The Best Places to Stay in Bar Harbor, Maine
If you're planning a trip to Bar Harbor, Maine—first of all, I’m jealous. This charming coastal town is a perfect mix of natural beauty, small-town New England charm, and easy access to Acadia National Park. Whether you’re visiting for the epic sunrises, the world-class lobster rolls, or just to unwind with the ocean breeze, one of the most important decisions you'll make is where to stay.
Luckily, I’ve done the research (and some relaxing!) for you. From oceanfront views to kid-friendly inns, here are the best places to stay in Bar Harbor—broken down by exactly what you’re looking for.
Planning a Trip to Bar Harbor or Acadia National Park? Check out these blogs to plan your trip!
🌅 Best Views: Bar Harbor Inn
If waking up to jaw-dropping ocean views is high on your wishlist, then Bar Harbor Inn & Spa is the dream. This iconic hotel is perched right on the edge of Frenchman Bay, giving you front-row seats to some of the most stunning sunrises you’ll ever see. We’re talking golden light over the water, lobster boats gliding by in the morning mist, and that salty breeze that instantly puts you in vacation mode.
We stayed here on our first trip to Bar Harbor, and it totally spoiled us for future hotel stays. There's just something magical about sipping your morning coffee on your private balcony as the world slowly wakes up around you. It’s peaceful, scenic, and exactly what you want in a coastal Maine retreat.
And the location? It doesn’t get better. The hotel is directly on the Shore Path, a scenic walking trail that hugs the coastline and gives you picture-perfect views of the ocean, islands, and rugged granite shoreline. It’s the kind of place where you can wake up, take a leisurely stroll, grab breakfast in town, and feel like you've already had a full day—all before 10 AM.
Why It’s Great:
📍 Prime waterfront location: Located right on the Shore Path, offering uninterrupted views of Frenchman Bay.
🌊 Private balconies: Many rooms come with oceanfront balconies—perfect for watching sunrises or enjoying a quiet glass of wine in the evening.
🛁 On-site spa: Treat yourself to a massage or facial at the full-service spa—ideal after a long day of hiking in Acadia.
🍽️ Fine dining on property: The Terrace Grille offers delicious seafood and a beautiful open-air setting. It's perfect for date night, especially at sunset.
🚶♀️ Walkable to everything: Just a 3-minute stroll into the heart of downtown Bar Harbor where you’ll find cute shops, coffee spots, and ice cream (because yes, that’s a vacation essential).
🏞️ Close to Acadia National Park: Only a short drive or bike ride to the park entrance, making this a great base for adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a solo recharge, or a trip to celebrate something special, Bar Harbor Inn & Spa checks all the boxes. The service is top-notch, the views are unforgettable, and the whole experience feels elevated—but still warm and welcoming. It's one of those rare places that actually feels like a vacation the moment you step onto the property.
Trust me—you’ll be daydreaming about those balcony mornings long after you leave.
🗺️ Best Location: Ivy Manor Inn
Want to be right in the heart of Bar Harbor without giving up charm, quiet, or character? Let me introduce you to the Ivy Manor Inn—a cozy, Tudor-style boutique inn that feels like something out of a storybook. We stayed here during peak fall foliage season, and from the moment we walked up the cobblestone path surrounded by blooming flowers and twinkling string lights, we knew we’d found something special.
The location is unbeatable. You're just steps away from everything: the Village Green, local cafes, lobster shacks, ice cream shops, and more. It’s the kind of place where you can park your car once and forget about it. That’s a major win in a national park town like Bar Harbor, where parking can be limited—especially in the summer and early fall.
The Ivy Manor Inn isn’t just about convenience though—it’s packed with character. The old-world architecture, peaceful garden space, and warm hospitality make it feel more like a quaint European guesthouse than a downtown Bar Harbor hotel. It’s romantic without being stuffy, homey without being outdated, and walkable to literally everything you want to do.
Location Highlights:
🚶 Unbeatable proximity: Just a 2-minute walk to the Village Green, the heart of downtown Bar Harbor and a hub for local events, art shows, and live music.
🌊 Walk to Bar Island: One of Bar Harbor’s most unique features, the Bar Island Land Bridge is only a few blocks away. At low tide, you can actually walk across the ocean floor to a nearby island!
🍽️ Steps from the best eats: From lobster rolls and chowder to coffee shops and craft cocktails, you’re surrounded by amazing local restaurants and bars.
🌳 Private garden space: A rare perk in downtown lodging—enjoy a glass of wine or morning coffee in the inn’s peaceful front garden or on your private balcony.
🏞️ Quick access to Acadia: Ivy Manor is just a short drive or bike ride to Acadia National Park’s main entrance, and close to the shuttle pickup if you want to skip driving altogether.
Whether you’re planning a couples’ weekend, a mother-daughter trip, or just want a super convenient home base for your adventures in Bar Harbor, Ivy Manor Inn delivers. It offers the perfect blend of charm, comfort, and location—all within arm’s reach of the best things to do in Bar Harbor, Maine.
If you want to feel like you’re in the middle of it all while still having a peaceful place to unwind each night, this is your spot. We loved it and would absolutely stay again!
🧳 Most Unique Stay: Under Canvas Acadia
If you’re looking for something that feels completely different from a typical hotel stay, Under Canvas Acadia is the most unique lodging experience in the Bar Harbor area—by far.
This luxury glamping resort is located about 35 minutes from Bar Harbor, just outside of Acadia’s Schoodic Peninsula (the quieter, more secluded side of the park). It blends the best parts of camping—being surrounded by nature and sleeping under the stars—with the comforts of a boutique hotel.
Think: safari-style canvas tents, wood-burning stoves, and private en-suite bathrooms—all just a short drive from dramatic coastlines and quiet hiking trails.
Why It’s So Unique:
Luxurious glamping tents with king-sized beds, hot showers, and cozy firepits
Set in a peaceful forest setting with ocean views and private beach access
Nightly campfires, s’mores, and live music
On-site dining and complimentary morning yoga
Eco-conscious and off-grid inspired—you’ll feel truly immersed in nature
This is a one-of-a-kind stay for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to unplug and experience Maine in a totally different way. It’s like staying in a National Geographic magazine—but with a real bed and great coffee.
💰 Most Affordable: Anchorage Motel
Bar Harbor can get pricey, especially in the summer. But if you're trying to explore Acadia without draining your savings, the Anchorage Motel is a great budget-friendly choice.
It’s nothing fancy, but it’s clean, convenient, and gets the job done—which means you can spend more on lobster rolls and boat tours (which, let’s be honest, is what we’re all here for).
Affordable Perks:
Great location—less than 10 minutes walking to downtown
Simple, clean rooms with free parking
Easy access to Acadia National Park by car or Island Explorer shuttle
Perfect for hikers and families just needing a place to crash
It’s a great option for families, solo travelers, or anyone who’d rather spend their money on activities instead of accommodations.
👨👩👧👦 Most Kid-Friendly: Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center
Traveling with kids? The Atlantic Oceanside Hotel is hands-down the most family-friendly option in Bar Harbor.
Not only does it have both indoor and outdoor pools (which is a lifesaver when the weather’s unpredictable), but it also offers large rooms and suites that are ideal for families. Plus, it’s right on the water with a private pebble beach and boat tours that depart from the property!
Kid-Friendly Highlights:
Indoor and outdoor heated pools
Private access to a pebble beach for rock-skipping and exploring
Family suites with kitchenettes or multiple bedrooms
On-site restaurant and breakfast buffet (aka no early-morning scrambling)
Easy access to Acadia’s Hulls Cove entrance
We stayed here with the kids and didn’t want to leave. It felt like a vacation from the vacation—which every parent knows is the goal.
✨ Nicest Overall Stay: The Claremont Hotel
If you're dreaming of a five-star experience with luxury amenities and impeccable service, look no further than The Claremont Hotel. Located just outside Bar Harbor in Southwest Harbor (about a 20-minute drive), this recently renovated historic resort feels like the kind of place you'd see in a Nancy Meyers movie—timeless, elegant, and effortlessly coastal.
With sweeping views of Somes Sound, upscale dining, and crisp, nautical-inspired interiors, The Claremont is perfect for travelers who want peace, privacy, and pampering. It’s not right in the bustle of Bar Harbor, but that’s exactly what makes it so special.
Luxury Perks:
Stunning views of the harbor and Acadia’s mountains
Elegant rooms, suites, and private cottages with soaking tubs and fireplaces
On-site spa, croquet lawn, and pickleball courts
Fine dining and cocktails at Little Fern and Harry’s Bar
A dock, Adirondack chairs, and hammocks for sunset lounging
Complimentary cruiser bikes and shuttle into Acadia
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want to feel truly taken care of, The Claremont delivers on every level. It’s the kind of place where you exhale the second you arrive—and don’t want to leave.
Final Thoughts: So Where Should You Stay?
It really depends on your travel style—but the great thing about Bar Harbor is that there’s something for everyone.
No matter where you stay, you’re going to fall in love with this corner of Maine. Bar Harbor is cozy, full of character, and the perfect jumping-off point for exploring Acadia National Park.
If you’re still undecided or need help booking, feel free to reach out! I’m always happy to help a fellow traveler (especially one looking for lobster rolls and lighthouses).
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