Weekend Getaway Guide to Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park

Bar Harbor, ME, is a charming coastal town located on Mount Desert Island. While Bar Harbor may be the most well-known town on the island, it’s only one part of this diverse region. The island is also home to quaint villages like Southwest Harbor and Northeast Harbor, beautiful lakes, dramatic cliffs, and Acadia National Park.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or laid-back coastal charm, this guide will help you plan a memorable weekend escape.

Where to Stay

The Claremont Hotel: For a relaxing Maine coastal retreat, we recommend The Claremont Hotel in Southwest Harbor. With luxurious rooms, seaside dining, and stunning views of Somes Sound, this hotel provides a beautiful experience on the “quiet side” of the island. (This was a hosted stay, but we genuinely recommend it!)

Salt Cottages: Just outside of downtown Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, Salt Cottages has private cottages and resort-style amenities (pool, lawn games, and a cafe). This is a great spot for travelers who want a mix of fun, comfort, and easy access to Acadia. (This was a hosted stay, but we genuinely recommend it!)

Under Canvas Acadia: Located along the oceanfront in Surry (just off Mount Desert Island), Under Canvas Acadia is a luxury glamping experience that blends adventure with comfort. There are safari-style tents with private bathrooms, cozy fire pits, and stunning coastal views.

The Asticou Maine: Newly reopened in 2025, The Asticou is a fresh take on a classic Mount Desert Island stay—refined, serene, and perfectly placed for exploring both Bar Harbor and Acadia (without feeling right in the middle of the bustle). It’s an ideal pick if you want an elevated “Maine summer” vibe with thoughtful design, a calm atmosphere, and easy access to hiking, scenic drives, and island dining. (This was a hosted stay, but we genuinely recommend it!)

What to Do

Whether you want to hike, bike, or simply admire the scenery, Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island offer a wide range of experiences.

Explore Acadia National Park

• Cadillac Mountain: Drive or hike to the highest point on the East Coast. Make a reservation in advance.
• Beehive Trail: For adventurous hikers. This trail includes iron rungs and exposed cliffs.
• Ocean Path: An easier walk from Sand Beach to Otter Cliff, with scenic ocean views along the way.
• Jordan Pond Loop: A flat, peaceful trail around a glacial pond with picturesque views.
• Park Loop Road: A 27-mile drive with access to most major sights. Great for stopping at Thunder Hole, Sand Beach, and other key viewpoints.
• The Carriage Roads offer a car-free way to explore the park on bike or foot. Rentals are available in Bar Harbor.
• Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse: One of the best sunset spots. Arrive early for parking and photo opportunities.

Water Activities

• Acadia Charter Company: Acadia Charter Company offers private boat tours around the stunning coastline of Mount Desert Island. We had the opportunity to enjoy a three-hour sunset charter, and it quickly became one of the highlights of our entire trip. We highly recommend this experience!

Where to Eat

Breakfast

• 2Cats Bar Harbor: A local institution for breakfast. Don’t miss the Maine blueberry pancakes and house-made biscuits.
• Clark Point Cafe: Tucked away in Southwest Harbor, Clark Point Cafe has a large breakfast menu and incredible pastries.

Lunch and Dinner

• Jordan Pond House: Located inside Acadia National Park, Jordan Pond House is famous for its iconic popover and tea service. Their lawn seating is beautiful on a sunny day. Reservations are strongly recommended.
• Geddy’s: A classic coastal pub. Geddy’s has casual favorites like lobster rolls, clam chowder, and burgers, all in a family-friendly setting filled with quirky nautical décor.
• Side Street Café: One of Bar Harbor’s most popular spots for good reason. Their expansive menu has something for everyone.
• Galyn’s Bar Harbor: Steps from the waterfront, Galyn’s is ideal for a relaxing happy hour oysters or dinner.
• Little Fern: Located inside the Claremont Hotel, Little Fern has views of Somes Sound, a beautifully designed interior, and a menu with locally inspired dishes.
• Batson River Fish Camp: Located on the private dock of the Claremont Hotel, Batson River Fish Camp offers a casual waterfront dining experience.
• Abel’s Lobster: Tucked away in a quiet cove near Mount Desert, Abel’s is a known for shoreline dining and its wood-fired lobster. We haven’t been here yet, but so many people recommended it to us.
• Project Social Kitchen & Bar: We’ve enjoyed their location in Bethel, ME, and can’t wait to check out the Bar Harbor spot on our next trip.

Breweries and Drinks

• Atlantic Brewing Company: Great for local beer and a relaxing post-hike stop in Bar Harbor.
• Harry’s Bar: Located inside the Claremont Hotel, Harry’s Bar is elegant, quiet, and ideal for a pre-dinner cocktail or a nightcap.
• Cottage Street Pub: Located in Bar Harbor, this bar came highly recommended for good cocktails.
• Thirsty Whale Tavern: A laid-back and often lively tavern in the heart of downtown Bar Harbor.
• Bar Harbor Inn: A perfect spot for a cocktail with a view. Relax in an Adirondack chair by the fire pit and take in views of Frenchman Bay.

Visiting Maine

If you are headed to Portland, ME after Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor, be sure to visit our Portland, ME guides:

• Portland, ME Rise and Dine Guide
• An Insider’s Guide to the Best Dining in Portland, ME
• The Best Places to Drink in Portland, ME
• Best Beaches Close to Portland, ME
• Portland, ME Summer Travel Guide

Thank you for visiting our site! We may make commission off affiliate links (at no further cost to you), but we would never recommend a place we don’t genuinely want to recommend.

– Karen & Kasey