Bar Harbor, Maine, is a picturesque seaside town known for its stunning landscapes, rich maritime history, and proximity to Acadia National Park. Visitors can stroll along the scenic waterfront, explore quaint downtown shops, or embark on an unforgettable whale-watching tour. The town offers a variety of accommodations, from cozy waterfront cottages and rustic lodges to modern vacation rentals with stunning ocean views. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Bar Harbor provides the perfect setting for a memorable getaway.
Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor seamlessly blends outdoor recreation with a welcoming small-town atmosphere. Guests can hike scenic trails in Acadia National Park, savor fresh Maine lobster at a seaside restaurant, or take a relaxing sunset cruise along the harbor. The town’s vibrant arts and cultural scene offers galleries, museums, and live music performances throughout the year. With its incredible natural beauty and charming local attractions, Bar Harbor is an ideal destination for travelers of all interests.
Where to look for an Airbnb in Bar Harbor
Downtown Bar Harbor
Downtown Bar Harbor is the heart of the town, offering a lively mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Visitors staying in this area can enjoy charming vacation rentals, stylish apartments, and historic inns with harbor views. The neighborhood provides easy access to local attractions like Agamont Park, the Village Green, and bustling waterfront piers. It’s the perfect spot for travelers who want to be in the center of the action with plenty of dining and shopping nearby.
West Street Historic District
The West Street Historic District is known for its beautiful 19th-century mansions and scenic coastal charm. This area features elegant vacation homes, boutique Airbnbs, and waterfront cottages with breathtaking ocean views. Guests can enjoy quiet, tree-lined streets while still being a short walk from downtown and local attractions. It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking for a historic and upscale stay.
Hulls Cove
Hulls Cove is a peaceful neighborhood located just minutes from the entrance of Acadia National Park. Visitors can stay in cozy lodges, modern cabins, or secluded vacation homes with forest and water views. The area provides easy access to hiking trails, nature walks, and kayaking adventures along the rugged coastline. It’s ideal for nature lovers who want to be close to the park while enjoying a quiet retreat.
Otter Creek
Otter Creek is a hidden gem located just south of Bar Harbor, offering a secluded and scenic escape. Vacation rentals here include charming cottages, rustic cabins, and luxurious retreats with views of the Atlantic Ocean. The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with quick access to hiking trails, rocky shorelines, and wildlife watching. It’s a fantastic option for those who prefer a peaceful setting away from the crowds.
Salisbury Cove
Salisbury Cove is a tranquil waterfront community located along Frenchman Bay, offering a quiet and picturesque getaway. Visitors can book waterfront homes, charming bed-and-breakfasts, or cozy Airbnbs with private beach access. The area is great for kayaking, fishing, and watching stunning sunrises over the bay. It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking for relaxation and scenic beauty.
Must-visit places and attractions in Bar Harbor
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is one of the most breathtaking natural destinations in the United States. Visitors can hike scenic trails like the Jordan Pond Path, drive up Cadillac Mountain for sunrise views, or explore the dramatic coastline along the Park Loop Road. The park offers opportunities for cycling, kayaking, and wildlife spotting, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s the ultimate must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Bar Harbor.
Cadillac Mountain
Cadillac Mountain is the highest point on the East Coast and offers stunning panoramic views of Bar Harbor and Frenchman Bay. Visitors can drive to the summit or take on a rewarding hike for an unforgettable sunrise experience. During the fall, the mountain’s foliage provides a spectacular display of colors. It’s a perfect spot for photography, sightseeing, and enjoying the beauty of Maine’s rugged landscape.
Thunder Hole
Thunder Hole is a natural rock formation along Acadia’s coast where ocean waves crash into a narrow inlet, creating a thunderous roar. Visitors can walk along the cliffs, feel the mist from the crashing waves, and witness nature’s raw power. The best time to visit is during high tide when the waves are most dramatic. It’s a fascinating and exciting attraction for all ages.
Bar Harbor Shore Path
The Bar Harbor Shore Path is a scenic coastal walkway that offers breathtaking views of the ocean, islands, and historic homes. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful sunrise walk, watch sailboats glide by, or relax on a bench and take in the scenery. The path is easily accessible from downtown and is a favorite for both locals and tourists. It’s a wonderful way to experience Bar Harbor’s coastal beauty at a leisurely pace.
Jordan Pond House
Jordan Pond House is a historic restaurant inside Acadia National Park, famous for its delicious popovers and stunning lake views. Visitors can dine on the outdoor lawn while admiring the serene waters of Jordan Pond and the surrounding mountains. The restaurant also offers a selection of local seafood and classic Maine dishes. It’s a must-visit for those looking to enjoy a memorable dining experience in nature.
Frenchman Bay
Frenchman Bay is a stunning body of water surrounding Bar Harbor, offering incredible opportunities for boating, whale watching, and scenic cruises. Visitors can take a boat tour to see puffins, seals, and migrating whales up close. Kayaking along the bay provides a more intimate experience with the tranquil waters and picturesque coastline. It’s a fantastic attraction for those who love being on the water.
Mount Desert Island
Mount Desert Island, home to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, is a haven for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore charming seaside villages, discover hidden hiking trails, and take scenic drives along the rugged coast. The island offers plenty of local seafood restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shops. It’s a perfect place for a well-rounded vacation with nature, culture, and relaxation.
Bar Island Trail
The Bar Island Trail is a unique hiking experience that is only accessible during low tide. Visitors can walk across the exposed sandbar to explore Bar Island, offering stunning views of downtown Bar Harbor from afar. The trail features wooded paths, open meadows, and quiet beach areas to explore. It’s an exciting and memorable adventure that highlights the town’s unique coastal environment.
Where to find a vacation rental near Bar Harbor
Southwest Harbor, Maine
Located on the quieter side of Mount Desert Island, Southwest Harbor offers a more peaceful alternative to Bar Harbor. Visitors can explore charming harborside shops, dine at seafood restaurants, and enjoy scenic boat tours. Booking a vacation rental in Southwest Harbor gives guests direct access to the harbor and nearby trails in Acadia. The area features beautiful vacation rentals, including waterfront cottages and cozy inns. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to escape the crowds while still being close to Acadia National Park.
Bangor, Maine
Located just over an hour northwest of Bar Harbor, Bangor is a small city full of historic charm and cultural attractions. Highlights include the Bangor Waterfront, the Maine Discovery Museum, and the iconic Paul Bunyan statue. Staying in a vacation rental in Bangor gives travelers access to both vibrant city life and a convenient day-trip route to Acadia. With a variety of vacation rentals from downtown apartments to Victorian homes, Bangor offers a great urban base for travelers. Its proximity to Bar Harbor makes it ideal for those seeking a mix of city amenities and access to Acadia’s natural beauty.
Camden, Maine
Roughly two hours southwest, Camden is a picturesque coastal town where the mountains meet the sea. Guests can enjoy hiking in Camden Hills State Park, sailing in Penobscot Bay, or exploring boutique shops downtown. Renting a vacation rental in Camden offers a scenic and refined retreat that complements Bar Harbor’s rugged coastal energy. Airbnbs here range from historic homes to waterfront villas, offering stunning views and tranquil surroundings. Camden’s sophisticated coastal atmosphere makes it an ideal getaway for those wanting both charm and relaxation near Bar Harbor.
Rockland, Maine
About two and a half hours away, Rockland is known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful harbor, and the renowned Farnsworth Art Museum. Travelers can explore the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse or attend one of the many festivals, like the Maine Lobster Festival. Choosing an apartment in Rockland lets visitors enjoy gallery-hopping and harbor views while staying in a lively cultural hub. Vacation rentals include artistic lofts, harbor-view condos, and quaint seaside cottages. Rockland offers a cultural and culinary experience that pairs well with Bar Harbor’s nature-focused appeal.
Portland, Maine
Around three hours south of Bar Harbor, Portland is Maine’s largest city and a foodie's paradise. Visitors can stroll through the cobbled streets of the Old Port, dine at award-winning restaurants, and visit the Portland Museum of Art. Staying in a vacation rental in Portland places you within walking distance of craft breweries, lighthouses, and oceanfront paths. The city offers an extensive range of vacation rentals, from modern condos in downtown to historic homes near the coast. Portland provides an energetic, urban contrast to the peaceful island vibes of Bar Harbor.
Embark on a journey through the unparalleled natural beauty of the United States.
The lush wilderness surrounding Bar Harbor offers a gateway to nature’s bounty, where you can immerse in the serene landscapes of Acadia National Park and its poetic coastal views. For more tranquil nature escapes, consider a journey to Florida’s picturesque capital and explore the fascinating wildlife with short-term rentals Tallahassee. Additionally, the majestic sandstone waves and breathtaking vistas of Horseshoe Bend await at vacation rentals in Page, AZ. Experience the allure of Lake Michigan's dunes by staying at an airbnb in Ludington, or unwind amidst the waterfront haunts with Sebastian, FL rental homes that capture the essence of Floridian tranquility.
Discover the charm of America's coastal towns, where rugged Atlantic beauty finds its distant echoes in other seaside retreats. Dive into the charm of the Outer Banks with serene rentals Duck in North Carolina, providing a perfect backdrop for sunset vistas over peaceful shores. Experience the nostalgic seashore atmosphere with airbnb in Surf City, New Jersey that offers a delightful mix of beach fun and quaint shopping experiences. For a Southern coastal experience, stay in Beaufort, where antebellum architecture and scenic marsh views make for an idyllic escape into history, mirroring some of the maritime heritage of the area.