Acadia National Park, located on the rugged coast of Maine, offers breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Staying on the coast near Acadia National Park provides visitors with easy access to the park’s stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and coastal attractions. This guide explores various accommodation options, from luxurious seaside hotels to cozy vacation rentals and unique glamping experiences, all situated along the picturesque coastline adjacent to Acadia National Park.
Where Are the Best Coastal Accommodations Near Acadia National Park?
When it comes to finding the perfect coastal stay near Acadia National Park, visitors have several excellent options to choose from. Here are some top-rated accommodations that offer stunning ocean views and easy access to the park:
- Salt Cottages
- Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center
- Acadia Inn
Let’s explore each of these options in detail:
Salt Cottages
Located just minutes from downtown Bar Harbor and the Hulls Cove entrance to Acadia National Park, Salt Cottages offers a luxurious coastal retreat overlooking Frenchman Bay.
Amenities:
– Swimming pool
– On-site snack bar
– Lawn games
– Firepit
– Outdoor seating areas
– Grab-and-go food options
Room Types:
– Studio cottages
– One-bedroom cottages
– Two-bedroom cottages
– Bungalow Style hotel rooms (one king or two queen beds)
Pricing: Expect to pay around $200-$500 per night, depending on the season and room type.
Proximity: Close to both Acadia National Park and downtown Bar Harbor.
Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center
Situated on 12 acres of coastal property, the Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center is just one mile from Acadia National Park and historic downtown Bar Harbor.
Amenities:
– Indoor and outdoor pools
– Waterfront access
– Modern amenities
– Special vacation packages
Room Types: Various rooms with ocean views, including options with one king or two queen beds.
Pricing: Prices range from approximately $150-$400 per night.
Proximity: Close to Acadia National Park and downtown Bar Harbor.
Acadia Inn
The Acadia Inn is located on four acres of land bordering Acadia National Park and the coastal village of Bar Harbor.
Amenities:
– Outdoor pool
– Firepit
– Movies on the lawn
– S’mores
– Direct trail access to Acadia National Park
Room Types: Deluxe rooms with one king or two queen beds.
Pricing: Prices are around $120-$300 per night.
Proximity: Minutes from downtown Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.
What Are the Best Seaside Hotels in Acadia?
For those seeking the ultimate coastal experience, these seaside hotels offer stunning ocean views and top-notch amenities:
- Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center
- Salt Cottages
- Acadia Inn
Let’s take a closer look at what each of these hotels has to offer:
Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center
Room Types: Rooms with ocean views, including those with one king or two queen beds.
Ocean Views: Stunning views of Frenchman Bay.
On-site Dining: Bistro on Eden, located across the street, offers casual fine dining and a full bar.
Parking: Available on-site.
Guest Reviews: Praised for its ocean views, modern amenities, and proximity to Acadia National Park.
Salt Cottages
Room Types: Studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom cottages; Bungalow Style hotel rooms.
Ocean Views: Outdoor seating areas with views of Frenchman Bay.
On-site Dining: On-site snack bar and grab-and-go food options.
Parking: Available on-site.
Guest Reviews: Commended for its luxurious cottages, amenities, and scenic views.
Acadia Inn
Room Types: Deluxe rooms with one king or two queen beds.
Ocean Views: While not all rooms have direct ocean views, the inn is close to the coast and offers scenic views.
On-site Dining: Terrace Grille for outdoor dining, including Downeast lobster bakes.
Parking: Available on-site.
Guest Reviews: Appreciated for its comfortable rooms, family-friendly activities, and convenient location.
What Vacation Rentals Are Available Near the Acadia Coast?
For those seeking a more home-like experience, vacation rentals offer a great alternative to traditional hotels. Here are some options near the Acadia coast:
Acadia Cottages
Types: Cozy cottages with oceanfront views.
Average Rental Costs: Approximately $150-$300 per night.
Capacity: Varies from studios to two-bedroom cottages.
Pet Policy: Generally, no pets allowed.
Proximity: Close to Mount Desert Island sights and Acadia National Park.
Graham Lake Cabins
Types: Housekeeping cabins.
Average Rental Costs: Around $100-$250 per night.
Capacity: Varies, suitable for couples and families.
Pet Policy: Typically no pets allowed.
Proximity: Located on the shore of Graham Lake, about 45 minutes from Bar Harbor.
Under Canvas Acadia (Glamping)
Types: Luxury tents with ensuite bathrooms and private decks.
Average Rental Costs: Approximately $200-$500 per night.
Capacity: Varies from couples to families with additional tents for kids.
Pet Policy: No pets allowed.
Proximity: On 100 acres of waterfront property near Acadia National Park.
Is Beach Camping Possible in Acadia National Park?
While Acadia National Park does not offer traditional beach camping within the park itself, there are nearby options and glamping alternatives:
Under Canvas Acadia
Location: On 100 acres of waterfront property near Acadia National Park.
Reservation Process: Book through the Under Canvas website.
Amenities:
– Ensuite bathrooms
– Wood-burning stoves
– Private decks
– Campfire area
Costs: Approximately $200-$500 per night.
Accessibility: Accessible via dirt road from ME-172 N.
Blackwoods Campground and Seawall Campground
While not directly on the beach, these campgrounds are within Acadia National Park and offer access to coastal areas.
Location:
– Blackwoods Campground is near Otter Creek
– Seawall Campground is near the southwest coast of Mount Desert Island
Reservation Process: Reservations can be made through recreation.gov.
Amenities:
– Restrooms
– Potable water
– Picnic tables
– Fire pits
Costs: Around $30-$50 per night.
Accessibility: Accessible via park roads, with some sites suitable for RVs and others for tents only.
What Are the Best Times to Visit Acadia National Park?
The best time to visit Acadia National Park depends on your preferences and the activities you want to enjoy:
| Season | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (June-August) | – Warm weather – All park facilities open – Perfect for hiking and water activities |
– Crowded – Higher accommodation prices – Possible fog |
| Fall (September-October) | – Beautiful fall foliage – Fewer crowds – Comfortable temperatures |
– Some facilities start to close – Cooler evenings |
| Spring (April-May) | – Wildflowers blooming – Fewer crowds – Lower prices |
– Some facilities may not be open yet – Possible rain and mud |
| Winter (November-March) | – Snow-covered landscapes – Winter activities available – Lowest prices |
– Many facilities closed – Cold temperatures – Limited access to some areas |
How Can I Make the Most of My Coastal Stay Near Acadia National Park?
To make the most of your coastal stay near Acadia National Park, consider the following tips:
-
Explore the Park: Take advantage of your proximity to Acadia National Park by exploring its hiking trails, scenic drives, and natural wonders.
-
Visit Bar Harbor: Spend time in the charming town of Bar Harbor, known for its shops, restaurants, and coastal charm.
-
Try Water Activities: Engage in kayaking, paddleboarding, or boat tours to experience the coastal beauty up close.
-
Watch the Sunrise: Wake up early to witness the stunning sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, the first place to see the sunrise in the United States during certain times of the year.
-
Enjoy Local Cuisine: Sample fresh seafood and local specialties at coastal restaurants.
-
Take a Scenic Drive: Explore the Park Loop Road for breathtaking coastal views and access to key park attractions.
-
Visit Lighthouses: Tour nearby lighthouses such as Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse for iconic coastal views.
-
Attend Ranger Programs: Participate in ranger-led programs to learn more about the park’s ecology, history, and wildlife.
By choosing to stay on the coast near Acadia National Park, you’ll have easy access to both the park’s natural wonders and the charming coastal communities that surround it. Whether you prefer luxury accommodations, cozy cottages, or unique glamping experiences, there’s a perfect coastal stay waiting for you near Acadia National Park.
References:
1. Salt Cottages in Bar Harbor | Upscale Cottages on the Water
2. Best Oceanfront Hotels in Bar Harbor, ME | Atlantic Oceanside
3. Acadia National Park Glamping & Lodging – Under Canvas