Bar Harbor, Maine

Sand Beach, nestled within Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor, Maine, is a picturesque coastal gem that captures the natural beauty of Mount Desert Island.

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About This Location

Sand Beach, nestled within Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor, Maine, is a picturesque coastal gem that captures the natural beauty of Mount Desert Island. This stunning beach, measuring approximately 1,000 feet in length, is renowned for its pristine white sands and is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Maine. Tucked away in a small inlet between the rugged granite mountains and rocky shores, Sand Beach offers visitors a serene and scenic escape.

What makes Sand Beach particularly unique is its sandy shoreline, composed primarily of shell fragments, a rarity in this region. Unlike some nearby beaches along Park Loop Road, such as Boulder Beach, which are characterized by large rocks, Sand Beach provides a sandy oasis where visitors can relax and soak in the natural beauty of Acadia National Park.

Throughout its history, the relentless action of the ocean's waves has shaped Sand Beach, resulting in its distinctive and inviting landscape. Despite the beauty of the beach, it's worth noting that the ocean temperature rarely exceeds 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer, which may require some determination for those seeking a refreshing swim. Nevertheless, children seem to enjoy the water, and for swimmers' convenience, restrooms and changing rooms are available. A lifeguard is stationed at the beach from Memorial Day through Labor Day, ensuring the safety of beachgoers during the summer season.

While Sand Beach is a popular summer destination, its appeal extends well beyond the warm months. Visiting during the off-season provides the opportunity to appreciate the beach's natural beauty in a quieter and less crowded setting. This tranquility, coupled with the stunning coastal scenery, makes it an attractive spot for those looking to explore the park year-round. During the off-season, from September 8 to June 15, dogs are welcome on the beach, allowing four-legged friends to frolic in the sand and water.

Access to Sand Beach is conveniently provided via the Park Loop Road, shortly after passing the park fee entrance station on the northeastern side of Mount Desert Island. For eco-conscious travelers, the Island Explorer Shuttle Bus offers a pickup and drop-off point at Sand Beach, with buses arriving approximately every half hour during normal season hours. As you arrive, you'll likely notice the prominent presence of The Beehive, a notable mountain in the vicinity that beckons hikers to explore its trails.

While Sand Beach is a treat to experience up close, it also offers splendid vistas when viewed from a distance. Consider embarking on hikes to the west or east of the beach to capture unique aerial perspectives. To the east, the Great Head Trail presents breathtaking views of Sand Beach with the iconic backdrop of Beehive Mountain. To the west, the Ocean Path, easily accessible from the parking area, leads to several vantage points offering panoramic views of Sand Beach and the rugged coastline leading to this pristine stretch of white sand.

Whether you're a sunseeker, nature enthusiast, or simply looking to appreciate the beauty of the Maine coast, Sand Beach is a destination that is sure to captivate and delight visitors of all ages. Its serene charm, scenic surroundings, and year-round accessibility make it a beloved spot within the breathtaking Acadia National Park.

Location Features

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Locations

Address:
Park Loop Road, Bar Harbor, Maine

GPS Coordinates:
44.329187, -68.182355
Directions to location:
Click here for location directions
Directions to parking area:
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Parking Notes:
There is a large parking lot for Sand Beach located just off Park Loop Road, near the Sand Beach Entrance to Acadia National Park. There is no entrance fee for the parking lot, but a pass is required to get into Acadia National Park. From the Sand Beach Parking Lot, the best is just a few steps away. There is an overlook and then a stairway leading down to the large white sand beach.

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