What is the view, location like?:
The view from Heron Cove is lovely: tall pines and birches, private sand and gravel beach, quiet blue ocean water, sailboats, and the mainland shore. At sunset, this eastern shore reflects glorious red and gold light as the sun sets behind Heron Cove. From our beach, guests experience a breathtaking view of the mountains of Acadia National Park on Mt. Desert Island.
Heron Cove defines peace and serenity, tucked down a winding gravel driveway amid hushed woods on a private beach, away from the heavy traffic and congestion of the main road to Mt. Desert Island. It is completely removed from noise, traffic, etc. The only things you see on the beach are herons and cormorants, with sailboats and the occasional seal in our crystal-clear ocean water.
What is the beach like?:
Heron Cove is located 80 feet from the shore of Union Bay, which separates Newbury Neck from the mainland and Acadia National Park. It sits on quiet, protected, deep seawater—perfect for swimming and boating. Heron Cove is nestled in the woods with a very private beach that offers miles of excellent beachcombing and walking. The ocean bay directly in front of our private beach accommodates the largest sailboats (most of our neighbors have them), as well as power boats in crystal-clear waters that reach a depth of 37 feet. Although we don’t have a mooring at present, we plan to add one in future so guests may bring their boats to Heron Cove.
TIP: When renting a coastal house in Maine, be sure to ask if it is located on tidal water, which means that mud flats are exposed at low tide, preventing swimming and launching a boat from shore. Heron Cove is on DEEP OCEAN WATER, which means swimming and boating is always possible, even at the lowest tide.
Things to do other than visit Acadia National Park:
Guests could enjoy a week or more just on the Blue Hill Peninsula! Nearby is the historic town of Castine, which has been continuously occupied since 1612. Castine offers world-class sailing, a history museum, and sea captains’ mansions dating to the 1700s. The town of Brooklin is home to the internationally famous Wooden Boat School, which offers classes in sailing, navigation, and boat building. Eggemoggin Reach, which separates the peninsula from Deer Isle, is a renowned sailing spot—and one of the most beautiful places in the world. Deer Isle boasts the world-famous Haystack Mountain School of Crafts as well as villages with quaint shops, art galleries, and antiquing. Deer Isle’s most famous village is Stonington —the working harbor gateway to Isle au Haut and the thousands of small islands surrounding it (a kayakers dream!). Isle au Haut is home to part of Acadia National Park and is accessible by ferry or private boat.
Other Activities:
kayaking
