Spectacular private island

Saint George, Maine
$3219 avg/night Minimum Stay 7 Nights
Bed 11

Bed

Bath 6

Bath

Home Private Vacation Home

Property Type

Sleep 24

Max Sleeps

Night 7 nights

Min Stay

Imagine being picked up in the small fishing village of Port Clyde, Maine, riding just 3 miles out to sea, arriving on a magnificent 110-acre private island and finding yourself transported back to a simpler time when life had fewer distractions and a slower pace. As you step into the beautiful historic buildings, you find them filled with items and furnishings dating from the 1920s. Yes, there are modern amenities such as a beautiful new kitchen, comfortable accommodations, cell phone service, and Wi-Fi Internet connection. But once you arrive, you find the beauty of the Maine coastline and the plethora of possible activities, offers you and your guests the opportunity to truly relax and leave behind mainland worries.
Feeling active Grab a kayak or canoe and go for a paddle around the rocky coves and beaches of McGee and neighboring Barter Island. Take a hike or comb the beaches in search of small treasures that the ocean deposits on the shores! If you like to swim, plunge into the refreshing salt water and then warm up in the waterside sauna or outdoor shower.
Want to relax Sit back in a rocker from the 1920’s on the huge, wrap-around porch with 180º views of the ocean and neighboring islands. You might see an osprey, a bald eagle, a seal, or other wildlife, with little but your own conversation to break the tranquility. You might decide to play the baby grand piano, nap in the hammock, read a book on the porch swing, or explore the many rooms of the historic buildings.
Enjoy competition Gather a group together for a friendly game of croquet, volleyball, or badminton. You can up the ante with a little wager – the loser has to wash the dinner dishes! For a slower-paced option, there is a closet full of board games for all ages.
Hungry Try gathering food from the island. You can fish off the dock, collect mussels from the ocean, pick raspberries and blackberries that grow wild on the island, or take the easy route – buy lobsters from a passing lobster boat. You can work together with your friends and family to create delicious culinary dishes in the newly remodeled kitchen.
Want a night time activity Gather for dinner in the Cook House built in the late 1700s and then retire up to the living room in the Main House. Start a roaring fire to provide the perfect backdrop for board games, reading, and socializing. Or head outside to the porch to watch an extraordinary moon rise or some incredible star gazing!
If group activities and shared experiences form the basis for life-long bonds, then McGee Island is an ideal location for family reunions and small gatherings from 4 to 24 people.
Accommodations: Your rental includes McGee and Barter Islands. McGee Island is the larger of the two islands and has 3 residential structures: the Main House, the Cook House, and the Little Boat House. Barter is the smaller of the two islands, is undeveloped, and is accessible either by boat or by a natural land bridge that appears at low tide.
The two islands nestled close to each other to form a natural deep-water harbor that can accommodate yachts up to 60 to 70 feet in length. If you don’t have a yacht, don’t worry; our caretaker will be happy to transport you and your luggage and groceries from Port Clyde to McGee in our 10-person island boat.
The Main House is a beautiful, traditional, shingled summer home built in 1915. The interior walls were left exposed showing the beautiful wood that was used to construct the building. It has 9 bedrooms with two King, three Queen, and seven twin beds that can sleep 17 people. There are 4 full bathrooms equipped with original claw foot-era tubs as well as a relatively-new, partially-enclosed outdoor shower which tends to be the favorite place for bathing.
The Cook House, originally built in the late 1700’s, has a newly remodeled kitchen equipped with modern appliances and an outdoor BBQ gas grill. There are 2 dining areas in the Cook House. The breakfast table in the kitchen seats 6-8 and offers commanding views of the harbor. The adjoining dining room can seat up to 22 (more if everyone squeezes a bit). The Cook House also has a shower on the first floor and a large bedroom with 3 twin beds on the second floor.
The Little Boat House, also built in the early 1900’s, is located right on the water. It has a porch, a comfortable living room, a kitchen, and a bathroom on the first floor. The second floor has 2 queen beds. The Little Boat House is a favorite with teens as it provides a place where they can be on their own, yet is close enough to the Cook House for late night snacks.
McGee Island is a great place to leave behind the hustle and bustle of daily life. There are no TVs or radios in the buildings. There is however, a Wi-Fi Internet connection for those who wish or need to stay connected. There also is mobile phone reception depending on where you are on the island (n.b., Verizon and US Cellular work best).
If you’d like to spend a day on-shore, Port Clyde is a short 15-minute boat ride away. From there, you can catch the Laura B for a day trip to Monhegan Island, best known for its artists’ colony. The mainland also offers shopping in Freeport, the Lobster Festival in Rockland, and golf in Camden. On-shore excursions, however, are best limited to groups of no more than 8 to 10; the maximum number of passengers the island boat can carry, and must be completed within daylight hours.
Rates: The rates quoted are for groups of 12 or fewer. There is an additional $100 cleaning fee for guests who bring dogs.
McGee and Barter Islands have played a magical role in our lives. They have provided our clan with a place to congregate–where siblings, cousins, young and old can renew their bonds and create shared memories–while enjoying the spectacular beauty of the Maine coastline. We hope that you, your family, and your friends experience the same magic that brings us back, year after year.

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  • Feature Features
  • Map Map
  • School District Rates & Availability
  • Review Review

Feature Features

  • PETS

    5 Total Pets Pet Friendly Welcoming Dogs Only
  • BEACH

    Beach Towels
  • DINING

    Dining Table
  • SAFETY

    Carbon Monoxide Detector Not Reported (host Has Not Indicated Whether There Is A Carbon Monoxide Detector On The Property; Consider Bringing A Portable Detector) Smoke Detector Not Reported (host Has Not Indicated Whether There Is A Smoke Detector On The Property)
  • BEDROOM

    11 Bedrooms Bed Sheets Provided
  • GENERAL

    Unit Size: 5000 Sq Ft (465 Sq M)
  • KITCHEN

    Blender Dishwasher Kitchen Island Lobster/crab Pot Microwave Oven Refrigerator Spices Stovetop
  • LAUNDRY

    Laundry Facilities Washing Machine And Dryer
  • PARKING

    Onsite Parking
  • INTERNET

    Free WiFi
  • OUTDOORS

    Dock Firepit Garden Gas Grill Patio
  • POOL/SPA

    Sauna
  • BATHROOMS

    6 Bathrooms Bathtub Or Shower Soap Toilet Paper Towels Provided
  • WORKSPACES

    Desk Chair
  • LANGS SPOKEN

    English
  • THINGS TO DO

    Boat On Site Fishing Nearby Hiking Nearby Hiking/biking Trails Nearby Kayak On Site Kayaking Nearby Power Boating Nearby Swimming Nearby
  • ENTERTAINMENT

    Books Games Piano
  • LIVING SPACES

    Fireplace Living Room Wood Stove
  • CLIMATE CONTROL

    Heating
  • FAMILY FRIENDLY

    Children's Games Musical Instruments Travel Crib
  • LOCATION HIGHLIGHTS

    In A Village Near The Ocean On A Private Island On The Waterfront
  • SERVICES AND CONVENIENCES

    Phone
  • SUITABILITY/ACCESSIBILITY

    Designated Smoking Areas Note From Host: Smoking Allowed Only Outdoors

CheckIn Check-in : 03:00 PM CheckOut Check-out : 11:00 AM
No Wheelchair No smoking No pets Children allowed
Occupancy Max occupancy : 24

Map Map

School District Rates & Availability

Review Review

  • Submitted Jun 16, 2024

    Stayed Jun 1, 2024

    Staying on an island with just family and friends is magical. The island was beautiful and the rustic elegance of the house gave us everything we needed for a great vacation. There are so many things to do- hiking, kayaking, fishing, paddle boarding, reading- that no one was ever bored. An integral part of the trip was Joe, the caretaker/boat captain. He is a personable young man, who helps make the trip stress free. If you need assistance or information, he is happy to help. Thanks, Joe!

  • Adam B.

    Submitted Jun 25, 2023

    Stayed Jun 17, 2023

    We had 21 people aged 8 to 68 and McGee was perfect in every way. We had high expectations and every expectation was well-exceeded. We spent much time just exploring the island and enjoying the views. The island was perfect for a larger party with a wide age group. There was something for everyone and plenty of space for it! Joe, caretaker, was top notch and takes great of the property and is sure to make the time there as great as possible. Michael, owner, was extremely responsive and helpful when booking and understanding the different nature of preparing for an island getaway! Overall, just a perfect getaway!!!

  • Sue B.

    Submitted Oct 11, 2022

    Stayed Oct 1, 2022

    We had a wonderful time. It truly is a magical place. If you want to watch TV, and live in modern luxury, and run to the store or do lots of things on the mainland, this isn't the place. But if you're looking for a very comfortable, historic and absolutely beautiful place to spend time with people you love, it's perfect. We loved having the old books around, the game tables, binoculars, fireplace, woodstove, and extra blankets. The outdoor shower is a wonderful start to the day. The views from everywhere are amazing and calming and we loved watching the changes with the tides. We went musseling, rowing, exploring, and flagged down a lobsterman who sold us 14 lobster for $60 which made for a story we'll tell for ages. We hiked the trails and admired the views and interior sights around the island. We spent mornings in the sunroom reading and doing puzzles while one or two of us cooked breakfast in the well stocked cookhouse and then we all trooped down to have breakfast in front of a warm fire before spending our days exploring or putzing about in boats or wellies or reading on the porch or in front of the fire. We like to cook (and eat) and the kitchen is well stocked and we had everything we needed. Joe is a treasure. He allowed us to feel as though we were on our own private island and yet was always ready to answer a question or help in any way we asked. He's had everything we needed ready; firewood, kindling for the sauna, mowed lawns, etc. What a nice guy. We hope to return some day. It's a place out of time.

  • Anna T.

    Submitted Sep 13, 2022

    Stayed Aug 13, 2022

    As other guests have attested, our experience on McGee Island is hard to put into words. It’s a place that’s so special, we’ve found ourselves wondering how we got lucky enough to experience it. Days filled with boating, porch rocking and reading, walks, dinners and fire side singalongs. Foraging for mussels and playing lawn games. Summer camp for adults and kids alike. Much care and attention has been paid by the owner and caretaker to maintain the quintessential Maine charm and familial atmosphere that those of us who wish we had a summer cottage desire. Before we left we booked our return for next summer. Big thanks to the Ericksons and Joe for making it the highlight of our year.

  • Stephen C.

    Submitted Aug 21, 2022

    Stayed Aug 6, 2022

    MaGee Island is the quintessential Maine costal experience. The Island is stepping into a time capsule, when life was slower, more interesting and purposeful. For our group, sharing the original family’s history of the property, and the tranquility of a private island was absolutely restoring to the sole. Joe, who caretakers the asset, added immensely to our enjoyment. If you are looking to step back to a time life was simpler and a true sense of history with the historical buildings and original home artifacts, this is the place to experience a true costal Maine experience.

  • Michael C.

    Submitted Jul 7, 2022

    Stayed Jun 25, 2022

    Our week-long stay on McGee Island was outstanding. It was just what our Family needed. The owners/Joe were all great. The island itself is beautiful, just as advertised, and the weather could not have been any better. The buildings themselves are meticulously kept time capsules. Plenty of activities to do for children/teenagers (kayaks, paddle boards, ping pong and a host of other games) with plenty of space for the adults to decompress, read and enjoy the amazing views. Hope to return again soon. Thank you!

  • Pat Q.

    Submitted Jul 19, 2021

    Stayed Jul 10, 2021

    Our family vacation/celebration on McGee Island could not have been more fun or relaxing. Everything about the island home - from the incredible Main House to the private “pool” - exceeded our very high expectations. The pictures do not do justice to this magnificent compound. We had 14 people in our party ranging in age from 4 to 78 and everyone had a blast. Our favorite activities included kayaking/paddle boarding, catching our dinners (muscles), flagging down lobstermen for fresh lobbies, hiking and eating raspberries while taking in the views (blueberries were just coming in), family game-nights, and simply relaxing on the massive front porch. If you are looking to a (very) quiet, relaxing yet activity filled getaway for a large group, look no further - McGee is your place.

  • Elyssa R.

    Submitted Jul 13, 2021

    Stayed Jun 19, 2021

    I booked McGee Island for a family getaway, after over a year of not all being together due to the pandemic. We were a group of 21, with ages ranging from 16 to 86. This vacation surpassed my expectations. The islands and accommodations are absolutely wonderful, with so many activities and areas to enjoy spending quality time together. The front porch was a favorite gathering spot, and there are so many rooms where you can spread out and relax. We all enjoyed the remoteness and ability to truly get away. I can't say enough as to how special this place is. The owner is amazing to work with and really wants to make sure you have a wonderful experience. You will not be disappointed if you book this place!

  • Greg P.

    Submitted Jul 14, 2020

    Stayed Jul 4, 2020

    Historic house w all kinds of period touches and the subtle beauty of nature make this a unique experience

  • Neil S.

    Submitted Sep 7, 2018

    Stayed Dec 31, 1969

    I don’t even know how to encapsulate all the amazing details about our stay at McGee Island. We booked the island for a corporate team outting - about 20 people from the office (all adults). The island is incredibly beautiful, and feels extremely removed from the world - lots of wildlife to observe and enjoy. The house is a dream come true - it has great new fixtures in the bathrooms and the kitchen, but everything else seems to have been lovingly maintained over the course of 100+ years so it has plenty of rustic charm. It also has one of the biggest and best fireplaces I’ve ever seen. Also an amazing library of books spread through the house. We hiked, swam, kayaked, picked mussels, star gazed, relaxed in the sauna or the hammock, enjoyed the views. Even getting to the island was fun! Everyone we interacted with was great - the owners were extremely friendly and helpful while making the reservation and preparing for our stay, and the caretaker Joe was great. Aside from a few things (firewood, trips into Port Clyde, and a sink drain stopper whose lever came loose) we didn’t need Joe’s assistance for much, but he had lots of historical info about the island to share, was a reassuring presence for a bunch of folks from the city, and was just all around a cool guy. He also has a huskie/lab mix named Baloo who’s one of the chillest dogs I’ve ever met. Can’t recommend McGee Island highly enough. If you have the chance to stay there, take it. You won’t forget it!

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Total

Includes taxes and fees
$3,219+
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