Where are the best places to stay in Bar Harbor Maine?
Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park and one of New England’s most charming coastal towns. With its scenic harbor views, quaint downtown, and easy access to hiking trails and carriage roads, it’s no wonder visitors flock here year-round.
Whether you’re planning a summer adventure, a cozy fall getaway, or a winter retreat, choosing the right hotel will make your Bar Harbor trip unforgettable. From luxurious waterfront resorts to cozy inns and family-friendly lodges, there’s something for every style of traveler.
I’ve rounded up the accommodations in Bar Harbor, ME – perfect for couples, families, solo travelers, and anyone looking to experience the magic of Mount Desert Island.
Quick Tip: Bar Harbor is especially busy in summer and fall foliage season. Book early to secure your preferred hotel!
Don’t have time to read the whole article? My top pick for the best place to stay Bar Harbor Maine is the stunning Bar Harbor Inn & Spa.
Staying in Bar Harbor means waking up to ocean breezes, walking to downtown shops and restaurants, and being just minutes from Acadia’s scenic drives and trails. These hotels give you a perfect base for exploring it all.
Let’s take a look at the best hotels in Bar Harbor, ME for your Acadia vacation.
Table of Contents
My Top 3 Picks: Best Bar Harbor Hotels
Just want the best of the best? These top 3 picks were hand-picked for their location, guest experience, and unique charm:
🥇 Bar Harbor Inn & Spa
Best for luxury seekers and couples looking for a waterfront escape.
🥈 The Pathmaker Hotel
Best for travelers seeking a stylish, modern boutique stay with free parking and breakfast
Comparison of the Top Hotels in Bar Harbor, Maine
Here’s a quick comparison of my top 10 Bar Harbor hotels to help you choose:
| Name | Photo | Location | Why Book | Rating | Book Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bar Harbor Inn & Spa | | Waterfront | Luxury, spa, ocean views, walk downtown. | 9.2 | BOOK NOW |
| The Pathmaker Hotel | | Cottage Street | Modern amenities, free breakfast, free parking, stylish design. | 9.1 | BOOK NOW |
| Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center |  | Near downtown | Affordable, ocean views, indoor pool | 8.6 | BOOK NOW |
| Best Western Acadia Park Inn |  | Near Acadia | Budget-friendly, breakfast, quiet | 8.7 | BOOK NOW |
| Acadia Inn |  | Near Acadia | Family-friendly, affordable, pool | 8.7 | BOOK NOW |
| West Street Hotel |  | West Street | Exceptional inn, intimacy, high guest rating, charm | 9.0 | BOOK NOW |
| Bar Harbor Grand Hotel |  | Downtown | Victorian charm, modern comforts | 9.0 | BOOK NOW |
| Bluenose Inn |  | Hilltop | Sweeping views, indoor and outdoor pool | 8.5 | BOOK NOW |
| Primrose Inn |  | Downtown | Cozy B&B, gourmet breakfast | 9.3 | BOOK NOW |
| The Bayview |  | Waterfront | Private balconies, luxury experience | 9.1 | BOOK NOW |
My Top Picks for the Nicest Hotels in Bar Harbor Maine
Here’s a quick overview of my favorite picks for different types of travelers:
| Best For | Hotel Name |
| 🏨 Luxury Stay | Bar Harbor Inn & Spa |
| 🏩Boutique Charm | The Pathmaker Hotel |
| 💰 Budget Option | Atlantic Oceanside Hotel |
| 🌊 Ocean Views | The Bayview |
| ✨Best Mid-Range Hotel | Bar Harbor Grand Hotel |
Where to Stay in Bar Harbor for Your Trip
Here’s a quick breakdown of Bar Harbor’s areas to help you decide:
Downtown Bar Harbor
Downtown Bar Harbor hotels are super convenient. This is the heart of town, with restaurants, shops, and access to the waterfront.
Stay here if: You want to walk everywhere, enjoy lively evenings, and be close to tours and excursions. Perfect for first-timers.
West Street Waterfront
Known for its harbor views and luxury hotels, this area is a favorite for couples and anyone seeking a scenic stay.
Stay here if: You’re looking for hotels in Bar Harbor Maine on the water. Many rooms have stunning water views, easy access to boat tours, and a quieter yet central vibe.
Near Acadia National Park Entrance
Hotels here offer quick access to park trails and are slightly removed from the downtown bustle.
Stay here if: You’re focused on hiking and nature and don’t mind a short drive into town. Ideal for families and adventurers.
10 Best Hotels: Bar Harbor, Maine
There are plenty of nice hotels in Bar Harbor Maine.
1. Bar Harbor Inn & Spa
📍 Address: 1 Newport Drive, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
This iconic waterfront hotel is Bar Harbor’s crown jewel and I think the best luxury hotel in Bar Harbor Maine. With sweeping views of Frenchman Bay, a world-class spa, and elegant rooms, it’s perfect for couples or anyone wanting a luxurious stay.
❓ Why Stay Here?
If you’re looking for the best hotel Bar Harbor Maine and dreaming of waking up to ocean views, indulging in spa treatments, and dining on fine local seafood, this historic inn delivers a quintessential Bar Harbor experience with an upscale twist.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Oceanfront location, full-service spa, fine dining.
❎ The Worst Parts: Higher price point, books up fast in summer.
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Couples, honeymooners, or travelers wanting to splurge on a luxury stay.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
2. The Pathmaker Hotel
📍 Address: 77 Cottage Street, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
The Pathmaker is a fresh, modern boutique hotel opened recently. Rooms are stylish and comfortable, featuring elevated décor, custom furnishings (Ethan Allen in many cases), luxurious beds, smart TVs, mini-fridge and microwave combos, free WiFi, and more.
❓ Why Stay Here?
The Pathmaker Hotel offers a stylish, modern boutique experience with free breakfast and parking, all within walking distance of downtown Bar Harbor and Acadia’s main entrance.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Its design and newness — feels fresh, clean, modern with niceties (e.g. fridge/microwave) that make longer stays comfortable.
❎ The Worst Parts: More expensive than motels or simpler inns. Ground floor economy rooms have some street noise.
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Someone who wants stylish comfort, modern amenities, and walking access to downtown without compromising too much on price.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
3. Atlantic Oceanside Hotel
📍 Address: 119 Eden Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Affordable yet scenic, this property features indoor and outdoor pools, direct ocean access, and a casual atmosphere.
❓ Why Stay Here?
This is the go-to spot for travelers who want ocean views without the luxury price tag. With plenty of space and family-friendly amenities, it’s a solid all-around choice.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Ocean views, affordable rates, indoor pool.
❎ The Worst Parts: Slightly dated décor in some rooms.
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Budget-conscious travelers who still want water views.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
4. Best Western Acadia Park Inn
📍 Address: 452 State Hwy 3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Budget-friendly hotel near Acadia with breakfast and quiet surroundings.
❓ Why Stay Here?
It’s the best value near the park entrance.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Affordable, peaceful.
❎ The Worst Parts: Not walkable to downtown.
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Budget-conscious travelers.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
5. Acadia Inn
📍 Address: 98 Eden Street, Bar Harbor, ME, 04609
Set on four wooded acres just outside town, steps from Acadia trails, this is a family-friendly classic.
❓ Why Stay Here?
Stay here if you want easy access to Acadia National Park hikes, a laid-back vibe, and extra amenities like a pool and s’mores nights.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: 9.2 Booking rating (“wonderful”), direct trail access, hearty buffet breakfast
❎ The Worst Parts: A short drive required to reach downtown; parking on-site mandatory
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Families or outdoor enthusiasts looking for convenience and value.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
6. Sand Bar Cottage Inn
📍 Address: 106 West Street, Bar Harbor, ME, 04609
A charming inn, smaller scale, high guest satisfaction. The décor tends to lean cozy and quaint, not overly luxurious but polished. Beautiful features, excellent staff, strong breakfasts, and a more intimate feeling than large hotels.
❓ Why Stay Here?
Sand Bar Cottage Inn combines cozy, historic charm with exceptional breakfasts and warm hospitality, making it a perfect intimate retreat just steps from downtown Bar Harbor.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Warm, personal service. Great breakfast. Feels like a place you could stay several nights and really settle in.
❎ The Worst Parts: Limited amenities compared to bigger hotels (fewer in-house services).
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Travelers who prefer intimacy, character, and a cozy retreat rather than full resort-scale features.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
7. Bar Harbor Grand Hotel
📍 Address: 60 West Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Another of my favorite best boutique hotels in Bar Harbor. A beautiful Victorian-style hotel combining historic charm with modern comforts.
❓ Why Stay Here?
Steeped in local history and elegance, it’s perfect for travelers who want heritage and a polished stay downtown.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Free parking, heated pool, hearty breakfast buffet, gracious service
❎ The Worst Parts: A little removed from the waterfront bustle
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: History lovers and guests who value classic charm with modern service.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
8. Bluenose Inn
📍 Address: 90 Eden Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Located on a hill with sweeping bay views, this stone-built inn offers a laid-back, refined stay.
❓ Why Stay Here?
Choose this if you want serene ocean views, proximity to town and park, plus a cozy pool.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Great staff, pool, restaurant with bay view
❎ The Worst Parts: Rooms slightly set back from the downtown core
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Couples and families seeking a peaceful yet well-appointed stay.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
9. Primrose Inn
📍 Address: 49 High Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
A charming B&B in a restored 1878 cottage, blending historic architectural style with modern comforts.
Why Stay Here?
❓ If you love B&B warmth. This place delivers excellent breakfasts, personalized service, and a cozy fireside feel.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Delicious breakfast, lovely snacks, serene atmosphere, close to town
❎ The Worst Parts: Small number of rooms; it’s a quiet but more distant location
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Couples or solo travelers seeking intimate, relaxed lodging.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
10. The Bayview Hotel
📍 Address: 3 Bayview Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
A recently refreshed waterfront boutique with all rooms overlooking Frenchman Bay.
❓ Why Stay Here?
Ideal for ocean-view seekers. Every suite has a private deck; plus enjoy a wine bar and shuttle service.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Private decks, intimate wine bar, shuttle into town, solid scenic rating
❎ The Worst Parts: Shuttle is handy but adds dependency; prices reflect luxury views
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Travelers craving panoramic sunrise views and boutique hospitality.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
Map of Best Accommodations in Bar Harbor Maine
Use this interactive map to see where these Bar Harbor accommodations are located:
Enjoy your stay wherever you choose!
Do you have any other tip picks for the best places to stay in Bar Harbor, ME? I’d love to hear about it. Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).
If you liked this guide to the best hotels in Bar Harbor, Pin It to your Acadia National Park and Accommodations boards!
About the Author
James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.
He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.
Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for many of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, and other resources will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Newsweek, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
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