Bar Harbor is a charming town along Maine’s stunning coast and serves as a home base for visitors who set out to explore Acadia National Park. Mountains, blue ocean, vibrant flowers, shops and impeccable dining make this a highly anticipated stop. Whether it is a quaint inn or larger hotel, most accommodations on Mount Desert Island have an ambiance that’s warm and inviting. Out of all the lovely places to stay in the coastal town, these are our favorites.
Bar Harbor Grand Hotel
Bar Harbor Grand Hotel exudes a traditional look, with comfortable rooms at a reasonable price. Truly a beautiful hotel, the exterior blends into the charming vibes of the cute town on Frenchman’s Bay. From a heated pool out back to the welcoming porch for gazing at the flowers and surrounding excitement in the front, the hotel has a completely relaxing nature. Breakfast is complimentary and features hot items, fruit, coffee and even prepackaged gluten-free blueberry muffins and bagels. The central location, impressive decor and affordable price tag make this a solid option.
Balance Rock Inn
Balance Rock Inn is a perfect blend of typical hotel and unique bed and breakfast, as the 1903 mansion has been modernized and accented with luxury. Rooms are spacious and often boast whirlpools and fireplaces, while guests can take a dip outside in the heated pool, with the most amazing, unobstructed views of Frenchman’s Bay. Mornings come complete with a generous hot breakfast buffet to fuel your exploration of downtown, or Acadia National Park, both of which are very close by.
The Bayview
The Bayview is also right on the water and is under 2 miles from both downtown and Acadia National Park. Modern artistic meets age-old inside the pleasantly basic digs and sunsets from each balcony will take your breath away. Breakfast is provided, there’s a lovely pool on site, and a complimentary shuttle with take you downtown if you’re not up for the short walk.
Bluenose Inn
The Bluenose Inn is a Bar Harbor fixture where vacationers have spent days in the warmer months for years, serving as a top hotel near Acadia National Park. Rooms are accented with rich, bold-colored carpets and floral linens appropriate to the area’s past. An indoor pool and hot tub are lit via arched windows, while there’s an outdoor pool with water views and surrounding native trees as well. A pianist in the commons area is a pleasant treat as you relax with tea or coffee, as are the basic breakfast items, which you can grab on the go when getting an early start hiking in Acadia.
Saltair Inn
Saltair Inn gives off the same nostalgic appeal as many other Bar Harbor hotels and accommodations. While updated in its own way, you’ll still find antique furniture, claw foot tubs and intricate tile work. Built in the late 1800s, every nook is unique, from each bedroom, bathroom and commons area. Frenchman’s Bay is pressed right up against Saltair, so views are abundant. Breakfast is served in the beautiful sunroom, where you also find tasty snacks throughout the day. Be sure to try the homemade cookies and muffins!
West Street Hotel
Looking for something a bit more modern? West Street Hotel is sleeker and less traditional, yet still very “Bar Harbor” with its clean-cut nautical theme. Rooms are crisp and enhanced, with lovely views right from your bed. Adults can find solace in a kid’s free rooftop infinity pool with what might arguably have the best glimpse of the bay in all of downtown. There’s also an on-site spa and a couple of swanky restaurants to choose from. However, you are right in Bar Harbor, so exploring by foot is also a great option.
Harborside Hotel, Spa and Marina
Harborside Hotel, Spa and Marina has a modern-day, craftsman Tudor look about it, and the inside is richly designed and quite upscale. Opt for a balcony hot tub so you can watch lobster boats in the bay while winding down with some wine. Right beside the water, the pool area is resort-like, very inviting and also features a multi-person hot tub. Of course, there’s a spa and restaurants to round out your experience. Harborside Hotel is both luxurious and traditional.
Bar Harbor Inn
Bar Harbor Inn and Spa is undoubtedly eye-catching and sits snug against the water’s edge of Frenchman’s Bay. Simply stunning classic decor embodies the age-old lovability of the downtown area, and the place is enormous thanks to seamless additions over the years. Classic rooms with water views have homey touches and, at times, two levels, so it feels like you’re in a little townhome. Breakfast is complimentary, but great restaurants are right across the street. A beautiful path wraps around the front of the inn and is breathtaking at sunrise or sunset.
