We had the chance to vacation with friends from Chicago and meet in Southwest Harbor, Maine. By chance we eneded up at the Harbor View Motel. We loved the views, the room was clean and good time was had by all. Need I say more? We especially enjoyed the the small town which includes a bike rental shop, bakery, hardware store (in which we found a flash card for our camera.. thank goodness) and Jewelry shop with the lovely creations of Peter Aylen.....all within walking distance.

The rooms don't have much of luxury, but this is more than compensated by the nice setting and the fantastic harbor view. Try to get one of the rooms with a terrace. Breakfast is simple continental and can be taken on a sunny terrace. It's probably the best value on the island. There are some good restaurants within walking distance.

My husband and I stayed at the motel for 3 nights. The Harbor View was perfect for us. The motel rooms are quiet, comfortable and a great value (breakfast included). Since we brought our dog with us it was great having breakfast on our deck each morning while looking out at the bay - so peaceful and relaxing. On our last morning we got up early to watch the sunrise on the bay - definitely recommended. The only drawback to this motel is it's location, approximately 20 minutes from Bar Harbor/Acadia Park.

We recently stayed here for 2 nights. My husband and I had a motel efficiency (#12) and my sister and mother stayed in a 2-bed room (#10). My niece and her family stayed with my other sister in a small cabin (#16). It was great! Part of the charm was the perfect weather and the quiet location. We could sleep with the windows open and the ocean breezes coming through the rooms. The food-allergic side of the family appreciated the well-equipped kitchen, and we all enjoyed eating lobsters from Beals on the picnec tables on the lawn. The 6 year old could ride his bike and my husband could walk to the marina. Need a snack? Just walk downtown - it is only about 4 minutes. If only the local restaurants were better! Also - this hotel is not a lovely, well decorated place. The decor feels a bit tired, but the place was spotless and cleaned daily. We loved the staff. Our dog was welcomed and treated with genuine affection.