If you’re looking for a national park that combines ocean views, mountain hikes, tide pools, lobster shacks, and charming coastal towns, Acadia National Park should be at the top of your list. From sunrise or sunset on Cadillac Mountain to walking across a sandbar at low tide, this National Park feels completely different from the other places on the east coast and makes you feel like you are in the Pacific Northwest, and that’s what makes it so special.

Here’s our complete guide based on everything we have researched, explored, and loved on our two trips to Acadia National Park.

The Two Sides to Acadia National Park

One of the things that makes Acadia National Park so unique is that it isn’t just one centralized area, it’s divided into two very different experiences. Most visitors spend their time along Bar Harbor and the Main Park Loop Road, which is home to many of Acadia’s most iconic sights.

This side includes highlights like Cadillac Mountain, Thunder Hole, Sand Beach, and the scenic trails around Jordan Pond. It’s easily accessible, incredibly scenic, and packed with classic Acadia views like granite cliffs, crashing waves, forested hikes, and charming carriage roads. If it’s your first time visiting, this is where you’ll likely start.

Then there’s the quieter, more rugged Schoodic Peninsula side of the park, and it feels like a completely different world. Located across Frenchman Bay, the Schoodic side offers dramatic rocky coastline, fewer crowds, and a slower pace. You’ll find peaceful sunset spots at Schoodic Point, nightly ranger programs at the campground, and coastal trails that feel far more secluded than the main loop.

While it requires a bit more driving to reach (unless you stay at the Schoodic Woods Campground), it rewards you with wide-open views, crashing surf, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Both sides showcase different personalities of Acadia and if you have the time, experiencing both gives you the full picture of what makes this park so special.

The Schoodic Side (Quieter + Underrated)

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience a wilder, more rugged side of Acadia National Park, the Schoodic Peninsula is absolutely worth the drive. Located across Frenchman Bay from the main park loop, this area offers dramatic rocky coastline, powerful crashing waves, and wide-open ocean views, all with a fraction of the traffic. It feels slower, quieter, and more local, making it perfect for sunset chasers, nature lovers, and families who want space to explore without the hustle of the main attractions.

Schoodic Point

Schoodic Point is easily one of the best sunset spots in all of Acadia. Here, powerful waves crash dramatically against pink granite cliffs, creating a raw, untamed coastal scene that feels completely different from the busier main park loop. Because it’s less visited, you won’t find large tour buses or packed viewing areas, just sweeping ocean views, salty air, and peaceful evening vibes. If you’re looking for a place to slow down, spread out, and watch the sky light up over the Atlantic, this is it.

Little Moose Island (Low Tide Walk)

One of the coolest hidden gem experiences on the Schoodic side is walking out to Little Moose Island at low tide. When the tide recedes, sections of exposed shoreline make it possible to carefully cross over and explore, but timing is everything. Always check the local tide charts before heading out, and only attempt the walk during safe low tide windows. The ocean moves quickly here, and you don’t want to get stranded. Done correctly, though, it’s a fun, adventurous way to experience Acadia’s ever-changing coastline.

Schoodic Institute

The Schoodic Institute is a fantastic stop, especially if you’re visiting Acadia with kids. Located on the Schoodic Peninsula, this research and education center offers exhibits, hands-on learning opportunities, and seasonal ranger programs that help bring the park’s ecosystems to life. It’s a great place to slow down, dive deeper into the science behind the scenery, and give kids a more interactive understanding of the wildlife, geology, and coastal environment that make this side of Acadia so unique.

This is one of our daughters’ favorite things to do because of the hands on programs they have that let you touch sea starts and other marine life.

Me and Ben’s Dairy Crème

No trip to the Schoodic side is complete without a stop at Me and Ben’s Dairy Crème. This classic roadside stand is the perfect post-adventure treat after a day of exploring rocky coastlines and quiet trails. It’s known for its iconic Maine “pink hot dogs” and, of course, blueberry soft serve, a must-try when you’re in this part of the state. It’s casual, nostalgic, and exactly the kind of local gem that makes a national park trip even more memorable.

The Bar Harbor Side Highlights

The Bar Harbor side of Acadia National Park is where most first-time visitors spend their time, and for good reason. This is the classic Acadia experience: dramatic ocean cliffs, iconic mountain views, famous landmarks, and easy access from the charming town of Bar Harbor. From sunrise atop Cadillac Mountain to walking along Sand Beach or hearing the roar at Thunder Hole, this side of the park is packed with postcard-worthy stops and well-maintained trails that make it ideal for families and first-time explorers alike.

Start at Hulls Cove Visitor Center

If you’re exploring the Bar Harbor side of Acadia, the best place to begin is the Hulls Cove Visitor Center. This should be your first stop to grab Junior Ranger booklets for the kids, pick up park maps, and get up-to-date information on trail conditions and must-see spots. It’s also where you can learn about the Island Explorer shuttle system, which is a free and incredibly helpful transportation option during peak season. Parking fills up quickly along the Park Loop Road, so using the shuttle can save time, reduce stress, and make your day much smoother.

Sieur de Monts Spring

Sieur de Monts Spring is another excellent starting point on the Bar Harbor side, especially for families. This area is home to the Nature Center, the beautiful Wild Gardens of Acadia, and several well-marked trailheads that range from easy strolls to more moderate hikes. It’s a great place to slow down, learn about the park’s ecosystems, and let kids explore in a setting that feels manageable and educational. With restrooms and visitor resources nearby, it’s an easy and convenient stop to build into your day.

Jordan Pond Loop

The Jordan Pond Loop is one of the most popular (and family-friendly) hikes on the Bar Harbor side of the park. This relatively easy, scenic trail circles the crystal-clear pond and offers stunning views of the North and South Bubble Mountains rising in the background. The full loop is just over 3 miles, with a mix of flat gravel paths and sections of wooden boardwalk, making it manageable for most families who take their time.

Don’t Skip: Jordan Pond House

After your hike, or even beforehand, reward yourself with a stop at the iconic Jordan Pond House. It’s famous for its warm popovers served with butter and jam, plus tea on the lawn overlooking the pond. Yes, it’s touristy, but sitting there with that view, enjoying a classic Maine treat, is one of those quintessential Acadia experiences that truly feels worth it.

Thunder Hole

Thunder Hole is one of Acadia’s most dramatic natural attractions, but timing makes all the difference. This narrow coastal inlet “thunders” when waves crash into it during mid-to-high tide, sending a booming sound and sometimes a splash of seawater high into the air. Check the tide schedule before you go to catch it at its most powerful. When conditions are right, it’s loud, exciting, and a big hit with kids, just be prepared for crowds and keep a safe distance from the edge.

Sand Beach

Sand Beach is one of the most unique features of Acadia. It is a true sandy beach tucked between rocky cliffs inside a national park. It’s rare to find this kind of soft shoreline in Maine, which makes it even more beautiful and worth a stop. While the Atlantic water is cold (even in summer!), it’s a great place for kids to explore, dig in the sand, or dip their toes. Arrive early during peak season, as parking fills quickly, and take time to enjoy the surrounding views of granite mountains meeting the sea.

It is definitely tough to find parking with a dually, however, we have been twice and have been able to eventually get parking….just be patient.

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is one of the most photographed spots in Acadia, and for good reason. Perched dramatically on rocky cliffs overlooking the Atlantic, it delivers those classic, iconic Maine lighthouse views you imagine when planning a coastal trip. Sunset is the most popular time to visit, as the golden light hits the water and rocks beautifully, but expect crowds and limited parking. Arrive early, wear sturdy shoes for the rocky path down to the viewpoint, and be prepared to wait your turn for the perfect photo.

There is only about 10-15 parking spots at the trailhead and local residents do NOT allow parking on the street, so use caution and know ahead of time, that you may be waiting about 30 minutes to get a parking spot.

Wonderland Trail

The Wonderland Trail is a short and sweet 1.4-mile out-and-back walk that’s perfect for families. The trail winds gently through a peaceful forest before opening up to the rocky shoreline at Bennett Cove, where kids can explore tide pools and search for crabs, snails, and other marine life at low tide. It’s relatively flat, easy to navigate, and feels adventurous without being overwhelming. This makes it one of the best kid-friendly hikes on the Bar Harbor side of Acadia.

South Bubble Mountain

South Bubble Mountain may be a short hike at roughly 1.5 miles round trip, but don’t let the distance fool you, it’s steep in sections and definitely gets your heart pumping. The payoff, though, is absolutely worth it. From the summit, you’ll get one of the most iconic views in Acadia, looking down over Jordan Pond with the surrounding mountains and coastline stretching out beyond. It’s a great “bang for your buck” hike if you’re short on time but still want that wow-factor panorama.

Carroll Homestead

Carroll Homestead is a quieter, often overlooked stop that offers a glimpse into Acadia’s past. This preserved 19th-century farmstead features living history demonstrations during certain seasons, giving families a chance to see what life was like for early settlers on Mount Desert Island. It’s a peaceful cultural break from the busier coastal viewpoints and a great way to add a bit of history and storytelling to your park experience.

Bar Island

Walking to Bar Island is one of the most unique experiences in Acadia, but timing is everything. At low tide, a gravel sandbar appears connecting downtown Bar Harbor to the island, allowing you to walk across the ocean floor. You can only safely cross within about 1.5 hours before and after low tide, so check the tide chart carefully before heading out. Miss that window and the water rises quickly and you’ll be stuck waiting several hours for it to drop again. When timed right, though, it’s a memorable adventure and a fun story for the kids.

This is one of our family’s favorite things to do. The tidepooling alone is worth it, but if you want to take the hike, make sure you have a watch on you! Parking in the Bar Harbor area is always tough, no matter the day or time or season, so give yourself plenty of time to find parking before low tide.

Anemone Cave Trail

The Anemone Cave Trail is a true hidden gem for tide pool explorers, but it requires a little planning and a sense of adventure. Accessed from Schooner Head Overlook, this unmarked path leads down to a rocky shoreline area where you can often find sea anemones, small crabs, and other marine life tucked into the tide pools. It’s essential to visit only during low tide and to use caution on the uneven rocks. When conditions are right, it’s one of the most fascinating and interactive coastal experiences in Acadia, especially for curious kids who love discovering sea creatures up close.

This trail is no longer recommended by the National Park itself, likely due to the risk of slipping and the rocky cliff to get to the cave. However, if you are able to manage (which we did with a 4 and 7 year old), to get to the cave, it is a magical experience!

Cadillac Mountain

Cadillac Mountain is one of the most iconic experiences in Acadia and for part of the year, it’s one of the first places in the United States to see the sunrise. Watching the sky slowly light up over the Atlantic from the summit is unforgettable and absolutely worth the early alarm. Just know that timed vehicle reservations are required for both sunrise and sunset during peak season, and spots fill up quickly. Plan ahead, book early, and still arrive with extra time to spare because the parking area fills fast, and you’ll want a good viewing spot before the show begins.

Not an early riser? No problem because sunset is just as beautiful! We recommend grabbing a snack or dinner to go and enjoy a peaceful dinner atop the summit with the sun going down!

Just Outside the Park

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is more than just the gateway to Acadia National Park, it’s part of the experience. After a long day of hiking, tide pooling, and chasing sunsets, wandering through downtown Bar Harbor is the perfect way to wind down. The town is packed with local shops, seafood restaurants, coffee spots, and waterfront views that feel straight out of a postcard.

If you enjoy local craft beer, stop by Atlantic Brewing Company for a laid-back atmosphere and Maine-brewed favorites. For your caffeine fix, Acadia Perk is a cozy coffee shop that’s perfect for fueling up before an early morning in the park. And when everyone is craving something easy and crowd-pleasing, grab a pie at Rosalie’s Pizza, a local favorite known for its thin crust and casual, family-friendly vibe. Seating is limited, but it’s worth the wait!

Bar Harbor Shore Path

The Bar Harbor Shore Path is a peaceful, easy waterfront walk that offers some of the prettiest views in town. Stretching along the edge of Frenchman Bay, this relatively flat path gives you front-row views of the harbor, boats bobbing in the water, and even glimpses of the Porcupine Islands in the distance. It’s the perfect low-effort activity after a big hiking day and ideal for families, strollers, and anyone who just wants to slow down and soak in that classic Maine coastal scenery.

Tidal Falls Preserve

If you want to see sea stars in the wild, there is only ONE place in all of the Acadia area to go! Tidal Falls Preserve is a fantastic stop for low tide exploring and one of the best places in the area to spot sea stars and other marine life up close. When the tide shifts, the water movement creates rich tide pools where kids can carefully search for starfish, crabs, and other sea creatures. It’s a quieter, more local-feeling experience compared to some of the busier park areas, and it’s perfect for families who love hands-on coastal adventures, just be sure to check the tide schedule before you go.

Parking is also limited here as well, so leave yourself time to find parking.

Timber Tina’s Great Maine Lumberjack Show

If your crew needs a break from hiking and tide pools, Timber Tina’s Great Maine Lumberjack Show is a high-energy, family-friendly experience that’s surprisingly fun. Located just outside Bar Harbor, this interactive show features real lumberjack competitions like log rolling, axe throwing, speed climbing, and more, all with plenty of humor and audience participation. It’s a great way to mix in some classic Maine culture while giving the kids something exciting and different to enjoy.

Asticou Azalea Garden

Asticou Azalea Garden is a peaceful, beautifully landscaped garden tucked away near Northeast Harbor, and it’s the perfect slower-paced stop during a busy Acadia itinerary. Inspired by traditional Japanese garden design, the pathways wind around serene ponds, stone bridges, and carefully curated plantings. It’s a quiet place to stroll, take photos, and enjoy a calm break from the more crowded park highlights.

The Oceanarium and Education Center

The Oceanarium and Education Center is a fun and educational stop for families, especially if your kids love marine life. With hands-on exhibits, touch tanks, and interactive demonstrations, it gives children a closer look at Maine’s coastal ecosystem. It’s a great way to deepen their understanding of what they’ve seen in the tide pools around Acadia while giving everyone a break from hiking.

Fort Knox State Historic Site & Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory

Fort Knox State Historic Site offers a fascinating step back in time, with well-preserved granite fortifications that kids can explore like a real-life maze. Right next door, the Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory provides one of the most unique viewpoints in Maine — you can ride an elevator up to the top of the bridge tower for panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscape. It’s a fun mix of history and engineering that makes for a memorable day trip.

Mount Desert Island Ice Cream

Mount Desert Island Ice Cream is a must-stop treat after a full day of exploring Acadia. Known for its creative and locally inspired flavors, this spot is a favorite among visitors and locals alike. Whether you go classic or adventurous, grabbing a cone here while strolling through Bar Harbor feels like the perfect way to wrap up a Maine adventure.

Where to Camp Near Acadia National Park

If you’re bringing your RV to Acadia National Park, you have some fantastic campground options and where you stay can really shape your experience. We’ve camped in this area multiple times, and each stay gave us a slightly different perspective on the park.

Thousand Trails Encore Narrows Too (Stayed Twice)

We’ve stayed at Narrows Too twice, and it’s been a great home base for exploring the Bar Harbor side of Acadia. Located in Trenton (just before you cross onto Mount Desert Island), it gives you easier access to both the park and town without having to fight as much island traffic every single day.

What we liked:

• Full hook-up RV sites
• Proximity to Bar Harbor and the Hulls Cove entrance
• Water views from parts of the campground
• Easy in-and-out access for larger rigs

It’s a convenient option if you plan to spend most of your time on the Bar Harbor side and want full-service amenities. Not to mention it’s free when using your Thousand Membership!

Schoodic Woods Campground (Stayed Twice)

On the quieter side of the park, Schoodic Peninsula, we’ve also stayed twice at Schoodic Woods Campground and this one feels completely different. Located on the Schoodic Peninsula, this campground offers massive sites, beautiful wooded surroundings, and a much more peaceful atmosphere.

What makes it stand out:

• Huge, spacious sites (some of the best we’ve had in a national park campground)
• Paved roads and well-maintained loops
• Access to bike paths and coastal trails
• Easy sunset access at Schoodic Point
• Nightly Ranger Programs

If you’re looking for a calmer experience with less traffic and fewer crowds, this side of the park, and this campground specifically, is hard to beat.

Other Encore Campgrounds in the Area

While we’ve personally stayed at Narrows Too, there are a couple of other Encore properties in the greater Acadia region that some RVers choose as their base. They offer similar full-hookup setups and amenities, which can be appealing if you’re traveling with a larger rig or prefer resort-style campground features.

Choosing between them really comes down to:

• How close you want to be to Bar Harbor
• Whether you prefer a wooded, national-park feel or a resort-style setup
• How much driving you’re comfortable with each day

Camping near Acadia gives you flexibility with early starts for sunrise, relaxed evenings around the fire, and the ability to move between the Bar Harbor side and the Schoodic side depending on the weather and crowds. And honestly, we’ve loved experiencing both sides of the park by staying in different areas over multiple visits.

Final Thoughts

Acadia truly feels different from any other national park we’ve visited. Where else can you hike a mountain in the morning, explore tide pools in the afternoon, and watch the sunset crash against rocky coastline all in the same day? Acadia National Park blends coastal charm, rugged adventure, and small-town New England vibes in a way that makes every stop feel memorable. From quiet moments on the Schoodic side to sunrise atop Cadillac Mountain, there’s so much variety packed into one relatively compact park.

If you’re like us and constantly keeping notes in your phone of “things we can’t miss,” consider this your organized Acadia list. Save it, screenshot it, or send it to anyone who asks for your recommendations, because this is one park that absolutely deserves to be done right.