Maine Fishing Guide Logo – Expert-led fishing trips in Maine’s pristine lakes, rivers, and streams for species like lake trout, landlocked salmon, brook trout, and smallmouth bass.
Sunrise view over colorful fall foliage and coastline near Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, Maine.

While You’re Here

BAR HARBOR & ACADIA

While fishing may be the main event, there’s plenty to experience around Bar Harbor and Acadia while you’re here. From scenic drives and coastal hikes to whale watching and local spots worth stopping into, this area offers more than just time on the water. Whether you’re filling time between trips or planning a full Maine getaway, here are a few great ways to make the most of your visit.

Explore Acadia National Park

Thunder Hole in Acadia National Park with waves crashing against rocky coastline
Sunrise over Acadia National Park coastline near Bar Harbor Maine
Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park with the Bubbles mountains reflected in calm water

Acadia National Park is the main draw for visitors to Bar Harbor, and for good reason. From the crashing waves at Thunder Hole to sunrise hikes up Cadillac Mountain, there’s no shortage of incredible places to explore. Whether you’re hiking, driving the Park Loop Road, or just stopping at scenic overlooks, it’s easy to fill an entire day here.

Thunder Hole (Google Maps)

Cadillac Mountain (Reservation Site)

Jordan Pond (Google Maps)

Acadia National Parks Website

Get Out on the Water

Lobsterman sorting fresh lobsters into crate on a Maine lobster boat
Atlantic puffin perched on rocky coastline in Maine
Whale tail splashing ocean surface off the coast of Maine

One of the best ways to experience the Bar Harbor area is from the water. Boat tours offer a different perspective of the coastline, with opportunities to see whales, puffins, and working lobster boats up close. Whether you’re heading offshore or staying closer to shore, these trips are a great way to take in the scenery and learn more about Maine’s coastal life.

Eat & Drink Local

A beer on a bar at a local micro brewery and restaurant in Bar Harbor, Maine.
Lunch is served with 2 lobster rolls and 2 bags of Cape Cod Potato chips on a picnic table in Bar Harbor, Maine
Slice of caramel chocolate cheesecake in plastic container with fork on wooden table

No trip to Bar Harbor is complete without enjoying the local food and drink. Fresh lobster rolls are a must, whether you grab one from a roadside shack or sit down at a waterfront restaurant. The area is also home to a growing number of microbreweries, offering everything from classic New England IPAs to small-batch seasonal beers. It’s the perfect way to relax and take in the local flavor after a day of exploring.

Frenchman Bay Lobster Rolls

Momo’s Cheesecake

Shops & Local Stops

A shot of the inside f a sporting goods apparel aisle
Storefront of the iconic LL Bean outlet store in Ellsworth, Maine
A roadside shot of storefronts leading down to the bay in Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor also has a great mix of local shops and familiar stops worth checking out. Downtown is filled with small businesses offering everything from souvenirs to outdoor gear, making it easy to spend some time just walking around and exploring. You’ll also find places like the L.L. Bean Outlet nearby, along with other local shops that reflect the character of the area.

LL Bean (Google Maps)

Willey’s Sport Center (Google Maps)

Scenic & Iconic Stops

Bass Harbor Light House in scenic Tremont, Maine
A woman walking on Sand Beach in Bar Harbor, Maine
A scenic shot from an overlook of Schooner Bay and the Schooner Inn in the distance on Mount Desert Island, Maine

Beyond the shops and restaurants, the Bar Harbor area is full of scenic and iconic stops worth checking out. There are historic lighthouses along the coast. You can find quiet overlooks and photo-worthy spots. There’s no shortage of places to pull over and take it all in. Whether you’re exploring on your own, these stops add something special to any trip. You might just be looking for a few memorable views.

Bass Harbor Light House (Google Maps)

Sand Beach (Google Maps)

Schooner Head Overlook (Google Maps)