Where to Stay in Bar Harbor, Maine: Best Areas and Hotels for Every Traveler

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Bar Harbor, Maine, is the gateway to Acadia National Park and one of New England’s most charming coastal towns. With its mix of seaside views, outdoor adventures, and quaint downtown streets, choosing the right place to stay can make your trip unforgettable. Whether you want luxury on the waterfront, a family-friendly inn, or a cozy B&B, Bar Harbor has something for everyone.

1. Downtown Bar Harbor – Best for First-Time Visitors

Downtown Bar Harbor is lively, walkable, and filled with shops, seafood restaurants, and easy access to the harbor. Staying here means you’re just minutes away from boat tours, local breweries, and the shuttle to Acadia National Park.

Why stay here:

  • Walk to restaurants, shops, and nightlife
  • Harbor views and access to whale-watching tours
  • Convenient for first-time visitors

Best hotels in Downtown Bar Harbor:

  • Bar Harbor Inn & Spa – Historic waterfront hotel with luxury amenities
  • West Street Hotel – Upscale with a rooftop pool overlooking Frenchman Bay
  • Ivy Manor Inn – A cozy boutique hotel right in town

2. Near Acadia National Park – Best for Outdoor Adventurers

If your main goal is exploring Acadia, staying close to the park entrance is the most convenient option. You’ll save time on travel and be ready to hit the trails early.

Why stay here:

  • Quick access to Acadia National Park
  • Peaceful surroundings
  • Great for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers

Best places to stay near Acadia:

  • Holiday Inn Resort Bar Harbor – A resort-style stay just minutes from the park
  • Best Western Acadia Park Inn – Comfortable and affordable with easy park access
  • Eden Village Motel and Cottages – Family-friendly cabins surrounded by nature

3. Frenchman Bay – Best for Scenic Waterfront Views

For travelers seeking breathtaking ocean scenery, Frenchman Bay is ideal. Many hotels and inns here feature direct access to the water, making it perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Why stay here:

  • Stunning sunrise and sunset views
  • Quiet, peaceful atmosphere
  • Great for couples and honeymooners

Best hotels on Frenchman Bay:

  • Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center – Spacious rooms with private balconies
  • Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina – Luxury with resort-style amenities
  • Balance Rock Inn – A historic boutique hotel with elegant charm

4. Outside Bar Harbor – Best for Budget Travelers

For a quieter and more affordable stay, look just outside Bar Harbor in towns like Ellsworth, Trenton, or Southwest Harbor. You’ll find cozy inns and motels that are still a short drive from both downtown and Acadia.

Why stay here:

  • Lower prices than in-town hotels
  • Relaxed, small-town atmosphere
  • Good for families and road-trippers

Best budget-friendly options nearby:

  • Isleview Motel & Cottages (Trenton) – Affordable and just minutes from the Acadia entrance
  • Kimball Terrace Inn (Northeast Harbor) – Comfortable stay near marinas and trails
  • Twilite Motel (Ellsworth) – A retro-style, budget-friendly motel

5. Southwest Harbor & Northeast Harbor – Best for a Quiet Escape

Located on the “quiet side” of Mount Desert Island, these harbors offer a slower pace with fewer crowds. They’re great for travelers who want a peaceful Maine experience while still being close to Acadia.

Why stay here:

  • Fewer tourists and more local charm
  • Excellent for kayaking and boating
  • Cozy B&Bs and inns with a homey feel

Best stays in Southwest & Northeast Harbor:

  • Claremont Hotel (Southwest Harbor) – Historic hotel with beautiful views
  • Harbour Cottage Inn (Southwest Harbor) – Romantic B&B near the water
  • Asticou Inn (Northeast Harbor) – Classic New England inn with garden views

Final Tips on Where to Stay in Bar Harbor

  • For first-time visitors: Downtown Bar Harbor
  • For hikers and outdoor lovers: Near Acadia National Park
  • For romance and luxury: Frenchman Bay waterfront hotels
  • For budget-friendly stays: Just outside Bar Harbor
  • For peace and quiet: Southwest Harbor or Northeast Harbor

Bar Harbor has something for everyone—from adventurous hikers to couples seeking a romantic retreat. With its mix of charming inns, oceanfront resorts, and family-friendly motels, you’ll find the perfect place to stay while exploring Acadia and the rugged beauty of coastal Maine.

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