Things to do in Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor runs on a short, busy summer season with peak crowds from July through early October, when fall foliage on Mount Desert Island is spectacular. Many shops, restaurants, and tours close from November through April, and Cadillac Mountain weather can be cold and foggy even in summer.
Best months: July, August, September, October
What is worth your time in Bar Harbor
Acadia National Park Park Loop RoadDo not miss
The 27-mile scenic loop that strings together Acadia's signature coastal sights, mountains, and forests in one unforgettable day.
Day Trip · 8 hr4.9
Otter CliffDo not miss
One of the tallest oceanfront headlands on the Atlantic coast, a classic Acadia photo spot and rock-climbing wall.
Viewpoint · 45 min4.9
Bar Harbor Shore PathDo not miss
An easy, historic seaside footpath along the harbor passing grand cottages, rocky beaches, and Porcupine Island views.
Scenic Route · 1.1 hr4.8
Cadillac MountainDo not miss
The highest point on the US Atlantic coast and one of the first places to see sunrise in the country, with sweeping views over Frenchman Bay and the islands.
Viewpoint · 1.5 hr4.8
Sand BeachDo not miss
A rare sandy cove tucked between granite cliffs and forest, with bracingly cold surf and a dramatic mountain backdrop.
Beach · 1.5 hr4.8
Bar IslandDo not miss
At low tide a gravel sandbar emerges from downtown letting you walk across to a quiet wooded island with harbor views.
Nature · 1.5 hr4.7
Beehive TrailDo not miss
A short but exhilarating cliff scramble up iron rungs and ladders to a summit overlooking Sand Beach and the sea.
Activity · 2.3 hr4.7
Thunder HoleDo not miss
A narrow granite inlet where incoming waves crash and boom like thunder, especially thrilling around rising tide.
Viewpoint · 45 min4.6
Bass Harbor Head Light StationDo not miss
Mount Desert Island's most photographed lighthouse, perched on rugged pink granite and glorious at sunset.
Landmark · 1.1 hr4.4
Jordan Pond HouseDo not miss
An Acadia institution famous for warm popovers and tea on the lawn, with a glassy pond framed by the rounded Bubble mountains.
Landmark · 2 hr4
Downtown Bar Harbor
The walkable heart of town packed with lobster shacks, ice cream, gift shops, and harbor-front strolling.
Neighborhood · 1.8 hr5
Frenchman Bay Sea Kayaking
Paddle the sheltered waters and Porcupine Islands by guided sea kayak for close-up coastline and wildlife.
Activity · 3.3 hr5
Gorham Mountain Trail
A moderate, mostly open ridge hike with constant ocean views and a satisfying low summit, gentler than the iron-rung climbs.
Activity · 2 hr5
Precipice Trail
Acadia's most exposed iron-rung climb up the sheer east face of Champlain Mountain, often closed for nesting falcons.
Activity · 3.3 hr5
And 31 more, which the planner picks between based on your dates, pace and what you are into.
Worth knowing
- Acadia National Park requires a park pass, and a timed-entry vehicle reservation is needed for Cadillac Mountain Summit Road in season; book ahead online.
- Summer and fall bring heavy crowds and limited parking; ride the free seasonal Island Explorer shuttle around Mount Desert Island when possible.
- Lobster is the signature meal here; budget at least one lobster pound or wharf dinner and try a popover at Jordan Pond House.
- Pack layers and rain gear: coastal Maine is cool, damp, and foggy even in midsummer, and Cadillac Mountain is windy.
- Plan around the tides for the Bar Island sandbar walk and the Shore Path; check a tide chart before heading out.