The Ultimate 5 Day Maine Road Trip Itinerary (Acadia, Lighthouses & Scenic Stops)
We spent 10 days exploring New England as part of our U.S. History road trip, and the highlight was this 5-day Maine road trip itinerary through some of the most beautiful coastal towns in the Northeast. From Portland to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, this coastal Maine road trip covers charming lighthouses, scenic drives, bucket-list hikes and some of the best places to visit along the Maine coast.
If you're planning a Maine road trip and want to see the best of Acadia National Park and coastal Maine in five days, this itinerary breaks down exactly how we did it.
maine road trip overview and map:
We flew into Boston because flights were cheaper and we were spending the second half of our trip in Boston, so it also made the most sense for returning our rental car. If you're only planning a Maine road trip, I recommend comparing flights into both Boston Logan International Airport and Portland International Jetport (PWM).
You will definitely want a rental car for this Maine road trip itinerary. If you're renting a car in Boston, ask whether your rental includes a toll transponder since you'll encounter tolls along the drive into Maine.
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DAY ONE: BOSTON TO PORTLAND, MAINE
Portland is just under a two-hour drive from Boston and makes a great first stop on a coastal Maine road trip. I highly recommend staying in Old Port, Portland's historic waterfront neighborhood, where you'll be within walking distance of shops, restaurants and the waterfront.
Where to stay in Portland, Maine:
Hyatt Place Portland Downtown - Old Port Square: We’ve stayed here twice back when you could redeem your Hyatt free night award. It has a great location, free breakfast and large rooms.
Hilton Garden Inn Hilton Downtown Waterfront: This property has sea view rooms
Courtyard by Marriott: This property is in Old Port, but sometimes prices out cheaper than the other - and you may get lucky and find award nights available.
We loved exploring Old Port, walking along the waterfront, shopping and, of course, eating lobster rolls. But for us, one of the must-see stops in Portland is Portland Head Light, located in nearby Cape Elizabeth. You'll need to drive from Old Port, but it's absolutely worth adding to your Maine road trip itinerary.
Portland Head Light
visiting Portland Head Light (what to know before you go)
Located in Fort Williams Park. Parking is paid at $6 for a 2-hour minimum which is more than enough time to visit the area unless you plan on hiking or doing other things in the park. Don’t try to get away with not paying. There are attendants everywhere and the fine is a lot more than the parking fee.
Bathrooms located in the parking lot.
From the parking lot follow the trail that leads to the Lighthouse. You’ll see the old Lighthouse Keeper’s house which is now a museum and gift shop.
The Portland Head Light is the oldest lighthouse in Maine. Construction started in 1787 and it was first lit in January 1791. Make sure that you follow the trails in either direction of the Lighthouse and the views are completely different. If you have good weather, plan to visit around sunset for amazing views.
Even in July it can be super foggy
DAYs 2-3: BAR HARBOR and ACADIA NATIONAL PARK
The drive from Portland to Bar Harbor takes about three hours. After checking into our hotel and dropping off our bags, we headed into downtown Bar Harbor to explore and grab lunch.
Let me preface this part by saying it was super foggy the two days we were in Bar Harbor! While we were lucky enough to get a few breaks of sunshine, much of our visit to Acadia National Park was shrouded in clouds. We still went to every lookout and made the best of it. It just means we'll have to go back!
WHERE WE STAYED in bar harbor:
While there are several hotels bookable with points in Bar Harbor, none were available during our stay, so we booked two nights at the Acadia Inn. This is a beautiful property just a mile from the Acadia NP entrance. We had a great stay and would definitely stay here again.
We booked a two-queen room that included a very generous free breakfast in a gorgeous sunroom. The property felt very “Dirty Dancing-Esque” in that it had a large, heated pool and jacuzzi and tons of activities like bocce ball, playground, Adirondack chairs and movies playing in the back lawn with s’mores. So fun!
WHERE TO STAY IN BAR HARBOR, maine
Sand Bar Cottage Inn: This New England cottage is right in Bar Harbor. Has free parking which means you can park and walk to all the shops and restaurants.
Hampton Inn Bar Harbor: This hotel has indoor and outdoor pools, sea views, breakfast buffet and large rooms.
Atlantic Hotel and Conference Center: Waterfront property located under a mile from Acadia National Park. Indoor and Outdoor pools
Bar Harbor Grand Hotel: This property is gorgeous. Located in downtown Bar Harbor. Located 1.4 miles from Acadia National Park. It has a free breakfast, outdoor swimming pool and hot tub.
Acadia National Park Entrance Fees, Reservations & What to Know:
How to get into Acadia National Park:
Standard Entrance Pass - $20-$35 for U.S. Residents (best option if you don’t plan to visit any other National parks this year)
Acadia Annual Pass- $70. Purchase online or onsite.
America the Beautiful Pass - free to $80. This pass gives you unlimited access to all national parks for 12 months starting from your first visit date. (Seniors, military, visitors with a permanent disability, and families with a 4th grader are eligible for a free or discounted America the Beautiful pass.)
Cadillac Mountain Summit Road Reservations (details below)
How to Get Around Acadia National Park (Driving, Parking & Shuttle Info)
When planning how to get around Acadia National Park, you have two main options: drive the scenic Park Loop Road yourself or take the free Island Explorer shuttle. The Acadia National Park shuttle runs throughout the park and even from downtown Bar Harbor, making it a convenient transportation option for visitors.
We chose to use the free Island Explorer shuttle and would absolutely recommend it. Parking in Acadia National Park can be extremely limited, especially at popular trailheads and scenic overlooks along Park Loop Road. We saw many visitors parked far from their intended hike, walking long distances just to reach the trailhead and then back again after a full day of exploring.
The Island Explorer shuttle drops you off directly at major stops throughout Acadia, including top hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. From there, you can hike between nearby areas or simply hop back on the shuttle to continue exploring without needing to return to your car. For us, using the Acadia National Park shuttle made getting around the park easier, less stressful, and far more efficient during peak season.
acadia national park itinerary (2 days)
Day 1 in Acadia National Park Itinerary
Our first full day in Acadia National Park was spent exploring highlights along the scenic Park Loop Road using the free Island Explorer shuttle.
Stop 1: Hulls Cove Visitor Center to Sand Beach
We began at Hulls Cove Visitor Center and took the shuttle to Sand Beach, one of the most popular stops in Acadia National Park. This is also where you can access the trailhead for the famous Beehive Trail, a steep but rewarding hike with incredible coastal views.
It was very foggy the morning we visited, so instead of hiking the Beehive Trail, we explored the area and continued on foot toward Otter Point, where we caught the Island Explorer shuttle to our next stop.
Stop 2: Thunder Hole
Next, we stopped at Thunder Hole, one of the most iconic attractions in Acadia National Park. When the tide is right, waves crash into the inlet and create a booming sound that resembles thunder. Be sure to check tide schedules for the best experience. I wasn’t sure what to expect but this was so cool we actually spent quite a bit of time here.
Stop 3: Jordan Pond Loop
From Thunder Hole, we hopped back on the shuttle and headed to Jordan Pond. We hiked the 3.5-mile Jordan Pond Loop Trail, one of the best easy hikes in Acadia National Park. The trail is mostly flat and shaded, making it great for families or anyone looking for a scenic but manageable hike.
After your hike, you can dine at the famous Jordan Pond House Restaurant, known for its popovers and stunning views of the Bubbles. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak summer months.
After finishing the Jordan Pond loop, we took the shuttle back to the main visitor area, picked up our car, and returned to our hotel to rest and swim before heading back out in the evening.
how to visit Cadillac Mountain at Sunset
That evening, we returned to Acadia National Park for our sunset reservation at Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast and one of the most popular viewpoints in Maine. Unfortunately, the fog never lifted, and we weren’t able to experience the sunset views.
Important: Vehicle reservations are required to drive the Cadillac Mountain Summit Road from mid-May through October. Be sure to book your Cadillac Mountain reservation well in advance, especially during summer and fall foliage season.
Pro Tip: If you don’t want to worry about driving or parking, you can take the free Cadillac Mountain shuttle from downtown Bar Harbor. However, sunrise and sunset trips still require advance reservations.
Day 2 in Acadia National Park: Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
Bass Harbor Lighthouse
On our second day in Acadia National Park, Payton and I drove to see the iconic Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, one of the most photographed lighthouses in Maine. Located in Tremont, Maine, about a 35-minute drive from Bar Harbor, this historic lighthouse is managed by Acadia National Park and sits along the scenic coastline of Mount Desert Island.
The drive itself is part of the experience. We loved passing through charming coastal towns along the way and highly recommend building in extra time to stop, explore local shops, or grab a bite to eat.
How to Visit Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
Parking at Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is limited, with just one small parking lot available. If you’re visiting during peak season, especially summer or fall, plan to arrive early to secure a spot.
From the parking lot, there are two ways to view the lighthouse:
Easy Viewpoint: A short walk brings you to a side view of the lighthouse near the keeper’s house. This option requires no hiking and is accessible for most visitors.
Classic Front View: If you want the famous front-facing view of Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse perched on the rocky cliffs, you’ll need to walk down a set of stairs and carefully navigate large boulders along the shoreline. Wear sturdy shoes, as the rocks can be uneven and slippery, especially near high tide.
Sunset at Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
Sunset is one of the most popular times to visit Bass Harbor Lighthouse in Acadia National Park. The golden light against the cliffs makes for incredible photos, but parking fills quickly. If you’re planning to visit at sunset, arrive well in advance to secure a parking spot.
The view of the Lighthouse if you’re unable to do the stairs and climb the rocks
If you want to see the famous front view of the lighthouse, you’ll take this set of stairs. If will be to your left as you approach the Lighthouse Keeper’s House.
At the bottom of the stairs, you have to climb a large set of boulders to make your way over towards the lighthouse.
Make sure you wear sturdy shoes. We were lucky there weren’t a ton of people there when we visited. I could see this being very dangerous popular times like sunset.
things to do BAR HARBOR, maine:
In between our visits to Acadia National Park, we spent time exploring downtown Bar Harbor, a storybook coastal Maine town filled with cute shops, restaurants and beautiful waterfront views. Parking can be difficult during busy times, so I recommend taking the free Island Explorer shuttle into town. You can find the routes and timetables here.
Make sure you leave some time to simply walk around Bar Harbor, shop and grab something to eat. It's such a fun town to explore between your days in Acadia National Park.
how to visit bar harbor sand bar
Did you know Bar Harbor is named after the large sand bar in town? I had no idea! Around low tide, you can walk across the sand bar to Bar Island, which is part of Acadia National Park. Once on the island, you can continue along the trail through the forest.
Pay very close attention to the tides. The sand bar is covered by the ocean outside of low tide, and if you lose track of time while you're on Bar Island, you'll have a very long wait before you can safely walk back across.
There is no parking lot here so be prepared to drive around and search for a spot on a side street. We ended up parking on a side street - just make sure you can legally park there.
Even during low tide, the sand is very moist so make sure to wear shoes that can get wet.
things to do in bar harbor maine if you have more time
If you have more time, consider:
DAY 4: BAR HARBOR TO KENNEBUNKPORT road trip
On day four, we left Bar Harbor and headed south toward Kennebunkport, Maine. We also made a stop in Bangor before continuing down the coast. I've visited this area in the fall as well, which I highly recommend if you want to see Maine's beautiful fall foliage.
things to see in bangor, maine
Home of Stephen King - This was a quick, fun stop
Paul Bunyan Statue
STOP IN FREEPORT, MAINE
If you have time on the drive south, stop in Freeport to visit the L.L.Bean flagship store. This is a fun place to pick up one of their famous Boat and Tote bags and get it personalized.
Stephen King’s House - I mean, would we expect anything less? I love it!
things to do in Kennebunkport, maine:
Kennebunkport is another adorable coastal Maine town and definitely worth a stop on your Maine road trip. Parking was fairly easy to find at either end of town. Head to historic Dock Square and just stroll around, shop, grab lunch and get an ice cream. If you have extra time, head to the beach.
where to stay in kennebunkport, maine:
Hampton Inn Kennebunkport: While not located in Kennebunkport, we were able to redeem points for our stay, and it priced out a little cheaper than staying in town.
Kennebunkport Inn: This place is so decked out in the Fall. My sister and I said we’d love to stay here the next time we visit. So cute and steps from Dock Square.
Seaside Inn: How fun would it be to stay on the beach? A classic New England beach stay.
The Beach House Inn: Each room has sea views and a balcony. Free parking.
DAY 5: KENNEBUNKPORT TO BOSTON (scenic coastal stops)
On day five, we wrapped up our coastal Maine road trip and headed toward Boston for the U.S. History portion of our trip. Along the way, we stopped in York, Maine to see one more famous Maine lighthouse, Nubble Lighthouse.
visiting Nubble Lighthouse in York, Maine
Built in 1879, Nubble Lighthouse sits on a tiny island just off the coast from Sohier Park in York, Maine and is one of the most photographed lighthouses in New England. Parking was fairly easy to find when we visited. From the parking lot, head toward the water where you'll find several different viewpoints of the lighthouse.
This little beach town was so cute, and I wish we'd had more time to explore it. There are several beach towns along this part of the Maine coast, and if you have extra time, I'd absolutely consider spending a night here.
where to stay near nubble lighthouse and york, Maine
We always said we wanted to come back and stay in this little beach town for a night. These properties are all located near the beach and within walking distance to the lighthouse.
Viewpoint Hotel: Ok, this would be a splurge for sure, but many rooms have views of the lighthouse, just a short walk to the beach. I’m dreaming about sunsets from this place.
Lighthouse Inn and Suites: Located in the Nubble Lighthouse neighborhood, short walk to the beach and the lighthouse. Outdoor pool.
Union Bluff Hotel and Meeting House: Oceanfront property
Cutty Sark Motel: Ocean front hotel, walking distance to everything in York
Optional Stop: Salem, Massachusetts
Before heading into Boston, we made one more stop in Salem, Massachusetts for a couple of hours. I've also visited Salem twice in October and am completely obsessed, but seeing it in the summer with the trees and flowers in bloom was pretty special too.
If you want to add Salem to your New England road trip, you can read my Salem, Massachusetts Guide here.
BEST TIME FOR A MAINE ROAD TRIP
I've visited Maine several times over the past few years, and I think the best time for a Maine road trip is from May through October. Summer is absolutely gorgeous. The days are longer, flowers are in bloom and you can enjoy hiking, swimming and time along the coast, although the ocean is still super cold!
Summer also brings higher hotel prices and more crowds, especially around Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. Fall is another beautiful time to visit Maine, with gorgeous fall foliage, cooler temperatures and fewer crowds as you get later into the season.
planning a new england road trip?
If you're planning a longer New England road trip, don't miss my Fall in New England Road Trip Itinerary for even more stops, hotels and tips for exploring this part of the country.
Happy Travels!