Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Located at head of Mount Desert Island at the intersection of Rt 3, Rt 102, and County Rd. Follow Rt 1A to Ellsworth and Rt 3 toward Bar Harbor on Mount Desert Island. Crossing onto the island, SLOW DOWN and take an immediate far-right turn on to County Road. The registration office is immediately on your right. Please GPS to the Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA, NOT the street address.
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If you're searching for the best things to do in Bar Harbor, Maine, you’ll quickly discover why this charming coastal town is one of New England’s most popular destinations. Located on Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is best known as the gateway to Acadia National Park, but there’s much more to explore beyond the park.
From breathtaking ocean views and scenic hikes to boat tours and fresh Maine lobster, Bar Harbor offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Staying at Bar Harbor / Oceanside KOA Holiday puts you close to many of the area's top attractions while giving you a relaxing place to return after a day of adventure.
Here are some of the best things to do in Bar Harbor during your visit.
The number one attraction near Bar Harbor is Acadia National Park, one of the most beautiful national parks in the United States. The park features over 47,000 acres of rugged coastline, forests, mountains and scenic viewpoints.
Popular spots inside the park include:
Cadillac Mountain
Thunder Hole
Sand Beach
Ocean Path
Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking the historic carriage roads, wildlife viewing and scenic drives along Park Loop Road.
One of the most unforgettable experiences in Bar Harbor is watching the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain. At 1,530 feet, it’s the highest point along the U.S. Atlantic coast.
For much of the year, it’s one of the first places in the country to see the sunrise, drawing early risers and photographers from around the world.
For an easy and scenic walk, explore the Bar Harbor Shore Path. This waterfront path runs along the edge of Frenchman Bay, offering beautiful views of sailboats, islands and historic summer cottages.
The trail begins at Agamont Park, a hilltop park overlooking the harbor.
Downtown Bar Harbor is full of classic New England charm. Visitors love wandering along Main Street to browse:
Local boutiques and gift shops
Art galleries
Ice cream and bakery shops
Seafood restaurants and lobster shacks
In the evening, catch a film or live performance at the historic Criterion Theatre.
One of the best ways to experience coastal Maine is from the water. Boat tours departing from Bar Harbor explore Frenchman Bay and the surrounding islands.
Depending on the tour, visitors may see:
Harbor seals
Bald eagles
Historic lighthouses
Porpoises and seabirds
Whale watching tours are also available during certain times of the year.
For a classic Maine sailing experience, take a cruise aboard the Margaret Todd. This four-masted schooner offers daytime and sunset sails around the bay and is one of the most recognizable sights in the harbor.
One of the most unique attractions in town is Bar Island. At low tide, a natural sand bar connects the island to the mainland, allowing visitors to walk across the ocean floor.
Once on the island, trails lead to scenic overlooks with beautiful views of Bar Harbor and the surrounding mountains. Just be sure to check tide schedules before crossing.
The Abbe Museum tells the story of Maine’s Indigenous Wabanaki people through exhibits, artifacts and educational programs. It’s a great place to learn about the region’s cultural history and heritage. *Note: This is a seasonal attraction, check their website for the latest operating hours.
Built by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr., the carriage roads inside Acadia National Park offer over 45 miles of scenic gravel paths perfect for biking and walking.
Stone bridges, lakes and mountain views make this one of the most peaceful ways to experience the park.
No trip to Bar Harbor is complete without trying fresh Maine lobster. Many local restaurants serve lobster rolls, steamed lobster and classic New England seafood dishes.
Dining by the waterfront with views of the harbor is a quintessential Bar Harbor experience.
Take a scenic drive around Mount Desert Island to discover charming villages, quiet harbors and beautiful coastal viewpoints beyond Bar Harbor.
Stops like Northeast Harbor, Seal Harbor and Bass Harbor offer peaceful alternatives to the busy downtown area.
After a day of exploring, return to the oceanfront setting at Bar Harbor / Oceanside KOA Holiday.
Guests can enjoy:
Oceanfront RV and tent sites
Comfortable cabins
Campfires by the water
Easy access to Acadia National Park and downtown Bar Harbor
It’s the perfect home base for exploring Mount Desert Island.
The best time to visit Bar Harbor is between May and October.
Spring (May) is a quieter time to visit before the peak season begins.
Summer (June–August) offers warm weather and full access to park activities.
Fall (September–October) brings stunning foliage and fewer crowds.
With incredible coastal scenery, outdoor adventures and charming small-town streets, Bar Harbor is one of the most memorable destinations in New England.
Whether you're hiking in Acadia National Park, sailing across Frenchman Bay or enjoying fresh lobster by the harbor, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do.
Start planning your trip and experience the best of coastal Maine while staying at Bar Harbor / Oceanside KOA Holiday.
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