Girls Guide to Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor, Maine, has been on my bucket list for years—the perfect destination for a girls' getaway, with coastal charm, cute cafés, and plenty of pink sunset moments. Before the Hamptons, there was Bar Harbor. Tucked away on Maine’s rocky coast, this seaside village was once the summer playground of America’s elite. The Vanderbilts, Rockefellers, and Astors built grand “cottages” (oceanfront mansions), and the coastal charming town sparkled with yacht clubs, garden parties, and Gilded Age glamour. That golden era sadly ended with the fire of 1947, which transformed Bar Harbor from a luxurious retreat into the quaint, cozy, and effortlessly stylish town it is today. Where lobster lunches meet seaside adventures and postcard-worthy ocean views, Bar Harbor is a must-add to your travel bucket list!
Things to do
The Acadia National Park is the only full national park in all of New England. The park spans over 49,000 acres of mountains, ocean shoreline, forests, and lakes. You can hike iconic trails, take a horse-drawn carriage ride along Rockefeller’s 45+ miles of historic carriage roads, and explore charming historical spots throughout the park and Bar Harbor itself. My number one recommendation would be to dine at the historic Jordan’s Pond House.
Jordan Pond House – This restaurant gives coastal grandma in the best way. Established in 1876, this historic teahouse makes you feel as though you’ve gone back in time. During the Gilded Age, some of America’s wealthiest and most influential families gathered here to enjoy traditional tea and popovers—and you can too. The restaurant overlooks the iconic “Bubbles,” two twin-peaked mountains that rise just beyond the pond, creating one of the most picturesque views in all of Acadia. On a clear day, the scenery is breathtaking.
Fun Fact: Bar Harbor is remarkably built on pink granite, and under just the right lighting—especially at sunrise or sunset—it can cast a soft, rosy glow across the coastline. This magical effect, called the Pink Glow Phenomenon, is especially striking from the summit of Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park. Here, the low angle of light enhances the warm undertones in the granite, making the rocks appear beautifully blush-toned. If you're visiting during the summer months, be sure to plan ahead and reserve a sunrise pass in advance through the National Park website.
Get on a boat from sailing to whale watches to lobster boat tours you can do it all!
Bar Harbor Inn has an iconic lawn with Adirondack chairs. I also wish we had stayed here, it looked like the perfect place to unwind for the evening. Nearby you can also walk the stunning Shore Path with wild roses and ocean views.
The Ivy at the Manor Chic & Cozy Boutique Inn: Located at 194 Main Street, this English-style inn was originally a private home built in 1936 and transformed into an inn in 1997. Small and intimate, it offers charming outdoor grounds where you can enjoy live performances by local artists. On a gorgeous Saturday afternoon after shopping we relaxed here listening to talented musicians while sipping blueberry mocktails.
Get a lobster roll as soon as I got here I wanted one. I’ve never seen so many spots that sold lobster rolls! They even sell lobster flavored ice cream here, try it if you dare!
Stroll the “Museum of the Streets” along the waterfront—a perfect blend of leisurely walking and local history, with plaques sharing the stories of this special place. It’s also a fantastic area to scout out your next lobster roll.
Boutiques + Local Finds
Shop til you drop - Bar Harbor’s streets are lined with a charming yet quirky mix of shops offering nautical-themed souvenirs and unique local finds. Don’t miss the wild blueberry products—Maine is the largest producer in the U.S., and you’ll find everything from jam to pancake mix worth taking home. Leave extra space in your bag for treasures (and definitely a jar of wild Maine blueberry jam). All the while, you’ll be soaking in pastel storefronts, harbor views, and flower-framed cottages.
The Acadia Country Store- my personal favorite, offering delicious fudge, elite gifts, and extensive amount of blueberry products.
Little Village Gifts- This town has a salty coastal chill so buy a sweater as a souvenir here!
My Darling Maine- buy the cutest baby clothes here, like a lobster knitted sweater!
Window Panes – Home goods, candles, and charming little trinkets.
Fiore Artisan Olive Oils & Vinegars – So chic and delicious — you’ll want to bring a bottle home.
Sherman’s Book Store - Visit Maine’s oldest book store
Whether you’re here for the history, the lobster rolls, or the salty breeze off Frenchman Bay, Bar Harbor has a way of making you slow down, savor the moment, and start planning your return before you’ve even left. sea breeze meets small-town charm vibes are immaculate.
