18 Best Hotels for Acadia National Park

The Acadia National Park is an incredibly special part of the Maine coast: breathtakingly beautifully for its natural rocky headlands and islands, it’s also just southwest of Bar Harbor, a picturesque village in the classic Maine style. So you have a wonderful juxtaposition of spectacular scenery and charming creature comforts. Walk, sail, canoe, cycle, climb, kayak, fish and ride horses in the park by day, then come nightfall relax in one of our cosy recommendations for the best hotels for Acadia National Park. Our Gurus' picks include the best family hotels for Acadia National Park, but also a good collection of historic B&Bs converted from charming, Maine style, mansions, water-view resorts, and beautiful luxury properties.

For a hotel Close to Acadia National Park

• The Primrose has been carefully converted from the summer house of a banker, built in 1878. There are 15 rooms, individually decorated with striking details and bold prints or colours, plus an extensive garden and a wide verandah. From The Primrose it’s a five minute walk to Bar Harbor, and you can walk into the Acadia National Park too.
• The Yellow House B&B is a small property, offering the feeling of staying with friends lucky enough to live within a short walk of Bar Harbour and the Acadia National Park. The seven rooms have a cosy, historic feel — some feature floral wallpaper and four-poster beds, while some are more contemporary. Breakfast is served on the large porch, or in the breakfast room, and there’s a charming living room with a roaring fire when needed.
• Just five minutes drive from Acadia National Park, the Bass Cottage Inn offers a very cosy and comfortable base for exploring. There are only 11 rooms and suites, with a traditional feel but contemporary comforts. Hearty breakfasts are served in the grand dining room.

For Views

• Bar Harbor’s West Street Hotel is a luxurious, water view hotel with 85 stylishly nautical rooms and suites. There’s a feeling of space here, both in the rooms and communal spaces, which include a rooftop infinity pool, a lively pub and restaurant.
• The Bayview Hotel is situated on the outskirts of Bar Harbor, and right on the water, with peaceful water views. All of the 26 rooms and suites face the ocean, as do their private balconies and decks. The decor is fresh and contemporary, featuring local art and stylish details. There’s no restaurant, but they offer a vegetarian breakfast and snacks.

For a luxury hotel

• The Claremont is an historic waterfront hotel turned luxurious, family-friendly resort. Making it both one of the best family hotels near Acadia National Park and one of the most luxurious. The decor is rustic rather than opulent, but the pool, spa, restaurant, bars, tennis courts and huge waterfront garden make it feel like a real accommodation treat. Use of golf carts and bikes is included, and they offer sunset cruises and dinner boat excursions to guests.

For Walkers

• Ivy Manor Inn is an historic inn, just minutes from the sea at the very heart of Bar Harbor. Built in 1939 in the Tudor-revival style, the inn has a homely feel, with 18 cosy rooms decked out with antiques in dark wood. There’s no restaurant, but there’s a bar, and lots of lots of restaurants to choose from in the surrounding streets. This is a wonderful location if you want to walk, just across the road from Bar Harbor’s charming village green, where there’s a local bus service to the Acadia National Park.

For Romance

• The Balance Rock Inn is an historic, 27 room inn in an enviable spot on the coast in Bar Harbor. The decor features antiques from a range of periods, which creates an opulent feel, and some rooms have luxurious extras like open fireplaces and whirlpool baths. The restaurant serves American cuisine with a ‘Nordic twist’.
• The Atlantean Cottage is a very grown-up version of a Maine B&B. Converted from a Tudor Revival home built by an architect in 1903, the resulting eight room inn is now on one of the prettiest streets in town, and the interiors are chic and beautifully put together using a collection of antiques complemented by contemporary colours and details. The result feels opulent.
• The Chiltern Inn is a small hotel with a lot to offer in the way of facilities, including a lap pool, games room, library, movie room, art gallery and expansive gardens. It’s converted from a Victorian era stables and carriage house situated on the estate of an ambassador, so you can imagine why there’s so much on offer.

For Families

• The Inn at Southwest is an elegant, Victorian mansion on leafy Main Street, Southwest Harbor, just minutes walk from the water’s edge. The inn has just seven rooms and suites, some of which can be combined to comfortably accommodate families and groups who want to share a living space. There’s also communal space in the lounge, with its open fireplace, and in the lush gardens and on the verandah. There’s no restaurant, but they offer a two-course breakfast every day, plus afternoon snacks and occasionally an evening meal — they also offer cooking classes.
• The Acadia Hotel was built by a ship’s captain in 1880, but this sweeping, historic building has become a stylish, 27 room hotel with a nautical edge. Split between the original house and a Boat House, there’s plenty of variety of room size and shape, with good family suite options. The Acadia is close to the beach, and sights and offer complimentary bikes, great for local explorations!

For a Peaceful Escape

• The Harbor Cottage Inn is another private Victorian-built house turned B&B. The eleven pretty rooms have pastel walls, floral fabrics and homely quilts; the best have sea views, whirlpool tubs and private decks too. The big, landscaped lawn has water views. Cosy and romantic.
• The Ullikana Inn is a carefully converted Tudor Revival style house with beautiful mature gardens, turned tranquil, 11 room inn. Expect 19th century antiques, floral prints and pastel colours, all just a short walk from the sea.

For Great Value

• Holbrook House is your classic Maine mansion turned family-run B&B, with 13 rooms, suites and cottages just a short stroll from the centre of Bar Harbor. The decor varies between contemporary neutrals and more historic styles, with antique pieces and cosy florals. The expansive porch is a really pleasant place to sit, plus there’s a garden, lounge with an open fire, and a library.
• Centrally located in Bar Harbor, the Bar Harbor Grand Hotel offers 70 spacious, comfortable rooms, plus a pool, restaurant, a gym and hot tub.

For B&B Accommodation

• The Lindenwood Inn is 15 room B&B full of Maine charm. The blue and white exterior epitomises the coastal dream, and the best rooms have views of the water. The decor feels homely and comfortable, especially in the communal sitting room. There’s a peaceful garden and a pool outside.
• The Elmhurst Inn is another charming B&B typical of the large pastel-painted houses this area is known for. This time the location is Bar Harbor. The 12 rooms are all individually decorated, with antiques, floral fabrics, but unfussy detailing. There’s an elegant dining room, and a sunny conservatory, and an excellent home-cooked breakfast is served in one or the other. There’s a porch for sitting out on at the end of the day.

Still not sure where to book?

• You could browse our recommendations for the best places to stay in Bar Harbor
• or the best places to stay in Southwest Harbor
• or even expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Maine
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.

  • Lindenwood Inn Southwest Harbor (Maine) 15 rooms from £104

    
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    Great walks  -  Acadia National Park

    Sights nearby  -  Southwest Harbor

    Restrictions on children  -  No children

    Hideaway  -  Tranquil and intimate.

    

    Lindenwood Inn is a charming, seasonal bed and breakfast with a peaceful garden and quiet swimming pool. Cosy bedrooms with homely touches and individual designs. Guests can relax in the small bar and welcoming sitting room with fireplace. See More

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  • The Elmhurst Inn Bar Harbor (Maine) 12 rooms from £101

    
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    Total relaxation  -  Unwind at this picturesque inn set in a leafy garden, with a typical american white painted porch and comfortable beds

    Local markets  -  There is a lovely farmers market in the village, packed with local produce and trinkets

    Kayaking  -  Rent a kayak and head off to explore this stunning island from the sea

    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.

    

    A charming family-owned old school B&B in Bar Harbor. Warm and welcoming from start to finish, with cosy floral print beds, an excellent home-cooked breakfast and attentive and helpful staff to help plan your perfect trip. No restaurant but loads to choose from in town. Elegant and great value. See More

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  • The Inn at Southwest Southwest Harbor (Maine) 7 rooms from £123

    
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    Groups  -  Pemaquid Point Suite includes two bedrooms and a shared living room; perfect for friends looking to spend time together

    Local exploring  -  Located within Southwest Harbor, walking distance from restaurants, harbour and marina and driving distance to Acadia

    Great walks  -  It's not far to drive to Acadia National Park for hiking and cycling with splendid mountain and sea views

    Cooking classes  -  The inn offers fully customizable private cooking classes in the property's kitchen

    

    Elegant Victorian mansion on leafy Main Street, just minutes from the water. Expect antiques, period colour palette, original architectural features, sea views and love seats. Enjoy downtime in the fireside lounge, lush gardens or wrap-around deck. Laid-back stately home perfect for relaxing break. See More

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  • Ivy Manor Inn Bar Harbor (Maine) 18 rooms from £124

    
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    Local exploring  -  Bar Harbour's lovely Village Green is across the street, meaning walking access to restaurants, shops, museums and galleries

    Active Holiday  -  Spend days exploring the stunning coastal scenery of Arcadia National Park with its beaches, lakes, mountains and wildlife

    Sights nearby  -  Visit other towns along the coast such as Bass Harbour and Frenchman Bay

    Great walks  -  Access to the mile-long scenic shore path is just one street away

    

    Historic inn situated in the very heart of Bar Harbour, minutes from the sea. Converted from a 1939 English Tudor-style home, a homely feel remains in the 18 cosy period-style rooms, all decorated with antiques. Brilliant location for those on foot; there's a nearby bus to Acadia National Park. See More

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  • West Street Hotel Bar Harbor (Maine) 85 rooms from £130

    
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    Local exploring  -  Experience the best of both worlds: a chic town filled with restaurants & boutiques plus the wilderness of Arcadia National Park

    Restaurant  -  Paddy's Pub & Restaurant - featuring Irish-American cuisine with a modern spin

    Tennis  -  Play a match on one of the oceanfront courts at Bar Harbor Club

    Great walks  -  Acadia National Park has miles of well marked hiking trails

    

    A luxury coastal hotel offering chic accommodation and on-point service. Spacious rooms have a subtle nautical theme and the best have superb sea views. A rooftop pool is a sleek adult-only space. Access the spa & tennis courts at Bar Harbor Club plus there is a lively pub & restaurant. Superb! See More

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  • Balance Rock Inn Bar Harbor (Maine) 27 rooms from £137

    
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    Back to Nature  -  Overlooking Frenchman Bay and offering easy access to Acadia National Park - ideal for a break in nature

    Romantic Break  -  With in-room fireplaces and jetted tubs this is a perfect hideaway for couples

    Great walks  -  Take strolls along the historic Shore Path and spot turn of the century cottages

    Restaurant  -  The Veranda serves New American cuisine with strong Nordic influences

    

    A historic inn boasting an enviable coastal location in Bar Harbor. Elegant rooms are traditionally dressed with rich hues, antiques, and original fireplaces. Whirlpool tubs are a nice added touch. 'New American' cuisine with a Nordic twist is served in the restaurant. A grown-up and romantic stay. See More

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  • The Acadia Hotel Bar Harbor (Maine) 27 rooms from £148

    
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    Local exploring  -  The central locations means Bar Harbor's many restaurants, galleries, shops and main waterfront are all on the doorstep

    Back to Nature  -  Cycle along car-free roads, swim in protected coves, hike along mountain trails and kayak in scenic bays

    Sights nearby  -  Explore the island and drive out to Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse — one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country

    Views  -  Great views from hotel

    

    A historic boutique hotel located in downtown Bar Harbor, formerly a ship captain's house built in 1880. A wide selection of contemporary-style rooms and suites feel fresh and are decorated with nautical touches; they are split between the Main House & Boat House. There's a hot tub and indoor golf. See More

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  • Harbor Cottage Inn Southwest Harbor (Maine) 11 rooms from £158

    
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    Local exploring  -  Well-located to explore Southwest Habor and Arcadia National Park, plus well-designed for lazy days of sea-view relaxation

    Families  -  The Southwester is a stand-alone three-bedroom cottage next to the inn with children's room, front deck and full kitchen

    Romantic Break  -  The Carriage House is a snug little country-style cottage with fireplace and kitchenette perfect for privacy

    Birdwatching  -  The Acadia region offers some of the best birding in Maine. Go out birding with a guide or enjoy the Acadia Birding Festival

    

    Elegant B&B located in Victorian-era hotel with private gardens and sea views. Pretty rooms decorated with pastel colours, patterned wallpapers and floral quilts feel homely and cosy; some have whirlpool tubs and private decks. Relax on the peaceful porch, double-height lounge and landscaped lawn. See More

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  • Holbrook House Bar Harbor (Maine) 13 rooms from £169

    
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    Groups  -  Lupine Cottage offers the perfect option for a girls' weekend or group of friends with two bedrooms, sitting room and patio

    Romantic Break  -  Many rooms feature fireplaces and cosy seating areas perfect for snuggling up after a day outdoors

    Great walks  -  Acadia National Park is the Mt Desert Island's main draw, offering coastal paths with stunning ocean and mountain views

    Sailing  -  There are great options for activities on the water; head out sailing, sea-kayaking or on a wildlife cruise

    

    Classic owner-run B&B with rooms, suites and cottages walking distance from town. Decor varies between contemporary colours and furnishings to historic styles with antique pieces and vintage touches. Enjoy the outdoor porch, garden, library and fireside lounge. Modern comforts in traditional style. See More

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  • Atlantean Cottage Bar Harbor (Maine) 8 rooms from £179

    
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    Back to Nature  -  Spend days outside exploring nearby Acadia National Park, as well as the island's mountains, beaches, harbor towns and beaches

    Romantic Break  -  Rooms and suites feel grown-up, sexy and romantic with indulgent bath robes, crackling fireplaces and whirpool baths

    Great walks  -  It's a short walk to the Bar Harbor Shore Path, with lovely sea views

    Kayaking  -  Go kayaking in scenic Frenchman Bay

    

    Built by a famous Bar Harbor architect as his home in 1903, this charming Tudor Revival adult-only B&B is located on one of the village's prettiest streets. With 8 beautiful rooms, interiors are contemporary chic with bold colours & antique touches. Relax in the fireside parlour, garden or porch. See More

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  • The Primrose Bar Harbor (Maine) 15 rooms from £202

    
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    Back to Nature  -  Explore the wildlife, scenic trails, lakes, beaches, mountains and sea views the island has to offer

    Local exploring  -  The centre of Bar Harbour is a 5 minute walk, and Acadia National Park is within walking distance

    Great walks  -  Take a stroll through the stunning Azalea Botanical Garden

    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.

    

    Built in 1878 as a summer cottage by a Southern banker, this quaint boutique inn dates from the island's Gilded Age. Well-located to explore the area on foot, the property is surrounded by a garden and a sit-out porch. Recently refurbished rooms are surprisingly modern with fun nautical touches. See More

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  • Yellow House B&B Bar Harbor (Maine) 7 rooms from £212

    
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    Local exploring  -  Both centrally located and a stone's throw from the sea, the B&B works as a great base for any type of visitor

    Sights nearby  -  Take a day to trip to other island towns: Northeast Harbor and Southwest Harbor, before finishing at Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

    Minimum Stay  -  There is a 2 night minimum stay

    Adult Only

    

    Feel like you're staying at a friend's cottage at this charming owner run B&B in central Bar Harbor. Rooms have floral wallpaper, four-poster beds & French art work. Look out onto the garden's sculpture park from the large porch or relax in the antique-style living room with roaring fireplace. See More

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  • Chiltern Inn Bar Harbor (Maine) 7 rooms from £234

    
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    Back to Nature  -  Immerse yourself in this scenic part of New England. A range of local activities available mean spending all day outdoors

    Total relaxation  -  A great place to do very little; read in a book by a crackling fire or sun yourself in delightful country gardens

    Local exploring  -  It's less than a 10 minute walk into Bar Harbor with its shops, restaurants, galleries, museums and nightlife

    Sights nearby  -  Pack a picnic and head to Sand Beach for the day. Enjoy glittering white sand and a protected cove

    

    Historic inn situated in the converted Victorian stable and carriage house on an ambassador's estate. 7 beautiful room feature antiques, wooden floors & cosy window-seats. Facilities are very impressive: the lap pool, games room, garden, library, movie room and art gallery are all at your disposal. See More

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  • Bayview Hotel, Bar Harbor Bar Harbor (Maine) 26 rooms from £386

    
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    Back to Nature  -  Enjoy the views and fresh air from the property or explore the nearby mountains, national parks, beaches and trails

    Romantic Break  -  The grown-up but fun and playful vibe will especially suit couples. Each room has a private sea-view balcony

    Sights nearby  -  Spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing at the lovely and protected Sand Beach

    Kayaking  -  Take a kayak out into Frenchman Bay, dotted with picturesque islands

    

    Secluded waterfront property located on the outskirts of Bar Harbor. All of the 26 upscale yet homely guest rooms face the ocean, as do their private decks. Decor is contemporary and colourful, especially the lively lobby; rooms are decorated with local art. Breakfast and bar snacks are vegetarian. See More

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  • Bar Harbor Grand Hotel Bar Harbor (Maine) 70 rooms from £101

    
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    Country Escape  -  A charming hotel with top class services on the beautiful Mount Desert Island, with access to Acadia National Park

    Groups  -  With rooms that sleep up to four people the hotel is well equipped for groups of guests

    Great walks  -  This charming village offers very pleasant wandering opportunities

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    

    A grand hotel in Bar Harbor, on charming Mount Desert Island. Comfortable and spacious rooms come with a deluxe breakfast in the excellent restaurant. The staff are welcoming and warm and the swimming pool is a great addition. With a central village location, a gym and hot tub they have it all. See More

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  • Bass Cottage Inn Bar Harbor (Maine) 11 rooms from £210

    
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    Active Holiday  -  With Acadia National Park just a five minute drive from the property there are numerous outdoor pursuits to partake in

    Local exploring  -  Set in a quiet spot yet it is a very short walk to shops, restaurants, galleries and waterfront activities

    Great walks  -  Stroll along Bar Harbor Shore Path or try something a little more challenging in the national park

    Minimum Stay  -  Two-night minimum stay

    

    An elegant inn boasting a quiet location just minutes from the main attractions. Rooms are fresh and modern but the design is based on traditional style. Feast on gourmet breakfasts in the grand dining room before heading out to explore the town and nearby national park. A very comfy base. See More

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  • Ullikana Inn Bar Harbor (Maine) 11 rooms from £210

    
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    Active Holiday  -  Bar Harbor offers beautiful coastal scenery that can be enjoyed throughout the year; hike, bike, sail, kayak, golf or glide

    Total relaxation  -  The quiet and peaceful adult-only environment, proximity to the harbor and ocean views create a true holiday feeling

    Great walks  -  Head to Acadia National Park for a day of hiking. Cars are not required as there are regular bus tours to and from

    Sailing  -  Getting out onto the water is a must; head out whale-watching, on a nature cruise, lobster boat tour or kayaking

    

    English Tudor-style 19th century house transformed into tranquil inn with pretty interiors and homely feel. Charming decor blends floral prints with pastel colours. Old-fashioned gardens surround the property and it's a short walk to the sea. Enjoy breakfast at the inn next door, plus spa nearby. See More

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  • The Claremont, Southwest Harbor Southwest Harbor (Maine) 43 rooms from £230

    
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    Families  -  Ocean House is brilliant for families with several bedrooms, panoramic views, full kitchen, living area, fireplace and deck

    Local exploring  -  Complimentary use of bikes and golf carts is included. Head out to explore shops, restaurants & views

    Total relaxation  -  A summer holiday haven for all ages with family rooms, impressive facilities and perfect location

    Restaurant  -  Little Fern serves classic fare in friendly setting with fab views. Batson Fish Camp serves small plates on a private dock

    

    Historic water-front hotel transformed into deluxe family-friendly resort. Wide range of accommodation includes main house rooms, suites, cabins and cottages. There's direct water access, pool, spa, restaurants, bars, large garden and lawn games. Views over stunning Somes Sound carry the wow factor. See More

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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Monday, 22nd November 2021