Harbor View Motel & Cottages
Two queen beds with red floral bedspreads, blue walls, window with dark curtains, wall-mounted TV, and wooden dresser in Acadia National Park.
Acadia National Park harbor scene with calm water, sun reflection, distant shoreline, and small rocky islets.
+2 more

Harbor View Motel & Cottages

Lodging★★★★☆
Last Updated: January 2026

Overview

About This Property

The game plan: Harbor View sits on Acadia's quiet side with 14 cottages and 8 motel rooms. It feels calm, spacious, and convenient for exploration with free WiFi, in-room coffee, and kitchen options in select cottages. Peak-season pricing can hit $325 for a 2-bedroom cottage, but you still get a dependable base with parking and a nearby shuttle. This is your low-stress, harbor-tinged launch pad for Mount Desert Island.

Your Morning Game Plan

Coffee in-room; you're 15–20 minutes from the park entrance (9 miles). Leave by 6:45 AM to beat crowds.

Highlights

Book If

✅ BOOK IF: you’re chasing a quiet, space-friendly base near Acadia; ❌ SKIP IF: you need luxury perks or ADA-compliant rooms

Notable Views

Harbor views, Southwest Harbor landscape

Architecture

Motel with separate cottages; cottage-style architecture

Awards

Not available

Family Friendly

Quiet setting suitable for couples and small families; accessibility may be limited for mobility-challenged travelers

Best Time to Visit

Mid-June through mid-September for peak activity; May and October offer quieter stays with lower rates

Pro Tips

  • Parking is free on-site; space may be limited.
  • Island Explorer shuttle stop is a 5-minute walk.
  • Book 6-9 months in advance for peak season.
  • Some cottages include full kitchens—great for longer stays.
  • Harbor-view units are worth requesting; motel rooms closer to the road can have some traffic noise.

Property History

Established: 1960
Recent Updates: Renovated for modern comfort; no exact dates provided

The Honest Truth

Harbor View Motel & Cottages sits in Southwest Harbor on Mount Desert Island, with 28 units: 3 efficiencies, 7 cottages, and motel rooms in the main building plus the North and South buildings. Check-in begins at 4:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM. The site lists Seasonal Hours but does not publish exact dates for peak or off-peak times. On-site dining and a pool are not listed. Pets are allowed in select units with a nominal fee. Parking details aren’t published for this property. It suits families, couples, and travelers seeking a quieter base near Acadia National Park, with cottages offering multiple bedrooms and full kitchens for longer stays.

Who Should Skip This

Skip if you require fully ADA-compliant spaces or on-site dining and luxury perks

Booking Insider Tip

Book 6–9 months ahead for peak season; request harbor view; cottages offer kitchen options for longer stays

What Guests Say

Quiet harbor-side base on Acadia’s quieter flank. Not luxury, but space and location work for a relaxed visit. Peak season requires planning; great for exploration and independence.

ℹ️ Data Sources

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →