Design Your Perfect 2024
Acadia National Park Itinerary
There is no one-size-fits-all Acadia National Park Itinerary. We all have different preferences, hiking abilities and areas of interest. Rather than try to fit you into a cookie-cutter plan, this article will help you build your perfect Acadia National Park Itinerary.
By suggesting must-see places, hidden gems, and proposed timelines, you will be able to understand much of what Acadia holds. We will include hiking trails for all levels, several beautiful beaches, scenic overlooks, and even a few suggestions for meals and fabulous picnic spots.
Building itineraries is what we do. Designing itineraries for curious travelers allows us to relive our travel memories and inspires us to repeat or find a new adventure. While some think researching and developing a plan of action is tedious, frustrating, overwhelming, or even unnecessary, we love doing it!
Like you, we are time-conscious and desire to make the most of our vacations and travel. Exploring Acadia National Park’s iconic sights and hidden gems requires a well-crafted plan to make the most of your visit.
Because we know you are busy and excited to plan your trip to Acadia we want to make our one and three-day itineraries available to you for free right now. Keep in mind, that some of them only scratch the surface of Acadia National Park. They will provide you with a good overview of the area and give you a great start to building your perfect Acadia National Park itinerary.
Acadia National Park Introduction
Acadia National Park is like no other park on the National Park Registry. With breathtaking vistas and coastlines for miles, visiting Acadia is a bucket list adventure.
As you enter the boundaries of Acadia, it is easy to understand why it is the Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast. Each year, over 4 million people visit Acadia National Park to explore and experience its magic.
From the first glimpse of sunrise to the massive tidal fluctuations, Acadia is fascinating. For hikers, there are 150 trails to explore ranging from expert to super easy. Acadia has historic driving roads, and quiet carriage roads for bicycling, or walking. The coastline views are extraordinary with both rocky and sandy beaches.
There are so many places to see, pictures to take, and memories to make that it makes sense to use a well-thought-out Acadia National Park Itinerary.
Acadia National Park Layout
Acadia National Park is comprised of four major areas.
- Mount Desert Island
- Schoodic Peninsula
- Isle au Haut
- Outer Islands: Little Cranberry Island and Baker Island
While much of Acadia can be explored by automobile, some remote areas can only be reached by boat. Visiting those areas may require reservations and back-country permits.
Mount Desert Island (MDI)
Mount Desert Island or MDI is where the most well-known areas of Acadia National Park are located. With famous attractions and hidden gems, it is easy to understand how quickly people fall in love with the area.
MDI is divided into two regions, east and west, which have different vibes.
East MDI
More than likely, this is where your Acadia National Park itinerary will begin. Not only will you enjoy the natural beauty of Acadia, but you can also explore the quaint seaside town of Bar Harbor. The area is beautiful and vibrant, as well as crowded with tourists. Like all of us, they come for the views.
Here you will enjoy exploring the well-known sights of Acadia. Here are some highlights you can schedule into your Acadia National Park itinerary.
Cadillac Mountain
With an elevation of 1530ft above sea level, Cadillac Mountain is the highest point on the eastern seaboard. Here, you can catch the first glimpses of sunrise in the United States.
Cadillac Mountain gives stunning views of both the Cranberry Islands and Porcupine Islands. There are several beautiful overlooks as you drive the Cadillac Summit Road.
Reservations are required from mid-May to late October.
Loop Road
This 27-mile scenic drive is where your Acadia adventure begins. The Loop Road will give you the best of Acadia, and should not be missed. Much of the road is one-way, so plan to stop often.
Many of the iconic Acadia views, trails, and points of interest are located on The Loop Road. This area is magical, so take it slow and enjoy the ride.
Sieur de Monts
The Sieur de Monts Visitor Center in Acadia National Park offers a chance to explore the park’s nature and history through exhibits and ranger-led programs. It’s a great starting point to learn about Acadia’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife while enjoying the surrounding gardens and nearby trails.
While here, you can explore the Wild Gardens of Acadia, The Nature Center, and the Abbe Museum.
Sand Beach
Although Acadia National Park has many beaches, Sand Beach is the only sandy beach in the park. The cove is surrounded by towering cliffs and the beautiful blue sea in front. Sand Beach is popular in the summer for swimming and relaxing.
There is ample parking with restrooms and showers available. Sand Beach is often crowded, as visitors often stage here for many of the popular hiking trails.
Thunder Hole
Named for the thunderous sound of the waves, this is one of the best sights in Acadia. The platform gives perfect views of the sea cavern below. As the tide rises, the water rushes in, creating a loud crash like thunder.
Although this is always a beautiful spectacle, the loudest crashes happen about 2 hours before high tide.
Beehive Mountain Loop Trail
Photo credit used with permission: restless_rivers
Beehive Mountain Loop Trail is one of Acadia’s most popular hikes. As the distance is just over a mile round trip, the trail can be quite challenging.
With large rock scrambles, open-face cliffs, and iron-rung ladders, this hike provides an introduction to some of Acadia’s more difficult climbs.
Precipice Trail
Known for its rugged terrain, iron rungs, steep inclines, and descents this is Precipice Trail. Although the trail is only 3.2 miles round trip, it is extremely strenuous as elevation rises 1000ft in less than a mile.
Be prepared to climb, scale along the open cliff faces, and witness some of the most amazing views that Acadia offers.
Boulder Beach
Boulder Beach and Monument Cove, situated between Gorham Mountain Trail Head and Otter Cliffs Parking lots, offer captivating scenes for photographers. With striking sunrises, starry nights, and a beach adorned with smooth rounded rocks, it’s a unique spot.
While some articles may suggest easy access to the water, for some (like me), the descent down the steep and slick “nature paths” can be a bit challenging, so caution is advised.
Otter Point
As the Loop Road rounds the point, you will be treated to outstanding views over the sea at Otter Point. The famous Otter Cliffs stand 110 feet above the ocean at this iconic Acadia scenic stop. There is a path that leads to the beach and beautiful photo opportunities.
Little Hunters Beach
Little Hunters Beach, with its million small stones, creates a soothing sound as the water recedes, making it a serene spot for relaxation.
Be prepared for some steps and a small stream crossing on your way down, but even from the platform, you can glimpse at this peaceful beach.
Otter Cove
From the Fabbri Memorial, you can see stunning views of Otter Cove Beach and Causeway. With the sea on the left and a smaller cove on the right, high tide nearly covers the beach, revealing fun tide pools at low tide.
Though its stop board system, to encourage swimming, was never installed, the Causeway Bridge area makes for a great kayaking spot, maintaining a calm and inviting cove environment.
Jordan Pond and Jordan Pond Guest House
Spanning 187 acres, Jordan Pond is the second-largest and the deepest lake in the park, reaching 150 feet deep. This pristine pond is a major source of drinking water for the area so swimming is not allowed but kayaking is.
From Jordan Pond, visitors can access various hikes and carriage roads. Because this is a popular area, parking can be difficult. Be patient, though, you will get a place to park.
The Jordan Pond Guest House does have a restaurant and snack bar. For a special experience, enjoy an afternoon snack of popovers and champagne. Dining on these special treats is a long-time tradition dating back to the late 1800s when the wealthy would visit Acadia in the summer.
Carriage Roads
One of the most unique features of Acadia National Park is the 45 miles of intertwined carriage roads. John D. Rockerfeller, Jr had these roads built so that visitors could travel throughout Mount Desert Island on horseback or in horse and carriage away from vehicular traffic. Wandering the carriage roads will lead you to spectacular views, bridges, and waterfalls.
The gravel roads were built for foot traffic, horse and carriage rides, and bicycles. Motorized vehicles are prohibited on the carriage roads.
Thuya Garden and Asticou Terraces
Nestled in Northeast Harbor, Maine, Thuya Garden and Asticou Terraces are gems worth exploring. Thuya Garden is filled with vibrant blooms, winding paths, and picturesque views of the Harbor. Adjacent to it, Asticou Terraces offers a unique combination of Japanese and English garden elements, featuring intricate stonework and captivating plant arrangements.
Both gardens provide a peaceful retreat, showcasing the natural beauty of Mount Desert Island.
Seal Harbor
Seal Harbor Beach is a quiet community with stunning views of the sea, where high tide occasionally covers the sandy shores. The gentle waves create a serene backdrop for relaxation or a refreshing swim. Convenient parking and restrooms are just across the street. Although uncommon, you might spot some of Seal Harbor’s affluent residents, like Martha Stewart.
Interestingly, the beach is home to renowned restrooms, a thoughtful project funded by John D. Rockefeller and Edsel Ford so visitors wouldn’t have to resort to the forest to answer to nature’s call.
Hunters Beach
Acadia National Park is full of hidden gems and Hunters Beach tops the list.
The trail, about 0.6 miles roundtrip, takes you through the forest and over a footbridge to this secluded beach. Whether you prefer exploring the rocks and cliffs or just chilling on a log “bench,” it’s one of the park’s most beautiful beaches. Although there are exposed roots, the trail is mostly flat, with a beautiful spongy mossy carpet in areas, making it an easy walk.
There is no signage or facilities in this area, only a small parking area. I hope you enjoy this area as much as we did!
Compass Harbor Trail
Experience breathtaking views at George Dorr’s Pebble Beach, a hidden gem accessed via a flat gravel trail to a secluded cove and rocky shore. Listen to the magical sound of waves over pebbles. Explore the ruins and history of the Dorr homestead, which offers a glimpse into the family’s daily life in Acadia.
Legend has it that George’s spirit still roams the property and you may spot him peaking out behind a tree, adding a touch of folklore to this captivating spot.
Bar Harbor
With quaint shops, fantastic restaurants, and luxurious accommodations, visitors can’t resist Bar Harbor. This vibrant coastal town gives visitors stunning views and relaxing afternoons along the harbor trail. From the docks, you can schedule a variety of boat tours, including a schooner and a real lobster boat.
During peak season, it can be very crowded as Bar Harbor is a popular port of call for cruise lines. Don’t let the crowds deter you though, you can easily get around the town on foot to places like Town Beach and Bar Island Land Bridge.
Bar Island Land Bridge
Located in Bar Harbor, the Land Bridge is a phenomenal sight if timed right. As the water recedes during low tide, the natural sand bar appears between Bar Harbor and Bar Island. You can walk across to the island! This was one of the craziest experiences we had in Acadia.
Our only word of caution is don’t get caught on the wrong side as the tide comes back in. You will have to wait 8 hours to cross again.
West MDI
Often called “the quiet side of the island”, the western side of MDI has its own unique features. With a rocky coastline and million-dollar views, this lesser-explored area shouldn’t be missed.
On West MDI you can find these treasured areas:
Somesville
The charming town of Somesville is the oldest settlement on Mount Desert Island. The Somesville Museum and Gardens provides a quiet break from the crowds as you stroll through the grounds. The white wooden footbridge is one of the most photographed bridges in Maine.
Echo Lake
Both calm and quiet, Echo Lake is a beautiful area to spend the afternoon. The area has a few trails up and over the surrounding cliffs and through the forest for hiking and exploring. The lake is perfect for canoeing and kayaking as well as swimming when the weather warms the water.
We found the beach to be quite empty on a warm autumn afternoon which was perfect for a quiet picnic lunch. Because Echo Lake is off the beaten path, it is more popular among locals than tourists.
Seawall
For stunning sea views and crashing waves, Seawall is a must-do on your Acadia National Park Itinerary. The ocean is a brilliant blue along the rocky coast. Much of the coastline looks like the ocean trail on the Loop Road, but there are far fewer visitors to Seawall.
You can easily find parking and picnic tables with fire rings to sit back and enjoy a campfire and the mesmerizing views after a morning of exploring. Just pickup a bundle of firewood and lighter before you head out. You won’t be disappointed. Restrooms are available here as well.
Wonderland Trail
The 1.5-mile roundtrip hike is one of the easier trails in Acadia as it is mostly flat and level. The views are extraordinary as the lollipop loop brings you right to the water’s edge.
Named appropriately, this trail is truly is a wonderland experience.
Bass Harbor Lighthouse
As one of the most photographed lighthouses in Maine, the Bass Harbor Lighthouse rests on a cliff side 56 feet above the sea. Photographers gather daily to capture the setting sun. This photo opportunity is highly sought after, making parking super difficult.
Pretty Marsh Picnic Area
The lush forest gives visitors you a feeling of seclusion at the Pretty Marsh. Relax with a picnic lunch or go exploring down the staircase to the beach.
With the tall pine trees and stunning views of the sea below this area is quite magical.
Schoodic Peninsula
Exploring the Schoodic Peninsula can easily turn into a full day of adventure. The scenic drive from Hull’s Cove Visitor Center to Schoodic Point is about an hour, making it an even less traveled area but well worth the ride.
Some of the highlights of the Schoodic Peninsula include:
Lamoine State Park
With calm waters for swimmers and kayakers, Lamoine State Park is a nice alternative to the beaches on Mount Desert Island. Enjoy shoreline walks with picturesque views of Mt. Desert Narrows and Frenchman’s Bay.
Plan a relaxing afternoon with picnic tables by the sea and consider camping at Lamoine State Park for a memorable beachside experience in Acadia National Park.
Marlboro Beach
The tranquil gem of Marlboro Beach is best accessed during low tide. Locals favor its calm, crystal-clear waters for swimming. The beach is renowned for its unique “mud flats,” which harbor vital ecosystems for local wildlife.
While walking on the sandy shores has the texture of Kinetic Sand, stepping into the mud may feel more like quicksand.
Tidal Falls Preserve
Tidal Falls Preserve is a perfect spot for tide-pooling enthusiasts, offering a stunning view of the dramatic tidal fluctuations, which can reach up to 20 feet.
The tidal changes create a unique phenomenon – a waterfall reversal where the water flows upward instead of downward. It’s a remarkable sight for those who appreciate the wonders of nature. If you are interested in watching this be sure to check the tidal schedules and plan the right time for your visit.
Schoodic Scenic Byway
Highway 186 or Schoodic Scenic Byway runs from Hancock through Schoodic Point and ends in Prospect Harbor about 29 miles away. On the drive you can expect views of Frenchmans Bay, seaside villages, and scenic overlooks.
Stops along the way to consider are Winter Harbor, Tidal Falls Preserve, Sullivan Winter Harbor, Schoodic Point, and Prospect Harbor.
Schoodic Loop
This 6-mile scenic drive will treat you to beautiful views of the sea, mountains, and coastal terrain. Schoodic Loop is far less crowded than Acadia’s Loop Road making the drive relaxing and worthwhile.
Schoodic Point
This scenic stop is at the tip of the Schoodic Peninsula and should not be missed. Huge flat granite and basalt rocks invite visitors to explore this coastal area. Although I only ventured out a short way, others did walk to what appeared to be the oceans edge with sea spray rising above their heads.
When I think of Acadia National Park, Schoodic Point is what comes to my mind.
Bartlett Maine Estate Winery
Nestled back in the forest, the winery feels like something out of a fairy tale.
Although Maine is not known for its wine, Bartlett Maine Estate Winery has fantastic offerings. Since grape growing is not conducive in this climate, the wines are made from apples, blueberries, and pears.
We found both the dry pear wine and dry blueberry wine surprisingly delicious as neither of us are fan of sweet fruit wines. There truly is something magical about this area. It is a fun and informative stop as you talk to the welcoming and knowledgeable hosts.
Isle au Haut
Located 6 miles off the mainland, Isle au Haut is only accessible by boat. While half of the island is home to about 60 residents, the other half of the island belongs to Acadia National Park.
Visitors to the island can take the mailboat from Stonington which is about a 90-minute drive from Hull’s Cove Visitor Center.
Once on Isle au Haut, visitors can explore the town which consists of a post office, general store, and a school. For those with a passion for exploring remote areas, Isle au Haut has about 18 miles of intertwined hiking and biking trails.
Overnight primitive camping is permitted with advanced reservations. Although infrequent, there are times you can find a rental home for a short stay.
Outer Islands
Little Cranberry Island
Visitors can take the mailboat from MDI at Northwest Harbor or Southwest Harbor. The 45-minute boat ride will bring you to Islesford, where you can visit the Islesford Historical Museum.
Although the museum is the only area managed by the National Park system, the town has a few shops and galleries to explore.
Baker Island
Baker Island is an uninhabited remote island, only accessible by boat. This area is managed by the National Park system and is not open to the public. Ranger lead tours are the only way to explore Baker Island. The rocky shores and beautiful views are enchanting. During the tour, you will learn the history of the Gilley family who lived on Baker Island for 123 years, while exploring the ruins of the homestead.
Visiting Baker Island is fascinating and something to consider adding to your Acadia National Park Itinerary.
As you can see, it is impossible to visit all four areas of Acadia in a single day or even on a three-day vacation to Acadia. With this knowledge of Acadia’s layout and boundaries, you are better equipped to make itinerary decisions like what you will do and how long you will stay.
Tips for Designing an Acadia National Park Itinerary
Designing the ideal Acadia National Park Itinerary involves numerous factors. Rather than having the length of stay determine your itinerary, we encourage you to delve deeper into the type of experience you desire.
Once you’ve pinpointed those preferences, determining the length of your visit becomes straightforward. Addressing these questions will sharpen your focus and guarantee an enjoyable Acadia vacation for everyone involved.
Set a Preferred Pace
Are you someone who enjoys a leisurely pace or do you prefer a more active and fast-paced exploration?
When shaping your ideal Acadia National Park itinerary, consider mixing up your activities. Try a bit of hiking, take in the sights, and add some leisure time to suit different interests. Factor in breaks to avoid exhaustion and allow time for relaxation, ensuring a more enjoyable experience.
If watching the sunrise on Cadillac Mountain isn’t your thing, no worries! Simply eliminate it from your itinerary. Instead, grab a coffee and breakfast in Bar Harbor before kicking off your day’s adventures.
A flexible pace which allows time for unexpected discoveries or changes in weather conditions, is key for a fantastic and enjoyable experience in Acadia.
Photography Interests
Are you an avid photographer looking to capture specific landscapes, wildlife, or sunrise/sunset shots?
Photographers gather on Cadillac Mountain and Boulder Beach to shoot the first sights of the sun rising. Others line up long before the sun sets at Bass Harbor Lighthouse to catch the sun melting into the water. While they are beautiful captures, we prefer to photograph the crashing waves.
These photo opportunities are not easily obtained. To access Cadillac Mountain at sunrise, you may have to make a reservation. May through October, tickets are limited and released in intervals. We tried several times to get sunrise tickets but were unsuccessful.
Likewise, the highly coveted sunset photo at Bass Harbor Lighthouse can be difficult to shoot. We arrived late in the afternoon and the traffic was at a standstill. There is no parking on Lighthouse Road and the parking lot is very small. After waiting in gridlock for 15 minutes, it was clear, that we would miss the main event.
If this is a must-do, plan accordingly. You might want to pack a picnic lunch and head there early to secure a parking spot.
Culinary Exploration
Does trying local cuisine and exploring dining options factor into your itinerary?
Your Acadia National Park Itinerary might include feasting on lobster rolls, fried clams, and blueberry pie every day. There are plenty of restaurants in the neighboring towns. However, don’t dismiss the roadside lobster pounds for the freshest and most affordable offerings.
If you want to have an old-fashioned lobster boil at home, a trip to the docks early in the morning might be a great solution. Lobstermen return with their catch early. You can score live lobsters at dock prices if you are fortunate enough to catch the lobstermen as they come in with their haul. If not, check out the lobster co-ops for the best prices on live lobster.
Interests in Ranger Programs
Are you interested in participating in any ranger-led programs or educational activities offered in the park?
Ranger-led programs like hikes or talks are a wonderful way to learn about Acadia. Not only are the landscapes and seascapes diverse, but the park’s history is fascinating. Schedules vary, so preplanning is necessary.
Accessibility Considerations
Do you have any mobility considerations that might affect your choice of trails or activities?
The Acadia terrain is rugged. While the National Park system continues improving areas, accessibility in some areas may still be difficult. The granite and basalt slabs that make up much of the coastline may look inviting, but they can be super dangerous. Just a little ocean spray or rain can make them as slippery as ice.
Several of the hikes include ladders and iron rungs, unsuitable for service animals. Likewise, golf carts and motorized bikes may be prohibited on the carriage roads.
Family-Friendly or Solo Adventure
Are you traveling with family, and if so, do you need family-friendly activities, or is this a solo adventure?
This important factor cannot be overlooked. Hiking along the Ocean Path, Wonderland Trail and Bubble Rock are family friendly and fun for kids. However, Precipe and Beehive hikes are unsuitable for young kids because the exposed ledges make the hike dangerous.
Remember when designing your Acadia National Park Itinerary it should include a little something for everyone.
Fitness Level
What is your fitness level, and how does that influence the difficulty of hikes or activities you might undertake?
Your fitness level may determine what and how much you can physically do in a day in Acadia. Although some have the stamina and strength to scale both Precipice Trail and Beehive Trail before lunch, others may find the steps and small creek crossing at Hunters Beach difficult.
Before using a general itinerary for Acadia, we suggest gathering information on hiking trails that fit your ability and curiosity. There are plenty of options for everyone in discovering the magic of Acadia. We list a lot of these options in our Sample Itinerary downloads.
Rather than a strenuous hike, decide on one of the easier trails, like Wonderland Beach Trail or Compass Harbor Trail. Likewise, if hiking doesn’t interest you, then maybe a boat tour or wine tasting may be the perfect way to spend the day.
By incorporating these considerations into the itinerary-planning process, you can tailor your experience further to align with your unique preferences, interests, and goals. Exploring your wants and desires for your adventure will help determine how much time you want to spend in Acadia National Park.
When Is The Best Time to Visit
Acadia National Park?
Simply stated, the best time to visit Acadia National Park, is when you have the time and money to do the activities you want to do. While some seasons might be more comfortable than others, when to visit Acadia is a matter of personal preference.
Spring in Acadia National Park
As the last of the snow melts away, the buds and flowers begin to bloom. Temperatures can range from the high 20s to the mid-50s in April and early May. Springtime also brings a significant amount of rain.
While some of the park’s unpaved roads and carriage roads may still be closed, the crowds are thin making the highlight stops easy to access.
Although the cruise ships return to Bar Harbor in April, the town is far less crowded with Acadia tourists. Timing your visit to Bar Harbor on non-docking days can make your time less hurried.
Summer in Acadia National Park
Summer is peak season in Acadia. With temperatures ranging from the mid-70s in the afternoon into the low 50s in the evening, many visitors come north to escape the sweltering heat of the Mid-Atlantic and southern states. Although the seawater and beaches may be a little chilly, locals enjoy a refreshing dip in the pristine Acadia ponds.
Acadia is the 6th most visited National Park in the United States. Summertime hosts about 2 million visitors sometimes making parking horrendous and the roads in Acadia congested.
To alleviate traffic and parking issues on MDI, many visitors take advantage of the Island Explorer Shuttle Bus. Having convenient pick-up and drop-off locations throughout the island, this is a great alternative to driving.
Fall in Acadia National Park
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Acadia. As the foliage turns from green to brilliant yellow, reds, golds, and purples the views from Cadillac Mountain are stunning. Nature has a magnificent way of painting the backdrop.
While afternoon temperatures hover in the high 60’s, evening temperatures can fall into the 40’s. Daytime is perfect for sweaters and daytime campfires. However, most campgrounds close in mid-October, so this is a huge consideration for many visitors.
Winter in Acadia National Park
For snow lovers, winter in Acadia might be for you. While most of the 27-mile Loop Road is closed to vehicular traffic, the roads are open for recreational use. Snowmobiling is permitted on unplowed fire roads, as well as portions of Loop Road and Cadillac Mountain Road.
The frozen ocean spray and snow-covered rocky coastlines are brilliant, against the clear winter sky. Temperatures can dip into single digits during the winter months.
How Many Days Do You Need in Acadia?
Considering all of the information in this article, you can make a pretty good determination on how many days you want to spend in the Acadia area. For some, a quick drive around the Loop Road will suffice. For others, a seven-day vacation is barely enough time to do everything they want to do.
To get the most out of your Acadia vacation, we suggest staying at least 3 days. This way, you can take a few hikes, see the most popular areas, and enjoy the local cuisine. Of course, the longer you stay the more you can add to your Acadia National Park Itinerary.
Best Places To Stay Near Acadia National Park
If this is your first trip to Acadia National Park, we recommend staying on Mount Desert East. This area is closest to Cadillac Mountain, The Loop Road and Bar Harbor as well as many of the hiking trails. MDI East is the center of the action with quicker access to the park entrance
Hotels in Bar Harbor
Staying in Bar Harbor gives you the best of Acadia. The town is vibrant and close to the park entrance. With restaurants and shopping throughout this quaint town, you can find plenty to do after a day of exploring.
StroTip
Choosing a hotel just got easier. These are our recommendations based on location, amenities, and overall customer satisfaction.
For pricing and availability, click the links below.
Rental Homes and Apartments
StroTip
Let us help you find the vacation rental of your dreams. Based on location, amenities, and overall customer experience, these are our recommendations.
For complete descriptions including pricing and availability click the links below:
Dreamy Downtown Bar Harbor Oasis with parking, Sleeps 6!
Secluded hilltop home with beautiful Cadillac Mountain views and multiple decks
Majestic Oceanfront Cottage with breathtaking views of Acadia Mountains & Ocean
Camping in Acadia National Park
Being full-time RVers, we think the best way to enjoy Acadia National Park is camping. RVing allows us the best of both worlds, beautiful peaceful views and all of the creature comforts of home. East MDI has several great campgrounds, serving both RVers and tent campers.
StroTip
Consider renting an RV for your Acadia adventure.
With an RV, you can immerse yourself in the forest, enjoy great views, and experience a laid-back atmosphere after a day of exploring.
Check out Outdoorsy RV rental service a turn your Acadia experience into a memorable journey.
Getting Around In Acadia National Park
Getting around Acadia is key to maximizing your vacation. Whether by car, bike, or the Island Explorer shuttle, choosing the right transportation ensures you can easily explore the park’s wonders.
Island Explorer
With Acadia’s gain in popularity, visitors find parking challenging. The Island Explorer is a FREE shuttle service with convenient stops at many campgrounds, hotels, and points of interest throughout the area.
Unfortunately, the Island Explorer does not go up Cadillac Summit Road.
Acadia GEM Electric Car Rental
The compact GEM electric car is a fun and convenient way to tour the park. With a pickup location in Bar Harbor, it is just a few blocks from the cruise port.
These little cars are fun to zip around the island and we saw a lot of people enjoying themselves in the eco-friendly machines.
Guided Tours
A guided tour in Acadia takes the stress out of planning, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and rich history. With a knowledgeable guide, you gain insights and stories that go beyond guidebooks, enhancing your connection to this unique national park.
Enjoy a seamless experience, tailored to your interests, and make the most of every moment in Acadia.
Conclusion
Building your perfect Acadia National Park itinerary will take time and research. There are a lot of considerations to incorporate. With this guide to creating an experience, the must-see highlights of the park, and tips for making a balanced itinerary, planning is much simpler.
When planning your trip, make sure to choose those must-see places or activities that excite you, and set aside time for them. Keep an eye on travel times, especially in busy seasons, to avoid feeling rushed and fully enjoy every moment of your visit. While hitting the well-known spots is great, adding in some off-the-beaten-path gems creates a truly well-rounded and enjoyable adventure. It’s all about making the most of your time in Acadia National Park!
Acadia National Park is a beautiful area with diverse landscapes, mesmerizing seascapes, and lush forests. One visit to this area, and you are sure to experience the magic it holds.
Maureen Wright and Robb Strobridge
The Stromads
Entrepreneurs, Wanderlusters, Constant travelers, and Full-time RV Nomads since 2016. We are fueled by life, love, and the pursuit of all things good. Thanks for joining our journey and we hope to see you down the road!
