Explore Maine

vacation rentals

Find a stay

We welcome you to our

Southern Maine

vacation homes

A Better Experience

Why Book Direct?

Better Rates
Booking directly with us means that you can get the best rates available for your accommodation.
Fewer Fees
By booking direct you will pay substantially less in service fees.
Peace of Mind
When you choose to book direct you secure top-tier accommodations with local expert hosts.

Who We Are

Your Hosts

We love Maine & are grateful for all the opportunities living here provides. Favorites for us include paddle boarding, bicycling, beach days, ice cream, camping, and adventuring in new places! We appreciate being able to give guests the opportunity to experience all that Maine offers throughout each season & special location.

Frequently Asked Questions

When are we able to check-in and what time is check-out?
Most of our rental properties are available for check-in after 4 PM. Check-out is typically between 10-11 AM. We do utilize smart locks so guests can arrive when it is convenient and check themselves in with a secure keypad code. Early check-in and extended check-out times are often available, but must be arranged in advance.
Where are your properties located?
Most of our homes are in southern Maine, within an hour of the Maine-New Hampshire border. Some are along the coastline in Old Orchard Beach and Portland. Others are nestled between the coast and the western lakes region including Lake Arrowhead in Waterboro, Buxton and the Sanford area.
Are any of your properties pet-friendly?
Currently, none of our homes are able to accommodate pets. However, if you, or someone in your group, requires the support of a service animal, please reach out so we can be sure your needs are met.
What is included in an Explore Maine vacation home rental?
Each of our properties is set up so guests can spend more time vacationing stress-free. All linens are provided (including bed sheets, comforters, extra blankets, pillows, and bath towels.) Kitchens are fully stocked with dishes, cutlery, utensils, baking sheets, pots, pans, cutting boards, knives, mixing bowls, wine glasses and mugs. Our kitchens include stovetops, ovens, microwaves, refrigerators, toasters and coffee makers. Cooking essentials are well stocked including salt, pepper, oil, dish soap, kitchen linens and pot holders. We provide necessities to start your vacation on the right foot such as toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags and cleaning supplies. We also provide shampoo, conditioner and soap in the bathroom, along with other supplies you may need during your stay such as toothbrushes and toothpaste. At our waterfront properties and those with spas or saunas we provide additional towels and/or beach supplies. We truly want you to feel at ease during your stay. Please note: Specific amenities are listed under each property description.
What is provided for TV and internet services?
All of our homes have fast WiFi for streaming and professional needs. We provide smart TVs, many of them are Roku. Guests can sign into their personal apps to access any streaming services they would like.
How can I find restaurants, events and other attractions available near your properties?
We provide recommendations, including seasonal and year-round favorite spots to eat, drink and visit with your group. If you are looking for something specific, let us know as we love to make each visit spectacular for our guests.
Why should I book with Explore Maine?
We are local Mainers who are never more than a few minutes away from any of our homes. Many of the homes we rent we also live in for part of the year. Our company includes experts in vacation rentals, real estate and construction. We are a team of property owners, with knowledge of the area, and a commitment to exceptional service.

Why our guests

LOVE STAYING HERE

Cute spot, nice deck! Great host.
Stephanie Howe
September 2025
the place was very nice for a small group. the lake view from the window was gorgeous.
Rithi Yi
August 2025
Super serene
Elizabeth
August 2025
It was a very peaceful stay and the lake was perfect for swimming. However it was very difficult to get down to the beach area and you can’t fish from the dock. The pictures aren’t clear about that. For us that was the biggest downside. Other than that the kitchen was beautiful and well stocked and loved the view of the lake from the deck and the living room. Lake Arrowhead is a beautiful place to stay.
Wendy Blume
August 2025
House was exactly as pictured. Perfect for 3 couples. Short Uber ride to downtown
Michael Moore
August 2025
Everything was great. Place was clean and easy to get in to.
Daniel Son
August 2025
The property was beautiful and comfortable! The owner of the house is very nice as well
Bethany Heislen
August 2025
House was just as described and like the photos. Immaculate and smelled like clean laundry when we walked in! The backyard is private and we loved the hottub and firepit! Just enough space for a family of 4 with young kids.
Sarah Lumb
August 2025
place was nicely renovated and accommodating for our bridesmaids and groomsmen. there was a leak from the second floor bathroom that came through the first floor bathroom ceiling, but we were able to resolve it in the short-term, and the host acknowledged it while apologizing. place is very clean. highly recommend
Alec Latulippe
August 2025
Place was amazing!! Stayed with 3 others and it was a perfect fit. The house itself was spotless, homey, and very modern! The yard was immaculate, hot tub was a hugeeee bonus. Location was a 18-20 min walk to beach, but went rented ATV’s and it was a 3-4 min ride! Overall 100/10, and would 100% book again!
Izabella Sowa
August 2025