lovely magic of its own, and seemed to stay cooler with a pleasant breeze most of the time than some other parts of Harpswell! Thanks for sharing this lovely home with our family!
10.0 / 10.0
Beautiful views from a charming cottage with kind neighbors. Eclectic styled home which we enjoyed. Would stay again!!
10.0 / 10.0
We were sold on the Dog Friendliness of this property but we will be coming back for the views. This is literally a slice of heaven. We stayed with our two labs and our 3 year old son and everyone had a blast. The house is beautifully renovated to fit the modern lifestyle with the quaint beach house theme. The dogs were able to run free on the beach front and roll in the tall grass. The lack of television was the best pet of the trip. Games, books, music and conversation fill the space and allow you spend time with the ones you love. Highly recommend this home to anyone looking to visit Maine.
10.0 / 10.0
What a lovely home and stay! Beautiful view. Beautiful location. Home had everything we needed. One funny thing: I guess I didn’t read the home details clearly because we found the second bathroom 3 days in. :)
highly recommend visiting the driftwood inn.
Enjoy!
10.0 / 10.0
We couldn’t wait to return to this home for our second trip to Bailey Island. The home is very comfortable with everything you could need, including books, games, and every necessary kitchen gadget. We spent every evening watching the sunset from the porch and had a wonderful time exploring the bay in our rented kayak. We also took advantage of the amazing steam shower. The property manager was very responsive and friendly. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect place to spend the week!
10.0 / 10.0
This is a stunning place to stay. Every detail has been well thought out and you cannot beat the view. The cottage is a great balance of luxury and rustic charm and we so enjoyed our stay.
10.0 / 10.0
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay on Bailey Island! The house was perfect for our trip. We loved the unique characteristics of the home and the steam shower was an added bonus. Our son had fun looking for sea glass and exploring. We could have stayed on the back porch the whole trip.
We recommend checking out Giant’s Stairs Trail, Lands End, Stover’s Beach, and Portland Lighthouse. Fishnet Cafe, The General Store, Cook’s, Salt Cod Cafe, Dolphin Marina & Restaurant, & Royal River Grillhouse all had great food. We can’t wait to come back!
10.0 / 10.0
A perfect holiday. Stunning. The Red House must be seen to be believed. Unbeatable on the water location with views to die for.
10.0 / 10.0
The red house is in the most beautiful setting and was a lovely stay for a family getaway. We’d love to come back!
10.0 / 10.0
Our family had a wonderful stay at this picturesque cottage. We will greatly miss the beautiful view from the porch. Our girls loved collecting sea glass out front and watching the wildlife. Very relaxing week in Maine with great location and accommodations.
10.0 / 10.0
The property was lovely with well maintained amenities. This was not an issue just a note: the keys were not in the lock box when we arrived. The door was unlocked and keys were on the counter. When we tried to leave, it appears the box may have been broken but we put them in there anyway as that is what was requested. Views were amazing. We left behind a map of the island for the next guest with a bunch of things we did. We hope to come again.
10.0 / 10.0
a very special spot
absolutely loved our dreamy week at this magical property, with a view that can't be beat. every detail in the house was so thoughtful and we felt right at home. we hope to come back very soon.
10.0 / 10.0
The Perfect Setting On Mackerel Cove
My husband and I spent a glorious week at The Red Cottage. The restoration of the cottage has clearly been a labor of love. Our experience felt authentic, yet we were not lacking for conveniences and amenities during our stay. The cottage provides the perfect setting to watch Mackerel Cove, an active harbor. We enjoyed watching the boat traffic. The porch is a cool, breezy place to reach, and to watch the ocean and skies shift shape throughout the day. In fact, I think we spent more time on the porch than we did anywhere else in the house! Do not miss sunset on the dock. Dave was the consummate host, attentive to every detail during our stay. We cannot recommend The Red Cottage highly enough. We look forward to returning.
10.0 / 10.0
Perfect relaxing getaway
The perfect relaxing getaway… the house is exquisitely decorated and ready for a very comfortable stay. The waterfront view and evening sunsets were perfect and made the whole trip worth while. The steam shower was as added bonus!! Great location for several restaurants, not far from shopping and sightseeing. We rented a kayak for the week and had an amazing time exploring the harbor and neighboring islands. Will definitely be back! Minor details- Kitchen could definitely use some wine glasses, Tupperware, and a can opener!
10.0 / 10.0
Honeymoon Heaven
We spent a dreamy week at the Red House in mid-June for our honeymoon. Highlights were the views of the water from every room, watching ducklings and herons, the glorious sunsets, the comfiness of the bed, and the charming furniture and decor (the lady lamp in the living room was my favorite!) Bailey Island is a special place, and the Red House is a perfect rental to experience it from. Would love to come back again some day!
6.0 / 10.0
Great Location, Lousy Water
We loved the house and the location. Great walking distance to Lands End and the General Store. Wonderful ocean views and the dogs had a blast swimming and investigating the tidal pools. The house was well appointed with books and utensils. Unfortunately, there were a number of problems with the place. First was the water. It has hydrogen sulfide gas which is highly toxic. We complained and the manager had someone put in a filter which didn't solve the problem. They gave us some water and we bought more but taking a shower and washing dishes was a noxious process. Many of the dishes and pans were dirty. The upstairs screens were torn to shreds by the winds and let in mosquitos, which we were surprised to see. We don't mind paying high fees and rents but this place just didn't justify the expense.
10.0 / 10.0
August 2021
We had a fantastic stay. The house was all we hoped it would be in terms of comfort and space. We enjoyed Bailey Island and the surrounding area but spent so much time just relaxing at the house, on the porch overlooking the water. Cozy and comfortable. The kids loved it too.
10.0 / 10.0
Most peaceful little escape
Loved the island and loved the property. Kids were happy expiring the tide pools, the dock, and playing on the lawn. Such a special place!
10.0 / 10.0
Beautiful properties in a very special place
Beautiful properties in a very special place
10.0 / 10.0
Beautiful home and location
Carter’s gambrel roofed “Red House,” nestled at the mouth of Mackerel Cove in the charming and historic Bailey Island was a welcome respite from the confines of the last year and a half. Neither I nor any of my family members could have imagined a more comfortable and beautiful place to regroup. The beds were so comfortable, the porch a magnificent spot to relax, nap, read, breathe in the marine air and wave to lobster boats and the Schooner Alert as they breezed by. Carter’s extensive recommendations for fun, relaxing family activities came in very handy and we took up his advice exploring local beaches , restaurants and shops. As a lover of historic houses I was especially happy to be able to live in a very stylishly and comfortably appointed older house.. truly a beauty insyde and out. We had amazing views from every window.. and loved exploring the tide pools just outside his charming home. We hope to return soon.. perhaps even in the fall. Oh lastly, his property manager David was a delight and at the ready to provide assistance and great conversation at the slightest request. In sum my family had a wonderful time reconnecting with nature and one another in this peaceful, historic, and supremely comfortable home. Thank you SO much! I miss it already.
10.0 / 10.0
Another Gills Group Gem
This was our second stay at a Gills Group property on Bailey Island and it did not disappoint. All of the reviews about the Red House are spot-on with regards to the design and coziness of the house – everything from the furnishings and artwork to lighting to the bedsheets and towels are perfectly curated to give the house the look and feel of a cozy well-appointed coastal home (Restoration Hardware towels and lighting in the bathroom, Riedel wine glasses and Cuisinart coffee machine in the kitchen and the list goes on…), not a soulless sterile rental house that lacks personality and charm.
We spent a month in the fall during the pandemic to get away from Boston and work in a different setting with a view. The views are truly spectacular (and you have this view from the living room, shower/steam room, master bedroom and kitchen)! The house is waterside with plenty of places to sit and watch the water and sunsets – Adirondack chairs, a covered porch with a massive couch and a private pier (make a point of knowing when the sun goes down and plan on being home!).
Essentials are covered sufficiently at the Red House. The house was spotless when we arrived with weekly cleaning during our visit. WiFi worked perfectly and the kitchen is well-appointed with everything one needs to prep and cook meals. The location is a short walk to the very end of the island where there is a large gift shop and even more views of the water and coastline that shouldn’t be missed. Also a short walk to the Giant Stairs coastal trail (more views….).
The caretaker, Dave Johnson, is a local and was always available to answer questions, offer assistance or chat about island living.
I highly recommend the Red House or any of the Gills Group properties.
5.0 / 10.0
This was our second stay at a Gills Group property on Bailey Island and it did not disappoint. All of the reviews about the Red House are spot-on with regards to the design and coziness of the house – everything from the furnishings and artwork to lighting to the bedsheets and towels are perfectly curated to give the house the look and feel of a cozy well-appointed coastal home (Restoration Hardware towels and lighting in the bathroom, Riedel wine glasses and Cuisinart coffee machine in the kitchen and the list goes on…), not a soulless sterile rental house that lacks personality and charm. We spent a month in the fall during the pandemic to get away from Boston and work in a different setting with a view. The views are truly spectacular (and you have this view from the living room, shower/steam room, master bedroom and kitchen)! The house is waterside with plenty of places to sit and watch the water and sunsets – Adirondack chairs, a covered porch with a massive couch and a private pier (make a point of knowing when the sun goes down and plan on being home!).Essentials are covered sufficiently at the Red House. The house was spotless when we arrived with weekly cleaning during our visit. WiFi worked perfectly and the kitchen is well-appointed with everything one needs to prep and cook meals. The location is a short walk to the very end of the island where there is a large gift shop and even more views of the water and coastline that shouldn’t be missed. Also a short walk to the Giant Stairs coastal trail (more views….). The caretaker, Dave Johnson, is a local and was always available to answer questions, offer assistance or chat about island living. I highly recommend the Red House or any of the Gills Group properties.
10.0 / 10.0
A Slice of Heaven!
The Red House is truly something special. You feel like you're traveling back in time but also have all of the comforts of modern times. The beds are like sleeping on a cloud! Carter's attention to detail and knack for design are felt throughout the entire house, from the neat lighting fixtures to the incredible steam room. This was our second time visiting Bailey Island (we have previously stayed at Carter's Jaquish House, which I also highly recommend), and we can't wait to go back again. I visited with my husband and two young boys (ages 4 and 1.5). We spent most of our days playing in the yard, lounging on the front porch taking in the view, and skipping rocks along the two private beaches. The views are incredible... you won't want to leave! I know we didn't! The property manager, Dave, is wonderful and available to help with whatever you need. He brought us charcoal when we ran out and couldn't find any on island as well as lobsters. Thanks so much, Carter and Dave! We can't wait to visit again soon!
5.0 / 10.0
The Red House description and photos don't do the experience justice. It's as if you are living on the most well appointed and curated boat, without the seasickness. You see the changing tides, lobster and sail boats from every room in the house. We spent hours playing games outside, waving to the boats, watching the birds from the lovely dock and grilling while watching the sunset. The beds are incredibly comfortable and, not to be crude, but I've never had a better view while using the toilet.Our children found the hidden bookshelf bathroom to be the coolest thing they've ever seen! They were also impressed with the lobsters 'blowing bubbles' that caretaker Dave delivered. Speaking of Dave - what a delight! Quick to respond but never intrusive and he went out of his way to show me the other Gills properties (in a COVID safe way) even in torrential rain. We're already planning our next trip for later this year and looking to rebook for next summer.
10.0 / 10.0
Lived in luxury and delightful touches
The Red House description and photos don't do the experience justice. It's as if you are living on the most well appointed and curated boat, without the seasickness. You see the changing tides, lobster and sail boats from every room in the house. We spent hours playing games outside, waving to the boats, watching the birds from the lovely dock and grilling while watching the sunset. The beds are incredibly comfortable and, not to be crude, but I've never had a better view while using the toilet.
Our children found the hidden bookshelf bathroom to be the coolest thing they've ever seen! They were also impressed with the lobsters 'blowing bubbles' that caretaker Dave delivered. Speaking of Dave - what a delight! Quick to respond but never intrusive and he went out of his way to show me the other Gills properties (in a COVID safe way) even in torrential rain.
We're already planning our next trip for later this year and looking to rebook for next summer.
10.0 / 10.0
Cove side jewel box
What a delightful home! From the perfectly distressed exterior to the thoughtful and creative interior. It totally encapsulates the feeling of being in coastal Maine. Handpicked antiques and fabrics abound in the living area and the bedrooms. The house is small but feels spacious due to well planned lighting and open areas. The addition of the steam shower room with a window overlooking the cove is inspired. What better way to view those gorgeous sunsets! The dock at the house is the perfect spot for morning coffee watching the lobster boats come and go from Mackerel Cove. Brunswick is not too far away for grocery shopping and the occasional visit to the laundromat. All questions, problems, discussions about the house, Maine, New England sports or Chocolate Labradors can be directed to and answered by the wonderful property manager Dave Johnson, who is an invaluable resource. We have loved it here.
8.0 / 10.0
Gorgeous house with the perfect sunset views
This house is a beautiful gem on the sleepy and sweet Bailey Island. We brought our friends along and had a wonderful week with good wifi for checking work emails and gorgeous nights BBQ'ing outside while watching the sunset. The steam shower is such a treat and the decor is endlessly intriguing. The copper cookware is lovely but a bit hard to clean and we would have liked to be able to wash our towels mid-way through the week. Other than that, the property manager Dave is warm and helpful, so we would definitely make it back.
10.0 / 10.0
A slice of heaven
We loved our stay at the Red House! After years and years of renting all over Bailey and Orr’s Islands, we’ve finally found the perfect spot. Beautiful view, perfectly located, smartly decorated, a well-equipped kitchen, lovely linens and more. Many thanks to Dave the caretaker. He answered every question and was a great help all week. We hope to return another year!
10.0 / 10.0
Fantastic spot in Maine!
We enjoyed every aspect of this beautiful home on Bailey’s Island. - The view, furniture, bedrooms and overall charm made this a special stay for us. Dave was a great host and helped us with every need. We will be back for sure!
10.0 / 10.0
Beauty and Quiet at Your Doorstep
My husband and I rented the Red House to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. Despite gray skies and rain the beauty and quiet of the place made it the perfect choice. We spent hours watching eiders, mergansers, cormorants and gulls through the picture window in the living room. A great blue heron even visited one afternoon. The house was clean and well-appointed and the care-taker, Dave Johnson, was friendly and attentive without being intrusive. We've visited Bailey Island many times over the years, but this was probably the most memorable. There's a timelessness about the Red House that centered us, connecting us to the past while feeling fully alive in the present.
10.0 / 10.0
Picturesque. Upscale. Enchanting. Quaint, Pristine, and Serene. Oceanfront.
We searched for solitude. Peace. Tranquility.
The home, and its location.....had exactly what we were seeking.
We were so comfortable in and out of the house. We were able to sit on the porch, whether it rained,snowed or sleeted. The view from almost every room was captivating. We explored the ocean floor at low tide, and was memorized as the tides rose.
This home was equipped with everything you needed. It was spotless. All of the furniture cozy. We read and had our meals while watching the ocean, the wildlife and the sunsets. We felt a true sense of serenity throughout our entire visit.
The steam room was addicting. Sparkling clean. It worked perfectly. The stress from our jobs disappeared, the aches and pains disappeared, our skin felt so healthy. A complete sense of well being after each steam bath.
Nothing was missing in this home. Comfort, cleanliness and coziness....it had it all. It was lovely, delightful,charming, inviting, tidy and secluded. Once we arrived, we did not leave, not for one second. We had everything we needed...in every sense.
The owner, was wonderful to work with. Always available. We enjoyed the privacy, as promised, and felt completely safe.
If only we could have stayed longer!!!!!
10.0 / 10.0
Bailey Island, Maine at its best!
The house is charming and the location can't be beat (our kids age 7 and 6 ran around all day picking up sea glass and rocks and shells). We loved it and would return in a heartbeat. Don't miss the tour of Admiral Peary's summer home on Eagle Island with Captain Lem.
10.0 / 10.0
The perfect house in the perfect location
The Red house was fantastic! My family of 4 had a wonderful, tranquil week. The house decor was perfect, it was old school but also modern in the right places. The view of the sunset was perfect every evening and a good nights sleep was no problem in the super comfortable beds. My kids loved the secret bathroom upstairs behind the bookcase and collecting shells/sea glass right out the back door. The Red house was the vacation house we’ve been looking for. My only complaint is that we only stayed a week! Rent this house and you will not be disappointed. I do suggest packing food or stopping at the Whole Foods in Portland before you get to the island. We brought a croquet set and had hours of fun in the yard.
10.0 / 10.0
Dreamy Maine House Right on the Water
I could have moved into Carter's home forever. Everything from the beautifully decorated rooms, comfortable porch, fantastic sunset view, and well-designed kitchen, made it an ideal place for a week away in Maine. It was the perfect size for us (2 kids, 2 adults) with enough room for family meals, card games, and napping, while still feeling cozy. And the bathrooms are the most unique of any home we've ever rented. We also loved being close to several great places to eat and pick up fish, as well as terrific hikes nearby. It was perfect.
10.0 / 10.0
Quaint, Charming, Authentic
The location of the Red House is hard to beat - feet from the water - so the ocean is a constant presence. After growing up by the water in Massachusetts but now being unable to go back to the same spot, the sights and sounds and smells of salt water are very therapeutic to me. Our vacation basically involved sitting in one place or another looking at the water - on the couch on the porch or on the dock over the water. We did some walking and exploring but mostly just stayed put. Another key aspect of our stay was the uniqueness of the house. The Red House does not follow the usual rental beach house decoration "formula". What a relief not to find "Life is a Beach" do-dahs around but to see creative and unusual decorating touches. That style made me want to investigate Carter's other houses and I'm pretty sure we'll make plans to stay in one of those larger houses next time!
10.0 / 10.0
Perfect Maine coast vacation
This was our 2nd year staying in the Red House. For my husband and I, it's as perfect as we have found so far. The house is located on a large flat lot which is pretty rare for the Maine coastline. We rent kayaks and the access for launching them is the best we've seen. You can boat into Mackerel cove for calm water or toward open ocean which is more challenging.
The house is updated but rustic. It's very clean and the downstairs bath with the steam-shower is beautiful and very nice after a day on the ocean. The location and quality of the stove doesn't live up to the quality and charm of the rest of the house but it's usable. My favorite spot is the 10 foot sofa on the porch. It faces the water to the west and checks all the boxes for a perfect place to relax and take in the boats, birds, waves, tides and sunsets. They've also added new Adirondack chairs on the lawn and repaired the humongous dock this year. Lovely places to enjoy morning coffee or lunch.
We've already booked for next year.
10.0 / 10.0
WOW!!!!
I did not want to write this review....I thought twice. I was being selfish. I didn't want anyone to know about this hidden gem. There is only one word to describe the "Red House"-WOW!!!! Its definitely a place to forget about life for awhile. This was our first time to Bailey Island and it wont be our last. We saw more lobster boats everyday go by then cars. :) It was just perfect! Kudos to Dave for his excellent hospitality and making us feel so welcome. Thank you to Carter for sharing this magical place with us. We feel lucky. We'll be back-can't wait!
10.0 / 10.0
Absolutely Amazing - Book NOW
We stayed at the Red House for a week in July and loved every moment of our vacation. This property is straight from a design magazine. It is truly one-of-a-kind with unique design details, finishing touches, comfortable beds and linens, fantastic outside space and the most ****outstanding view****. You won't find a better place.
Bailey's Island is super chill and beautiful with much to offer. Seaspray Kayaks delivered kayaks and paddle boards to the private beach area which made it super convenient to quickly start exploring this beautiful island. We paddled to Cooks and Erica's, biked, hiked, and spent hours on the porch watching the the lobster boats and that 5 star sunset.
The owner and caretaker are really easy to rent from and went the extra mile to help us plan our trip and enjoy our stay. Book now.
10.0 / 10.0
Incredible Maine Experience!
Carter has created something special. The location and property are simply stunning. My wife and I traveled to Maine for the first time to celebrate our 10th Anniversary. The location we (my wife) chose was the Redhouse. It was exactly what we were hoping for in a true Coastel Maine getaway. The Redhouse is what you would picture for a 100 year old coastel cottage, but renovated for the ultimate in comfort while keeping the traditional features. From the steam room to the simple details like the light switches, you feel like your at home rather than a rental. The sunsets are something special. The coastline is a mere 10-15ish feet away from the stunning back porch at high tide. Lobster boats pulling traps right off your back doorstep daily, which you can also see from the steam room. A harbor seal leisurely made its way past about 30 yards out one evening right before a storm. Sea glass covers the pebble beach directly infront of the unit which made for a daily fun activity. Good for kids to get their feet wet as the waters at the entrance of Mackeral cove are calm. Would have no reservations about bringing our two girls back next time. Coastel birds fishing within view daily. I can’t leave this review without mentioning David. David manages the property for Carter and is very attentive and makes sure you have everything you need. David is also a lobsterman which my wife and I had several questions that he gladly answered. David also took time out of washing lobster traps on our final day to tour us through the Jaquish property across the street. It is equally as stunning for larger groups which we will use in the future. Also would like to thank Steve, who is the carpenter that renovated the Redhouse and Carter’s other properties, for taking the time to allow us to tour the adjacent boat house they are renovating for a future wedding venue. It will be beautiful! Several great lobster restaurants in the area. Highly recommend Erica’s for that authentic lobster roll experience. Also recommend the Island Candy company for the best Mint Chocolate Chip ice cream I have ever had. A short five minute walk to lands end is a must! Highly recommend staying at this location. Cheers to Carter, David and Steve!
10.0 / 10.0
Wonderful
A beautiful house and perfect location. We loved it!
FAQs
How much does this cottage cost compared to others in Bailey Island?
The average price for a rental in Bailey Island is $491 per night. This rental is $499 above the average.
Is parking included with this cottage?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this cottage?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this cottage. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room pet friendly?
Yes! This cottage is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.
What amenities are available at THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room?
We found 7 amenities for this rental. This includes pets allowed, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, parking, and balcony or patio.
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