When visiting Mount Desert Island for a Maine vacation or getaway, Southwest Harbor or Bass Harbor make an ideal destination on the quiet side. These two small seaside towns are settled on the more remote, southwest end of Mount Desert Island, ideal for those looking for peace and solitude, while keeping a visit to nearby Acadia National Park on the itinerary. Slightly larger than nearby Northeast Harbor, yet smaller than Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor is a beautiful boating center with its share of great little shops and restaurants serving Maine lobster and fresh seafood by the waterfront and in town.
This popular yachting harbor is home to Hinckley Boat manufacturer, the beautiful hand crafted Maine sailiboats and motor yachts are designed, built and repaired here, since 1928, along with other rmajor Maine boat builders. You will see many million-dollar Hinckley picnic boats moored in Southwest Harbor, or cruising out to the Atlantic with their unique jet power. The US Coast Guard is stationed here, and the town celebrates summer with a Flamingo Fest – very fun. Quaint historic Inns and Bnbs line the street in downtown Southwest Harbor, while the teh newly renovated Claremont Inn sits on the point with views of Somes Sound.
Nearby Bass Harbor is home to a beautiful Maine lighthouse, the 1858 Bass Harbor Headlight, perched prominently on the southern tip of Mount Desert island. For those really interested in the remote atmosphere of Mount Desert Island, you may find Bass Harbor ideal for where to stay, only a mile away from Southwest Harbor.
Kingsleigh Inn is a turn of the century, turreted Queen Anne Victorian that sits high on a hill, 100 yards from the water. The Inn, with its elegant yet casual atmosphere, is located in the center of town surrounded by Acadia National Park. Enjoy rooms with water views, private decks and pampering amenities. A three-course gourmet breakfast is served as are afternoon baked goods, early evening wine and hors d oeurves and all day tea and espresso. Come see why Conde Nast featured us as the place to stay on Mount Desert Island!
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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.
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Lodging in Nearby Towns
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Swans Island
Harbor Watch Inn – 111 Minturn Rd. Swan’s Island, ME l 207-526-4563 l 919-824-4265
Bass Harbor Area
Bass Harbor Campground l 207-244-5857
Bass Harbor Cottages and Country Inn l 207-244-3460
Bass Harbor Gables l 207-244-3699
Bass Harbor Guest House l 207-244-7959
Bass Harbor Inn l 207-244-5157
Little Island House l 207-266-0827
Willows on Bass Harbor l 207-244-0512
Southwest Harbor Area
Acadia Cabins l 207-244-5388
Ann’s Point Cottages l 207-244-5425
Birches, l 207-244-5182
Claremont Hotel l 207-244-5036
Clark Point Inn l 207-244-9828
The Harbour Cottage Inn l 207-244-5738
Harbor View Motel and Cottages l 207-244-5031
Inn at Southwest l 207-244-3835
Island House l 207-244-5180
Island Watch Bed and Breakfast l 207-244-7229
Kingsleigh Inn l 207-244-5302
The Moorings Inn and Cottages l 207-244-5523
Penury Hall Bed and Breakfast l 207-244-7102
Sunset Cottages – West Tremont l 207-244-3760
