Hikers watching sunrise from Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

What to Do at Acadia National Park: 12 Epic Things You Can’t Miss

May 19, 2026

If you love rocky coastlines, pine forests, and sunrise views that make you forget your coffee… Acadia National Park might become your new favorite place on Earth.

Located on the coast of Maine, this park is often called the “Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast.” It combines rugged mountains, quiet lakes, and crashing ocean waves—all packed into one incredibly scenic area.

The best part? You don’t have to be an extreme adventurer to enjoy it. Whether you’re traveling with family, hiking buddies, or your “let’s just enjoy the view” crew, Acadia has something for everyone.

Let’s hit the trail.

1. Watch Sunrise from Cadillac Mountain

If there’s one thing you absolutely must do in Acadia, it’s this.

Cadillac Mountain rises 1,527 feet above the Atlantic and is the highest point on the U.S. East Coast.

During certain months of the year, it’s also the first place in the United States to see the sunrise.

Picture this:

Cool morning air
Granite cliffs glowing pink
Tiny islands scattered across the ocean
And hikers quietly sipping coffee while the sun climbs over the horizon

Pro tip:
Sunrise parking reservations are required during peak season, so plan ahead.

2. Drive the Scenic Park Loop Road

If you want to see a lot of the park quickly, Park Loop Road is the ultimate scenic drive.

This 27-mile road winds through forests, mountains, lakes, and dramatic coastline, connecting many of the park’s most famous stops.

Must-stop viewpoints include:

Sand Beach
Thunder Hole
Otter Cliffs
Jordan Pond
Cadillac Mountain

It’s basically a highlight reel of Acadia.

Trail tip:
Start early. Parking fills up fast during summer.

3. Hike Around Jordan Pond

If you want a relaxing hike with incredible views, Jordan Pond Path is a classic.

This 3.3-mile loop trail circles one of the clearest lakes in Maine, with views of the famous rounded peaks called “The Bubbles.”

Why hikers love it:

Mostly easy terrain
Stunning reflections in the water
Perfect for families or beginner hikers

Wildlife bonus:
Keep an eye out for loons, beavers, and deer along the shoreline.

4. Hear the Roar at Thunder Hole

Thunder Hole is one of the park’s coolest natural features.

When waves crash into this small rock inlet, air and water explode upward with a thunder-like boom.

On the right day, the spray can shoot 40 feet into the air.

Best time to visit:

Mid-tide
When waves are strong
Early morning (before crowds)

It’s nature’s version of a drum solo.

5. Relax at Sand Beach

Yes—Acadia has a beach.

And it’s beautiful.

Sand Beach sits between rocky cliffs and forested mountains, making it one of the most scenic beaches on the East Coast.

Things to do here:

Swim (if you’re brave—the water is cold)
Walk the shoreline
Start hikes like Great Head Trail

Trail lovers often combine a beach stop with nearby hikes.

6. Hike the Beehive Trail (For Adventurers)

If you enjoy thrilling hikes, Beehive Trail is unforgettable.

This short but steep climb includes:

Iron rungs
Ladder sections
Cliffside exposure

The reward?

Jaw-dropping views over Sand Beach and the Atlantic Ocean.

Good to know:

Not recommended for people afraid of heights
Go early to avoid crowds

7. Bike the Historic Carriage Roads

Acadia has 45 miles of carriage roads originally built by John D. Rockefeller Jr.

These wide gravel roads are perfect for:

Biking
Walking
Horse carriage rides

They pass through forests, over beautiful stone bridges, and around peaceful lakes.

It’s one of the most relaxing ways to explore the park.

8. Visit Jordan Pond House for Popovers

After a hike, there’s only one logical next step.

Food.

The historic Jordan Pond House restaurant has been serving visitors since the 1800s and is famous for its warm popovers with butter and strawberry jam.

Best plan:

Hike Jordan Pond Loop
Grab a table on the lawn
Celebrate with popovers and lemonade

Trail calories well spent.

9. Explore Bar Harbor

Just outside the park entrance lies Bar Harbor, the charming gateway town to Acadia.

Things to do here:

Eat fresh Maine lobster
Walk the scenic Shore Path
Visit local shops and cafes
Take a whale watching tour

It’s the perfect place to relax after a long hike.

10. Walk to Bar Island at Low Tide

This is one of the coolest experiences near the park.

During low tide, a natural sandbar appears, allowing you to walk from Bar Harbor to Bar Island.

But timing is important.

The ocean will cover the path again once the tide returns.

Rule of thumb:
Return well before the tide changes so you don’t get stranded.

11. Watch Sunset at Otter Cliffs

If sunrise at Cadillac Mountain is the morning show, Otter Cliffs is the evening finale.

These dramatic sea cliffs drop straight into the Atlantic, creating one of the most photogenic spots in the park.

Sunset here is incredible.

Expect:

Orange skies
Waves crashing below
Seabirds gliding over the cliffs

Bring a camera.

12. Camp Under the Stars

Want the full Acadia experience?

Stay overnight.

The park offers several campgrounds, including:

Blackwoods Campground
Seawall Campground

Falling asleep to ocean waves and waking up near hiking trails is hard to beat.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Acadia National Park?

Each season brings something different.

Summer (June–August)
Perfect hiking weather but busiest.

Fall (September–October)
Incredible foliage and fewer crowds.

Spring (May)
Cool temperatures and wildflowers.

Winter
Quiet trails and snowy scenery.

Fall is often considered the sweet spot.

Tips for Visiting Acadia National Park

A few quick tips can make your trip smoother:

• Arrive early for popular spots
• Bring layers (coastal weather changes fast)
• Download offline maps
• Reserve Cadillac Mountain sunrise in advance
• Pack plenty of water and snacks

And of course…

Leave no trace.