Southwest Harbor vs Bar Harbor: Which Downeast Maine Destination is Right for You?
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If you’re planning a trip to Mount Desert Island, you’re likely debating whether to stay in Bar Harbor or Southwest Harbor. Both offer stunning coastal views, fresh seafood, and easy access to Acadia National Park, but they deliver very different experiences.
So, which one should you choose? Let’s break it down.
The Vibe: Bustling or Laid-Back?
Finding the right atmosphere for your trip is key. Do you thrive in a lively, bustling town with plenty of activity, or do you prefer a quiet escape where you can truly unwind?
The overall feel of Bar Harbor and Southwest Harbor couldn’t be more different, and that difference can make or break your experience.
Bar Harbor
The heart of the island’s tourism scene, Bar Harbor is where you’ll find the action. It’s lively, packed with restaurants, boutique shops, and bustling sidewalks.
If you love the energy of a classic New England vacation town – complete with salty sea air, ice cream parlors, lobster shacks, and lively harbor-front strolls – Bar Harbor is your spot.
Southwest Harbor
Often called the “quiet side” of Mount Desert Island, Southwest Harbor is the place to unwind. It’s a charming fishing village where lobster boats bob in the harbor, locals greet each other by name, and the pace of life slows down.
If your idea of a Maine getaway is a peaceful retreat with scenic views and fewer crowds, Southwest Harbor might be a better fit.
Traveler Recommendation
“I found Bar Harbor to be rather congested in the summertime. It has many charms however, it also has crowds and a lot of things you wouldn’t expect, like t-shirt shops. I found the ‘Harbor’ towns quieter and with a great deal more charm.
“If you want to move in the midst of the four days and want greater charm, I’d opt for one of the harbor towns. If you want to hunker in and plan to be out of Bar Harbor a lot, exploring the park and surrounding areas, I’d say stay in Bar Harbor.
“If you stay in Bar Harbor, you will be able to walk to dining, shopping, and the like. The harbor towns have fewer options.” – Pam
Acadia Access: Do You Need to Be Close to the Action?
Acadia National Park is the crown jewel of Mount Desert Island, so your proximity to the park might influence your decision.
While both Bar Harbor and Southwest Harbor provide access to the park’s breathtaking landscapes, the experience of getting there and exploring differs significantly.
Bar Harbor
If you want quick and easy access to Acadia National Park’s most famous spots – like Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, and Sand Beach – Bar Harbor is unbeatable.
The main entrance to the park is just minutes away, making it convenient for sunrise hikes and spontaneous adventures.
Southwest Harbor
While not as close to Acadia’s main entrance, Southwest Harbor provides easy access to the less-trafficked parts of the park, including Seawall and quieter hiking trails like Acadia Mountain.
If you prefer scenic drives and uncrowded nature walks, Southwest Harbor delivers.
Dining & Nightlife: Lobster Rolls or Craft Cocktails?
Maine is known for its incredible seafood, and both Bar Harbor and Southwest Harbor serve up some of the best.
But the type of dining experience you’re looking for – fine dining, casual seafood shacks, or a lively bar scene – can help you decide where to stay.
Bar Harbor
Foodies and night owls will love Bar Harbor’s restaurant scene. Whether you’re craving fresh lobster, creative seafood dishes, or farm-to-table dining, you’ll find plenty of options.
The town also has bars and pubs, offering craft beer and cocktails for a lively night out.
Southwest Harbor
The food scene here is more low-key but still delicious. Think classic Maine seafood shacks, cozy cafes, and waterfront dining with a view.
While you won’t find much nightlife, you will find a more relaxed, intimate dining experience.
Traveler Recommendation
“We like to stay in Bar Harbor because we like a few more restaurants and such, but we do spend time in the quieter parts of the island, too. If you are looking for quiet, choose one of the other areas.” – Elberko
Lodging: Cozy Inns or Grand Hotels?
Where you stay sets the tone for your trip. Do you want a historic inn in the heart of the action or a quiet retreat by the water?
The accommodation options in Bar Harbor and Southwest Harbor vary in style, availability, and price.
Bar Harbor
With a wide range of accommodations – from historic inns to luxury waterfront resorts — Bar Harbor caters to every traveler. However, since it’s a popular destination, lodging prices can be higher, and booking early is essential.
Southwest Harbor
Smaller inns, charming B&Bs, and vacation rentals define Southwest Harbor’s lodging scene. If you love a cozy, personalized experience and don’t mind being a bit farther from the main attractions, this is a great option.
Crowds: Do You Like Hustle or Hidden Gems?
Crowds can make or break a vacation, and Bar Harbor and Southwest Harbor offer vastly different experiences when it comes to people.
If you love meeting fellow travelers and don’t mind some hustle and bustle, Bar Harbor will be your go-to. But if you prefer peace and solitude, Southwest Harbor might be the better choice.
Bar Harbor
Expect crowds, especially in peak summer months and the fall foliage season. Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia, meaning tour buses, cruise ship visitors, and road-tripping tourists all gather here.
Southwest Harbor
Far fewer tourists venture to this side of the island, meaning you’ll get a more authentic, local feel. Southwest Harbor is ideal if you like the idea of quiet mornings, unhurried hikes, and less time waiting in line for your lobster roll.
Traveler Experience
“We stayed right in Bar Harbor from June 30 – July 3. We did not find it particularly ‘crowded.’ However, driving around town is slow-going, and restaurant reservations are a good idea.
“If you stay in town, parking is not a problem as you can walk pretty much everywhere. If you drive in from elsewhere on Mount Desert Island, parking can be difficult.” – Craig
The Verdict: Which One is Right for You?
Still torn between the two? It really comes down to the kind of experience you want. Do you crave energy and easy access to Acadia’s most famous sites, or would you rather soak in the slower pace of the “quiet side”?
- Choose Bar Harbor if: You love a vibrant atmosphere, want to be close to Acadia’s major attractions, and enjoy a variety of dining and nightlife options.
- Choose Southwest Harbor if: You prefer a quieter, more local experience with access to Acadia’s less-traveled areas and a relaxed, small-town feel.
Of course, there’s always a third option – split your time between both and get the best of both worlds! Either way, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Mount Desert Island, where stunning coastal scenery, fresh seafood, and outdoor adventures await.