Myself and 3 female friends want to rent a house or cottage on the Maine coast - I think Camden or Boothbay areas. We'd prefer to stay in a small charming town or village - not too remote - but on the coast. There are so many rentals out there - want something nice - 3rd or 4th week of September. Something special with fully equipped kitchen, fireplace 2-3 bedrooms, outdoor porch with views, etc. Any suggestions of where to turn?

Contact the Department of Tourism, Chamber of Commerce in the towns you are interested in, buy the local paper, do a search online, or call a real estate agent. Unless you are going to go up for a weekend to check out rentals, then you're just going to have to go with your gut feeling or recommendations.

Check out Oakland House Seaside Resort in Brooksville. Their website is www.oaklandhouse.com. It is a fabulous family owned property on the coast with cottages for rent. Most have full kitchens. Brooksville is about a charming place with lots to do nearby. There is also a fantastic restaurant on property. Perfect for a girls weekend! I worked there for two summers in college and go back to vacation now.

We have used VRBO.com (vacation rentals by owner).

Try www.camdenme.org or cyberentals.com.

Try Maine Innkeepers Association website. I have found it to be a very valuable resource for Maine accommodations.!!!!! Also try Cyber Rentals.com Good Luck!!!