There are some places you visit that just feel special, and for us, Bar Harbor, Maine was one of them. This charming coastal town quickly became one of our favorite destinations, with its waterfront views, fresh seafood, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm. It’s the kind of place where you can relax, explore, and take in some of the most beautiful sunsets you’ll ever see—all at your own pace.

A Picture-Perfect Seaside Town

Bar Harbor sits on Mount Desert Island along Maine’s rugged coast, and it’s the perfect mix of New England charm and outdoor adventure. With its quaint shops, cozy restaurants, and scenic harbor, it’s easy to see why people have been visiting this town for centuries.

💙 Autism-Friendly Tip: The town is walkable and low-stimulation, making it easier to navigate without overwhelming crowds or sensory overload. The harborfront area is a great place to sit, watch the boats, and take a break from the activity.

Lobster Like Nowhere Else

You can’t visit Maine without eating lobster, and we made sure to try some of the best Bar Harbor had to offer. Whether it was lobster rolls, steamed lobster, or lobster mac and cheese, everything was fresh, delicious, and exactly what you’d hope for in a Maine seafood feast.

💙 Autism-Friendly Tip: Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with harbor views, which can be a quieter, less crowded option. For those with picky eaters or texture sensitivities, many places also have simple seafood, grilled cheese, or burgers on the menu.

Exploring Acadia National Park

One of the highlights of our trip was a visit to Acadia National Park, one of the most stunning natural areas in the country. With rocky coastlines, mountain views, and beautiful hiking trails, Acadia is a must-visit for anyone coming to Bar Harbor.

Acadia became a national park in 1919, making it one of the first national parks in the eastern U.S.. It’s known for its rugged beauty, diverse wildlife, and scenic drives, with more than 120 miles of hiking trails.

💙 Autism-Friendly Tip: Acadia offers a range of trails—from easy, flat walks to more challenging hikes. If you’re looking for a low-impact, sensory-friendly option, the Jordan Pond Path is a great choice with calm water views and smooth trails. The Park Loop Road is also a great way to see the scenery without a long hike, perfect for visitors who prefer a car ride to walking.

Walking to Bar Island—Before the Tide Comes In!

One of the coolest things we did in Bar Harbor was walking across the ocean floor to Bar Island—but with a catch!

At low tide, a natural land bridge appears, allowing you to walk across the sandbar from Bar Harbor to the nearby island. But you have to time it right—if you don’t make it back before the tide rolls in, the walkway disappears completely, and you’ll need a boat to get back!

We made it across and explored Bar Island, taking in the quiet, peaceful nature and beautiful coastal views. As the tide started to shift, we made sure to head back before 5 PM—watching as the water quickly covered the path we had just walked on. It’s such a unique and fun experience, and definitely a must-do if you visit Bar Harbor!

💙 Autism-Friendly Tip: Walking across to Bar Island is a great sensory-friendly activity—the sandbar is soft and quiet, without the usual beach crowds. However, check the tide schedule and give yourself extra time to return to avoid any stress.

The Perfect Place to Unwind

Beyond the adventures, Bar Harbor is also a place to relax. The town has comfortable hotels, cozy inns, and even luxurious spas, making it easy to unwind after a day of exploring. And then there are the sunsets—Bar Harbor has some of the most breathtaking sunsets we’ve seen, with the sky turning shades of orange, pink, and purple over the harbor.

💙 Autism-Friendly Tip: Many hotels and inns in Bar Harbor offer quiet, low-stimulation environments. If you need a break, find a secluded spot by the water or a quiet café to recharge. Some spas in the area also offer sensory-friendly experiences, like gentle lighting and calming music.

Final Thoughts

Bar Harbor is the kind of place that stays with you. Between the friendly small-town atmosphere, fresh seafood, natural beauty, and fun adventures, it’s easy to see why it’s one of our favorite places we’ve visited. Whether you’re looking to hike, eat, shop, or just take in the views, this charming coastal town has something for everyone—including sensory-friendly, autism-inclusive experiences.

If you ever get the chance to visit Maine, make sure to put Bar Harbor at the top of your list—you won’t regret it!

Until the next adventure!