Top sights in Acadia National Park

Editor's Choice

This selection highlights the geological and cultural diversity of Acadia National Park, from the 110-foot granite faces of Otter Cliff to the rare shell-based sands of Sand Beach. The list includes the freshwater Echo Lake, the Japanese-inspired Asticou Azalea Garden, and the historic Sieur de Monts area. These locations showcase the park’s unique landscape of glacial fjords, inland sea cliffs, and rugged cobblestone shorelines.

Sieur de Monts

Known as the Heart of Acadia, this area features the Wild Gardens of Acadia, a nature center, and the Abbe Museum, which documents Wabanaki Native American history.

Echo Lake Beach

A freshwater swimming area on the western side of Mount Desert Island, located at the base of Beech Mountain.

Sand Beach

A 290-yard beach composed primarily of crushed shell fragments, framed by granite headlands and rocky outcrops.

Somes Sound Overlook

Scenic viewpoint overlooking Somes Sound, a deep glacial waterway often cited as the only fjord on the U.S. Atlantic coast.

Asticou Azalea Garden

Japanese-style garden designed in 1956, featuring a pond, stone paths, and seasonal displays of azaleas and rhododendrons.

Little Hunters Beach

A secluded cove characterized by its shore of smooth, water-worn cobblestones and a small freshwater stream.

Boulder Beach

Located along the Ocean Path, this shoreline is known for its large, rounded granite boulders and views of the surrounding sea cliffs.

Agamont Park

Waterfront park in Bar Harbor offering views of Frenchman Bay, the town pier, and the Porcupine Islands.

Frazer Point

Picnic area on the Schoodic Peninsula featuring a pier and views of Winter Harbor and offshore islands.

Otter Cliff

A 110-foot granite sea cliff, one of the highest on the Atlantic coast, frequently used for rock climbing.

Cadillac Cliffs

Ancient sea cliffs located inland along the Gorham Mountain Trail, featuring sea caves formed when sea levels were higher.

Sols Cliff

Granite cliff formation near Bar Harbor providing vistas of Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands.

Hunters Beach

A secluded cobblestone beach reached via a wooded trail that follows a mountain stream to the Atlantic.

Other Lists

Acadia National Park Essentials Lighthouses & Coastal Landmarks Peaks and Nature Trails