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Waterfront Cottage in South Bristol w/ private dock and lobster boat views

Waterfront cottage with kitchen and balcony

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Marina - Waterfront Cottage in South Bristol w/ private dock and lobster boat views (South Bristol)
Experience the warmth of The Sumner McFarland House, a charming historic cottage in South Bristol. With multiple picture window views of the harbor, enjoy your morning coffee on the sun deck or relax in one of two living spaces.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms3 bathrooms177 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Waterfront Cottage in South Bristol w/ private dock and lobster boat views

This is a charming, light filled historic cottage on the "Gut" in South Bristol. Minutes from the summer community of Christmas Cove.

The Sumner McFarland House is three stories and boasts porches on two floors. The large eat-in galley kitchen has multiple picture window views of the harbor. There are 3 bedrooms on the second floor and a larger bedroom on the third floor. There are bathrooms on each floor. There is a private driveway and parking next to the house. The true front of the house faces the water, and slopes to a large dock with a picnic table, a ramp, and float to tie up your boat, or to launch your kayaks and paddle boards.

Our second floor has four small rooms:
1st bedroom with full size bed and views of the trees
Bathroom with clawfoot tub and shower
2nd bedroom with full size bed and views of the harbor
3rd bedroom with a pair of twin beds and views of the harbor and river
There is also a sun deck to sit and enjoy your morning coffee or your afternoon book and wine.

On the third floor, there is a bedroom suite with a queen-sized bed, kitchenette, half+ bathroom, and a reading nook to sit and view the water.

The living room is bright with picture window views of the water. There is also a second living space for watching TV (or the water if you prefer). The covered porch is the perfect place to escape and relax and enjoy the salty breezes.

Live or cooked lobsters are walking distance away at the Fishermen's Co-op. You can also walk to Osier's for fresh off the boat fish or a quick lunch. Ask for the Fisherman’s catch. During the summer season you may pick up fresh baked goods at Kneaded Provisions.

The public boat launch is next to the Co-op, and you have a choice of Bittersweet Landing Boatyard or Gamage Shipyard for your boating needs.

Kayak and paddle board rentals are available and can be delivered by Mitch at Midcoast Kayak.

Watch the boats, the gulls, the seals, the morning mist rising off the water. Paddle or motor to the neighboring islands and ocean.

Washer and dryer are on the first floor.

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the marina
  • Near the sea
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Golf
  • Kayak
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 1,900 square feet

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Interior
Unforgettable Waterfront Retreat: Featured on PBS, Perfect for Families & Friends!
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, 1 review
Unforgettable Waterfront Retreat: Featured on PBS, Perfect for Families & Friends!

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Please do not put sharp knives (steak knives, Kitchen knives) in the dishwasher, it dulls the blades.
Please wash the towels and start them to dry before. you leave. You only need to strip the beds that were used. You may choose to wash and dry the sheets but the cleaning person can do the laundry.
You may leave food items that you think others would choose to use (spices, staples, unopened drinks, eggs, etc.). Please throw or take away anything else. Take trash to Transfer station.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

Pets not allowed
Note from host: Please, no pets.

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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 indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is required for transport to and from this property

Property is also known as

Waterfront Cottage in South Bristol w/ Private Dock Porches

About the area

Located in South Bristol, this cottage is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Boothbay Region Land Trust and Boothbay Harbor Marina are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Pemaquid Craft Co-op and Penobscot Marine Museum. Dolphin Mini Golf and Boothbay Railway Village are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
South Bristol, ME

What's nearby

  • La Verna Preserve - 30 min drive - 18.6 km
  • Rachel Carson Salt Pond Preserve - 32 min drive - 21.8 km
  • Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park - 38 min drive - 23.9 km
  • Damariscotta Lake - 40 min drive - 31.7 km
  • Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens - 61 min drive - 60.7 km

Getting around

  • Wiscasset, ME (ISS) - 39 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Circle K - ‬48 min drive
  • ‪Carriage House Restaurant - ‬50 min drive
  • ‪Harborside 1901 Bar & Grill - ‬46 min drive
  • ‪Boothbay Lobster Wharf - ‬50 min drive
  • ‪Shaw's Fish & Lobster Wharf - ‬20 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Waterfront Cottage in South Bristol w/ private dock and lobster boat views pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Waterfront Cottage in South Bristol w/ private dock and lobster boat views?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Waterfront Cottage in South Bristol w/ private dock and lobster boat views?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Waterfront Cottage in South Bristol w/ private dock and lobster boat views?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Waterfront Cottage in South Bristol w/ private dock and lobster boat views located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is 2.6 mi (4.2 km) from Fort Point and within 12 miles (20 km) of La Verna Preserve and Pemaquid Craft Co-op. Biscay Pond and Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site are also within 12 miles (20 km).

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Waterfront Cottage in South Bristol w/ private dock and lobster boat views Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 110 out of 115 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 115 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 115 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 115 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 115 reviews

9.8

Cleanliness

9.8

Location

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Michelle W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful house and kitchen was amazing. Comfortable and quiet. Great views. We spent7 days here and couldn’t have been happier. Thanks
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca S.

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

Family weekend

We had a great long weekend here. The house itself was beautiful and the location was stunning. We would love to come back one day!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Emily D.

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

Great stay in South Bristol!

We stayed at the property for two nights for a family getaway after the holidays. The house was in a great location, beautiful views, spotlessly clean, and very well equipped. We loved waking up to the light hitting the water and being able to explore the beautiful peninsula. Great hikes a short drive away. We would gladly stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laurene G.

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

Autumn getaway

Very clean, beautifully appointed property, with a direct view of the harbor. Thank you so much for the use of this peaceful home
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Richard L.

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

Beautiful house on the cove in South Bristol

What a view! What a wonderful place! We enjoyed our comfortable stay and would recommend this home to anyone who wishes a taste of coastal Maine.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Masha S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house is lovely! Spacious and has everything you need for a pleasant stay. Natalie was very helpful, responsive and accomodating.I have to say, if it was a hotel, I'd probably give the property itself 3 stars - bathrooms have obvious water damage on the floor, the house itself is worn. It didn't take away from the cozy feel and if it's someone's house and they don't mind those things, then so be it! If it was a hotel, I'd expect management to take care of those issues and keep the property in good shape. But the house is really cute, it's in a great location, and the owner is very nice!!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Najat M.

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

Wonderful Stay

Natalie's home and property was beautiful. Everything was clean and neat. We loved having our morning coffee on the back porch with a stunning vorw. It was very easy to communicate with Natalie. We would definitely dtay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

dwight l.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This summer my husband and I spent almost 5 weeks at this South Bristol cottage. We love the house and invite family and friends to join us in enjoying our Maine time. The dock allows us to dock our boat, and then in minutes be on the water enjoying the wildlife and fishing. My favorite places in the home include the kitchen table where I enjoy having my morning coffee and watching the lobster boats head out for their daily catch. The upper deck is also amazing; a place to sit and read in the afternoon, and enjoy a cocktail in the early evening. The hostess is so easy to deal with. I simply need to send her a text, and she quickly replies. There are plenty of bedrooms for friends and family to visit us and they all can't wait to get back for some Maine time. This is our "happy place."
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl E.

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

Gorgeous home with beautiful harbor views

Our family loved our stay! The home is close to everything and well appointed with a fabulous kitchen and water views from most of rooms. The back porch was our favorite place to hang out and enjoy the stunning views of the harbor. We will be back!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

cynthia h.

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

Wedding travel

We traveled from VT to Bristol for a family wedding. The house perfectly accommodated three adult couples. The location was very calming. I only wish we had a few more days to spend there relaxing.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Leonard C.

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

Coastal relaxation!

This home was perfect for our family to relax and get a taste of amazing fresh lobster! It was so awesome to see the boats head out in the morning and have the tranquility of a small coastal town. The nearby pemaquid lighthouse and fort was a great stop. The house had everything needed to make us feel right at home!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jane B.

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

"Peace of Heaven"

This house was beautiful! High up on a hill looking over looking lobster boats! A million dollar view! The house had everything you need, beautifully decorated, very comfortable furniture and beds. It was fun going to Booth Bay Harbor. What a nice stay! Perfect get away!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Viki C.

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

What a View!!!!

This home was simply gorgeous. It has an amazing kitchen that is stocked with everything you need to prepare a gourmet meal. Every room had unbelievable water views. This home is s very thoughtful and comfortable one. Getting fresh lobsters a quick walk down the road …..
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Patricia O.

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

Enchanted harbor

Not only is the house lovely, ample and well-provisioned, the location right on the little working harbor was magical, all day but especially at sunrise and dusk. the lobster coop is just a short walk. The host was very responsive though we needed little once we settled in. We hope to return. Thank you.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kirke and Linda H., Claiborne, Maryland

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

Perfect spot

Our second summer staying in Natalie’s cottage, and we’ve booked for next summer. The house is exactly as described….wonderful harbor view, marvelous porch, private dock, large kitchen overlooking the harbor, excellent kitchen equipment….and just a short walk to the lobster coop! We think it’s perfect!
Stayed 21 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

The Smith T.

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

Great Home for a getaway

Natalie was super sweet and promote to answer any questions. The home has wonderful views and is fully equipped with everything you would need to cook, enjoy and relax. We had 2 children who loved the yard and the hiking trails that were all close by.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen M.

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

Peaceful with a great view

We enjoyed our stay in South Bristol. All the windows gave us great views from every room. The front porch overlooking the water was our favorite place to sit and relax with family and friends. The house was well cared for and fully-equipped for a comfortable stay. We appreciated Natalie's attention to all our needs.
Stayed 13 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lori S.

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

Cousins weekend

This home was my grandparents when our cousins and I were growing up! We decided to start getting together more often and came up with the idea to have a cousins weekend and discovered the owners rented it out! It’s a beautiful house all though it has changed a bit and has been renovated still brought back some wonderful memories. The view is fabulous and we all stated how we used to take it for granted. This time of year (may) is quite and we walked around the island and enjoyed the weather and views! You won’t go wrong with a stay in this home!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jacob P.

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

Fantastic Family Vacation

We had a wonderful vacation and were fortunate to stay at this property, and I would not hesitate to go back to the same spot. Natalie is a wonderful host and made the entire process very simple from start to finish with clear instructions and recommendations for our stay. The house is charming and tastefully furnished in a quiet area right on the water which is very relaxing and away from the busier touristy parts. It is far enough away to be nice and quiet but not so far away that you can't get to things easily. In fact, there was tons to do all within 15-20 minutes (or further if you want to venture more). The scenery can't be beat, the freshest lobster is literally a 2 minute walk away and even the neighbors were outgoing, friendly and inviting. Truly an A+ experience - if you have the opportunity to stay here, book it! You won't be disappointed.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn M.

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

Our Perfect Retreat for Over 3 Years

For over 40 years, our group of women—friends who worked together and have stayed close ever since—has made it a tradition to reconnect and spend quality time together. Three years ago, we discovered this house, and it has quickly become our go-to spot. Every visit feels like coming home. The house is spacious, clean, and thoughtfully designed, making it perfect for a group like ours. We especially love the fabulous kitchen and eating area and all the wonderful views. Living areas are full of art and tastefully decorated. The location is ideal, allowing us to enjoy being together and taking walks in the beautiful area, Close beaches and a lighthouse are a plus too. Each year, the host goes above and beyond to ensure everything is just right, and her attention to detail makes us feel so welcome. This place has become more than just a vacation rental—it’s a part of our tradition and memories. We can’t recommend it highly enough for anyone looking to create lasting memories with friends or family. We’re already counting down to our next visit!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Patricia O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful host and property.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Karen M.

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

Great Stay

Our family loves this property and the location. We look forward to visiting every year!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christina T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The views were incredible, watching boats of all shapes and sizes go by. Plenty of room for alone time and full on friends. Shopping very close by. We had a great visit, highly recommend.
One view from the dining room.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Damon C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved it! A must stay and we can’t wait to go back!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

denise v.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Had a great time. Beautiful house and yard. Enjoyed going down to the dock and met your very nice neigbors.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025