Local Area Attractions Near Bar Harbor / Oceanside KOA Holiday

Looking for the best things to do near Acadia National Park? When you stay at our oceanfront campground in Bar Harbor, you’re minutes from hiking trails, scenic drives, coastal views, and top attractions on Mount Desert Island. Here’s your guide to making the most of your camping trip.

Best Things to Do in Acadia National Park

Best Things to Do in Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park:

  • Acadia National Park Loop Road: This scenic 27-mile road offers access to many of the park's highlights, including stunning coastal views, forests, and lakes. 
  • Cadillac Mountain: The highest point on the U.S. East Coast, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Frenchman Bay. 
  • Jordan Pond: A pristine glacial pond with hiking trails, canoe rentals, and the historic Jordan Pond House restaurant. 
  • Thunder Hole: A narrow inlet where the incoming tide creates a loud "clap" as it crashes against the rocks. 
  • Sand Beach: A beautiful sandy beach surrounded by pink granite cliffs and long grasses. 
  • Ocean Trail: A scenic coastal path with easy walking and views of the Atlantic Ocean. 
  • Otter Cliffs: Dramatic 110-foot cliffs that are popular with photographers, rock climbers, and otters. 
  • Beehive Trail: A challenging but rewarding hike with stunning views at the top. 
  • Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse perched on the rugged cliffs of Mount Desert Island. 
  • Carriage Roads: A network of historic carriage roads perfect for walking, biking, or horseback riding. 

Website

Bar Harbor Town

Bar Harbor Town

  • Downtown Bar Harbor:
    Explore the charming downtown area with its quaint shops, art galleries, and restaurants. 
  • Shore Path:
    A leisurely, level pathway edging the harbor and Frenchman Bay, offering scenic waterfront views. 
  • Bar Island:
    Accessible at low tide via a land bridge, offering a unique opportunity to explore a small island with tide pools and sea shells. 
  • Abbe Museum:
    A Smithsonian-affiliated museum that showcases the history and culture of the area's Native Americans. 
  • Agamont Park:
    A park located next to the town pier, offering views of the harbor and islands. 
  • Town Pier:
    A bustling pier where whale watching tours and other boat trips depart. 
  • Island Explorer:
    A free bus system that links hotels, inns, and campgrounds with destinations in Acadia National Park and neighboring villages. 

Where to Eat Near Bar Harbor

Where to Eat Near Bar Harbor

Best Lobster & Seafood in Bar Harbor


Casual Dining & Local Favorites
  • Side Street Cafe – Famous for lobster mac & cheese and hearty comfort food after a long day in Acadia.
  • Geddy's – A fun, family-friendly spot with a wide menu and great location downtown.
  • Bar Harbor Beer Works – Casual pub fare, local brews, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Waterfront Dining Experiences
  • The Terrace Grille – Upscale waterfront dining with incredible sunset views over Frenchman Bay.
  • Galyn's – A cozy fine dining option known for seafood and harbor views.

 Quick Bites, Breakfast & Coffee

Don't feel like leaving the campground? Our Lobster Trap Café has you covered with convenient, tasty options right on-site. 
Keep in mind: Bar Harbor is a seasonal destination, be sure to check each restaurant's website for current hours and availability.

The Clock at the Village Green

Bar Harbor, ME 04696

207-233-7485

Coastal & Ocean Activities

Coastal & Ocean Activities

Take advantage of the Maine coastline with unforgettable ocean experiences near Acadia National Park. Popular activities include kayaking along the shoreline, whale watching tours in the Atlantic, and tide pooling along rocky beaches—perfect for all ages.

1044 Bar Harbor Road, Route 3

Trenton, ME 04605

207-667-6527

Boat Tours & Coastal Cruises

Boat Tours & Coastal Cruises

Explore Acadia National Park and the surrounding coastline with guided tours, scenic cruises, and unique local experiences. These top-rated options near Bar Harbor make it easy to see the best of Mount Desert Island.

119 Eden St.

Bar Harbor, ME 04609

207-801-2300

Local Area Recreation Near Bar Harbor / Oceanside KOA Holiday

Bike Rental

Bike Rental

Acadia Bike (207) 288-9605 or (800) 526-8615 
Acadia Bike features the largest bicycle rental fleet in New England, so you're sure to get the bike you want. Enjoy Acadia's natural wonders as you pedal the car-free carriage roads or Park Loop Road. All sizes, plus tandems, trailers and kids' bikes. [email protected]

Bar Harbor Bicycle Shop (207) 288-3886 or (800) 824-2453
The Bar Harbor Bicycle Shop has been serving the public for over 25 years with friendly, courteous service, rentals, sales and repairs. Helmets, locks, maps and child seats are included. They also rent tandems, kids' bikes, babypacks, trailers, jogger strollers and packs. [email protected]

North Country Rivers White Water Rafting

North Country Rivers White Water Rafting

North Country Rivers provides professionally-guided white water river rafting trips on three of America's "world-class" rafting rivers: The Kennebec, Penobscot and Dead Rivers of Maine.The Kennebec River is the most popular choice, the focus is  on fun with deep and fast mover with big wave trains!
The Penobscot River lives life on the edge! This river is good for rafters looking for a challenge with it's steep overall gradient and “pool and drop” technical rapids
Lastly, the Dead River offers a rare opportunity,  Good for rafters who are looking for a unique experience with premium rapids, running only 8 days out of the year! If you're looking for MAXIMUM FUN, check out North Country Rivers for an exciting Maine outdoor adventure

36 Main St, Route 201

Bingham, ME 04920

207-672-4814

Website

North Country Rivers Moose Safari

North Country Rivers Moose Safari

Everyone always wants to know, "Where can I see a moose?!" Well, here's the answer! Experience a Guided Wildlife Tour with North Country Rivers. Let a Registered Maine Guides take you on a memorable Wildlife Tour via passenger van! See moose, deer, bears, eagles, and osprey in their natural habitat.With small group sizes, and the variable conditions of nature, each trip is bound to be a unique experience! Visit the concierge for discount tickets!

36 Main St, Route 201

Bingham, ME 04920

207-672-4814

Website

Kebo Valley Golf Club

Kebo Valley Golf Club

Step onto the green of the eighth oldest golf course in the country. Consistently ranked as a top course in New England, Kebo Valley Club borders Acadia National Park, so it is not uncommon to sight soaring eagles or other wildlife. Enjoy a day of golf on this par 70, 18-hole course.

136 Eagle Lake Rd

Bar Harbor, ME 04609

207-288-3000

Website

Climbing School

Climbing School

Atlantic Climbing School 207-288-2521 / Website 
Learn to rock climb on the spectacular granite seacliffs of Acadia National Park. We offer professional instruction for anyone - complete beginners to advanced climbers of any age or fitness level. Atlantic Climbing School courses are small, personalized and tailored to suit each client. All equipment is provided. Individuals, families and groups are welcome.
            
Acadia Mountain Guides Climbing School 288-8186 or 888-232-9559 / Website 
Enjoy personalized rock or ice climbing instruction on the scenic seacliffs of Acadia or on a regional or international destination trip. At Acadia Mountain , all instruction is customized to the needs of individuals, families and groups of any ability. Guides have world-wide climbing experience spanning three decades and are individually certified by the American Mountain Guide's Association.