Bar Harbor, Maine

Located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, Ells Pier, also known as Bar Harbor Town Pier, offers visitors a serene escape into the beauty of Mount Desert Narrows.

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About This Location

Located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, Ells Pier, also known as Bar Harbor Town Pier, offers visitors a serene escape into the beauty of Mount Desert Narrows. This hidden gem boasts picturesque views that capture the heart and soul of coastal Maine. It is a must-stop location for any tourist visiting this amazing region of Maine.

As you step onto Ells Pier, you'll find yourself in the midst of a bustling marina, surrounded by the iconic local fishing boats that define the charm of Bar Harbor. During the summer months, the scene comes alive with a colorful array of tour boats, recreational vessels, and even some stately yachts that grace the waters of Bar Harbor Marina. Right from the pier, you can embark on an adventure of a lifetime by hopping aboard a charter boat for a tour of Mount Desert Narrows and the boundless expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. For those seeking an encounter with marine giants, the renowned Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company, situated on the pier, stands ready to provide unforgettable experiences, consistently earning accolades as one of the top activities on Mount Desert Island. Along with whales, you can expect to see puffins, lighthouses, and epic views of the rugged coastline.

Adding to the maritime charm, you'll often find the historic four-masted schooner, Margaret Todd, majestically docked just to the east of Ells Pier. Its presence harkens back to an era when these grand vessels ruled the seas. Althoguh the ship is wonderful to admire from afar, you can actually enjoy a sail on it thanks to the Downeast Windjammer Cruise Lines.

While Cadillac Mountain Overlook may hold the title for the best-known spot to capture Mount Desert Island's iconic sunrises, Ells Pier offers a tranquil alternative. Here, you can savor the serene beauty of daybreak without the crowds, making it a cherished secret among locals and in-the-know visitors.

Conveniently located just a stone's throw from the main gates of Acadia National Park, Ells Pier provides an ideal starting point for exploring the wonders of this pristine wilderness. Whether you're drawn to the rugged trails, pristine lakes, or dramatic coastal cliffs, you'll find that the pier's proximity to the park adds an extra layer of convenience to your Mount Desert Island adventure.

Parking is a breeze at the Bar Harbor Pier, with a spacious lot accommodating 80-100 vehicles right on-site. Rates are wallet-friendly at $2 per hour, and payment is easily handled at one of the conveniently located kiosks. Fair warning - the lot does fill up quickly on weekends and on summer days.

Ells Pier (Bar Harbor Town Pier) offers a delightful blend of tranquility and maritime vibrancy, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the quintessential Maine coastal experience. Whether you're embarking on a whale-watching excursion, capturing a stunning sunrise, or simply savoring the serene waterside ambiance, this cherished spot on Mount Desert Island promises to create cherished memories of your coastal Maine getaway.

Location Features

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Locations

Address:
1 West Street, Bar Harbor, Maine

GPS Coordinates:
44.392152, -68.203984
Directions to location:
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Directions to parking area:
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Parking Notes:
There is a large parking lot located right at the Bar Harbor Pier. There are 80-100 parking spots at the pier.

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