Bar Harbor’s Coastal Charm & Natural Wonders

Bar Harbor, Maine, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities and coastal charm. The city is nestled in the rugged beauty of Maine’s coastline and known for its iconic lighthouses, fresh seafood and rich maritime history. From lobster to lighthouses, there’s something for every Christian traveler to enjoy. We’ve curated a few of the best experiences you can look forward to on our Canada & New England cruises.

Iconic Lighthouses

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There’s nothing like visiting a lighthouse to awaken your sense of history and maritime life. Five lighthouses are within 20 miles of Bar Harbor, including Bear Island Lighthouse, Baker Island Lighthouse and Great Duck Island Lighthouse! Two of the most memorable are:

Egg Rock Lighthouse

Begin your lighthouse tour with a short ferry ride to the enchanting island of Egg Rock, just off Bar Harbor’s coast. As you approach, see seals basking in the sunshine. Wildflowers and wind-swept grass flourish despite the island’s rocky terrain. Built in 1875, it aids navigation in Frenchman Bay. It’s a reminder of Bar Harbor’s maritime heritage and the importance of lighthouses in guiding sailors and ships to safety.

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

One of the most photographed lighthouses in Maine, Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is perched on cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It features a distinctive tower with a black-iron lantern room and a red roof. Take pictures and reflect on how this lighthouse has guided ships for more than a century. Visit the restored Keeper’s Quarters and learn about the daily life of keepers and the challenges they encountered.

Natural Wonders

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There’s much to experience in and around Bar Harbor, especially if you love the outdoors. Wherever you go, you’ll be amazed at God’s creation!

Bar Island

Access this hidden gem during low tide by walking across the Bar Harbor sandbar. Enjoy stunning views of Frenchman Bay and the surrounding islands. Follow one of the many trails past ponds and spot wildlife in this diverse coastal ecosystem. Collect seashells and marvel at the marine life and colorful sea creatures temporarily caught in the island’s tidal pools.

Acadia National Park

Step into wonder as the scent of pine, a salty breeze and the rustle of leaves welcome you. You’ll explore forested terrain, rocky shorelines and secluded beaches. You may even encounter white-tailed deer and red foxes. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise with more than 300 bird species. See bald eagles, peregrine falcons, ruby-throated hummingbirds and more! As you hike, beauty awaits you around every corner—cascading waterfalls, hidden coves and panoramic viewpoints will leave you in awe of God’s creative power.

Cadillac Mountain Sunrise

Take a scenic drive to the highest peak in Acadia National Park. A panorama of rolling hills, rocky cliffs and the endless expanse of the Atlantic Ocean await you. And if you’re there from October 7 to March 6, it is the first place in the United States to view the sunrise.

History & Coastal Charm

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Bar Harbor boasts a rich history steeped in maritime tradition. Initially inhabited by the Wabanaki Nations and visited by European explorers in the 17th century, Bar Harbor became a cherished destination for luminaries such as the Rockefellers and Vanderbilts. Many of the elegant mansions, charming cottages and grand hotels from the past have been preserved and repurposed as inns, museums and private residences.

The Bar Harbor Shore Path

For a glimpse of Bar Harbor’s heritage, you’ll love this picturesque trail that meanders along the coastline. Glimpse majestic cliffs as you stroll past seaside cottages and lush gardens. A few historic sites along the way include Bar Harbor Inn from the 19th century and Agamont Park, which features a landmark bandstand and beautifully landscaped gardens.

St. Saviour’s Episcopal Church

Pause with other Christian travelers for a moment of quiet reflection and prayer as you admire this historic church’s stained glass windows and graceful archways. It was established in 1877. Don’t forget to step outside and stroll through the meticulously landscaped grounds. It’s the perfect place for a picture with loved ones and new friends.

Abbe Museum

The Abbe Museum is a beacon of culture, preserving and celebrating the history and living traditions of the Wabanaki Nations, the Indigenous peoples of Maine. From intricate woven baskets and beadwork to contemporary artwork, you’ll marvel at their ingenuity, creativity and resilience.

Famous Food

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While traveling, sharing delicious food with loved ones is one of the top experiences travelers anticipate. Bar Harbor offers a variety of delectable dishes, vibrant flavors and unique culinary creations. A few of the dishes our travel experts highly recommend are:

• Lobster Rolls
  This Maine delicacy is succulent lobster meat often mixed with mayonnaise and celery and served on a buttered and toasted bun.
• Clam Chowder
  This hearty soup is creamy, rich and brimming with fresh clams, potatoes and savory herbs.
• Seafood Platters
  Try a bit of everything with a bounty of local catches—lobster, shrimp, crab, scallops and oysters.
• Blueberry Pie
  Maine is famous for its wild blueberries. These sweet, juicy berries are baked in a flaky crust and served with vanilla ice cream for a slice of summer perfection.
• Clam Bakes
  Steamed together, clams, lobster, corn on the cob and potatoes infuse each bite with flavor. Share a communal feast for a memorable dining experience.

We can’t wait to return to Bar Harbor and would love for you to join us. Click here for our upcoming Canada & New England cruises.