Cool Off at the Best Bar Harbor, Maine Beaches

Mount Desert Island, located off the rugged coast of Maine, is home to some of the most picturesque natural landscapes in the United States. Best known for Acadia National Park, the island offers visitors a mix of rocky cliffs, quiet forests, and, surprisingly, a few stunning sandy beaches. If you are looking for a day in the sun with some sand between your toes on your visit to Acadia, you’re in luck. Mount Desert Island has three beaches to relax and enjoy the summer read you’ve been putting off. Sand Beach, Echo Lake Beach, and Seal Harbor Public Beach are all relatively close to Bar Harbor and are the best beaches to visit in the area. Each provides a unique experience, making them must-visit destinations in between your outdoor adventures, whether it’s hiking along Park Loop Road or paddling the Porcupine Islands or in Somes Sound.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to all three beaches, detailing what makes each special and how to best enjoy your time at these coastal treasures.

Sand Beach: Acadia’s Iconic Shoreline

Sand Beach on a foggy morning during a recent visit in May 2025. It may not always be warm, but it is always beautiful.

What to Expect at Sand Beach

Although it is a great place to visit in summer, the waters at Sand Beach are rarely warm, even in the height of July and August. The ocean temperature hovers in the 50s (°F), thanks to the cold currents of the North Atlantic. Still, many brave swimmers enjoy a quick dip in the cold water, followed by sunbathing on the sand or picnicking with a view of the ocean. If you have a young family with children who like to play in the water, Beehive Lagoon is located behind the beach and has much warmer water. I have taken my kids here several times, and the lagoon has proven to be a great place to get some splash time.

The beach is flanked by the iconic Great Head Trail on the eastern end, offering a moderately challenging hike with panoramic views of the coastline and nearby islands. Bring your hiking shoes for a little side trip that you can start right from the beach. To the west is Beehive Mountain, another favorite hiking destination with its iron rung trail system and dramatic vistas. Sand Beach is also close to other park highlights such as Thunder Hole and Otter Cliff.

Accessibility and Parking

Because it is part of Acadia National Park, you will need a park entrance pass to visit. Sand Beach features a large parking area, though it fills quickly during peak summer months. Arriving early or using the free Island Explorer shuttle from downtown Bar Harbor can save time and stress. Facilities include public restrooms and changing rooms, but no food services—so plan to pack in whatever you’ll need. And watch out for the seagulls that soar behind beachgoers on the prevailing wind, swooping down to steal entire sandwiches right from the hands of unsuspecting picnickers. I’ve seen it happen.

Why Visit?

If you’re seeking a classic Acadia National Park experience, Sand Beach is it. The blend of natural beauty, hiking access, and photogenic views makes this beach an essential stop on your Mount Desert Island itinerary.

Echo Lake Beach: Freshwater Relaxation on the Quiet Side

Echo Lake Beach provides warmer, shallow water for young families

Echo Lake’s Unique Charm

Unlike the frigid ocean water at Sand Beach, Echo Lake’s water temperature is warmer and more inviting, particularly in July and August. The beach is relatively shallow, making it ideal for children and casual swimmers. Its backdrop of cliffs and forested hills gives it a secluded feel while still offering all the essentials for a comfortable day out. Also unlike the natural existence of Sand Beach, the sand at Echo Lake is brought in by truck.

One of the highlights near the beach is Beech Mountain, which features several hiking trails, including a family-friendly loop with an old fire tower at the summit. The mountain provides breathtaking views of the lake below and the surrounding terrain.

Parking and Amenities

Echo Lake Beach has a small parking lot, smaller than Sand Beach, so early arrival is also recommended here. Amenities are limited but adequate: public restrooms are available, and the picnic area is shaded by trees for those looking to escape the sun. An Acadia park pass is also required to swim at Echo Lake.

For those staying in downtown Bar Harbor, it’s about a 30–40 minute drive to Echo Lake Beach, but the journey itself is scenic and rewarding, especially if you take time to explore the Quiet Side’s villages and shops along the way.

Why Visit?

Echo Lake Beach offers a peaceful, freshwater alternative to Acadia’s coastal spots. It’s particularly popular with young families and those looking to swim without the shock of icy Atlantic waters.

Seal Harbor Public Beach: A Local Favorite

Off the radar of most visitors to Acadia, Seal Harbor Public Beach lets you enjoy the quieter side of Mount Desert Island.

Features of Seal Harbor Beach

The beach itself is modest in size but offers soft sand and calm surf, ideal for relaxing walks or quiet contemplation. During low tide, tidal pools emerge, offering opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Though the waters are similar in temperature to those at Sand Beach, the shallower shoreline and gentler waves make for a slightly more comfortable experience. Visitors often enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding here, with easy water access from the shore.

Parking and Access

Seal Harbor Public Beach has limited parking area options, typically along the roadside. There are no formal facilities like restrooms or food vendors, reinforcing its local, low-key vibe. It’s advisable to come prepared and to treat the space with care, as its natural setting is one of its biggest assets.

From downtown Bar Harbor, Seal Harbor is just a 15–20 minute drive. The route is scenic and includes portions of the Park Loop Road, allowing you to combine your beach visit with stops at other iconic Acadia landmarks like Jordan Pond or the Wild Gardens of Acadia.

Why Visit?

If you’re searching for a peaceful alternative to the more crowded beaches or simply want to mingle with Mount Desert Island locals, Seal Harbor Public Beach is a perfect choice. And because it’s close to the quaint town of Seal Harbor, you can stop at The Lighthouse Restaurant for a lobster roll or a bowl of seafood chowder, avoiding the large crowds typically seen in Bar Harbor.

Tips for Visiting All Three Beaches

• Arrive Early: Parking fills up quickly at all three beaches, especially during July and August.
• Use the Island Explorer Shuttle: This free bus service makes stops throughout Acadia National Park and downtown Bar Harbor, helping you avoid parking hassles.
• Respect the Environment: These beaches are part of a delicate ecosystem. Always follow Leave No Trace principles, especially when visiting lesser-maintained areas like Seal Harbor.
• Pack Smart: Bring water, snacks, sun protection, and extra layers—Maine’s coastal weather can change quickly.
• Combine with Hiking: Each beach is near at least one great trail. Sand Beach connects to Great Head and Beehive; Echo Lake is near Beech Mountain; and Seal Harbor is close to carriage roads and forest trails.

While Maine may not be the first place that comes to mind for a beach vacation, Mount Desert Island offers some of the most beautiful and diverse beach experiences on the East Coast. From the iconic oceanfront at Sand Beach, to the family-friendly freshwater of Echo Lake Beach, to the quiet elegance of Seal Harbor Public Beach, there’s a spot for every type of beachgoer.

Add in the stunning surroundings of Acadia National Park, the convenience of Park Loop Road, and the charm of downtown Bar Harbor, and you have all the ingredients for a truly unforgettable coastal getaway. So grab your sunscreen, pack a picnic, and discover why these three beaches are among the best-kept secrets of New England.