Acadia National Park Expert Travel Guide For Young People

Acadia National Park, located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, is a treasure trove of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a lobster eater, or simply looking to soak in breathtaking views of the Atlantic coastline, Acadia offers something for everyone. This 3-day travel guide is designed to help you make the most of your time in Acadia, complete with the best places to stay, top hikes and activities you have to do and stunning viewpoints.

Day 1: Arrival & Acadia’s Classic Views

Morning: Arrival & Check-In Start your adventure by checking into one of the best accommodations near Acadia National Park. Consider staying at:

Jordan Pond House: A historic restaurant and inn located within the park, offering fantastic views of Jordan Pond. The perfect spot to settle in and enjoy the park’s natural beauty.
Bar Harbor: Just outside the park, this charming town is home to various hotels and inns like The West Street Hotel or Bar Harbor Inn. It’s an ideal base for your trip with easy access to both the park and local amenities.

Tip about accommodation is that it is very expensive to stay in Bar harbor or inside the park as one might expect, however it is the most convenient by far. If we were to do this trip again then we would absolutely pay more to stay in or near the park.

We opted for an Airbnb about 45 minutes away from the park. While it was a beautiful Airbnb right along the coastline, it was pretty annoying having to wake up early every day to drive 45 minutes into the town. There aren’t too many Airbnb options that are close to the park, so unfortunately if you’re looking to go that route, then you may end up staying a little ways from the park. Definitely something we would do differently next time, but i’m here to let you know to not make the same mistake we did! Unless you’re ok driving 45 minutes into the park every morning.

Book a Boat Tour! one of the best things about bar harbor and Maine is that there are plenty of tourist attractions and different boat tours that you can book! You know I love doing at least one tour per trip. We opted in to do the “Lobster Fishing and Seal Watching” tour. About a two-hour boat tour on a Lobster Fishing boat that took us around to a few different traps where they pulled up several lobsters from their trap. They brought them around the boat for a chance to see them up close and even hold them if you wanted.

They gave lots of fun facts and statistics about lobster fishing and consumption in Maine and it was nice to be able to get on the water and check out the beautiful Atlantic Coastline along the way.

Afternoon:

Beehive trail & Great Head Trail – The Beehive Trail is one of the most iconic trails in the entire park because of the uniqueness of the trail. While it’s only about 2.5 miles long, it is up hill the entire time. You are rock climbing, stepping over rocks and doing a lot of “off-trail” hiking. it was definitely the most unique hiking trail I’ve been on yet.

Once you get more towards the top you are walking on the side of the mountains over man-made bridges and blocks. There are rungs built into the side of the rocks to help you navigate and climb your way up as well making it a very exciting climb. If you’re afraid of heights or not in the best physical shape, then this trail might not be for you. but if you’re willing and able to do it then it reaps some unbelievable rewards.

There are many times you are climbing vertically up the mountain and other times where there isn’t much room between you and the side of the mountain. But once you get to the top you can rest and eat some snacks and enjoy the beautiful view overlooking the water and the mountains.

Great Head trail: After climbing back down the Beehive Trail, head over towards the beach to do the “Great head Trail” This is a trail of the peninsula that sticks out over the water. A much tamer trail than the Beehive and only about 1.5 mile round trip around. The Great Head Trail will bring you close to the cliffs and overlook the water and even a gorgeous sunset can be found at the tip of the peninsula. Definitely recommend doing this trail right after the Beehive as they are right next to each other for the most part.

Evening:

Bar Harbor – After all that hiking you are definitely going to be hungry and ready to wind down. Here are a few options of great places to try in downtown Bar Harbor:

Route 66 – A classic American diner known for its relaxed vibe and delicious comfort food. Perfect for a casual meal with some fun nostalgia.

Mache Bistro – A trendy place offering delicious French-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. Great for a special dinner or a romantic night out.

Side Street Cafe – Known for its affordable prices and excellent seafood options. Their lobster rolls and fish tacos are particularly popular.

We ended up going to Route 66 on our first day. The place was very nostalgic with a lot of classic cars and old diner vibes inside. Of course they had a wide variety of options, especially the lobster which is world famous in Bar Harbor. A large selection of local drinks as well made it the perfect spot to stop for our first night in Bar Harbor.

From there feel free to walk around Bar Harbor more and explore the night life of the area. We’ll get more into things to do and shops in downtown later in this guide.

Day 2: Sunrise and More Hikes!

Cadillac Mountain Kick off your 2nd day with a trip to Cadillac Mountain, the highest point in the park. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the island, the surrounding Atlantic Ocean, and the smaller islands.

Sunrise Views: if you’re looking to do the Cadillac Mountain Sunrise you will need to go online and book a reservation on a shuttle ahead of time. it is only available during the spring, summer and fall months. There are several ways to get to the top of the mountain, you can drive, although parking is limited and you need to reserve a parking pass for the day you want to go, but I would recommend booking a shuttle to take you to the top.
The shuttle leaves before 5am so be sure to plan ahead of time and make sure you’re prepared and in bed so you can get up that early. However it is a view and an experience of a lifetime and something you will never forget. Acadia experiences the first sunrise in the entire country, and there is no better way to experience the sunrise than it coming out of the water while sitting on top of the mountain.
If you’re visiting in the morning, you can also take advantage of the popular Cadillac Mountain Summit Trail hike (1.5 miles, moderate), a short but rewarding climb that brings you to the summit for unparalleled views.

After the sunrise, the shuttle will take you back down to Bar Harbor where there you can check out some really cool local cafes and coffee shops to wake you up and get you ready for the day.

One of my favorite spots is the “Sunrise cafe” located right on the dock at the top of the town. Go in there for a fresh cup of coffee and some terrific pastries or bagel sandwiches. (This is also the same dock where you board the tours just an FYI)

Downtown Bar Harbor: From there, feel free to spend some time in down town Bar Harbor. A quaint little coastal town that has tons of local shops and cool places to visit and check out. We enjoyed walking around the town checking out the local shops and learning more about the town and the locals, while of course getting a few souvenirs as well!

Loads of cool places such as the Beehive General Store, candy shops, woodworking shops, liquor stores, donuts and coffee places as well as many gift shops. Just walking up and down Main street you’ll be sure to find something to do and stores to check out.

Mid Day: After spending some time in Bar Harbor, head back into the park and towards Bass Harbor light house. One of the most iconic light houses in the entire park and a light house that is also still in use today. Walk on the rocks along the coastline and take in exactly where you are on this Earth. It’s a great place to be present.

From there take another short drive over to the Ship Harbor Trail which is a much tamer and easier trail than the Beehive is. This trail is through the woods and comes out a long the Atlantic Coastline. you can sit on the large rocks and have a snack and go down to the water as well. this is about a 2 mile round trip trail with some beautiful sites overlooking the water and in the trees and is definitely a trail to do that is much flatter and suitable for all ages.

Check out the “Jordan Pond Tea House” as well if time permits. Unfortunately there was absolutely zero parking available for when we went and we weren’t able to go there. If you plan on doing this the definitely try to book a bus or transportation ahead of time and this spot is very popular and fills up very quick.

It’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Nestled along the serene shores of Jordan Pond, the historic tea house offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the iconic Bubble Mountains. Visitors can indulge in freshly baked popovers, a signature treat of the tea house, alongside a variety of teas and local specialties.

Known for its picturesque setting and relaxed atmosphere, the Jordan Pond Tea House is a perfect spot for a peaceful break during your Acadia National Park adventure. Whether you’re looking for a scenic place to relax or a memorable dining experience, the tea house provides a unique way to enjoy Maine’s natural beauty and delicious cuisine.

Optional Hikes:

Precipe Trail: A trail that is deemed one of the most dangerous hiking trails in the country. A trail that is the much tougher than the Beehive trail is. unfortunately we didn’t get to hike this one because time didn’t allow and the other group we were with didn’t want to take the risk. However when I come back here I absolutely want to do it.

We were able to see hikers from the road that are essentially climb straight vertically up, climbing over rocks and using mad-made rungs that have been nailed into the rocks to support. it is a steep trail and you’ll be walking along the side of the cliff as well. This trail is not for the faint of heart and experienced hikers only should be going on this. It’s about 1.5 miles in total length.

Check out the article HERE to see the essentials you need to bring with you on your hike for the best experience!

Gorham Mountain Trail: A moderate 1.6-mile hike with some rocky terrain that leads to the summit of Gorham Mountain. From the top, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the ocean, Sand Beach, and the surrounding islands.

South Bubble Trail: A short but steep 1.5-mile hike that takes you to the top of South Bubble Mountain. The summit offers fantastic views of Jordan Pond and the surrounding area, including the North Bubble, which is accessible by a short, connecting trail.

Ridge Trail: A 3.5-mile moderate hike that takes you along the ridgelines of the park. This trail offers spectacular views of the surrounding lakes, forests, and peaks, including Cadillac Mountain.

Evening:

Relax & Dinner in Bar Harbor: After a full day of exploring, head into Bar Harbor for dinner. Enjoy fresh seafood at The Lobster Pound for something more casual and easy.

Another fun place to try is “Geddy’s Restaurant.” The maritime atmosphere makes it the perfect place for a bite to eat all while soaking up the towns culture of fisherman and the sea. Tons of cool props and decorations located around the joint, and not to mention the Lobster Roll and Cod was also delicious.

If you’re looking for a fancier and more delectable bite then head to the “Paddy’s Irish Pub.” no matter where you go, you obviously need to have the lobster. When in Maine, lobster should be on the pallet. We had one of the best full sized lobster plates you’ll see here. Pictured below you’ll see just how big the lobster was. And we ate every bite. No wasting lobster here.

Day 3: Ocean Path Trail and finishing up Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park

Start Your Day with Coffee at a Local Café

Begin your last day by grabbing a coffee at one of Bar Harbor’s cozy, local cafés. Choco-Latte is a top pick. This charming spot offers great coffee, pastries, and a warm atmosphere to fuel up for your day in Acadia. We really wanted to check this place out but the line was out the door and we were running short on time so we had to go to a backup option.

Another option is Side Street Café, which serves up delicious lattes and light breakfast bites.

Hike the Ocean Path Trail

After your morning caffeine boost, head to Acadia National Park and start your hike on the Ocean Path Trail. This popular trail is perfect for exploring the park’s stunning coastline while taking in breathtaking views. One of the most popular and main trails in the park. You walk alongside the road and the coastline taking in the stunning views. This is about a two mile down and back hike(total of four miles) from the very start to the very tip of the Otter Cliff. This trail is a must for anyone visiting and we did it on our last day.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate. The trail is mostly flat but can be rocky and uneven in some sections. It’s well-maintained, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

Duration: Expect about 1-1.5 hours to complete the trail if you’re walking at a leisurely pace and stopping for photos. Allow more time if you want to explore specific spots.

While it is about two miles down and two miles back, the trail is all flat and fairly easy to walk. There are many places to step out on to the rocks be photogenic and many places to take breaks and just take in the scenery. If you’re feeling really daring you can step to the edge and take a seat or take a picture overlooking the water. There are really no rules when it comes to walking on the rocks, it’s encouraged!

Trail Highlights:

Thunder Hole: One of Acadia’s most famous spots. Watch as waves crash against the rocks and create a thunderous sound that makes the natural phenomenon so special.
Otter Point: A beautiful viewpoint where you can catch panoramic views of the ocean and nearby islands. A great spot for photos!
Otter Cliff: The hike offers views of these majestic cliffs that rise dramatically over the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a stunning spot to admire the rugged beauty of the coastline.

You don’t have to make any special side trips to get to these places as they are right along the trail as you’re walking.

Scenic Stops Along the Trail

Along your hike, be sure to take in these spectacular sights:

Schooner Head Overlook: Take a brief detour for some of the best panoramic views of the coastline and Mount Desert Island.
The Bubbles: These two rounded peaks are one of Acadia’s iconic landmarks. They provide a great photo op from various points along the Ocean Path.

Parking: One thing no one really mentions here is that parking is a b—-. The main road is one way. You will need to hopefully find a spot on the side of the road or be lucky enough to find a spot in one of the few lots that are open. But be careful because if you pass a spot you can’t turn around to go back as you will have to make a full loop and go back in through the front to park. So drive slow, be mindful and don’t be picky because finding a spot is difficult enough. The parking is free however so make sure you get a spot.

Don’t rush when in the park. While you really only need 2–3 days to visit the entire park, the park is very crowded as it’s one of the most popular parks in the country. So plan for an additional day to go back and do things that you may have missed.

When doing the popular places like Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond or the Beehive, plan to do those early in the day as the park and spots will fill up quickly. Aim before 8am to really make sure you’re able to get there.

Hopefully this guide is a good stepping stone to help you outline your time in Acadia National Park. We were there for two and a half days and we were able to see most of what we wanted to. But I absolutely could have spent another day hiking the Precipice Trail or taking another boat tour, or just spending more time inside the park and in Bar Harbor. it’s truly a beautiful area and one of a kind.

Conclusion: Final Tips for Enjoying Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor

Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor offer an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, adventure, and local charm. Whether you’re hiking along the Ocean Path Trail, climbing rocks on the Beehive or Great Head Trail, watching the waves crash at Thunder Hole, or enjoying a lobster roll in Bar Harbor, there’s something for everyone in this stunning corner of Maine.

To make the most of your trip, here are a few tips:

Take Advantage of Public Transportation: During the busy summer months, the free Island Explorer Bus is a great way to get around the park and Bar Harbor without the stress of parking.
Bring Layers: The weather in Acadia can change quickly, so packing a light jacket or sweater is always a good idea, even on sunny days. packing a good pair of hiking boots / shoes is also a necessity.
Stay Hydrated and Pack Snacks: While the trails are manageable, you’ll still need to keep your energy up. Don’t forget to bring water and some trail mix for the hike! For the best snacks to pack for a hike, check out the article on that!
Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the park for future generations.

A Weekend to Remember

Acadia and Bar Harbor promise a day filled with joy and natural wonder. By planning ahead and embracing the tranquility of the area, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t forget to visit the gift shops in bar Harbor on your way out for a souvenir you can bring home!

Again if you’re interested in taking a boating tour, lobster fishing, whale watching and more, you can use the link CLICK HERE

Let the beauty of Acadia National Park and the charm of Bar Harbor leave you feeling inspired and rejuvenated, making this trip one of your most memorable adventures in the stunning state of Maine!

Happy travels! 🌊🚶‍♂️🐾