Southwest Harbor, Maine
The quiet side of Acadia. A genuine fishing village on Mount Desert Island's western shore with world-class boat building, harbor lobster pounds, and trails to Beech Mountain and beyond.
While Bar Harbor buzzes with cruise ships and souvenir shops, Southwest Harbor keeps the pace of a working fishing village. Lobster boats still dominate the harbor. The Hinckley Company builds world-class yachts here. And this side of Mount Desert Island has some of Acadia's best trails, including Beech Mountain, Acadia Mountain, and the carriage roads around Long Pond, without the reservation systems and parking nightmares of the eastern side.
Hike Acadia Mountain for the best view. The Acadia Mountain trail is a moderate 2.5-mile loop that delivers the finest view of Somes Sound, with the water stretching below you like a fjord framed by forested mountains. It is the signature hike on the quiet side.
Swim at Echo Lake Beach. Echo Lake is Acadia’s freshwater swimming beach, with sand, lifeguards, and water that feels like a warm bath compared to the ocean. The setting, surrounded by Beech Mountain and Beech Cliff, is spectacular.
Eat lobster at Beal’s. Beal’s Lobster Pier is the real thing. Pick your lobster, sit at a picnic table on the wharf, crack it open over newspaper, and watch the harbor boats come and go. This is the Maine lobster experience at its most authentic.
Climb Beech Cliff. The Beech Cliff Trail has iron ladder rungs bolted into the rock face leading to a perch high above Echo Lake. The view down to the lake and across to the mountains is one of the most dramatic moments in Acadia.
Explore on two wheels. The carriage roads around Long Pond on the western side of the island are perfect for biking. They are flatter and less crowded than the eastern carriage roads near Jordan Pond.
The western side of Acadia does not require the vehicle reservations needed for Cadillac Mountain and the Park Loop Road on the eastern side. You can drive up and park at trailheads for Acadia Mountain, Beech Cliff, and the Perpendicular Trail without advance planning, even in peak summer.
Red Sky Restaurant on Main Street is where locals celebrate special occasions. The seasonal menu changes frequently, the wine list is smart, and the atmosphere is warm without being stuffy. Reserve ahead in summer.
The Working Harbor
Southwest Harbor’s economy still runs on boats. The Hinckley Company, one of the most prestigious yacht builders in the world, has been here since 1928. Lobster boats fill the harbor. The Wendell Gilley Museum showcases the art of bird carving, a craft tradition rooted in this part of the coast.
From Southwest Harbor, Bass Harbor is a short drive south to the Bass Harbor Head Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in Acadia. The Swans Island ferry departs from Bass Harbor for a day trip to one of the most remote year-round island communities in Maine.
How do I get to Southwest Harbor?
From Ellsworth, take Route 3 to Mount Desert Island, then Route 102 south through Somesville to Southwest Harbor. It is about 25 miles from Ellsworth. From Bar Harbor, take Route 102/198 west through the center of the island, about 14 miles.
Is Southwest Harbor expensive?
Less expensive than Bar Harbor but still a summer resort town. Lodging runs $150-300 per night in summer. The Seawall Campground in Acadia is a budget option at $30-40 per night. Dining ranges from Beal's lobster to fine dining at Red Sky.
Can I reach both sides of Acadia from Southwest Harbor?
Yes. The Park Loop Road and Cadillac Mountain on the eastern side are about 30 minutes away. You have full access to the entire park from either side of the island.
What is the Flamingo Festival?
A quirky October festival unique to Southwest Harbor featuring lawn flamingo displays, a parade, live music, and community events. It started as a local joke and became a beloved annual tradition.
Spring
April-May. Trails opening, restaurants reopening. Quiet and uncrowded. Some businesses still closed.
Summer
June-August. Perfect hiking weather. Echo Lake swimming. Harbor lobster. Still calmer than Bar Harbor.
Fall
September-October. Stunning foliage on the mountains. Acadia at its most photogenic. Flamingo Festival in October.
Winter
November-March. Very quiet. Most businesses closed. Beautiful for solitary winter hiking in Acadia.
Things to Do
Acadia Mountain
A moderate 2.5-mile loop with the best views of Somes Sound, the only fjord on the U.S. Atlantic coast.
Beech Mountain & Beech Cliff
Two trails in one area: Beech Cliff has iron ladder rungs and a stunning Echo Lake overlook, while Beech Mountain has a fire tower summit.
Echo Lake Beach
Acadia's freshwater swimming beach on the western side of the island, warmer than the ocean and surrounded by forested mountains.
Long Pond Kayaking
The largest lake on Mount Desert Island, perfect for a calm morning paddle with mountain views and loon calls.
Perpendicular Trail
A challenging trail with stone steps climbing the cliffs above Long Pond to Mansell Mountain, one of Acadia's quieter summits.
Where to Eat & Drink
Beal's Lobster Pier
Lobster PoundClassic lobster pound on the town wharf where you eat at picnic tables overlooking the working harbor. Fresh, simple, and iconic.
Sips
Wine Bar / BistroCozy wine bar and bistro on Main Street with creative small plates, local seafood, and a thoughtful wine list.
Quietside Cafe & Ice Cream Shop
CafePopular breakfast and lunch spot with house-baked goods, creative sandwiches, and Gifford's ice cream.
Red Sky Restaurant
Fine DiningSeasonal New American cuisine with an emphasis on local seafood and produce. One of the best restaurants on Mount Desert Island.
Where to Stay
B&Bs & Inns
(1)Harbour Cottage Inn
B&BIntimate B&B on Main Street with eight rooms, full breakfast, and walking distance to the harbor.
Campgrounds
(1)Seawall Campground
CampgroundAcadia National Park campground on the western side of the island with ocean-adjacent sites and easy trail access.
Events & Festivals
Southwest Harbor Fest
Annual celebration with live music, a craft fair, boat-building demonstrations, and harbor activities.
Quietside Festival
Arts and community festival celebrating the western side of Mount Desert Island with music, food, and gallery walks.
Flamingo Festival
Quirky fall festival with a pink flamingo theme, including a lawn flamingo display, parade, and community events.
When to Visit Southwest Harbor
Spring
Mar - May
30-55F
Trails open as mud season ends. Restaurants and shops begin reopening. Wildflowers along the carriage roads.
Summer
Jun - Aug
52-76F
Peak season but calmer than Bar Harbor. Echo Lake swimming, harbor lobster, and long hiking days.
Fall
Sep - Nov
35-62F
Spectacular foliage on the mountains. Fewer visitors. Acadia at its most photogenic.
Winter
Dec - Feb
15-30F
Very quiet. Most businesses close. The island is peaceful for those who like solitude and winter hiking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before visiting Southwest Harbor. Can't find your answer? Contact us.