I'll admit... Maine was not on my radar. But I'm SO glad I was invited on this special trip to Bar Harbor, Maine.
Maine is THE place for stunning scenery, delicious seafood, and quaint coastal towns. A perfect sanctuary away from the Texas heat. It boasts breathtaking natural landscapes, from its rocky coastline to its lush forests, serene lakes, and foggy mountains. The state's scenery makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
I just returned home after 5 days in Maine (3 days in Bar Harbor) with my husband and his family. Bar Harbor promises to be an unforgettable experience, offering a mix of outdoor adventures, locally-sourced seafood, and charming shops. And blueberry EVERYTHING. Blueberry margaritas-- who knew? But delicious!
My favorite highlights from our time in Bar Harbor:
Bike the Carriage Roads in Acadia National Park
My favorite activity! The carriage roads, a 45-mile network of roads, are well-maintained gravel paths that wind through the beautiful park. The paths are relatively flat and offer a mix of easy to moderate routes, making them great for cyclists of all levels.
Bike Rentals: There are bike rental shops near the park that offer a variety of bicycles for rent, including mountain bikes and road bikes. They can also provide maps and information about the best routes to take based on your preferences. We rented our bikes from Acadia Bike Rentals. Super easy!
Definitely put this on your list!
Hike Acadia National Park
Whether you're a casual hiker or a more experienced trekker, Acadia has trails for everyone. From easy, family-friendly paths to challenging summit hikes, you'll find a trail that suits you.
There are so many trails in Acadia. Here are a few I recommend:
Cadillac Mountain Summit Loop:
The tallest peak on the U.S. East Coast, Cadillac Mountain is where you will find panoramic views of the surrounding islands, ocean, and landscape. Sunrise and sunset hikes here are particularly popular for their breathtaking vistas.
Pro-Tip: You DO need to make an advanced reservation if you're driving in during peak Summer season. You can do that easily here.
Beehive Trail:
A popular and challenging trail, the Beehive Trail includes exposed ledges and iron rungs. It offers amazing views of Sand Beach and the ocean. It's not recommended for those with a fear of heights or inexperienced hikers.
The Pemetic Mountain Trail:
Be prepared for some elevation gain on this trail! The Pemetic Trail is considered a moderate to strenuous hike. It involves a gradual ascent through forested areas and rocky terrain, with some steeper sections closer to the summit. The toughest part of the hike was hiking down. But the views are the top are worth it.
Little Hunters Beach
Not exactly a hike, but a wonderful, peaceful place to walk around. My husband's a Geologist and he was in heaven at this beach. The rocks found here are a result of glacial activity and intense, powerful waves. There's nothing more peaceful than closing your eyes, and hearing the rocks tumble as the waves crash over them.
Oysters at the Barnacle
Website | 112 Main St, Bar Harbor, ME
Oyster bars in Bar Harbor are well-regarded for offering fresh and locally sourced oysters. We ducked into the Barnacle to avoid the rain and wow, what a treat!
I'm a gulf-oyster girl, but wow, it surprised me how much I loved these oysters. Fresh, a subtle sweetness, mineral undertones. And served with a delicious mignonette sauce to balance the flavors.
We stayed here for a few hours looking out the front window or chatting with our fellow patrons. Such a friendly bar, full of charm.
Drinks at the Ivy Manor Inn
Website | 194 Main Street, Bar Harbor, Maine
Be sure to grab a drink at the Garden Bar at the Ivy Manor Inn. Here is where I felt most on vacation. This is the quaintest place in the quaintest town.
Stop here for a pre-dinner drink while listening to live music, or make your way here at night and get cozy in front of their firepits. This is a very date-y place, but I also saw lots of friend groups.
Biking Day Trip at Schoodic Peninsula
Biking at the Schoodic Peninsula is a perfect way to explore the lesser-known area of Acadia National Park. The Schoodic Peninsula offers a more tranquil and less crowded experience compared to the main part of the park. And this peninsula is beautiful!
You'll want to book a ferry ride to Schoodic, which is about a 45-min ride. You can book a ferry here.
When you arrive in Schoodic, there's a bike rental shop, Sea Schoodic, less than a mile from the ferry terminal.
Beer and Lobster Rolls at Atlantic Brewery
Website | 52 Cottage St, Bar Harbor, ME
We stopped by the Atlantic Brewing Company after a sea kayak tour. It was a perfect spot for a lobster roll and a range of craft beers. They are known for their Blueberry Ale, which incorporates Maine's famous blueberries into their brewing process.
I went to their Midtown location after a sea kayak tour. But their other location is near the entrance to Acadia National Park, which is a perfect place to recover after a tough hike.
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