TRAVEL
The Mount Desert Island, Maine Travel Guide
August 7, 2026
We’re all about making bucket lists and finding the fun. Here’s where to stay, eat, and shop in coastal Maine, according to Tuckernuck.
Bike the Carriage Roads
Rent bikes in Bar Harbor and cruise the peaceful, pine-lined trails Rockefeller built—no cars, just lakes, stone bridges, and fresh air.
Explore Somesville
Snap a photo at the iconic white footbridge, then wander this quiet, historic village at your own pace.
Catch the Sunset
The postcard-worthy views at Bass Harbor Head Light always draw a crowd at golden hour. Go early for parking and grab a front-row spot on the rocks.
Walk the Bar
At low tide, a sandbar links Bar Harbor to Bar Island. Kick off your shoes and stroll across—but keep a close eye on the tide chart unless you’re up for a swim back!
The Mount Desert Island Look
Iconic American style feels right at home on Mount Desert Island. Pack heritage knits, nautical stripes, easy layers, and lived-in classics—no need for anything too fancy or showy.
Getting There
Fly into Bangor International Airport (1 hour away) or Bar Harbor Airport (25 mins), then rent a car. The scenic drive over the Trenton Bridge onto MDI sets the tone—crisp pine air, winding roads, and water views.
Charming inns and glamping hideaways offer something for every kind of traveler.
The Claremont Hotel
A historic stunner with a fresh new look—think sunset views over Somes Sound, lawn games with cocktails, and classic Maine charm turned chic.
Asticou Inn
Step back in time (in the best way). This breezy, porch-wrapped inn overlooks the harbor and gardens, and feels like summer vacation from another era.
Terramor
A glamping spot like no other, where luxury safari tents come with firepits, plush beds, and big starry skies.
Cottage Rentals
For longer stays, family trips, or extra space, rent a house in Northeast Harbor, Somesville, or Southwest Harbour for less touristy, fishing village vibes.
Come for the views, stay for the lobster (and legendary popovers).
Lunch & Lobster Rolls
Little Notch Bakery & Café
Stop by this Southwest Harbor favorite for fresh bread, sandwiches, and pastries to bring along for the day’s adventures.
Mother’s Kitchen
A beloved Town Hill sandwich stop known for their hearty, picnic-ready lunches, baked goods, and coffee.
Milk & Honey
Hidden just off Main Street, this cozy sandwich shop is picnic central. Grab a veggie panini, a cookie, and hit the trail.
Thurston’s Lobster Pound
A no-frills seafood restaurant overlooking the harbor in the tiny fishing village of Bernard. Order at the counter and grab a picnic table for a quintessential Maine meal.
Colonel’s Restaurant & Bakery
This friendly spot is ideal for a quick bite or a sweet treat, especially before hitting the trails.
Jordan Pond House
The popovers and strawberry jam are iconic—but the views of Jordan Pond and the Bubbles are just as unforgettable.
Charlotte’s Legendary Lobster Pound
Live music, lobster rolls, and picnic tables under the trees—this Southwest Harbor gem lives up to the hype.
Abel’s Lobster
With picnic tables, a firepit, and shoreline views, this laid-back shack is the definition of summer in Maine.
Ted’s Takeout
This food truck at the Northwest Harbor marina is a must-stop for a lobster roll and clam chowder, plus plenty of options for the non-seafood lovers in your group.
Bar Harbour Lobster Pound
This casual roadside shack has ample outdoor seating and an ice cream boat —aka a great spot to bring the kids.
Dinner
Little Fern at The Claremont
Sunset harbor views, coastal elegance, and a menu that lets Maine’s best shine. Order the pan-seared halibut or any of the specials—you won’t regret it.
The Batson River Lounge at The Claremont
Kick back by the water with a craft cocktail and some next-level pub fare. The perfect way to toast a day outdoors.
Islesford Dock
Fresh lobster rolls, haddock tacos, and blueberry pie are served right on the dock at this beloved Little Cranberry Island spot—just hop the mailboat from Northeast Harbor.
Dahlia’s At The Asticou
Grab dinner or drinks at the newly renovated Asticou’s signature restaurant—a light, airy, trendy space with classic Northeast Harbor views we always come back for.
Sweet Pea’s Farm Kitchen
Set on a winery overlooking beautiful gardens, Sweet Pea’s is a great spot for the kids to run around while you enjoy a delicious farm-to-table meal.
Markets
Parsons’ Lobster
Pick up fresh fish, lobster, and local seafood to cook at home—the perfect excuse to book a cottage with a kitchen.
Beech Hill Farm
Stop by the farm stand for seasonal produce, flowers, and fresh produce grown right on Mount Desert Island.
Shopping here feels like New England at its best—stylish, charming, and nautical.
Shaw Jewelry
This Northeast Harbor shop features collectible, locally made fine jewelry inspired by the island’s natural beauty.
Kimball Shop & Boutique
Classic sweaters, striped tees, and the kind of hostess gifts that always hit the right note. A Northeast Harbor staple.
The Rusticator
Part antiques, part coastal-cool home shop—it’s like your most stylish friend opened a store.
Artemis Gallery
Browse paintings, sculpture, and other works by local artists with strong ties to Maine and Acadia National Park.
Swallowfield
A tiny shop in Northeast Harbor that we can’t resist—packed to the brim with unique home finds, letterpress cards, jewelry, and charming gifts for just about anyone.
Islesford Dock Shops
If you make the trip to Little Cranberry Island, leave enough time to browse the tiny shops around the dock, like Islesford Pottery and Winters Work (sweaters, bracelets, and gifts made by locals).
Window Panes
From cozy blankets to Maine-made kitchenware, this Bar Harbor shop is a delight to browse—especially on a rainy day.
Slack Tide Shop
Tucked into a tiny red building near Thurston’s Lobster Pound in Bernard, this curated shop carries Maine-made gifts, art, jewelry, home goods, and coastal finds.
Arts and End
A Northeast Harbour treasure box of high-end, vintage finds—think Chanel flats, Yves Saint Laurent jackets, and cool costume jewelry.
Get outside and explore—Acadia’s magic awaits around every corner.
Garden Walks
Take a quiet stroll through the beautifully landscaped Asticou Azalea and Thuya Gardens in Northeast Harbor—perfect for slow afternoons.
Brown Mountain Carriage Roads
Start near Northeast Harbor to explore these quieter, less-traveled trails on foot or bike—ideal for a morning adventure.
Sail from Northeast Harbor
Charter a classic wooden sailboat or hop aboard a harbor cruise for a breezy tour with postcard-worthy views.
Evenings at The Claremont
Settle into an Adirondack chair for cocktails, croquet, and stargazing by the firepits—the best end to a Maine day.
Where to Hike
EASY AND KID-FRIENDLY
Wonderland - Flat and along rocky waters
Flying Mountain - Short with a bit of elevation. Pack a picnic and start at the private beach on Somesville Sound, then take the fire access road back to the parking lot.
Little Long Pond Loop - Set along a gorgeous preserve, and good for blueberry picking in July.
Jesup Path and Hemlock Path Loop
MODERATE
Beech Mountain
Great Head
Gorham Mountain
DIFFICULT
Beehive - One of the most iconic hikes in all of US. ladders. Not suitable for kids or dogs!
St. Sauveur and Acadia Mountain Loop
We hope this inspires you to book a trip,
pack your bags, and plan your itinerary!