The perfect setting for your summer vacation on the Maine coast!
Leave the city behind and step into this one-of-a-kind authentic Maine cottage. On the inside of this cozy cottage, you’ll fall in love with the painted floors, bookshelves, stone fireplace, and original paned windows.
Located near the quaint fishing village of New Harbor, the Laughing Gull Cottage is close to restaurants and gift shops, ice-cream parlors, a general store for grocery shopping, a gas station, historic lighthouse, library, and just down the road from one of the most beautiful beaches in Maine. The cottage itself is located on coveted Pemaquid Trail—a paved, yet private lane for walking, biking, and jogging.
The cottage has two bedrooms: The main bedroom has a queen-sized bed, dresser, and closet. The second bedroom has two twin-sized beds and a dresser. The cottage is also equipped with a living room sofa that can pull out into a full-sized bed. The eat-in kitchen is on the east side of the cottage. A bathroom, complete with shower, is just off the kitchen. Since this is a Maine camp rental, please bring your own towels and linens. Bedding, pillows, comforter. and bed spreads are provided. Minimum stay: 3 nights (during shoulder season); maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
The Laughing Gull Cottage was one of the original oceanfront cottages on Pemaquid Trail—a paved yet private lane along the ocean for walking, biking, and jogging! In March of 2020 the cottage was moved across the street (and a bit to the north) to a one-and-a-half acre lot about 500 feet from the coastline. First and foremost, the new location offers an abundance of privacy and wildlife. Although still a Pemaquid Trail address, the long and winding drive takes you well off the hubbub of “The Trail,” but still allows for broad distant views of the ocean from the farmer’s porch, kitchen, and one of the bedrooms. There is access to the ocean and beaches within walking distance of the cottage. The setting is picturesque, open and sunny and surrounded by wildflowers and the Maine woods. In the summer months, the tiny village of New Harbor (minutes away by car or bike) is bustling. It has a general store, post office, family run grocer, restaurants, a gas station, bank, gift shops, ice-cream shop, art galleries, a bakery, fisherman’s warfs and Hardy Boat cruises. The historic Pemaquid Point Light House (a short trip down the peninsula) and Pemaquid Beach (at the beginning of Pemaquid Trail and one of Maine’s prettiest beaches) are perhaps the most visited destinations in the area. Many of the reviews posted are from when the Laughing Gull Cottage was located directly along the ocean.
Keywords: Cottage, Ocean, Maine, Midcoast, New Harbor, Bristol, Pemaquid, Beach, Cabin, Camp, Private, Guest House
Add dates for prices
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
One dog 50 lbs max, two dogs 70 lbs max combined
default
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
No smoking incl. marijuana anywhere on theproperty
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
About the area
New Harbor
Located in New Harbor, this cottage is in a rural area and near the beach. Boothbay Region Land Trust and Boothbay Harbor Marina are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore La Verna Preserve and Rachel Carson Salt Pond Preserve. Pemaquid Craft Co-op and Penobscot Marine Museum are also worth visiting. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hunting and hiking/biking trails nearby.
Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site - 5 min drive - 3.3 km
Pemaquid Craft Co-op - 6 min drive - 4.4 km
Rachel Carson Salt Pond Preserve - 9 min drive - 7.2 km
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park - 11 min drive - 8.2 km
La Verna Preserve - 12 min drive - 10.1 km
Getting around
Wiscasset, ME (ISS) - 42 min drive
Restaurants
Circle K - 47 min drive
South Bristol Fisherman's Coop - 22 min drive
Carriage House Restaurant - 54 min drive
Footbridge Brewery - 49 min drive
Shaw's Fish & Lobster Wharf - 6 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is A Historic Storybook Maine Cottage pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.
How much does it cost to stay at A Historic Storybook Maine Cottage?
As of 8 May, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at A Historic Storybook Maine Cottage on 8 Aug, 2026 start from S$308, 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 A Historic Storybook Maine Cottage?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at A Historic Storybook Maine Cottage?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at A Historic Storybook Maine Cottage?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is A Historic Storybook Maine Cottage located?
Situated near the beach, this cottage is 1.5 mi (2.5 km) from Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site and 1.9 mi (3.1 km) from Pemaquid Craft Co-op. Rachel Carson Salt Pond Preserve and Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
My wife and I had the most relaxing week at the cottage. Tom and Laurie were so kind and welcoming. We enjoyed our daily walks along the water, trips into Round Pond and Damariscotta, and finding new trails to walk with our dog. Coming home each evening to such a comfortable space made it even better. We will definitely be back!
The Laughing Gull Cottage was so relaxing, quaint and everything we needed was there. So quiet, and a million dollar view from the front porch. Our daughter loved the small beaches within walking distance. We will definitely be back!
The Laughing Gull cottage was very quaint, well-equipped and very relaxing. We enjoyed the area's many sites to see and places to eat. A great New England experience! We recommend this property and thank our hosts Thomas and Laurie.
Richard S.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Aug, 2021
Thank you so much for the nice review! Glad you enjoyed the cottage and the Pemaquid Peninsula. Thomas & Laurie, Hosts
Archival
10/10 Excellent
David T.
19 Jun, 2017
225 Pemaquid Trail
Wonderful time away! Couldn't have asked for more!
David T.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar, 2020
Thank you very much!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Sheila G.
22 Aug, 2014
We love Laughing Gull!
As always, we love coming to The Laughing Gull Cottage! It is so enchanting and provides the peaceful environment we need to relax.We love the stunning & ever changing view of the water as well as proximity to restaurants, shops, & grocery. This is our second year & we look forward to many more times here. Warm regards from Tom & Sheila Gresinger, Peter Brunelli
Great location and once in Pemaquid Comms with the owners was easy.
We missed the note on the extra cost for 3rd person, but as our daughter was 17 she qualified as free, but worth noting if you have a 3rd adult. Also linen and towels not supplied which was only on our email the week prior to staying so also worth adding to the information.
Great location and beautiful area,so we would definitely stay again!
It is a lovely, classic, well cared for Maine cottage. Quiet and tucked back from Pemaquid Trail, a neighborhood of assorted homes and cottages. Host and hostess there for check in and check out, responsive to questions and needs. Pemaquid Beach right around the corner. Quiet and restful, enjoyed the front porch and lawn area.
We had such a wonderful vacation in this sweet and peaceful historic little cottage. What a joy and privilege it was to stay in a very special home that has so much history. Our hosts, Thomas and Laurie were very warm and welcoming. We had everything we could need and more.
This amazing little cottage is surrounded by nature. A quiet retreat , and full of wonder. It truly is the Enchanted Cottage.
Thank you Laurie and Thomas 🙏
Sincerely the Sancricca family.
shelly d.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Jun, 2021
Thank you so much for your kind words, Shelly! Laurie and I are so excited about sharing this historical cottage with our VRBO Guests in its new location.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Jessica A.
6 Jun, 2014
Absolutely beautiful and well equipped!
My wife and I couldn't stop smiling as we pulled up to the laughing gull cottage. It truly was like a dream. All the comforts of big city living (internet, satellite TV, Apple TV) but with all the beauty of god's country. All supplies and provisions not already provided can be purchased at the town's grocery store 2 miles away. We could spend the rest of our lives here!
Jessica A.
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Apr, 2020
Thank you so much for the kind review! Thomas & Laurie. Hosts
This is the most rustic cabin we have rented, and probably the most comfortable.
Laurie and Thomas are wonderful hosts and met us at the cabin to give us suggestions for activities, meals, and hikes. The area is stunning. Water views in every direction. The town is quaint and has everything you need. We took several great hikes, made fires in the stone fireplace and enjoyed a lot of great seafood. The kitchen is small but stocked with everything you need.
I recommend bringing bug spray to keep the ticks off in the summer.
Todd W.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Jul, 2022
Thank you so much for the detailed review, Todd. We are so glad you enjoyed the cottage.
Thomas & Laurie, Hosts
We love the look and feel of rustic Maine cottages. This place met all of our expectations. Beautifully maintained. Loved the front porch. Every morning I sat on the porch with my coffee and looked out at the water. The beach is a 10 minute drive away if that. Beautiful beach. A small local grocery store is 10 minutes away in the opposite direction. A couple of nice seafood places are nearby. We love Shaw’s. It was a great vacation. Would love to return next and maybe stay a little longer. Thomas was a great host which made the stay that much better.
What a great traditional Maine cottage. Just as described, and one of best equipped we've ever stayed at. No need to bring pans, sharp knives, working coffee pot...you know what I mean. The view to the bay is perfect and the privacy unheard of in an ocean view. "Laurie's Picks" were spot on, and you're close enough to town to try some of the restaurants if you feel the need to branch out from the nearby lobster coops -- but who would? The dogs never left the best porch in Maine. Would definitely return.
Paul B.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Brian and Penny J.
9 Jul, 2015
Another wonderful week at the Laughing Gull
When we came into view of the Laughing Gull again this year, a sense of peace and belonging returned. This was our second stay at this Pemaquid gem , and we plan on many more.
The well maintained and appointed cabin is a wonderful way to relax to the sounds of waves, loons, and gulls while enjoying a view that can't be beat, all while perched at the edge of the water.
The charm and authenticity of New Harbor, the rugged beauty of Monhegan Island, and the restaurants and shops of nearby Damariscotta and Wiscasset all make the Laughing Gull a perfectly placed vacation stay.
Laurie and Tom are attentive and caring hosts, full of information about the cabin and its history, and are always available to make sure everything is right with our stay. Thanks so much for sharing this beautiful cabin, we're already looking forward to returning next year!
Brian and Penny J.
Response from VrboOwner on 25 May, 2020
We are so glad you enjoyed your third year at the Laughing Gull Cottage! And thank you for taking the time to write a review. Thomas & Laurie, Hosts
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Lisa K.
22 Jul, 2017
A peaceful retreat
Laughing Gull Cottage helped me connect with the deep beauty of the Maine coast. The cottage combines a unique sense of place - an original log cabin with a large stone fireplace, cozy kitchen/dining area and covered porch - with modern conveniences such as a built-in iPhone charging station and Apple TV. The owners stopped by early on during my visit to say hello and make sure I had everything I needed. The cottage includes many charming touches -- colorful plates, framed photos of the area, dishes of beach glass and shells from the shore. I woke up every morning to the sound of the surf, opened the back door to smell the sea air, and began my day in quiet contemplation. An absolutely perfect week!
Lisa K.
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar, 2020
Lisa - thank you so much for your kind words and taking time out of your busy schedule to write this review. We truly enjoyed having you as a guest at the Laughing Gull Cottage. Thomas & Laurie
Archival
10/10 Excellent
YELENA A.
4 Jul, 2016
Wonderful!
We try to spent at least a week in this area of Maine every year, and chose Laurie and Thomas’s cottage in June this year. The place is perfect, and the only complaint that we have is that our stay was not long enough. The location is wonderful, right on the shore, with magnificent views from the lawn and from the living room, and the sound of the tide at night. We enjoyed the property so much, we seldom ventured away. (Of course, we've been to this wonderful area many times, and are well familiar with all the attractions that it has to offer.) The cottage itself is not large (as described), but arranged lovingly and a pleasure to stay in. The owners are so welcoming and friendly, getting to know them was an additional attraction. -- We look forward to returning to The Laughing Gull soon.
YELENA A.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar, 2020
Thank you so much for taking the time to write your review. Your kind comments are very much appreciated. Hope to see you again next year! Thomas & Laurie, Hosts
This was a very cozy cabin. The porches were a great add on to enjoy. The view of the ocean can be seen from the front porch while rocking.
The stone fireplace was very enjoyable. A complimentary fire is laid for you which was very nice. Due to the rainy nights, we purchased wood elsewhere to use. The wood you paid for at the house was pretty damp, and we didn’t want to potentially smoke up the house.
There are two beautiful trails to be taken on Pemaquid Trail rd., one to the rocky shore, and another, before the campground, to the far end of Pemaquid beach. Both great finds.
Reilly’s, a great store in town, is a great place for sandwiches and drinks. So many hiking trails to choose from. The location is a great place to explore.
George B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Archival
10/10 Excellent
5 Jul, 2012
Perfect
What can I say...Perfect. The cabin was great. The view unbelievable. Pymiquid Trail was awsome. Everytime we walked we found another beautiful sight. Never wanted to leave the property. We went on a couple of nice bicycle rides. The bikes were a perfect fit. Wonderful places to eat. Can't go wrong with any that are in town. Favorites were Cup board Cafe, Moscegan Bay Lobster . Spelling??? (BYOB) Breakfast was great at the restaurant at Pymiquid Light. Dots Bakery in Round Pond was a real treat for bakery goods, Best EVER Pizza, made from scratch. You would never think a bakery would make a good pizza. Must try. Best vacation ever . The Laughing Gull Cabin was PERFECT. We will return.
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar, 2020
Thanks so much for the kind comments. We will look forward to seeing you again next summer! Laurie & Thomas, Hosts
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Ed C.
1 Aug, 2012
Rustic Cottage on the Ocean
The Laughing Gull is the perfect place to unwind and relax. This simple, clean yet rustic cottage provided us with a wonderful time enjoying sunny days, beautiful sunsets and even a pounding surf during storms. The location on Pemaquid Trail is a plus as it provides a quiet get away from the more hectic coastal locations.
We would recommend going to Shaw's Lobster Pound for lobsters and clams which they will cook for you, then bring them back to enjoy a feast on the ocean. Whether reading a book or watching the lobster boats this is an ideal location.
Within a short distance is Round Pond, New Harbor, Bristol, Fort Williams, Colonial Pemaquid and the famous Pemaquid Light house. For fine dining try the Bradley Inn just down RT 130 .
The cottage has 2 bedrooms, bath, kitchen, dining area, living room, a loft and porch over looking John's Bay. Also there is a detached Carriage House for storage with 2 bikes and fire wood.
We highly recommend the Laughing Gull for experiencing Coastal Maine at its best.
Ed & Kathleen
Ed C.
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Apr, 2020
We are glad you enjoyed the cottage. Hope to see you again next summer! Thomas & Laurie, Hosts
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Ellen S.
29 Aug, 2015
Perfect
I hesitate to write a great review of Laughing Gull Cottage because I want to keep it all to myself and have it available whenever we want to go back--which in a perfect world would be all the time. But, unfortunately, we loved Laurie and Tom so much that I have to be honest. The cottage is peaceful, beautiful and just the right amount of rustic. The crashing waves right outside the bedroom window, the Adirondack chairs on the water's edge and the spectacular view made one day feel like a week away. Having never been to Maine before, we didn't know what to expect of New Harbor and the Pemaquid Peninsula. When we booked the cottage, we wanted a quiet area--not too touristy. But as we got closer I worried that my husband and two teenage daughters would be bored, that we needed a more bustling area like nearby Boothbay. How wrong I was! We kayaked, went on the Puffin tour, spent a day in Portland, a day in Round Pond, saw Irish fiddlers in a restored one-room schoolhouse, ate the best cinnamon buns at the Cupboard, crab cakes at Muscongus Bay Lobster, lobster rolls at Shaws, fish and chips at the Contented Sole, and pretty much ate Maine wild blueberries the rest of the trip. We never even made it to the beach! I guess we'll leave that for next time.
Ellen S.
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Apr, 2020
Thank you for your kind review. We so enjoyed getting to know your family, and we are thrilled that we were able to host your first Maine vacation! Sounds like The Laughing Gull Cottage helped to create fun and lasting memories for your family. Thomas & Laurie
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Brian and Penny J.
19 Jun, 2014
A Perfect Piece Of Maine
I wish we could have stayed at the Laughing Gull for a month. This authentic gem of a Maine coast cottage was all we had hoped for, and more. While the pictures on the website are spectacular, in person the views are truly breathtaking.
The location on a quiet private road couldn't be better. While within a short drive or bike ride of historic Pemaquid Lighthouse, the village of New Harbor, and picturesque Pemaquid Beach, the cottage is as private as anyone could want. The only sounds we heard all week were the cries of sea gulls, the lapping of the waves on the rocks below, and the occasional calls of the loons.
The cottage itself is cozy and inviting, and very well maintained. The owners have gone to great lengths to preserve one of the few remaining original Pemaquid summer cottages, and they have succeeded wonderfully. The best part of the Laughing Gull though is the magnificent setting. Whether you're watching the fog lift off Johns Bay with morning coffee on the back porch, or being mesmerized in the Adirondack chairs at water's edge by another gorgeous sunset, the scenery is always tranquil and enchanting. And there's always the chance that each new tide will leave a few pieces of frosted sea glass nestled in the rocks and pebbles.
My wife and I have never had a vacation as thoroughly enjoyable as this before, and the fact that we were able to bring along our little dog just made it that much better. We highly recommend the Laughing Gull Cottage to anyone who is looking for a peaceful and relaxing true Maine coast experience. Thank you Thomas and Laurie, we're definitely coming back next year.
Brian and Penny J.
Response from VrboOwner on 25 May, 2020
We are so glad you enjoyed your stay and we are looking forward to seeing you again next summer! Thomas & Laurie
Great cottage all solid wood from floor to ceiling (no dry wall) with a stone fireplace and chimney. Located right beside a beautiful spruce dense natural forest. Perfect walking deadend road winding along the side of John's Bay. Terrific eating places in the neighborhood. New Harbor, a small working harbor with a lob and fish landing along with it's super food and service in reztaurant. A cottege to revisit again.
I spent a week at Laughing Gull and thoroughly enjoyed it. I work remotely and just wanted a change of scenery so I packed up the dogs and my laptop and headed for New Harbor. Everything was great. My colleagues kept asking about my cool new virtual background. All were jealous when I told them I really am in a cozy little cabin on the coast of Maine.
Karen H.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022
About the host
Hosted by Thomas & Laurie
Laurie and Thomas, Hosts
Languages:
English, German
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests