Pet-Friendly Lodging in Bar Harbor, Maine (Dog-Friendly Hotels Near Acadia)

Finding pet-friendly lodging in Bar Harbor, Maine takes a little extra planning — especially if you want dog-friendly hotels near Acadia National Park that don’t sacrifice comfort, location, or vibe. We’ve researched and walked the neighborhoods around Bar Harbor ourselves to narrow down the best dog-friendly hotels and inns that genuinely welcome pets, not just allow them on paper.

This guide breaks down the best pet-friendly lodging in Bar Harbor, Maine, including what the pet policies are actuallylike, how close each option is to Acadia, and who each stay is best for — whether you’re traveling with a high-energy pup, a laid-back senior dog, or just want an easy, walkable base near the park.

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase or booking through them—at no extra cost to you. We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. We are also a member of the Travelpayouts affiliate program, which allows us to earn commissions when you book travel services such as flights, hotels, and tours through our links. We only recommend products and services that we personally use, love, or believe will add value to your travels. Your support through these links helps us keep this site running—thank you

Looking for a quick list of the best dog-friendly hotels in Bar Harbor, Maine? Here you go:


Quick Comparison: Best Pet-Friendly Lodging in Bar Harbor


Ready to plan your trip?

Check out our other Bar Harbor & Acadia guides:

Pet Policy Matters

When researching the best pet-friendly lodging in Bar Harbor, Maine (dog-friendly hotels near Acadia National Park), we learned pretty quickly that the fine print matters just as much as location. After researching properties and walking the neighborhoods around Bar Harbor, these were the specific things we paid close attention to when comparing dog-friendly hotels, inns, and motels near Acadia:

  • Typical pet fees: Pet fees vary widely across Bar Harbor. Some dog-friendly hotels charge a one-time fee per stay, while others add a nightly pet fee, which can add up quickly if you’re staying more than a night or two.

  • Size and breed restrictions: Not all pet-friendly lodging in Bar Harbor treats dogs the same. Many inns have stricter size or breed restrictions, while larger hotels and some motels tend to be more flexible with dog size.

  • Number of pets allowed: This was a key factor during our research. Some properties allow only one dog per room, while others permit multiple pets, which can make a big difference depending on how you travel.

  • Proximity to walking trails: We specifically looked for lodging near walking paths, quieter roads, and easy access to Acadia’s trail system, since proximity to outdoor space is important when traveling with a dog.

  • Hotel vs. inn vs. motel differences: Patterns became pretty clear — hotels usually have more standardized pet policies, inns feel more personal but often come with stricter rules, and motels typically offer easy ground-level access that many dog owners prefer.

Why Bar Harbor is a Pet-Friendly Paradise

Bar Harbor isn’t just a beautiful coastal town—it’s a hub for outdoor adventure, good food, and coastal charm. And the best part? It’s super welcoming to dogs.

Many restaurants have outdoor seating that allows dogs (some even provide water bowls and treats), and Acadia National Park itself is one of the most dog-friendly national parks in the U.S. With over 100 miles of trails and carriage roads open to leashed dogs, there’s no shortage of places to explore together.

But before you hit the trails, let’s talk about where you and your pup will rest your paws.

Best Overall Dog Friendly Hotel in Bar Harbor, Maine

Wonder View Inn – Bar Harbor Collection

  • Pet policy summary (fees, size limits): Cats and dogs are welcome for $25 per night, per pet. They ask that pets are claimed at check-in and not left unattended.

  • Why it’s good for dogs: This is one of the few places that’s clearly set up with pets in mind—BringFido notes pet-friendly designated rooms, plus extras like treats/water bowls/waste bags and acreage on-site for quick relief breaks.

  • Nearby walking areas or green space: You’re a short drive to Acadia’s carriage roads and many easy, dog-friendly trails (on-leash). Plus, there’s on-property space that makes early morning/evening potty breaks easier.

  • One honest downside: Pet-friendly inventory is typically limited, and the no-unattended rule can be inconvenient if you’re planning meals or activities where dogs can’t join.

  • Verdict: who this is best for: First-time Bar Harbor visitors who want a true dog-friendly hotel near Acadia with straightforward policies and easy outdoor access.

Best Budget Hotel For Dogs

Hanscom’s Motel & Cottages

  • Pet policy summary (fees, size limits): Their site states they accept well-behaved pets for an additional $15 per day, and they ask guests to confirm details when booking.

  • Why it’s good for dogs: This is the kind of classic Maine motel/cottages setup that tends to be easy for dog owners—quick in/out, less “hotel friction,” and a more relaxed, practical vibe.

  • Nearby walking areas or green space: A big perk is location: their site positions it as a simple base for Acadia days (drive-to access, then you’re on trails/carriage roads).

  • One honest downside: They don’t publish a super detailed pet rule list on the site (like exact size limits or leave-alone rules), so you’ll want to confirm the fine print when reserving.

  • Verdict: who this is best for: Travelers who want pet-friendly lodging in Bar Harbor, Maine on a budget and care more about convenience and value than “resort” amenities.

Best Pet-Friendly Inn Near Acadia National Park

Inn at Bay Ledge (Cottages at Sunset Pines)

  • Pet policy summary (fees, size limits): Dogs are welcome only in the Cottages at Sunset Pines, limited to one dog per room, with a $75/night dog charge. Dogs can’t be left unattended unless in an escape-proof kennel, must be leashed outside, and they’re not allowed in the Main Inn or on the waterside grounds.

  • Why it’s good for dogs: If you want an “inn feel” without bringing your dog into shared indoor spaces, the cottage-only dog policy can actually be a plus—more privacy and fewer awkward common-area rules.

  • Nearby walking areas or green space: You’re still close enough to use Acadia as your daily playground (carriage roads, easy loops, scenic drives), while coming back to a quieter, more private setup.

  • One honest downside: This is not a “bring your dog everywhere on property” kind of place—there are clear restrictions (and the nightly fee is higher), so it’s best if you’re comfortable following structured rules.

  • Verdict: who this is best for: Travelers who want a classic inn-style stay near Acadia, prefer more privacy, and are traveling with one well-mannered dog (especially if they’re fine crating when needed).

Best Places to Stay in Bar Harbor With Large Dogs

Eden Village Motel & Cottages

  • Pet policy summary (fees, size limits): Their website is very clear: $45 flat nightly rate, and no weight or pet restrictions—“all are welcome” (as long as pets are friendly and well-behaved).

  • Why it’s good for dogs: The biggest differentiator here is space—Eden Village highlights 24 acres, which is exactly what you want when you’re traveling with a larger dog who needs room to decompress between hikes and adventures.

  • Nearby walking areas or green space: You’re positioned for easy drives into Acadia for leashed trail walks and carriage roads, plus you’ve got on-site outdoor space for quick walks and breaks.

  • One honest downside: Because it’s more spread out and not right in downtown, you’re trading some walkability for space (which many large-dog travelers are totally fine with).

  • Verdict: who this is best for: Anyone searching for dog-friendly hotels near Acadia who has a big dog (or multiple pets) and wants the least restrictive policy possible

Pet Friendly Places to Stay in Bar Harbor, Maine (Beyond Hotels)

Sometimes a hotel just isn’t the vibe. If you’re looking for more of a home-away-from-home, there are some great pet friendly places to stay in Bar Harbor, Maine that offer extra space and comfort for both you and your dog.

1. Airbnb & Vacation Rentals

There are tons of dog-friendly Airbnbs and vacation rentals around Bar Harbor and on Mount Desert Island. Look for listings that mention fenced yards, pet amenities, or direct trail access.

Pro tip: Filter by "pets allowed" when searching Airbnb or VRBO listings and always double-check the house rules.

2. Campgrounds

Love sleeping under the stars? Try camping with your pup! Here are a few dog friendly campgrounds near Acadia:

  • Bar Harbor Campground

  • Mount Desert Campground

  • Hadley’s Point Campground

Camping is a great way to bond with your pup and fully immerse yourself in the outdoors (just remember to pack the tick spray!).

Acadia Dog Friendly Hotels: Stay Close to the Trails

Want to be as close to the hiking trails and scenic drives as possible? These Acadia dog friendly hotels make it easy to explore without long drives.

1. The Inn on Mount Desert

This family-owned inn is just a short walk to downtown and a quick drive to Acadia. It’s quiet, cozy, and perfect for people traveling with pets.

Pet Policy: Dogs are allowed in select rooms with prior approval and an extra fee.

2. Robbins Motel

Basic but clean and right near the park entrance, the Robbins Motel is one of the most affordable and well-located pet friendly accommodations in Bar Harbor, Maine.

Why we love it:

  • Walkable to restaurants and stores

  • Perfect for hikers and early risers

  • Dog-friendly, no-frills option

Pet-Friendly Perks Around Town

Once you’ve got your Bar Harbor dog friendly hotel booked, it’s time to explore! Here are a few of our favorite dog-friendly things to do:

🐾 Take a Walk on the Shore Path

This scenic waterfront walk starts near the Bar Harbor Inn and runs along the coast—perfect for sunrise walks with your pup.

🐾 Eat with Your Pup

These restaurants welcome dogs in their outdoor areas:

  • Side Street Café – Dog-friendly patio with great lobster rolls

  • Jordan Pond House – Grab a table outside and enjoy tea & popovers

  • Thrive Juice Bar & Kitchen – Healthy and super laid-back

🐾 Hit the Trails in Acadia

Dogs are allowed on most trails as long as they’re leashed (6 ft max). Some favorites:

  • Jordan Pond Loop

  • Witch Hole Pond Trail

  • Carriage Roads – Great for dogs and strollers!

Just be mindful that not all trails are safe for dogs—cliffside hikes like Beehive and Precipice are not pet-friendly.

Things to Pack When Traveling with Your Dog

  • Leash (6 ft or shorter)

  • Travel water bowl

  • Poop bags (always!)

  • Pet-friendly bug repellent

  • Bedding or crate

  • Towels for muddy paws

  • Current ID tags and vaccination info

    FAQs About Pet-Friendly Lodging in Bar Harbor

    Are dogs allowed in Acadia National Park?

    Yes—Acadia National Park is one of the more dog-friendly national parks, and the National Park Service states that pets are permitted on 100 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads.
    That said, Acadia also has clear “no-go” zones for dogs (including certain beaches during seasonal windows) and several steep/ladder-style trails that are closed to pets (like Precipice and Beehive).

    Are there dog-friendly hotels downtown Bar Harbor?

    Yes—but in my experience researching Bar Harbor lodging, true dog-friendly options in (or walkable to) downtown are limited, and the pet-friendly rooms often book up first.

    A couple that consistently show up as realistic “close to downtown” picks:

    • Seasider Motel: The property describes its pet-friendly rooms as a short walk from downtown.

    • Wonder View Inn: Not smack in the center of downtown, but it’s one of the few area hotels that openly markets itself as pet-friendly and notes a pet fee right on its site.

    Do pet-friendly hotels charge extra fees?

    Almost always, yes. In Bar Harbor, what we saw while researching pet-friendly lodging in Bar Harbor, Maine (dog-friendly hotels near Acadia) is that fees typically fall into one of these buckets:

    • Per-night fee (common)

    • Per-stay fee (less common)

    • Sometimes a deposit on top of the nightly fee (property dependent)

    For example, Wonder View publicly lists $25 per night per pet.
    And many pet-friendly properties also have rules like “no pets left unattended”, which matters if you’re planning dinners or activities where dogs can’t come.

    Are there leash rules in Acadia?

    Yes—Acadia is very clear here. The NPS states that pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
    They also specifically advise avoiding ladder/rung trails with dogs and note that pets shouldn’t be left unattended (including in cars).

    Best time of year to visit Bar Harbor with a dog?

    If you’re aiming for the sweet spot—comfortable temps for long walks and fewer crowds—late spring and early fall are typically the easiest seasons to do Bar Harbor with a dog.

    From what we found, September through October often brings milder temperatures and crowds that start tapering after Labor Day, which can make everything feel more relaxed (parking, patios, and even trailhead chaos).
    Summer is absolutely doable, but it’s busier—and heat + crowds can make “quick potty breaks” and trail days feel a lot more complicated.

    If you want, I can turn these FAQs into a tighter, more “Google PAA-friendly” format (shorter answers with bolder keywords) while keeping your voice.

Final Thoughts: Bar Harbor Pet Friendly Accommodations You’ll Love

Whether you're staying in a cozy motel, a stylish downtown hotel, or a quiet cabin in the woods, there are plenty of pet friendly places to stay in Bar Harbor, Maine. From dog friendly hotels in Bar Harbor, Maine to full-on resorts and rustic campgrounds, this is a destination that truly welcomes your furry family members.

We’ve traveled to a lot of places with our pup, and Bar Harbor is hands-down one of our favorite pet-friendly getaways. So leash up, pack the treats, and get ready for the ultimate New England adventure with your best friend.

Previous
Previous

Best Tours in Acadia National Park (Top Experiences for First-Time Visitors)

Next
Next

The Best Places to Stay in Bar Harbor, Maine (2026 Guide)