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Southwest Harbor

Southwest Harbor, ME, USA

Southwest Harbor

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Southwest Harbor

Southwest Harbor is a charming coastal town in Maine where lobster boats outnumber cars. Stroll along the scenic harbor, explore boutiques and galleries, and indulge in fresh seafood. Don't miss a hike up nearby Acadia National Park or a sunset cruise on the calm waters. This is the perfect spot for a relaxing New England getaway.

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Recommendations

Landmark5/5

Echo Lake Beach Parking Lot

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Landmark4.7/5

Southwest Harbor View Point Road

Welcome to Southwest Harbor View Point Road! Just a short walk from the charming Robinson Ln, this scenic spot offers breathtaking views of the harbor and surrounding mountains. Perfect for a picnic or snapping some Instagram-worthy shots. Don't forget your camera and a sense of adventure!

Outdoor4.4/5

Bass Harbor Head Light Station

Calling all lighthouse lovers! Seek out the whimsical Bass Harbor Head Light Station in beautiful Bass Harbor, ME. Perched on a rocky shoreline, it's the perfect place to snap envy-inducing photos. Don't forget to learn about its fascinating history and catch breathtaking sunset views. Explore this beacon of coastal charm and let your maritime spirit soar!

Landmark4.7/5

Echo Lake Beach

Lake beach on Mount Desert Island, with the Beech Cliff Trail's ladders nearby. The water is warmer than the ocean.

Eat$$$4.7/5

Thurston's Lobster Pound

Looking for a lip-smacking seafood experience in Bernard, ME? Look no further than Thurston's Lobster Pound! Nestled on Thurston Rd, this lively joint serves up fresh lobsters that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. From succulent lobster rolls to butter-drenched whole lobsters, they've got it all! So hop on over and indulge in some finger-licking goodness at Thurston's Lobster Pound. You won't be disappointed!

Eat$$$$4.5/5

Red Sky Restaurant

Nestled in the charming Southwest Harbor, Red Sky Restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring fresh, locally-sourced seafood, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers in coastal Maine.

Eat4.4/5

Sips Cafe

Nestled in scenic Southwest Harbor, Sips Cafe delights visitors with its artisanal coffee, homemade pastries, and cozy ambiance, making it a beloved spot for both locals and travelers seeking a warm, inviting escape.

Eat$$$3.9/5

The Upper Deck

Get ready to elevate your dining experience at The Upper Deck in Southwest Harbor! Sip on craft beer while enjoying the stunning terrace views. Indulge in mouthwatering lobster rolls and burgers that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Located at 433 Main St, this spot is a must-visit during your travels in Maine.

Eat$$$4.2/5

Eat-A-Pita & Cafe 2

Nestled in the heart of Southwest Harbor, Eat-A-Pita & Cafe 2 offers delicious Mediterranean fare with a cozy atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for locals and travelers seeking flavorful, fresh cuisine.

Eat4.8/5

The Common Good Soup Kitchen

Eat$$$4.5/5

Charlotte's Legendary Lobster Pound

Charlotte's Legendary Lobster Pound is a must-visit destination in Southwest Harbor, renowned for its fresh, succulent lobster served in an inviting, rustic setting bordered by beautiful coastal views.

Eat$$$4.8/5

Island Take Out

Stays

Stay$$$4.6/5

Bar Harbor Manor

This Bar Harbor property is located just 5 minutes’ drive from Acadia National Park and half a mile from the Bar Harbor pier. Facilities include free Wi-Fi and lush gardens. A refrigerator and flat-screen TV are included in every guest room at Bar Harbor Manor. The rooms also have a coffee maker and an en suite bathroom. Some rooms have a balcony or microwave. Guests can relax in the outdoor seating areas or by the fireside in the guest parlour. The Bar Harbor Manor hotel offers free parking and concierge services. Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company is 12 minutes’ walk from the property. Kebo Valley Golf Club is 1 mile away.

Stay4.3/5

Kimball Terrace Inn

Located on Mount Desert Island, this Northeast Harbour hotel is 2 km from the hiking trails of Acadia National Park and 19 km from swimming at Sand Beach. Guests can also swim in the on-site seasonal outdoor pool. A cable TV and a hairdryer are included in every room at Kimball Terrace Inn. Some rooms also have views of the Northeast Harbour from a balcony or a patio. Guests can dine on-site at The Nor’Easter. The Kimball Terrace Inn is 5 minutes’ walk from the Great Harbour Maritime Museum and the Sea Princess Cruises.

Stay4.6/5

Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina

Harborfront hotel with pools, hot tubs and harbor views. From some rooms, the lobby coffee bar is a five-minute walk.

Stay4.6/5

Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center

Nestled along the stunning coastline, Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center offers breathtaking ocean views, luxurious accommodations, and easy access to Acadia National Park, making it a premier destination for relaxation and adventure in Bar Harbor.

Stay4.5/5

The Claremont Hotel

Get ready for coastal vibes and ultimate relaxation at The Claremont Hotel in Southwest Harbor, Maine. Nestled in a charming seaside town, this quirky hotel offers stunning ocean views and easy access to nearby hiking trails and bayside adventures. With comfortable rooms, fresh seafood dining, and a friendly staff, this is the ideal spot to unwind and recharge. Let your adventures begin!

Stay4.5/5

Balance Rock Inn

Nestled in the picturesque town of Bar Harbor, Balance Rock Inn is the ultimate getaway for adventurous souls! With its charming rooms boasting stunning views, luxurious amenities, and proximity to Acadia National Park, this inn is a traveler's dream. Throw on your hiking boots and explore the park's trails, then unwind with a dip in their inviting pool. Get ready for a vacation you'll never forget!

Stay4.3/5

The Asticou Hotel

Located in picturesque Northeast Harbor, the charming and cozy Asticou Inn is the perfect escape for weary travelers. With its rustic yet elegant decor, stunning views of the harbor, and friendly staff, this gem is a must-visit in Maine. Indulge in delicious locally sourced cuisine, explore the nearby Acadia National Park, and unwind in comfortable rooms. Get ready for a delightful and memorable stay!

Stay4.6/5

Seawall Campground

Southwest Harbor's Acadia campground has separated campsites on the park's quieter side. Across the road, tidal pools spread along the beach.

Things To Do
Provided byViator

5/5

Acadia Full Day Private Tour & Hike

Join Good Trip Adventures for a full-day journey through the wonders of Acadia National Park in Maine. Explore iconic destinations like Thunder Hole and Jordan Pond, and hike serene trails away from the crowds. Your expert guide will tailor the experience to your group, sharing captivating stories, insights into Acadia’s history, and knowledge of its unique flora and fauna. Experience breathtaking sea cliffs, lush landscapes, and unforgettable vistas on this private adventure designed just for you. Embark on a captivating adventure with Good Trip Adventures on a trip customized to you and your party! Please note that new National Park fees may apply for international visitors. If applicable, this fee is collected in-destination, not when you book.

$850.95
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5/5
3 h

Acadia Woody's Cadillac Loop 3 Hour Driving Tour

Bar Harbor Coastal Tours provides Private Narrated Guided Tours of Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor. Come along with Woody, one of the most experienced local Tour Guides in the area! Tours were designed and revised over the past thirteen years with the intention of providing ease of access to each location. As we visit places along the way you will have some of time to get out and take pictures and walk about to explore if you like. Amazing photo opportunities abound throughout the entire journey. With the flexibility to customize any of the Tours offered into your own personal Acadia National Park experience, you are also able to create unique memories with your friends and families to enjoy for a lifetime! Over 100 happy groups have left reviews about how they loved their trip! Cheers!

$600.00
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5/5
3 h

Woody's Best Acadia National Park Harbors & Homes Dream Tour!

Enjoy your own Private Tour of the major highlights of Acadia National Park featuring stops at Cadillac Mountain summit, Sand Beach, Thunder Hole and Otter Point! The itinerary encompasses more of Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park by including a scenic route that travels past boat docks and the quaint harbor villages of Otter Creek, Seal Harbor and Northeast Harbor, Maine. This excursion accentuates Mount Desert Island's treasured fjord, located in the middle of the island, with an ocean-side drive along Somes Sound up Sargent Drive. Created and crafted over the past decade by your own personal local Guide Woody, this Tour gives you and your loved ones more of a "wide angle view" of Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island! Immerse yourself in the smell of pine needles, the sounds of the ocean and the sensation of the salty sea mist on your face and tongue! Over 100 happy groups have left rave reviews about their experiences on TripAdvisor over the last decade!

$675.00
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5/5
3 h 30 mins

Acadia National Park Tour Sea to Summit

Wonder at the views from atop of the highest mountain on the eastern seaboard of the United States. From the shore of Sand Beach to the peak of Cadillac Mountain you’ll have the chance to explore the whole 27 miles (43 km) of Acadia’s Park Loop Road. As we meander along shores, coves, cliffs, historic stone bridges, through the woods, and up the mountain, your guide will introduce you to local history, lore, flora, fauna, and geology. You’ll have the opportunity to stop for photos and/or get out to explore as you wish. Sights will included the Wild Gardens of Acadia, Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Otter Cliffs, Hunters Beach, Jordan Pond, Bubble Pond, Eagle Lake, and Cadillac Mountain Summit. We reserve an extra 30 minutes on every tour so you can relax and not have to watch the clock! Expect your tour guide to be dependable, friendly, and adaptable. We care about your experience on Mount Desert Island! Expect your guide to be knowledgeable and passionate about the Island.

$639.00
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5/5
2 h 30 mins

Lobster Roll Crawl

Love Lobster? Want to get a taste for some of the best rolls in Bar Harbor? Join our lobster roll crawl to learn from a local about how the "bugs" get from ocean to table while you sample the good stuff! Stop to taste 3 different lobster rolls in downtown Bar Harbor while a local guide shares information about growing up working on a lobster boat. Each stop will showcase a different spin on the classic summertime staple and at the end we will vote on our favorites! Please note this tour is not suitable for anyone with shellfish allergies. The restaurants may change depending on availability and ongoing customer reviews. Only tried and tested spots will be included for the best experience. Guide will provide bottled water. Tour does involve walking one mile on varied surfaces. Last stop will be at a sit down restaurant, where guests who wish can order additional food or drinks.

$180.00
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5/5
48 h

Boston to Acadia National Park, Maine Coast 2-Day Tour, Transfers

Travel north from Boston for a two-day journey along the Maine coast. Visit Portland Head Lighthouse before exploring Acadia National Park through Cadillac Mountain, Sand Beach, and Thunder Hole, then spend the night near the park. The second day offers an optional nature cruise through Frenchman Bay and free time in Bar Harbor before returning to Boston.

$335.00
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5/5
3 h

3 Hour Private with Somes Sound fiord instead of Cadillac

This tour is for groups who don't want to see Cadillac Summit but are more interested in the park loop road the harbors and towns of Mount Desert Island outside of Acadia National Park. We are great with groups of mixed ages so the entire family always has a great time. The time is yours, we are not scripted, you can ask a lot of questions and stop at places that interest you to take photos and just explore. Wonderful for photographers or those who want to spend time exploring with their own group.

$625.00
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5/5
4 h 30 mins

Acadia National Park Tour Wonders of Acadia

Discover the wonders of Acadia with all the sights included in the Sea to Summit tour plus the chance to see so much more of Mount Desert Island! After descending Cadillac Mountain we will head to the one-of-a-kind Somes Sound. We will see more stone bridges, lakes, ponds, streams, cliffs, beaches and coves along the way. You’ll be inspired by the beauty of the Tarn, Hadlock Pond, Eagle Lake, Seal Harbor Beach, Little Long Pond, and the majestic vistas off the cliffs of Cooksey Drive where the rich and famous dwell. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty and serenity of Thuya Gardens, and/or Asticou Gardens, before driving the full length of Somes Sound by way of Northeast Harbor. No watching the clock here, we give you extra time to enjoy your day! Expect your tour guide to be dependable, friendly, and adaptable. We care about your experience on Mount Desert Island! Sit back and expect your guide to know exactly where you want to go and what you want to see.

$675.00
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5/5

Acadia's Ocean Path Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour

Experience Acadia National Park’s scenic Ocean Path with this self-guided walking tour. Look out for the variety of marine wildlife. See the breathtaking foliage and uncover the booming Thunder Hole. Hear stories of shipwrecks and devastating fires. Finally, take in the views from scenic Otter Point Outlook. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone explores together! After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

$8.49
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5/5

Bar Harbor Self Guided Audio Walking Tour America’s Summer Empire

Discover the captivating history of Bar Harbor, Maine, once the summer playground of America’s elite. This self-guided walking tour unveils the rise and fall of this glamorous resort town, where the Vanderbilts and Rockefellers built grand estates along the rugged coastline. With GPS-triggered narration, stroll from Agamont Park to the iconic Bar Island Land Bridge, exploring historic sites, stunning architecture, and hidden stories shaped by both opulence and tragedy. - Self-guided audio tour with GPS navigation for flexibility - Duration of approximately 60–120 minutes—explore at your own pace - Visit landmarks like the Bar Harbor Inn and La Rochelle Mansion - No internet needed; download and go offline for convenience

$9.75
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5/5
4 h

Acadia Cadillac Mountain Sunrise Half Day Private Tour & Hike

Enjoy a hassle-free adventure with our comfortable transportation services. We handle all the logistics, allowing you to relish the scenic drive without worrying about navigating unfamiliar roads. Our convenient pick-up locations cater to various lodging areas around Acadia, ensuring your journey starts smoothly. Our seasoned guides will immerse you in Acadia’s natural wonders, sharing the park’s formation story, indigenous cultures, historical significance, and insights into its diverse flora and fauna. At Good Trip Adventures, our guides are more than experts; they’re enthusiasts. Their passion for Acadia’s wonders shines through as they delve into topics like geology, wildlife, history, and hiking trails. Gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the park’s intricacies under their expert guidance. Please note that new National Park fees may apply for international visitors. If applicable, this fee is collected in-destination, not when you book.

$728.95
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5/5
3 h

3 Hour Private Best of Acadia Tour: Cadillac & Park Loop Road

Discover the best of Acadia National Park on a fully private tour with your own local guide. Travel the spectacular 27-mile Park Loop Road and ascend Cadillac Mountain for sweeping views of Bar Harbor, Frenchman Bay and the surrounding islands. Experience Acadia’s iconic sights, including Sand Beach and its pink-granite coastline, Thunder Hole, Otter Cliffs, Rockefeller’s historic stone bridges and carriage roads, and Sieur de Monts. Because this tour is exclusively for your party, there’s no rigid schedule. Spend more time where you choose, stop for photographs, ask questions, or get recommendations for trails and carriage roads to explore later. Your local guide brings Acadia to life through history, island stories and insider knowledge of Mount Desert Island. We handle the details—including your park entrance and Cadillac Mountain reservation—so you can relax and experience Acadia at your own pace. At Your Service Tours has been sharing Acadia since 1999.

$625.00
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4.9/5
4 h 30 mins

Guided Ebike Tour of Acadia National Park Carriage Roads

Explore Acadia’s historic Carriage Roads on our signature 22-mile guided tour featuring premium Cannondale e-bikes. Limited to just 8 riders per group, our tours include well-timed stops at iconic locations like Jordan Pond House and Eagle Lake, giving everyone space to relax, take photos, and enjoy Acadia's natural beauty at a comfortable pace. Consistently top-rated on TripAdvisor for 5 years running, Island Time e-bike tours deliver an unparalleled journey through Acadia's most breathtaking landscapes. Our knowledgeable guides will immerse you in the fascinating history of these meticulously-crafted roads, reveal hidden viewpoints, and share insider stories about Mount Desert Island's natural wonders during our many rest and photo opportunities. The park only allows Class I e-bikes (pedaling required), but our e-bikes motors provide excellent support on hills and longer stretches, making this adventure accessible to riders of various fitness levels.

$190.00
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4.9/5
6 h

6 Hour Private Ultimate Acadia & Mount Desert Island Tour

Experience the ultimate Acadia and Mount Desert Island adventure on our most comprehensive private tour. Spend six hours discovering Acadia’s iconic landmarks, spectacular coastline, charming villages and quieter side with your own local guide. Travel the legendary Park Loop Road to Cadillac Mountain, Sand Beach, Thunder Hole and dramatic coastal overlooks. See Rockefeller’s historic carriage roads and stone bridges while hearing stories of Acadia’s Gilded Age and island history. Then venture beyond the traditional Acadia tour to discover picturesque harbors, fishing villages and Southwest Harbor, where you’ll stop at a local lobster pound for an authentic Maine lobster lunch. (On your own) Your day can be customized to your interests, with time for photographs, exploring and spontaneous discoveries. We handle your park entrance and Cadillac Mountain reservation so you can relax and experience the very best of Acadia and Mount Desert Island.

$1,025.00
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4.9/5
4 h

4 Hour Private Acadia Tour Cadillac Mountain & Somes Sound Fiord

Experience more of Acadia and Mount Desert Island on a fully private tour that combines the iconic beauty of Cadillac Mountain with Somes Sound, historic villages and the fascinating stories of Maine’s Gilded Age. Travel to the summit of Cadillac Mountain for sweeping views of Frenchman Bay and the surrounding islands. Discover Jordan Pond, Rockefeller’s historic carriage roads and stone bridges, then journey beyond the Park Loop Road to beautiful Somes Sound and the quieter side of Mount Desert Island. Explore picturesque coastal villages, grand summer estates and scenic overlooks while hearing stories of the families who helped shape Bar Harbor and Acadia. Because the tour is exclusively for your party, your local guide can customize the experience around your interests, with time for photographs, questions and spontaneous stops. Operating since 1999. We handle your park entrance and Cadillac Mountain reservation so you can relax and experience Acadia like a local.

$725.00
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4.9/5

Acadia Full Day Small Group Tour & Hike

Uncover the mesmerizing beauty of Acadia National Park with our exhilarating small group tours! You will be immersed in the wonders of stunning coastal vistas, cascading waterfalls, and enchanting trails. Keep your eyes peeled for iconic wildlife such as eagles, deer, and seals as you traverse the park’s captivating landscapes. Our seasoned guides will share captivating stories of the park’s rich history, its diverse ecosystems, and intriguing tidbits about the park's vibrant flora and fauna. Our small group tours are limited to 8 guests, and require a minimum of 4 guests to run. You’re welcome to book solo or with a small party. If we fall below the minimum spots booked, registrants can opt for a private tour or receive a full refund—offering flexibility for your adventure plans. Please note that new National Park fees may apply for international visitors. If applicable, this fee is collected in-destination, not when you book.

$427.00
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4.8/5
4 h 15 mins

The Way Life Should Be: 4-hr, Private Guided Tour of Acadia NP.

An excellent tour is so much more than a checklist of stops or stories. We will create a meaningful experience you'll cherish as we explore Acadia and the many hidden gems just outside of the national park on a half-day adventure tailored specifically to your group. No rush, no crowded bus. Just you, riding in comfort with guides who never tire of sharing our island. We'll handle the passes and driving, leaving you free to really enjoy Acadia. We know the secrets to escaping the press of crowded areas, while ensuring you don't miss a thing. Our guides thrive on adjusting tours to match your group's interests and abilities. A great tour leaves you brim-full of the magic of this lovely place. Sure, there are stories, tour guide puns, pictures to take, history and trivia you might forget.. but mainly, that feeling of really experiencing this place in a special way. You will leave, knowing you saw and felt more, with less stress, than anyone choosing to explore without a local expert.

$775.00
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4.8/5
3 h

Experience Acadia: Private 3-hr tour with local guide.

I believe, a local guide should provide an experience which brings you closer to Acadia than you would feel had you explored on your own. Acadia is brimming with a quiet, insistent magic. They named it for a paradise. They saved it at their own cost, so we could feel the effect of the light and hear the leaves singing. I will give more than a checklist of places or repeated stories. I'll share my home. Show you the Music of it. I hope the delight I take in this area will be contagious. -My tours are all private to your group. The vans are comfortable and clean. -You will have complete freedom as we explore, to adjust which stops we make, and how long we enjoy each location.

$675.00
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4.8/5
6 h

Acadia National Park Full Circle with Lighthouse Private Tour

This tour includes everything that the "Sea to Summit" and the "Wonders of Acadia" tours have to offer. Then we’ll continue on our journey to the picturesque village of Somesville, and scenic Southwest Harbor. We’ll see Echo Lake, the natural Seawall, and perhaps take the time to explore the oceanside Wonderland Trail. Then we will move on to the iconic Bass Harbor Lighthouse. Start your tour predawn to witness the first sunrise in the USA from Cadillac Mountain Summit!

$899.00
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4.7/5
4 h

Bar Harbor Premium Tour with Cadillac Mountain and Acadia Park

Our tour begins with convenient pickups from your Bar Harbor hotel. As we venture into the park, our first stop is Sieur de Monts Spring, a serene oasis nestled amidst the wilderness. Next, brace yourself for the thrilling experience at Thunder Hole, where the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean create a mesmerizing spectacle against the rocky coastline. The adventure continues as we make our way to Otter Cliff, a rugged and picturesque location that offers breathtaking views of the coastline. Our journey then leads us to the picturesque Jordan Pond, where crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings will enchant you. As our tour draws to a close, we'll drive to harbor front, where you'll bid farewell to your fellow adventurers and guides. Total driving time is 2 hours.

$159.00
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