Vacation Rentals & Apartments in Bar Harbor

A vacation rental in Bar Harbor offers a quintessential New England coastal experience, serving as the primary gateway to Acadia National Park. Properties are typically large, charming Victorian homes or modern seaside cottages, featuring wide porches, manicured grounds, and ocean or mountain views. The lodging is focused on self-catered group comfort, providing a perfect base for exploring the park's scenic drives, carriage roads, and local lobster shacks.

The unique character of vacation rentals in Bar Harbor is its balance of historical elegance and access to rugged wilderness. Many vacation rentals for rent in Bar Harbor provide amenities that cater to groups and adventurers. Typical features provided for guests in these properties often include:

• A full kitchen and spacious dining area for preparing group meals
• Complimentary maps and guidance for exploring the Acadia National Park carriage roads
• Access to a private deck or screened-in porch with ocean or mountain views
• Private bathrooms in all units, often featuring clean, modern designs
• Secure storage for bicycles, hiking gear, or kayaks
• High-speed Wi-Fi access for coordinating park shuttle schedules and boat tours
• Laundry facilities (washer/dryer), practical for extended stays

Bar Harbor appeals strongly to outdoor adventurers, nature photographers, and seafood lovers. It is highly suitable for families visiting the national park and travelers seeking a scenic coastal holiday. Visitors can spend time driving the scenic Park Loop Road, hiking to the summit of Cadillac Mountain, or taking a whale watching tour. The large vacation rentals in Bar Harbor offer a comfortable, self-sufficient base for exploring the park and the charming downtown area. The peak season is summer (July and August) and fall foliage (September to October), when temperatures average 21°C and vacation rental rates typically range from $250 to $500 USD per night. Spring and late fall offer lower rates, usually from $180 to $350 USD, with strong availability.

Explore the essential sites that define Bar Harbor's status as the gateway to Acadia, blending natural beauty with historical charm and unique local institutions.

1. Acadia National Park
2. Cadillac Mountain
3. The Village Green
4. Shore Path
5. Abbe Museum

Acadia National Park

One of the most scenic national parks in the Northeast, covering much of Mount Desert Island. It features dramatic granite peaks, woodland, lakes, and a famous historic network of carriage roads.

Cadillac Mountain

The highest point on the U.S. Eastern Seaboard. Visitors can drive or hike to the summit to witness the sunrise (the first to be seen in the U.S. for several months of the year) and enjoy panoramic views.

The Village Green

A central park and gathering area in the middle of downtown Bar Harbor, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and historical buildings, serving as a hub for local events.

Shore Path

A beautiful, easily accessible walking trail that follows the coastline from the town center, offering stunning views of the harbor, islands, and the historic "Millionaires' Row" estates.

Abbe Museum

A non-profit museum with two locations dedicated to the history and culture of the Wabanaki, the Native American people of Maine and the Maritime Provinces.

Bar Harbor's dining scene is dominated by fresh Maine seafood, particularly lobster, and classic New England coastal fare. These three establishments are highly rated by diners:

• Side Street Cafe (4.6/5 stars) - A popular, casual spot known for its delicious lobster rolls (served hot or cold), creative burgers, and friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
• Thirsty Whale Tavern (4.4/5 stars) - A classic, rustic local pub offering pub fare, local brews, and a cozy atmosphere, popular for a post-hike meal.
• The Reading Room Restaurant (4.5/5 stars) - Located in the Bar Harbor Inn, this formal, elegant restaurant offers fine dining with a focus on New England cuisine and spectacular panoramic views of the harbor.

Bar Harbor observes Eastern Time (ET). A car is necessary for exploring Acadia and accessing many vacation rentals for rent in Bar Harbor. Tipping is standard U.S. custom. For visitors seeking to explore the park, confirming vacation rentals in Bar Harbor with park pass inclusion is a useful amenity. During peak season, accessing the summit of Cadillac Mountain by vehicle often requires a timed reservation. Many local vacation accommodation in Bar Harbor are situated near the town, providing convenient access to local shops and services.