Home to the only fjord on the U.S. East Coast, Somes Sound, Mount Desert Island welcomes over 3.5 million visitors annually to Acadia National Park. This 108-square-mile island (pronounced “dessert” but known locally as just “MDI”) offers a perfect blend of rugged coastlines, pristine lakes, and charming coastal towns that have attracted everyone from the Rockefellers to modern celebrities like Martha Stewart. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, culinary delights, or simply a peaceful retreat into nature, Mount Desert Island delivers an authentic Maine experience unlike any other.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Mount Desert Island is accessible by car via a short causeway connecting it to mainland Maine. Most visitors arrive by flying into Bangor International Airport (BGR), located about 76 km (47 miles) away, or Portland International Jetport (PWM), which is 280 km (175 miles) from the island but offers more flight options.
If driving from Boston, the journey takes approximately 4.5 hours along I-95 and Route 1A. Once on the island, you’ll need a vehicle to explore fully, though free shuttle buses operate throughout Acadia National Park during summer months.
For those preferring to arrive by sea, Bar Harbor is a popular cruise port with ships docking from May through October. This option allows you to experience the island’s coastal beauty before even stepping ashore.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Mount Desert Island experiences distinct seasons, each offering a unique experience for visitors. Your ideal visit time depends on your priorities and tolerance for crowds.
| Season | Temperature | Crowds | Highlights |
| Summer (June-August) | 18–26°C (65–80°F) | Very high | All attractions open, perfect hiking weather, swimming at Sand Beach |
| Fall (September-October) | 7–18°C (45–65°F) | Moderate | Spectacular foliage, fewer crowds, crisp hiking conditions |
| Winter (November-March) | -7–4°C (20–40°F) | Very low | Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, solitude |
| Spring (April-May) | 4–15°C (40–60°F) | Low | Wildflowers, bird watching, pre-season tranquility |
Pro Tip: September and early October offer the perfect balance of pleasant weather, stunning fall colors, and fewer crowds than summer. Many consider this the ideal time to visit Mount Desert Island.
Pack layers regardless of when you visit, as coastal weather can change quickly. Even summer evenings can be cool, especially near the water. If visiting during peak season (July-August), make reservations well in advance for accommodations and popular activities.
Getting Around Locally
Navigating Mount Desert Island offers several options depending on your preferences and itinerary:
Island Explorer Shuttle
The free Island Explorer shuttle system operates from late June through mid-October, connecting Bar Harbor with Acadia National Park and surrounding communities. These propane-powered buses reduce traffic and parking issues while providing convenient transportation to major attractions.
Personal Vehicle
Having your own car or rental vehicle offers maximum flexibility for exploring the island, especially for reaching less accessible areas or visiting during off-season when shuttles aren’t running. Note that Cadillac Mountain requires vehicle reservations during peak season.
Bicycling
The 45 miles of carriage roads in Acadia National Park provide car-free cycling opportunities on crushed-stone surfaces. Bike rentals are available in Bar Harbor and other communities, offering a scenic and eco-friendly way to explore.
Walking
Bar Harbor and other villages are pedestrian-friendly, with many shops, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. The Shore Path in Bar Harbor offers a scenic 1.5-mile coastal walk with beautiful views.
Where to Stay
Mount Desert Island offers diverse accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. From historic hotels to cozy cottages, your lodging choice can enhance your island experience.
Bar Harbor
The island’s largest town offers the widest selection of accommodations, from luxury waterfront hotels like the Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina to charming B&Bs. Staying here puts you within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the Shore Path.
Southwest Harbor
This quieter village on the “quiet side” of the island features upscale options like The Claremont Hotel, a beautifully renovated historic property overlooking Somes Sound. Perfect for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
Northeast Harbor
An exclusive community with elegant inns and rental properties, Northeast Harbor offers a sophisticated retreat with easy access to Acadia’s eastern trails and Jordan Pond.
Booking Tip: Accommodations fill quickly for summer months. Reserve 6-12 months in advance for July and August visits, especially for waterfront properties.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Mount Desert Island’s culinary scene celebrates Maine’s bounty, from ocean-fresh seafood to locally grown produce. Don’t leave without trying these regional specialties:
Lobster Experiences
From classic lobster rolls at Abel’s Lobster to full shore dinners with all the fixings, the island offers countless ways to enjoy Maine’s signature seafood. For an authentic experience, try a lobster pound where you can select your own lobster from the tank.
Farm-to-Table Dining
Restaurants like Little Fern at The Claremont showcase seasonal ingredients from local farms. Look for Maine blueberries, which appear in everything from pancakes to pies during summer months.
Sweet Treats
Mount Desert Island Ice Cream in Bar Harbor offers creative flavors made with local ingredients. Don’t miss the popovers at Jordan Pond House, a tradition since the 1890s, served with Maine maple syrup and strawberry jam.
“The restaurant at Under Canvas, while staying faithful to the idea of a semi-rustic canteen, was a showcase of just how extraordinary a simple menu of local ingredients can be.”
Local Tip: For the best dining experience during peak season, make dinner reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants like Little Fern and Abel’s Lobster.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Acadia National Park dominates Mount Desert Island’s landscape, offering countless natural wonders to explore. Beyond the park, charming villages and cultural attractions round out your island experience.
Acadia National Park Highlights
Cadillac Mountain
The highest point on the North Atlantic seaboard at 466 m (1,530 feet), Cadillac Mountain offers spectacular sunrise views. From October to March, it’s the first place in the United States to see the sunrise. Vehicle reservations are required during peak season.
Park Loop Road
This 27-mile scenic drive connects the park’s major attractions, including Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Otter Cliff, and Jordan Pond. Allow at least half a day to enjoy the stops along this route.
Carriage Roads
Built by John D. Rockefeller Jr. between 1913 and 1940, these 45 miles of crushed-stone pathways wind through the park’s interior, featuring 17 stone bridges and offering car-free recreation for walkers, cyclists, and horseback riders.
Beyond the Park
Bar Harbor
The island’s commercial hub features charming shops, galleries, and restaurants. Walk the Shore Path for scenic views, visit the Abbe Museum to learn about the Wabanaki peoples, or join a whale-watching cruise from the town pier.
Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
This iconic lighthouse on the southwestern tip of the island is one of Maine’s most photographed landmarks, especially at sunset when the light illuminates the granite structure against the darkening sky.
Wild Gardens of Acadia
Located at Sieur de Monts Spring, this botanical garden showcases more than 400 plant species native to Mount Desert Island, arranged in natural habitats from mountain to seaside.
Outdoor Adventures
Mount Desert Island’s diverse landscape offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, from gentle nature walks to challenging mountain climbs.
Hiking
With over 120 miles of trails ranging from easy woodland walks to challenging iron-rung routes, Acadia offers hiking for all abilities. Popular trails include Ocean Path (easy), Jordan Pond Loop (moderate), and the Precipice Trail (difficult).
Water Activities
Kayak or canoe on peaceful lakes like Jordan Pond and Eagle Lake, or join a guided sea kayaking tour to explore the island’s rugged coastline and observe wildlife from the water.
Wildlife Watching
Spot harbor seals along the coast, listen for loons on Jordan Pond, or join a puffin-watching cruise to nearby islands. Birdwatchers can observe over 300 species throughout the year, including peregrine falcons that nest on the cliffs.
Safety Note: Some trails close seasonally for peregrine falcon nesting. These closures protect both the endangered birds and visitors, as falcons can dive at speeds up to 240 mph and may attack anything near their nests.
Practical Travel Tips
Make the most of your Mount Desert Island adventure with these essential tips from experienced visitors.
Park Passes
Purchase your Acadia National Park pass online before arrival to save time. Options include 7-day vehicle passes ($30) or the America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) if you plan to visit multiple national parks within a year.
Cell Service
Cell phone coverage is spotty within Acadia National Park. Download maps, trail guides, and reservation details before entering remote areas, or you may need to drive to a village to regain signal.
Parking Strategy
During peak season, popular parking areas like Sand Beach and Jordan Pond fill early, often by 9 AM. Arrive early, use the Island Explorer shuttle, or visit these spots in late afternoon when crowds thin.
What to Pack
- Layers for variable weather
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Insect repellent (especially May-July)
- Reusable water bottle
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Rain gear (even in summer)
What to Avoid
Experience the Magic of Mount Desert Island
From the granite peaks of Acadia National Park to the charming streets of Bar Harbor, Mount Desert Island offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and coastal New England charm. Whether you’re watching the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, savoring a lobster roll by the harbor, or hiking along centuries-old carriage roads, the island creates memories that last a lifetime.
With thoughtful planning and these insider tips, you’ll be well-prepared to experience all that makes Mount Desert Island one of America’s most beloved destinations. Pack your sense of adventure and prepare to be captivated by this remarkable corner of Maine’s coastline.
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