Airport, Portland, ME (PWM-Portland Intl. Jetport)
53 min drive
Rooms & beds
4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)
3 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Bathroom 2
Bathroom 3
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area
About this property
'Camp Card Cove' the Way Life Should Be
This is 'the way life should be'... Camp Card Cove is a comfortable shingle-style Maine camp/cottage on large private 2 acre lot in Harpswell. Located at the end of a long dead-end gravel driveway, this architecturally designed Maine waterfront camp is yours to enjoy. Its location is peaceful and private on beautiful Card Cove, a protected deep-water anchorage, just a few minutes sail from gorgeous Casco Bay. The entire level lot and over two hundred feet of owned waterfront and private dock are at your disposal. Fish, barbecue, relax and rest as you gaze out on the cove and breathe in the salty fresh air. The fall is the perfect time to spend in Maine, enjoy hikes and day trips without the crowds. Explore the beauty of Mid Coast Maine, including Booth bay Harbor, which is only 45 minutes away. Relax at night with the gas fireplace indoors, or outdoors with our fire pit.
The home features 4 bedrooms ( Master, bedroom one and two and loft )and 3 bathrooms for maximum comfort with minimum hassle, there is a total of 2600 square feet of living space. This is a newer construction home, not a fixer upper, in immaculate condition. We can send additional pictures of Quahog Bay, the grounds or the interior of the cottage if you like, just ask. Why stay at hotel or Inn when you can stay at your own private oceanfront cottage? The home also features a separate 'kids suite' with two sets of bunk beds on the second floor with TV/DVD and separate bathroom. The kids can be close by yet the parents can have their privacy.
The master bedroom opens onto a private second floor balcony with ocean views to Card Cove and Quahog Bay. Sip some wine and watch the sailboats and lobster men from your private porch. There is another bedroom on the second floor, as well as one on the main floor, perfect for guests that find it difficult to maneuver upstairs. A large but cozy living room with gas fireplace and TV as well as a screened in porch and outdoor deck complete the perfect vacation! The kitchen is well stocked with pots, pans, dishes and glasses. The view from the kitchen is incredible, and most likely you would want to cook at the house, instead of frequenting restaurants!! However, if you choose to eat out the towns of Brunswick and Bath have some very fine restaurants and Portland's Old Port is an easy 35 minute drive.
Boaters take note...there is a mooring and dock available for use with prior arrangements so sail to the home or bring your boat and explore Casco Bay. We also include the use of a small dinghy and two kayaks, a 10.6 foot 'Precision' and a 13.8 foot Old Town 'Loon'. Bring your own if you prefer or make it easy and fun and just use ours!
Imagine sailing on your day-sailor in protected Card Cove . Sail the bay and smell the salt air.
Late summer and Fall are more beautiful than ever. Watch the changing leaves, eat lobster in the cool fall air.
Don't forget to plan ahead for the summer..peak weeks book well ahead of the summer so reserve your week now.
Peak season rentals run Saturday to Saturday. The calendar may or may not automatically tell you that.
Hope to hear from you soon.
Fall rental inquiries are starting to pick up so reserve early!!! Ask about our multi week discounts. JUST E-MAIL US!
Renting a private home is different than staying at a hotel. It is important to ask questions before you reserve and to have realistic expectations. We have done our best to describe our properties, however, guest expectations vary. If you have special requests or needs please ask before you reserve. We want to avoid renter's remorse or the old "this was not what I thought it was going to be like". In most cases guests never asked any questions!!!! Refunds at the time of check in are not permitted.
Thank you, John and Karen
Guest Comments:
We really enjoyed your house and in spite of all the pictures you have on your website there is no way to do justice to such a lovely house. The sunrise over the water and watching all the lobster boats were both beautiful.
Regards, Judy
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Charming Maine cottage overlooking the working waterfront.
Harpswell
Charming Maine cottage overlooking the working waterfront.
Must be supervised at all time near the dock and o
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Events
No events allowed
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Pets
Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
Additional pet fee required please see policy.
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
*Pets are not routinely permitted. Pets must be we
RV's, Boat trailers, boats, campers, ATV's or any
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 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 has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Harpswell
Located in Harpswell, this cottage is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Gulf of Maine and Brunswick Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit LL Bean Flagship Store and Maine Street. Paddleworks and Land's End Gift Shop are also worth visiting. Kayaking and windsurfing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and mountain biking nearby.
Is 'Camp Card Cove' the Way Life Should Be pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at 'Camp Card Cove' the Way Life Should Be?
As of 15 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at 'Camp Card Cove' the Way Life Should Be on 6 Oct 2026 start from AU$654, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at 'Camp Card Cove' the Way Life Should Be?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at 'Camp Card Cove' the Way Life Should Be?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at 'Camp Card Cove' the Way Life Should Be?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is 'Camp Card Cove' the Way Life Should Be located?
Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is steps from Casco Bay and within 6 mi (10 km) of Paddleworks and Ragged Island. Bailey Island Bridge and Cobwork Bridge are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
John and Karen were very gracious and responsive hosts! Definitely recommend to other visitors to Maine or new home builders who need temporary housing,
Thank you!
Place and location beautiful. Wi-Fi is non existent.
Mark S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Mary R.
15 Sept 2017
Absolutely amazing place! Owners , John and Karen were terrific !
Could not have found a more perfect place. The view overlooking the water was breathtaking and the house was extremely comfortable and have everything we could have possibly needed. The owners, Jon and Karen went above and beyond to help make sure we could get our handicap mother in and out of the rental property. We cannot thank them Enough!
Mary R.
Stayed 11 nights in Sep 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Dear Mary,
Thank you for your kind review. We are so happy that you and your family were able spend time at Camp Card Cove. Most importantly for us your mom was able to enjoy it as well. It was a pleasure meeting you and your husband. We hope you can return to spend time at the cottage in the future!
Warm regards,
John and Karen
PS Thank you again for the wonderful pastries!!!!!
Absolutely lovely home with wonderfully accommodating hosts! Ocean front, kayaks … what else does one need? Pictures don’t do the home or the location justice. If you’re on the fence, don’t hesitate! Thank you John and Karen for an unforgettable vacation with 4 generations under one roof!!!
Our stay at Camp Card was great. The house was beautiful and had plenty of room for our family. It was peaceful and the view was amazing. The yard was Large and beautifully landscaped around the house. Our dog loved jumping off the dock. The kayaking was great. Mosquitoes were bad but We just dealt with it. Loved it!
Thank you.
Cindy P.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Michael C.
5 June 2014
Mid Coast Gem
Our family has stayed at Camp Card Cove several times in the past few years. The reason why we come back is that the house is one of the best rental options in Harpswell for a large family. Our family of six have rented multiple different houses in Harpswell which gives us a great perspective in judging rental houses in this area. Camp Card Cove has one of the best backyard views, Maine coast waterfront with a working dock. The house itself is beautiful too with an open floor plan and well furnished room. Our family is definitely coming back to this gem in Maine's Mid Coast.
Michael C.
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Dear Michael,
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave feedback. It is very helpful for future guests to hear from our past renters. We were so glad to host your family and look forward to seeing you again soon. Have a wonderful summer!
John and Karen
Archival
10/10 Excellent
simon w.
24 Sept 2013
Great vacation
My family and I had a great time at Camp Cove over labor day weekend. We have been coming to the area for eight years now and by far enjoyed Camp Cove the most. The views of the sunrise and the water were fabulous. We definitely took advantage of the rowboat and the dock in the backyard. There was plenty of personal space for everyone in my party of 8 and more than enough beds to sleep. I am already looking forward to reserving Camp Cove again next year for my family vacation! Finally, I'd like to add that doing business with John and Karen was a breeze. They are quick and responsive and checked up on me during my stay. By far the most headache free rental I've ever had.
simon w.
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Thank you Simon.
We really appreciate your feedback. It was a pleasure hosting your family. Thank you for staying with us. We would love to have you return to any of our properties. Stay well and have a wonderful frall!
Best Regards
john and Karen
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Jake F.
18 Feb 2011
Truly a beautiful, warm and friendly place
We've stayed there twice and loved it both times. The location cant be beat; Georgeous bay and wonderful home. Super cozy yet big enough for our whole family, and the downstairs bedroom was perfect for my Mom. Awsome view from the master bedroom, and a seperate apartment for the rest of the family is realy just perfect. Much roomier that the pictures show too. You feel like you have tthe whole bay to yourself, and the huge lawn stretches right out to the cove, Another plus is that it's close enough to get into town without feeling like it is a major effort. And you are just minutes to Orrs & Baily Islands too. The kayacking was really the icing on the cake. John and Karen are very accomodating hosts as well. I highly recommend this for a family vacation.
Jake F.
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Thanks Jake! We hope you and your family are well and we would love for you to return to Card Cove!
All the best
John and Karen
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Barbara I.
6 Aug 2016
Impressive, Peaceful Location
This was our first time renting Camp Card Cove. We shared the house with our extended family and two dogs. It was perfect for our group. The home is actually bigger than what the pics show. The kitchen was well stocked for the professional chef in the family. We looked for the perfect location to bring our stand up paddle boards, and we found it! Along with the kayaks provided with the rental we enjoyed many excursions around the coves. We even spotted eagles a few times! We hope to come back again. Many Thanks to John and Karen who were always quick to respond to any questions. Aloha
Barbara I.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Hi Barbara and family,
it was truly a pleasure meeting you and your family. We're so glad that you took the time to leave a review. More importantly we are very happy that you enjoyed your stay. Thank you for taking the time to teach us how to paddleboard! That was a big treat. We hope you have a wonderful summer and we hope that you consider Camp card Cove again in the future.
Warm regards,
John and Karen
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Vic H.
26 Oct 2013
Fall for Maine!
This was our second mini family reunion in Maine and we loved it just as much as our first trip.
It felt like we were coming back home. The Guernelli's are fantastic! Last year we asked if an mp3 player was available and it was there when we arrived. We mentioned that we missed having a kettle and this year it was there! The property is wonderful. The view from the deck and the sunrises are incredible. The property is great for pet owners. The house easily accommodated the 8 of us plus 2 dogs and everyone had their privacy. It is an easy drive to Freeport and Portland. We would not hesitate to recommend this property to our friends and family.....
Vic H.
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Hi Vic
Thank you so much for you kind review.
We are so glad that you were able to make it this year. We hope to host you and your family again in the future. Have a wonderful Holiday Season!
Best regards
John and Karen
Archival
10/10 Excellent
11 Aug 2011
BEYOND EXPECTATIONS!! WONDERFUL.
My family of six and our goldendoodle stayed at Camp Card Cove for a week in July 2011. Our stay was absolutely fantastic in no little part due to this fabulous property, house and amenities. We loved the kayaks and had them in the water every morning and every evening. The kids swam off the dock. We played ball with the dog in the huge FLAT backyard. Cooked up batches and batches of smores in the firepit. The washer and dryer were a lifesaver; the appliances all worked well. The views are extraordinary. We're already planning to rent this same home next summer. Don't delay!!
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Hi Eileen and family! Karen and I are so glad you had a good time. We would love to have you back. We try our best to make sure the cottage is in the best shape for our guests so your feedback is appreciated. If there is anything we could have done better don't hesitate to let us know!
Stay well and have a safe, happy summer.
JOhn and Karen
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Bill S.
3 Aug 2012
Camp Card Cove was a hit!
Camp Card Cove was everything as advertised and more. Our family of six thoroughly enjoyed the stay. Having a first floor bedroom complete with full bath for my mother, who has difficulty walking, was a godsend. We used the kayaks every day and every evening we were cooking smores in the fire pit and sitting out late enjoying the view of the milky way. We even had surprise guests one night after dinner when a wild turkey hen and her 8 poults that lived in the field next door walked across the lawn. Cool!
The ladies enjoyed the proximity to Freeport for shopping and we took great pleasure in searching for the best lobster rolls around. Libby's on Jordan Ave in Brunswick was hands down the winner. We would definitely recommend this place to friends and family.
Bill S.
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Hi Bill
It was such a pleasure meeting you and your family. Thank you for staying with us and thank you for taking the time to give us some feedback. We like to know what our guests enjoyed and what we could do better for next time. Karen and I hope you can make it to Villa Altamira in Vieques, we think you would have a blast!
Have a wonderful and healthy summer!
Stay well
JOhn and Karen
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Casey C.
26 July 2016
Amazing vacation and property
My extended family rented this house and our one concern was having enough room to spread out and not drive eachother crazy :) Boy, did we ever have enough room! The house is laid out in a way that people can definitely have their own space, while being able to eat and relax together in the kitchen/dining room. The dock, kayaks, and rowboat were definite highlights, as well as the firepit. The sunsets were unreal. Also, I can't imagine a more responsive host. I was travelling with a 2 month old (and 1 year old) and some finicky parents and had a few questions leading up to the trip. Every single time I emailed, I received a response back within minutes. I highly recommend this property and these hosts. Karen, thanks for a wonderful stay and the opportunity to create such amazing memories for my family.
Casey C.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Hi Casey
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. I know how busy everyone is these days and we understand that taking the time to leave a review isn't always easy. We truly appreciate your feedback. We enjoy knowing what you liked and what we could've done better. Hope you're having a good summer and please let Karen and I know if you ever want to return in the future!
Warm regards
John and Karen
Our group of 7 adults and one small dog had a wonderfully relaxed fall vacation week at Card Cove. Was just as advertised inside and out: spacious, welcoming, well maintained and stocked. Good Internet and cell service for our needs. Owners are very responsive to all questions ahead of booking and through to departure. We hit end of season closures for some local businesses in October, but found some real gems: Hawkes Lobster in Nearby Cundy’s Harbor for retail shellfish and Wild Oats Bakery and Cafe in Brunswick both open 7 days/wk. Two minor caveats to share: (1)Although dogs are allowed, there is notice in the home that they be leashed at all times so as not to bother neighbors cats and chickens. Not a problem for us, but might be a surprise for others. (2)Two couches in living room seat many but are both quite low and lacking support; elders may have difficulty getting up. All in all a wonderful spot highly recommended.
Anne M.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Heather B.
26 July 2018
Scenic setting water access kitchen for cooks
Camp Card Cove provided all we needed and more. Screened in porch to enjoy the views and the breeze. Well tended flower gardens where the hummingbirds and butterflies thrived. Wonderful water view from master bedroom, deck and dining room. Downstairs bedroom and bath convenient for someone who doesn’t want to do too many stairs. Loft room over garage(and the two staircases) make it an adventure house for kids, dogs and adults alike! As cooks, we found everything we needed in the kitchen and open setup of the dining living rooms meant that cooks were not cutoff. Loved walking the dogs down long point road every day and of course, swimming from the shore or off the dock. A little tricky at some tides for our older dog to get out of the water, but they both loved to swim each day. Leaping off the dock was a favourite activity for our younger dog. We had a fabulous week and we hope to be back next year.
Heather B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Hi Heather,
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a kind review. We truly enjoyed having you and your family stay at the cottage. It is such a wonderful place to enjoy the Maine coast and relax. Cooking is one of our favorite activities and we enjoyed guests do the same. We hope you have a wonderful summer and we appreciate your feedback. There is something we can do better or improve for the future please let us know.
Warm regards,
John and Karen
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Jake F.
10 Oct 2014
Best Fit for Our Family
This is our 7th year bringing my Mom (now 94) up to Maine to reunion with many in our family. The area is close to our relatives but would be worth traveling to anyway. This is the 3rd time we have rented Camp Card Cove and it gets better each time. We chose 2 weeks in Sept. to avoid the summer crowds. The weather was unseasonably cool but beautiful, and we caught the beginning of the color change. There is a downstairs bedroom with step in shower that is perfect for mom, and 2 upstairs bedrooms plus a seperate apartment with 2 twins,a bunk bed and bathroom that is quite private that my nieces family stayed in. We found the next door neighbor is a Lobstaman and they delivered 40 pounds of Lobsta and some crabs right to our dock via skiff at a good price. We feasted for 3 days. Our hosts are wonderful people and offered us the use of kayaks and a canoe, which really made the visit all that more enjoyable. The huge lawn facing the cove is ideal for soccer and other family games. We are only about 15 minutes from good shopping in Cooks Corners ( Super Walmart, etc.) so it is easy living there. This place is hard to beat. We'll be back again for sure
Jake F.
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Hi Jake,
better late than never for a response! We miss seeing you and your family. Hope you're well. Please consider Camp card Cove in the future. We continue to make updates and hope you can see them soon.
Stay well and warm regards
John and Karen
This is a very special place that overlooks Card Cove in Harpswell, ME. The house is immaculate and well-equipped, with comfortable beds and inviting furnishings. Best of all is the view of the water and the easy access from the dock to kayak among the cormorants. The hosts are responsive, lovely people. You can't go wrong with Camp Card Cove!
The house sits on a nice lot with a great view of the water. Home was too big for the 2 of us but loved having the space. Sun room to deck to fire pit and to the dock watching the sun rise and set. Nice way to spend the days. Home had just about everything you need- even all sizes of lobster pots.
Next time to Maine we would stay here again.
As always we are never disappointed. Loved the new renovations and additional kayaks. The indoor and outdoor space works so well for our family of 10. Karen and John are exceptional at returning inquiries. The view just makes you smile.
Really enjoyed our stay! Great location right on the water. House was clean and spacious for our group of 8. Enjoyed taking the kayaks out in the cove.
Beautiful spot for our annual vacation. Plenty of room and property managers were very responsive.
Charlie S.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2021
About the host
Hosted by John and Karen
Harpswell is amazing....one minute you are at the coast the next you can be dining in Portland, Brunswick or Bath...attending a performance of the Maine State Music Theatre at Bowdoin or at a movie. Its the perfect spot for a summer vacation!
Why they chose this property
Central location to Portland and most of the MidCoast!