This was my second stay in this absolutely ideal vacation rental, and I plan to return every year. Anyone who considers staying here should know that they are actually getting two amazing benefits -- the house AND the island. Cushings Island is one of the best kept secrets in Maine; take a twenty minute ferry from downtown Portland and you enter a quiet, magical world that feels like a step back in time. You are instantly struck by how peaceful and calm the island feels: Empty beaches, dock-jumping, raspberry picking, quiet bucolic walks in the woods, ivy-covered abandoned forts. Even on rainy or foggy days, it's still wonderful to explore the island. Then, of course, there's the house -- which is a perfect choice for families or a combined rental with friends. It has everything you could want -- the kitchen is extremely well furnished with two dishwashers and two ovens (a big benefit when the house is full) and all the pans or appliances you need. We have made some truly amazing meals in this kitchen. Something else we really appreciated, because we stayed as two families with lots of kids, is how quiet the house is -- we can be as loud as we want in the dining room at night, without bothering the kids who are tucked away in their "jail cells" sleeping. The decor is a wonderful blend of historical preservation (high-ceilings, thick oak doors, and the ridiculously charming jail-cell elements) and new updates (refinished floors, television, stereo). The owners have clearly gone to great lengths to make sure that their renters are happy. I would unreservedly recommend this house to anyone who wants to anyone who wants to have an amazing, memorable, and relaxing summer vacation.