Acadia National Park, Maine
We’re staying at the Holiday Inn Resort Bar Harbor for 3 nights—and let me tell you, the ocean-view room with a large balcony is a total win! The hotel has an on-site restaurant with stunning views (think unobstructed ocean vistas), though the food itself is just so-so. But the location? Perfect. It’s only 1 mile to both downtown Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park—super convenient for day trips and evening strolls. 🛏️🌊 I’ve visited Acadia twice now, and it’s absolutely worth the trip. A crucial reminder: Cadillac Mountain tickets go on sale starting April 15 at 10 AM ET—mark your calendars, set alarms, and be ready to book! These tickets sell out fast, so don’t wait. ⏰ Must-Know Tips & Top Attractions Bar Island (Tide Pooling): First, check the low tide schedule—timing is everything here! You can drive right up to the area. Pro tip for nature lovers: June-July is abalone season, and August brings starfish galore. It’s a fun spot for kids (and adults!) to hunt for sea creatures in the tidal pools. 🦪✨ Park Loop Road: This 27-mile scenic drive is like a postcard come to life! Along the way, you’ll pass Bubble Rock—that iconic boulder perched on the mountainside. Take your time, pull over at the viewpoints, and soak in the forest and ocean views. 🚗💨 Cadillac Mountain: The star of Acadia! It’s famous for being one of the first places in the US to see the sunrise (though we love it for sunsets too—less crowded, softer light). You must book a ticket in advance—no exceptions. Watching the sun dip below the ocean or peek over the mountains here is a moment you’ll never forget. 🌅🌄 Jordan Pond: A gem you can visit day or night! There’s a historic stone house (great for photos) and plenty of hiking trails—from easy loops to more challenging climbs. The pond’s crystal-clear water surrounded by mountains is serene at any hour. 🚶♂️💧 Penobscot Mountain Trail: Heads up—this trail is tough. It’s steep, rocky, and best for experienced hikers with good stamina. But the panoramic views from the top? Totally worth the sweat. ⛰️💪 Carriage Roads: These paved, car-free roads are perfect for biking! You can rent bikes at 141 Cottage St in downtown Bar Harbor—grab a bike, cruise through the woods, and enjoy the quiet (no car noise, just birds and wind). 🚲🌳 Sand Beach: A unique coastal spot with fine, light-colored sand. It’s small but charming—great for a quick walk or a picnic. Just note: The water is cold, even in summer! 🏖️❄️ Thunder Hole: Right near Sand Beach, this natural rock formation creates a “thunder” sound when waves crash into it (hence the name). Timing matters here too—go at high tide for the loudest, most dramatic effect. 🌊🔊 Nearby Trails (Thunder Hole Area): Ocean Path Trail: A gentle, scenic walk along the coast—perfect for casual hikers or anyone wanting to enjoy the sea breeze. Gorham Mountain Trail: A short but steep hike with incredible ocean views—great for a quick adventure. Otter Cliff Trail: Leads to Otter Cliff (see below)—rocky, rugged, and beautiful. Otter Cliff: A dramatic coastal cliff with sweeping ocean views. It’s a popular spot for photos, especially at sunset. Just stay on the trails— the rocks can be slippery! 🧗♀️🌉 Great Head Trail: A moderate hike that loops around Great Head, a rocky promontory. You’ll get mix of forest and ocean views, plus a chance to spot seabirds. 🐦 Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse: A classic New England lighthouse—and one of the best spots in Acadia for sunsets. The lighthouse perched on the rocky coast against the orange sky? Pure magic. 🗼🌇 #SeeTheWorld #HikingTrails #OffTheBeatenPathTravel #Travel #MyTravelDiary #TravelTheWorld #TravelGuide #RomanticLifeDiary #USA #StudyAbroad