Guide to The Best Hotels, Inns, and Lodging on Mount Desert Island Maine

Along the Maine Coast in the Downeast & Acadia region, Mount Desert Island is celebrated for its natural beauty and attractions. Home to Acadia National Park, it features rugged coastlines, dense forests, serene lakes, and Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on the East Coast.

The island’s charming towns, like Bar Harbor, offer vibrant arts scenes, shops, and dining. Visitors can explore scenic Park Loop Road, Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, and Thunder Hole. Combining stunning landscapes with cultural attractions, Mount Desert Island is a top destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

Know Your Lodging Options on Mount Desert Island Maine

Mount Desert Island offers diverse lodging options. In Bar Harbor, choose from hotels, resorts, and charming bed and breakfasts with easy access to restaurants and shops. Waterfront lodgings provide stunning ocean views but are pricier and less accessible.

Southwest Harbor and Northeast Harbor feature vacation rentals and smaller inns for a quieter stay. For proximity to Acadia National Park, consider lodges and campgrounds near the park’s entrance. Each area on the island has unique charms, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Featured Mount Desert Island Maine Lodging

Acadia Inn | Bar Harbor 207-288-3500 | 98 Eden Street, Bar Harbor, Maine

The Acadia Inn sits on four acres bordering Acadia National Park and the coastal village of Bar Harbor. Whether you are visiting for a classic family vacation or seeking adventure, the Acadia Inn is your perfect fit. Our hotel has all the essentials - comfortable rooms, affordable rates, modern amenities, and a great location. Plus, direct trail access to Acadia National Park; family activities, such as movies on the lawn and s’mores, a pool, playground, and a relaxing atmosphere. Learn More

Bar Harbor Villager Motel | Bar Harbor 888-383-3211 | 207 Main St, Bar Harbor, Maine

The Bar Harbor Villager Motel is in the heart of downtown Bar Harbor close to shops, restaurants, activities, and the beautiful Bar Harbor Waterfront. With our in-town location, free off-street parking for guests, and the free Island Explorer bus service (May-October) which departs from just around the corner - you can access all the incredible features of downtown Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park without ever getting back in your car. Learn More

Bar Harbor Motel | Bar Harbor 207-288-3453 | 100 Eden St, Bar Harbor, Maine

Nestled close to Acadia National Park, the Bar Harbor Motel is offers so much. You can hike, bike, shop, and dine, all within a mile or two of our drive. The Motel also offers on-site amenities to make your trip spectacular. Our heated outdoor pool, playgrounds, lawn games, and kid-focused activities make your days filled with fun! The Island Explorer bus stop, on-site trail access to the park, bicycle storage, complimentary continental breakfast, and guest laundry make it simple. Learn More

Seaside Cottages | Southwest Harbor / Tremont 207-244-7746 | 41 Gunlow Pond Road, West Tremont, ME

My husband and I invite you to share the beauty of our property on the western side of Mount Desert Island. Our home and cottages share 500 feet of bold granite and stone beach shoreline with a southwesterly exposure on Blue Hill Bay. Our location is private, decidedly uncommercial yet convenient to surrounding towns and Acadia National Park. Our rates are competitive and the setting incomparable. We rent weekly Saturday to Saturday. Come, relax and enjoy the peace and quiet with us. Learn More

Harbour Cottage Inn | Southwest Harbor 207-244-5738 | 9 Dirigo Road, Southwest Harbor, Maine

This historic Inn is an 1870's Victorian bed and breakfast, situated atop Dirigo Hill and overlooking the picturesque waters of Southwest Harbor. Located on Mt Desert Island near Bar Harbor and world-famous Acadia National Park. The Inn is within walking distance of wonderful restaurants, shopping, marinas, and lobster wharves. The Bowsprit Bar at the Harbour Cottage Inn also offers guests a relaxed evening on the beautiful deck and porch. Learn More

Getting to Know the Mt Desert Island Maine Area

Mount Desert Island, home to Acadia National Park, offers stunning coastal and mountain vistas. With 17 mountains and four lakes, it attracts millions annually. Beyond Acadia, the island’s towns and offshore islands provide unique experiences, blending National Park Service lands, preserves, town-owned areas, and private properties.

Bar Harbor | A Charming Gateway to Acadia National Park

Scenic Beauty & Natural Attractions

Bar Harbor is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. As the gateway to Acadia National Park, it offers access to breathtaking landscapes, including rocky coastlines, lush forests, and serene lakes. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, and wildlife watching, and Cadillac Mountain provides some of the most spectacular sunrise views on the East Coast.

Vibrant Downtown & Cultural Scene

The town of Bar Harbor boasts a vibrant downtown area filled with charming shops, art galleries, and an array of dining options. From fresh seafood restaurants to cozy cafes, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

The local arts scene is thriving with numerous galleries showcasing the work of talented artists. And seasonal events, such as the Bar Harbor Music Festival, add to the town’s cultural appeal, offering entertainment and enrichment for visitors of all ages.

Rich History & Heritage

Bar Harbor has a rich history that dates back to its early days as a summer retreat for America’s elite. Visitors can explore historic sites — like the Abbe Museum, which focuses on the Wabanaki Native American culture, and the Bar Harbor Historical Society, which offers insights into the town’s storied past. Walking tours and historic mansions provide a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of the Gilded Age.

Check out the lodging options in Bar Harbor for your Downeast Acadia getaway.

Mount Desert | The Heart of Mount Desert Island

Natural Beauty & Outdoor Activities

Mount Desert is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers easy access to Acadia National Park, where visitors can enjoy hiking trails like the rugged Jordan Pond Path along Jordan Pond. The area is ideal for kayaking, bird watching, and biking along scenic Carriage Roads too.

Quaint Villages & Local Charm

The town of Mount Desert includes several charming villages, such as Northeast Harbor and Somesville. These villages offer peaceful, small-town atmospheres with quaint shops, art galleries, and local eateries. Northeast Harbor is known for its beautiful marina, while Somesville has a historic white bridge and offers a glimpse into the island’s past.

Rich Cultural & Historical Heritage

Mount Desert boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage too. The area features museums and historical sites like the Great Harbor Maritime Museum and the Asticou Azalea Garden. Meanwhile, the Mount Desert Island Historical Society provides insights into the island’s past through exhibits and educational programs.

Several great lodging options are available in Mount Desert and Northeast Harbor.

Southwest Harbor | A Tranquil Coastal Retreat

Scenic Beauty & Outdoor Adventures

Southwest Harbor is a haven for those seeking natural beauty and outdoor activities. The town provides easy access to Acadia National Park’s less crowded trails, such as the Wonderland Trail and the Beech Cliff Loop. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy sailing, kayaking, and exploring the picturesque coastline. Plus, the harbor is a scenic spot and perfect for boating and watching the local lobster boats in action.

Proximity to Unique Attractions

In addition to its natural beauty, Southwest Harbor is close to several unique attractions. For instance, the Charlotte Rhoades Park & Butterfly Garden provides a peaceful setting for nature walks and butterfly watching.

Charming Village Atmosphere

With unique shops, art galleries, and local restaurants, Southwest Harbor offers a quaint, small-town atmosphere. It’s known for having a welcoming community and a slower pace of life for relaxing and unwinding. Highlights include the Wendell Gilley Museum, which showcases bird carvings and local art, and the Southwest Harbor Public Library, a historic building that serves as a cultural hub.

Many Southwest Harbor lodging options are available for trips Downeast.

Tremont | A Hidden Gem on Mount Desert Island

Authentic Coastal Village Experience

On the southwest coast of Mount Desert Island, Tremont comprises a few neighborhoods and villages, including Bass Harbor, Bernard, and Seal Cove. These communities offer an authentic coastal Maine lifestyle, featuring working harbors where visitors can watch local fishermen at work. In Bass Harbor, the historic Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse provides panoramic ocean views.

Access to Unique Attractions & Activities

Tremont offers access to unique attractions that enhance its appeal. The Tremont Historical Society Museum provides insights into the area’s rich history, while the Seal Cove Auto Museum showcases early automobiles and motorcycles. Meanwhile, local seafood shacks and restaurants serve some of the freshest seafood on the island.

Proximity to Outdoor Adventures

Tremont’s proximity to Acadia National Park means that visitors can easily access nearby trails and outdoor activities. For example, the Ship Harbor Nature Trail in Southwest Harbor offers stunning coastal views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. This makes Tremont an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty of Mount Desert Island.

Exploring All of Mount Desert Island Maine & Beyond

Mount Desert Island offers stunning natural beauty, charming villages, and diverse outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Those who want to explore beyond the island will find some fantastic day trip destinations in Trenton, Ellsworth, and Winter Harbor.

Trenton Maine

Trenton Maine is full of natural beauty, family-friendly attractions, and local charm. Enjoy the Wild Acadia Fun Park’s zip lines, water slides, and mini-golf, or visit the Kisma Preserve for unique wildlife experiences. The town offers picturesque water views, boating, and fishing opportunities, and visitors can explore local shops and antique stores like Two Old Goats Antiques for unique treasures.

Ellsworth Maine

Ellsworth Maine offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. The vibrant downtown features unique shops, art galleries, and dining options. The Grand theater, Stanwood Homestead Museum, and the Telephone Museum provide cultural and historical insights of the area. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy recreational activities at Graham Lake and Branch Lake.

Winter Harbor

Winter Harbor Maine on the nearby Schoodic Peninsula is perfect for exploring Schoodic Point’s stunning coastal views and scenic drives. The town offers charming local shops, art galleries, and eateries. Enjoy a round of golf at Grindstone Neck Golf Course, or take a boat tour of Frenchman Bay.