Land Bridge to Bar Island Reviews

The land bridge is certainly unique, but not that interesting - one will not often repeat. There is little to do on Bar Island, and it only takes an hour or so to cross and return. The land bridge is full of small stones and shells and surprisingly dry.

You won't believe how far the tide goes out around this sand bar! When the tide is out, you can walk from Mt. Dessert Island to Bar Island and take a nice little hike around Bar Island. Be sure to check the tide and timing, if you goof and the tide comes in, you will be calling a water taxi to pick you up!

When the tide gets low, you must go! This was a fun addition to our evening stroll around town. Getting to walk on the floor of the harbor and see some of the sea creatures was a neat little adventure. We didn't go all the way over to the island but had fun exploring the little tide pools and things.

What a unique experience..don't miss this opportunity. Keep an eye on tide charts as the tide comes in quickly. We found amazing shells and enjoyed this unique walk. We watched the sunset from here and it was so beautiful.

While pretty crowded, this is worth doing. Most people are hanging out in or on the sandbar itself or in the water nearby. Fewer people take the hike on the island, which is pretty short and easy and ends at a great view of the harbor framed by the mountains. There are also some ruins. Worth exploring if the low tide timing works with your visit.

Find out when the tide is low and take a walk over to Bar Island. Very fun to do and free!! You have a few hours before the tide comes back in so don't get stranded over there or it could cost you a bunch to hire a boat to bring you back or spend 9 hours there before the tide goes back out.

Really nice to walk out during low tide. Relaxing, a fun experience, people enjoying nature. And cool to be able to walk across!

Hiking to Bar Island was a highlight of our Maine trip. The walk across is easy, the slightly more difficult hike on the island to get good views of Bar Harbor is definitely worth it (not difficult, just not as flat as the walk to the island). Do watch the tide times, but there’s ample time.

Worth it on a day when you need a break from true hiking! We don't have kids but this was very kid-friendly, lots of children of all ages that day.

It's sort of hard to rate a walk across a sand bar, but my wife and I caught the ocean at low tide in the morning and made the trek across to Bar Island and back. You need to make sure that you can get across and back at low tide, because if the tide comes back in and stands you, it won't be low enough for the return trip for another 9 hours or some such. The most interesting part of our walk was seeing a girl doing her yoga exercises where seawater had been a couple of hours prior.

This was my husband's 'to do' in Bar Harbor. Good walk. It was raining so we didn't walk around the island.

We all loved it. Easy hike, great setting. We noted to low tide time, went 90 minutes early and it was ready. Easy walk from downtown. Saw some sea life. Lots of people.

as soon as you arrive in the Bar Harbor area check out the tide schedule so you know when you can walk this and go when you can walk it and when you cannot to see the difference. Incredible experience.

Fun thing to do, unique as well. Easy walk, highly recommend for all abilities. Just be careful to not get stuck on Bar Island but there are many signs around to remind you. Plus if you go in the summer, you can just follow the crowds.

Tides move slow but be sure to be aware. This is a really neat thing for kids to explore - to be able to walk to an island! The island itself is very pretty and has a nature trail to the summit worth checking out. The sand bar is actually quite large and you can beachcomb along the way.

Just don’t mistime high tide or you could get stuck. Fun for looking for sea glass, stones and shellls. Trails on Bar island great for dog walks

Fun to show high tide pictures and tell people you walked to Bar Island. Great view of Mount Dessert Island from Bar Island if you hike to the top on the trail.

If you find you self there at low tide, take the walk out to the island. Check the tide charts to see when you can cross without getting wet. The bar is sand and gravel so be sure to wear sturdy shoes or sandals. There are trails on the island if you have time too.

Amazing! Saw several small sea animals in the tidal pools. Took many pictures and even went back after tide covered the sand bridge to take more photos. One of many awe-inspiring sites in the Acadia/Bar Harbor area. It is a must see!

This was a great activity near our hotel. It was unique. Even on a sunny (72 degree day), I should have worn more clothes. Very windy.....

Tide goes out and rises quick, so be sure to leave 1.5 hours before low tide and be back before you get trapped out on the island.

Very interesting walk to Bar Island during low tide, when the entire rocky bottom is laid bare! Cars can even make the short trip to the small island! Locals remind visitors to be sure and not get stranded on the island once high tide rolls in! Lots of smooth rocks, barnacles, seaweed and the occasional shell can be found!

We had a unique experience by walking out the sandbar early with about 2’ of water to go through and we were alone! After a couple of hours, the sandbar was high and dry with many “explorers coming out as we were heading back,( all good)!

Be sure to get there during low tide and allow enough time to see the tide coming back in. New moon was especially interesting since it created a small tidal bore.

Fun walk to Bar Island. Lots for the kids to explore on the way. Mine loved looking in the tide pools. Brought the dog too. Walked to the island and up for a pretty picture then back down. Rocks were a bit slippery at parts with barnacles and such so be careful.

Lovely visit to the walkway.

There is metered (credit card and Park Mobile App) parking along West Street…which is what I opted for.

As many visitors know…this walking path is available ONLY during and around low-tide as high tide covers this path. It is recommended that the walking path be taken only 1.5 before and after low-tide. This leaves about a 3-hour window to walk back and forth to the island. (A sign even warns that if you get stuck on the island during high-tide, you have to walk again until low-tide to cross back over…or request a rescue boat to come get you…at the cost of $150.) I do think this time frame is a bit generous as you likely have a bigger window to travel back and forth.

That being said…be mindful of the tide times on the day you are visiting. USHarbors.com is a good website for this information.

Knowing that low tide was at 8am on the day I was visiting…I arrived to the walkway at about 8:45am that morning…knowing that I had some time to make my short trip back and forth while snapping some photos. Upon my arrival, there were lots of people throughout the path and the path itself was much wider (and dryer) than I expected it to be at that time. I made my way across taking photos along the way. I did NOT venture into the island as it was about 9:20 by the time I made it over. I did make it back to the waterfront around 9:45 and there was still lots of dry land visible.

The island does offer some great views of the Bar Harbor waterfront. Additionally, the small puddles left behind from the high-tide make for some great reflections…excellent for photos!

The path itself is a mix of small rocks and sand...you don't necessarily need hiking boots but flat-bottomed shoes or flip-flops/sandals may not be very comfortable. There aren't many hills or elevations...so the flat nature of the pathway makes for a fairly easy walk. I would expect some strollers/wheelchairs may struggle in the terrain.

I highly recommend visiting while in the Bar Harbor area…a suggestion is to work the walkway visit into a morning (or evening) walk along the waterfront (West Street) toward Agamont Park where there are some great views of the boats in the harbor. There are also lots of shops downtown (only about a block or two inland) to grab a snack or bite.

Didn't know about this until taking an evening stroll through Bar Harbor. Walked out to the island at sundown and enjoyed the surreal experience of being off shore at dark. Went the next day to see it during the daylight hours.

I went so far as to bring the tide tables for this region with me in preparation for the jaunt across this land bridge. The sign on the other side reminds you to call for a water taxi if you do not make it across in time. I ALMOST made it. Great fun, just the same.

We checked the low tide schedules prior to our arrival into town so we could ensure we were able to participate in this attraction. It's cool that the water recedes enough to walk out to bar island, but there was large crowds and no sells / sea glass to be found anywhere. You need to wear waterproof shoes or ones that do not have holes like running shoes because the dampness and random water puddles will seep into your shoes.

Watch while you go, lots of pleasant surprises at your feet, such as jellyfish, barnacles, common periwinkles

If the low tide coincides with sunset, I would mark this as a to-do! It was a lot of fun to get some beautiful pics. If you bring your park pass, you can also hike on the island for a bit. There is a nice trail!

Park on Bridge street and you'll find it. before the downtown area.

This was suggested on several sites I visited when planning our trip and I'm glad we didn't miss out. Walking across the land bridge was such an enjoyable and relaxing time. It was really cool to see the tide come in and cover it up again later in the day.

We had a blast exploring the land bridge with our family and didn't even make it to the island. Our three year old was happy as a clam (ha!) exploring the rocks, shells, puddles, and snails. Keep a close eye on the tide charts, especially if you do make it all the way to the island. Wear boots or water shoes so you can splash and stomp around. This is definitely an excellent and super low key way to have fun with family and friends!

Parked in lot on bridge road with parking app. Easy walk and safe to island. Starte 1 1/2 hours before low tide evening. Explored island and watched sunset at the end. Lots of families with small children. All had a great time

Great and very accessible tidepooling - we saw jellyfish, crabs, barnacles, periwinkles, shrimp, hermit crabs and even a sand dollar. We met a friendly and informative park ranger. Perfect for families with younger children. Definitely know when low tide is, so that you can time your visit.

This was our first hike of the trip to warm everyone up. I would say we were out and back in under an hour. When reading other reviews when planning our Acadia trip, I was nervous about making it across and back before the land bridge disappeared, but the land bridge is very large and you easily have 1.5-2 hours on each side of low tide to get across.

Great spot to catch at low tide to explore right off of the main downtown area for a morning walk. Gives a different view of coastline

Take the walk to the shoreline and start flipping rocks. Underneath you will find starfish, crabs and eels. Get views and fun for all!!!!

Do this just because it's lots of fun to say that you walked across the ocean floor from Bar Harbor to Bar Island. You must check the tide charts as low tide is different each day. Leave yourself enough time to get there and back before the tide comes back in or you'll be stranded (usually a couple hours which is plenty of time). There is a trail once you get to the island that takes you up where you can get some photos of Bar Harbor. You'll have to pick your spot though as the trees can get in the way.

Need to know the tide time; an hour before low tide to view and walk across to Bar Island. Don't forget to use bug spray if you are doing this in the evening. It's muddy and sandy, so wear appropriate shoes.

Fun thing to do when the tide is down! We found a pretty purple crab shell. Hiked on Bar Island and got lost - we never found "the view."

A fun experience to walk to the island over the land bridge. Free. Easy access. A "must do" when visiting Bar Harbour.

What a gorgeous peaceful island! My husband and I spent a few hours here, walking and birdwatching. It was quiet and pristine and the air smelled glorious. Unfortunately however, we were some of those heedless people who forgot about the incoming tide and when we got down to the bar to walk back, THERE WAS NO BAR! We were able to walk across in the water (up to my hips) but another 30 minutes and we wouldn't have been able to ford it. I still can't believe we let that happen!

This is a great place to walk 2 hrs prior to and after low tide. We found one area full of sea glass. The water is clear. It’s a little walk from where you park so if the weather is not great beware. It began raining on us at 50 degrees so was a little cold to get back to the car.

Crossing the land bridge at low tide is a Must-Do exercise when visiting Bar Harbor & Acadia, but really not that interesting. We combined it with lunch on a patio at one of the nearby shore-side restaurants. There is also a short trail on the island worth exploring as part of Acadia National Park. I think it might have been more fun to plan our return walk across the land bridge after the tide had started back in so we would have been walking through some water before it got too deep, maybe next time.

It is interesting to check out, walk across and even see the island it connects to. You will see many people launch their kayaks from this location or just bring a chair and put your feet in the water. Its one of those things that you just need to see when you are in town

The kids loved this. They thought it was neat that we were walking the ocean floor. They were able to look in tide pools, find seashells, and see the barnacles that had formed on the rocks. Overall it was a very easy walk but all rock and sand. Lots of people trying to use strollers and I'm not sure how well that worked for them. Do your research on tide times. Unfortunately, there was as storm starting so we couldn't spend time on Bar Island.

In the many times I've been to Bar Harbor Maine I never knew this awesome place existed. Definitely worth the 10-15 minute walk over to Bar Island just be mindful of tide time or you may get stranded. Walk the path around beautiful views.

Lots to see on the walk to the island on the land bridge. Baby crabs and sea stars in water. We loved the views from this area. Kids has a blast playing around. Definitely recommend. Next time we plan to hike on the island.

Time your visit so that the tide is just before the low tide so you have plenty of time to cross and hike across Bar Island. Be sure to get back across the bar before the tide covers the bar or you will be stranded for many hours! A great place to watch the gulls dropping shellfish to crack open a meal. Tends to be quite crowded during the summer season.

During low tide a sandbar is uncovered that makes a wide pathway to Bar Island. You can drive your car on it and it’s a great place to look for sea glass. It’s available an hour and a half before and after low tide. Be mindful of the time when you visit because the tide comes in quickly and many people have found themselves stuck on the island. The only thing that I didn’t like about this place was that it’s a very far walk from downtown and all of the hotels on the main strip. There is no shuttle that takes you there either. We didn’t want to drive our car over the sandbar and there’s no parking on the mainland near this area for visitors, so if you are going make sure you bring good walking shoes!

Family walked across the sandbar to Bar Island at low tide. We enjoyed the walk and wading in the shallow cool water. Get there early to get a reasonable parking space as parking is along one of the roads in Bar Harbor.

Super fun to walk across the land to Bar Island. We did it a couple of times and once was as high tide was coming in. Really neat to see how the land disappears under the water.

We've been here before but never walked the land bridge at low tide. It was amazing to walk where the ocean normally is!! Sandy and rocky - but an easy walk to the island. Coolest thing was going back at high tide to see what it looks like completely under water.

Such a great place to visit at low tide. Beautiful. Lots to see especially for kids. Tide pools. Worth doing every visit.

This is a popular activity and we luckily stumbled onto it without too much promotion.
There's several good seafood restaurants close by the access point to the land bridge.

Our tour guide from MDI tours took us here first when she picked us up. You can actually walk to the island at low tide. She was quick to point our later on our tour the island again and the land bridge was now covered by the tide. Would be a great thing to do if the times and tides were in your favor. A couple of blocks from the cruise ship tender port.

Mother Nature is awesome
How cool is it that you can walk across this bar but only during very select times
The uniqueness of it makes it great. I had wanted to walk this bar but it was never the right time. If you are there at low tide, take a stroll.

This is a good for any age. Just make sure you have shoes. The barnacle is tough on your feet. Strollers don’t roll very well so leave it in the car.. look under the seaweed and maybe you can find a crab.

What a great part of nature--so unexpected. We had a great walk here to Bar Island and loved taking the trail to the top and seeing all of Bar Harbor.

Where can one walk across the ocean to another land mass? So unique, can pick up shells and nice stones that were covered by the water hours earlier. Parking is tight.

Amazing opportunity at low tide to walk to Bar Island. Hiked the trail on the island and searched for sea glass!

The Land Bridge to Bar Island is great for "kids" of all ages. The trail will take one to Bar Island at low tide. Check the tide schedule to take advantage of the trail because it is completely under water at high tide.

I am so glad we decided to go here, we almost didn't! It was such a unique experience to walk along the land bridge at low tide. We were able to collect a lot of shells and see crabs and other sea creatures. It was extremely peaceful and enjoyable even though there was a lot of people, it never felt cramped. Definitely worth the trip. We parked at one of the paid parking areas (I think in total it cost us like $4.50 for just over 2 hours) and walked down the street to the sand bar which worked out perfectly.

One of the great things about Acadia is so many of its attractions are unique to the park and can only be done here. One of those things is a land bridge sand bar only exposed 4 hours of the day and submerged the rest of the time. However, twice a day you roughly have just over 90 minutes to cross it and see the island. With that said, do not overstay on the island or you will be left. The NPS makes sure you know this with all the signs they have.

We happen to visit in the late afternoon at sunset and the entire experience was surreal. It is strange to be walking on land that is submerged for the vast majority of the day. However, it is made for pictures, especially at sunset. All six of our party hiked onto the bar, but only 2 of us made it all the way across to the island. With that said, we did not stay long as we started late and knew the tide would so be coming in. Still it was a great experience and something so Acadia to do. Check out the tide tables before travel so you can make a plan to visit when the tide is low. We did get to see the bar underwater from the top of Cadillac Mountain.

This was such a fun experience for me and my family. We saw so many crabs, sea stars, and sand dollars. Time it correctly so you don't have to take a water taxi, but it was an amazing opportunity to see sights and hunt for organisms.

We visit 3-4 times a year for 10 years and finally did the land bridge. It was not as sloppy as I thought but it is still muddy. Nice to walk to the island and go for a quick walk, but caution the tide turns quickly so pay attention.

Very cool to walk across! Bar Island was fun to explore as well. Just make sure you are back over to Bar Harbor in time. When the tide comes in you can get stuck. There are water taxies to call, but I would plan your trip over there accordingly.

A nice way to experience an island without using a boat. You can only walk out to Bar Island during an approximately 3 hour window of low tide. There are signs available to advise you of the low/high tide times for your convenience. The walk to the island is a little rocky and is about 4 to 500 yards. Once across, you can explore the island and hike the trail to the summit area where you can look back and see Bar Harbor. The entire walk and hike took us about an hour, but we took our time and took photos. Some people actually drove onto the land bridge to kayak or walk, but the signs do not advise it - almost everyone just walks down there from town.

This is something you don't have the chance to do very often, just every low tide in Bar Harbor. Take a nice walk over to Bar Island after checking the low tide schedule.

I think the hi-light on this is the before and after effect of the tide. Otherwise, you can get this experience of wading in tide pools all over Maine. Be prepared to encounter lots and lots and lots of other people if it's low tide, as they are all coming to do the same thing as you. Lots of kayakers were out the particular day we visited, and when we returned to head to the island and stroll we saw paddle boarders as well. Worth a visit just to take it in.

It's a great walk. Some times the deer come out on the bar and graze. You do have to be watchful for the tides though, or you will be on the island for a long time.

At low tide, this walk to Bar Island is interesting and fun. You have about a 2 hour window around the low tide to walk out to the island, explore and then get back.

Check the high & low tide schedule before you go. The land bridge was available at low tide after we left our cruise ship. It's a relatively short walk from the dock to the land bridge area. We did find some sea life in the tide pools & sea glass. We did not have time to walk across to Bar Island. After our tour, we drove passed the area to see it at high tide.

Definitely check the tide chart so you're not rushed or stranded. Bring a chair to sit on the water.

This is a nice walk during low tide to Bar Island. We found out when low tide was and went. It happened that low tide was in the morning at sunrise so, it was a very nice walk. Also, you should come and see the land bridge at high tide to see the difference between the tides.

A trip to Bar Harbor without doing this, is an incomplete trip, this was totally amazing. I would go twice, go at low tide , cross the harbor and hike up Bar Island, then come a few hours later at high tide and see what happend. Once you see both views you will be totally amazed

Make sure you check tidal times otherwise you can get stuck and pay $150 to get rescued.

Be aware while this is free (You need the Acadia Park Pass to go to Bar Island for a great view of Fisherman's Bay) you have to pay for parking nearby ($2 an hour)

This is very popular and it is a really cool experience. Along the left side, at the edge of the water, heading to Bar Island there were starfish everywhere. You have to be really careful as you walk at waters edge or you will step on them.

Fun to walk over to the island when the tide is low. Just be careful to know when to return. It was crazy to see the tide roll back in and how deep it gets over the channel. Pretty cool.

This is a every easy walking two mile round-trip from Mount Desert Island to Bar Island.. It begins at the end of Bridge Street near downtown. There is a three-hour window in which you had walk between the islands depending upon low tide. Once on Bar Island, there is also a hiking trail which you can take if you watch your time. It is just kind of fun to say you have "walked on water."

When the waters recede, masses of people walk across the sand bar to Bar Island. It is an amazing natural event that happens when the tide is out, You just go to the base of Bridge Street and wait. My wife and I had a wonderful time walking across.

It was very windy the day that I went on this trail, but it was worth it. Once you get to the top, you can see a great view of Bar Harbor

We got here as the tide was still going out. We drove about half way across (you can drive all the way) which was nice since we didn’t have to worry about parking. We explored for quite some time and then drove back out. A cool experience for sure!

We had so much fun walking across to Bar Island, it was a bit mushy, so wear shoes that it is ok to get dirty. We found lots of shells and sea glass.

At low tide you can walk across the sand bar to Bar Island. Not much to see there, but watching the tide go in/out, discovering all the critters and shells at low tide was awesome. Check tide tables to ensure you can return if you drive your car across.

My daughter and I walked across at low tide. She walked to the summit of Bar Island and said it was a nice view of Bar Harbor. I found some nice shells and a piece of sea glass.

The land bridge is awesome! First time we had ever done anything like this. Check the low tide time and you have 1.5 hours on either side of that to explore. Kids found lobster, crab, shrimp, shells, sand dollar and much more in the ride pools. Hike on Bar Island has many wildflowers and monarchs. Summit is OK. Rocky to get to the top. Go back later and see the difference with the tide in- truly amazing. Easy walk from Village Green shuttle stop.

Walk the "Bar" and see why Bar Harbor got it's name. When the tide goes out you will be amazed to see a path that leads to Bar Island. Walk it and find shells and put your feet in the water.

This is one of those things that you just have to do. When the tide drops up to 12 feet this land bridge is neat to walk across and just imagine how much the tide rises.

This is a beautiful, fun thing to do in the aera. Allows you to get away from the busyness of bar harbor. Very easy to access, easy walk. You can go as fast or slow as you like and stay we were told 1.5 hours on either side of low tide. We saw lots of sea creatures snails, jelly fish, fish ect. My kids loved to splash in the tide pool.

Land bridge to Bar Island is unique. During low tide, a land bridge forms at Bar Harbor downtown area, that you can walk up to go to Bar Island. We checked the tide chart and reached a little before the land bridge was totally above water. Some teenagers braved it while there still was water on the bridge. We patiently waited for the water to recede with a few others. It's a fun little thing to do while in Bar Harbor. Whatever you do, be back at Bar Harbor while the water is still in low tide. You don't want to be stuck in Bar Island.

It is very hard to find parking by this attraction (and in general in Bar Harbor). But it is easily accessible by foot down a paved road. It is a popular attraction, but it is not crowded, plenty of pools to explore. We took a quick stroll around the island, the summit view was mostly obscured by trees, but it was a nice introduction to Acadia.

I have lived here all my life and did not know that the Land Bridge to Bar Island was even there. It was a little rocky

Nice views, Only available at low tide. Glad we got a chance to check it out. Love the pics I got. Not every day you get the opportunity to walk to an island.

It's basically a walk across some wet sand and rocks, but how amazing to know that an hour before it was part of the ocean! Just a unique experience while visiting Bar Harbor. We did not have time to wait for full low tide and go all the way, but fun.

Join the other tourists at about two hours before low tide for a novel opportunity to walk to an island. Once on the island, you can follow a trail to the highet point for nice views of the town of Bar Harbor. It's not spectacular but it sure was a lot of fun. Be advised that the island is in Acadia National Park, so someone may check for proof that you have paid to visit the park. We did not have ours with us, but didn't need it. Also, be sure to return to Bar Harbor 1.5 hours after low tide or earlier.

This was fun to watch from our hotel room, and the kids enjoyed exploring during the walk over. Definitely a unique experience.

We enjoyed this area. You must watch the tides or you’ll end up stuck on the island but it’s very busy so you can go with the flow of what others are doing. I’d recommend taking the trail to the right if you want to do a hike to see some abandoned buildings on the trail. We went left and walked the whole island but it was tricky and not an easy trail IF you go left. “GO RIGHT” unless you like rock climbing. 😊

Fun to walk across the bar and on to the island. Nice easy hike to a quaint island. Enjoyable day trip but keep track of your time you dont want to get stuck.

A fun experience to walk between two islands at low tide. Rocky wide path and can be a bit wet so bring good walking shoes.

Just check the tides online for Bar Harbor + or - 1.5 hours of low tide and you will be just fine. Remember to check the tides!

We checked for low tide and crossed the natural land bridge. It appears at each low tide. As a nature lover, I thought this was amazing. As we crossed the bar, we were able to look around the bottom and small pools of water. Then we walked into the park. We ended up walking to the top and were treated to a spectacular view of Bar Harbor! What a cool experience!

Definitely plan on a couple of hours to check this out. Check the times for low tides--they change daily. Lots of people but never felt crowded. Our daughter liked playing on the sand bridge, looking for crabs and throwing rocks in water. Short hike to the top of the island too look out over the land bridge and Bar Harbor. A++.

Great stop right in down town bar harbor! Google the tide chart you can walk across/ back 1.5 hours before and after low tide. According to the sign people get stuck and have to call for a boat $150 to come get them! Don’t do that just keep track of time.

Great free activity quick walk across. Great for all ages! You can also drive across we watched a small pick up and some mopeds cross, I think walking would be more fun as to check out all the views.

Very unusual experience. The wide sandbar bridge to Bar Island seems normal at low tide but then it disappears at high tide (20 ft. differential). Also it's easily accessible from the downtown area of Bar Harbor.

The land bridge to Bar Island is a fun walk to explore on your first trip to Bar Harbor.

If you come at the beginning of low tide you can also explore the tide pools. We saw crabs, sea snails, and tiny fish. Be sure to come an hour and a half before and after low tide or else you can get stuck. The water taxi is quite pricey. Once on Bar Island you also have the option to hike up to the top of the summit. We decided against it on this trip due to the rain but next time we will for sure.

Try to do this just once when you to Bar Harbor. Its short and a unique experience, especially for the kids. While there is not much to do on Bar Island, how many people can say they walked on the bottom of the ocean?

At low tide you can drive down Bridge St from West Street and out across the "Bar" to Bar Island with your vehicle. Explore the Island - take pictures of you and your vehicle on the Island and then drive back to the Island before the tide rises. You have about a 3 hour "window to do this.

It was fun timing the right time to cross during low tide. We did it twice; once in the morning and once in the evening. We took different paths each time.... definitely worth it.

The bridge allows for a 5 minute walk across to Bar Island. There’s about a 3 hr window (90 minutes before and after low tide) for doing this so check the tide tables for Bar Harbor. Walking across the sandbar is a fun thing to do. The kids will love it because there is so much to explore in the exposed rock and sand. Another cool thing to do is take a photo at low tide and return later at high tide to get the comparison shot. Amaze your friends!

Great fun to go out on with the family but was disappointed that people are allowed to drive across it. It's unnecessary and the risk of oil and other fluids being introduced to what is the seabed at other times is appalling.

From 2 hours prior until 2 hours after low tide you can take an easy walt from Bar Harbor to Bar Island. Access it at the end of Bridge Street and only about a 1/4 miles from one side to the other. Just be sure to get back to Bar Harbor before the tide changes or you can be stuck there for several hours.

We didnt even know about this until one of our tour leaders told us, this is so fun to do! It is amazing to be able to walk all the way out to the island knowing shortly it will be covered in water. Anybody can do it!

Very nice if you have young/small kids! Older teenagers would be somewhat bored. Very safe and easy. Lots of crabs and pools to look at, Plenty of time to do, literally would take 10 minutes to walk across if you did it straight so not sure why people are so concerned with timing, would really have to screw up to get caught by tides. Did in flip-flops and overall spent two hours.

For us, this activity was a great add-on to our one Bar Harbor day. The tides were such that we could do this among shopping and lunch, ice cream. The kids (ages 7 and 9) loved the snails. bring a container of sorts to collect sea treasures. It isn't a very long walk.

It is amazing to see the tide change, I love the fact you can walk along the sand bar to Bar Island during low tide. We love to look for shells, starfish etc.

I almost skip this and then on our last day there we were just going to look at it and ended up staying for over 1 hour. I could not stop walking around and think that this is underwater for most of the day. Saw a water cucumber and moved it back to the water.

This land bridge is what gives Bar Harbor its name and is a must if visiting the area. Check online for the timing of low tide and arrive about 2-3 hours before. You can watch the tide recede before your eyes and the bar appear allowing you to walk across to Bar Island. Watershoes are recommended as the sea bottom is rocky. Recommended for children of any age as well as adults.

When you plan your trip, make sure you visit during LOW TIDE. Then you can walk the gravel bar to the island. This is perfect for the whole family . There are shallow basins for the kids to play in and the mixture of sea, air, and sunshine is invigorating. For inlanders, watch the time. The tide starts coming in at a pretty good pace. If you dawdle, you will have wet feet.

so of course you have to go when the tide is low so watch the schedule or you will be stuck here until it goes back down.There is bridge st which is a narrow street that leads to this beach which you can walk across to an island with some trails. Cars drive down this street to find out you can go all the way down the block becauese there isnt an actual bridge to cross,the street just ends and turns into a beach so park on the main road and walk down .Many think they can take their bike but dont do that eigther because you will end up walking it like i did.Got some nice views of ships and boats that are docked in the water if the fog doesnt ruin it for you but its basically a very rocky beach.

This was our 3rd visit to Bar Harbor in recent years but we just found out about this sandbar/land bridge to Bar Island. We watched sunset here one night and really found this to be a really cool adventure. It's a freebie so what can be better. Just watch out for the tides so you don't get stuck on the island by staying too long. The water does come back and cover the area with water. We were surprised to see vehicles drive on the sandbar so watch out for that too.

During tides out you can literally walk across the Bay with sandbar on one side and the bay on the other to the small island to explore.
Just make sure you check the tide schedule so you dont get stuck on the island all night.
Great opportunity to do, walkable from town of Bar Harbor

First you must now the Low Tide and High Tide times. Takes 10 minutes walk across and 10-20 minutes to walk into Acadia NP on a short trail. Only 5-8 minute walk from Downtown Bar Harbor. This is a must.

when our whale watch was canceled due to fog....what did we do....walk to bar island. During the walk we found a trolley to cadillac mountain...so definitely worth the walk. please leave the rocks as is people its not a spot to make towers of rocks.

walking across a body of water has long been a goal. this was great fun, not strenuous. found a starfish (to see and photograph not bother), lots of shells. should not be missed if you are in the area

I mean...nothing to really see, no view, you just walk on a sandbar with a bunch of peop!e- follow a oath to the end- turn around and walk back!

What a very cool thing to watch the tide recede, and the land bridge appear. We enjoyed watching the tide recede, hiking over the bridge to explore the island, and then returning the next day to see the high tide. Definitely something you should do if you're visiting Bar Harbor.

Just check the tides and make sure to experience this. It is a nice 20 minute walk up to the top of the mountain, but can be pretty rocky and a bit steep in areas, so someone with mobility issues might have a bit of a problem. Flip flops probably aren't the best idea either, though we saw many people wearing them. It's a nice way to spend a couple hours

Do it. Worth it.Great start when low tide is early am combined with sunrise! Still an Acadia gem. Make it to the summit and take a photo

You gotta come here at low tide and walk to Bar Island and explore the tidal pools. It’s very fun and educational as you see little crabs and baby lobsters and cool shells.
The tide moves about 12 feet between low peak and high peak. You literally can watch the tide come in!
1-2 hrs is all you need to do this. Wear water shoes.

Only accessible at low tide, nice walk across to the island to get a view of Bar Harbor from the other side. Short hike up the hill, easy morning hike.

If low tide coincides with sunset, there are some really great views to be had at the far end of the island. You'll encounter lots of sea specimens to pique the interest of kids and adults alike.

I had to see this for myself. At low tide we walked to Bar Island. Didn't have time to hike around it though. We wanted to be safely back before the tide his the sandbar. I came back a few hours later for the sunset and there was no sign of the former "bridge"

My son was obsessed with catching (and releasing) crabs and lobsters. Also saw brittle stars, star fish and sea urchin. We spent hours there at low tide far into the far tide pools flipping rocks.

The land bridge to the island is a must do while in Bar Harbor. Sea kayaks can be launched from the beach also! Watch the tides so you don’t get stranded on the island! Great experience!

Very cool to walk across. water level changes up to 12 feet with high and low tides. give yourself at least 90 minutes if you want to explore island.

When the tide is out it allows one to literally walk across the sandy beach to the island which is only accessible by boat when the tide is in. We looked for shells, polished glass, fancy stones and wildlife as we walked the land bridge to the island. We saw various birds on the island as well and it has a hiking trail. It was a popular location as it is literally 3 blocks from downtown Bar Harbor. Afterwards we went and enjoyed a delicious meal at a restaurant on the park. Definitely worth a hike, especially if you have children.

During our trip to Bar Harbor I could not wait to walk across the land bridge to Bar Island. How amazing is it that this water at low tide parts so that you could walk across it. There is a rolling high/low tide schedule so check one of the local guides. We found many cool shells along our walk. The next day we were atop Cadillac Mountain and could see the sand bar from there - what a treat!

Very cool but was crowded when we went because low tide was at 1 pm. So peek time. We did not do the hike on the island. We walked across and sat for a while. if tides are in morning or early evening I can see the crowds being less. Over kind of cool to do it.

Amazing to walk to the island and then later see it disappear. Fun the watch people take the dogs to play herr. Not a good place to drive low vehicles down because the road is very dirty and bumpy

Make sure you pay attention to the tide so that you can spend time exploring the tidal pools as well as the island.

I love things like this: a sandbar bridge only passable when the tide is out? Yes! A short easy trail to nice views and pretty trees? Yes! Little snails and shells and crustacean parts to look at? Yes!

Just be sure to time your trip right. It's only easily passable 1.5 hours before and after low tide. Also, be aware that you should have a national park pass with you to do the trail, as it's technically part of Acadia National Park.

The trail is right downtown. Overall a very pleasant natural wonder to experience.

Easy to find in Bar Harbor, near downtown. It is an experience. You may need to check the tide times. Well worth the effort.

This is such a natural phenomenon. Many people enjoyed the land bridge. Easy trail to navigate and easily accessible except for parking. it is a couple of blocks from the street parking to the land bridge.

I didn't expect to see cars on the bar, but there were, the road going down to it is steep and not the best for low slung cars. Better to walk it as we did and enjoy the different views of Bar Harbor from the bar and island. Some nice tidal pools to explore. We watched the tide come in and block passage to the island.

We happened to be speaking with a couple on the street in Bar Harbor and they told us about this amazing phenomenon that allows people to walk "on the water" a few hours every day. What an AHA moment it was to see the water on two sides and this vast sandbar full of people strolling along. We have been to Bay of Fundy which is quite exciting but this is a very different type of low tide/high tide experience. This has been one surprise highlight of our two week trip through New England

It is worth catching the low tide to walk out and see the bottom of the harbor. You can walk to Bar Island or just stay out by the Land Bridge. Be mindful of the rising tide so you don't get stranded.

Our family had a fun time walking along the sandbar to the island - be sure to pay attention to the signs regarding low/high tide - would not want to get stuck on the island which the tide comes in and covers the sandbar! My boys had a great time looking at the rocks and shells that were uncovered on the sandbar. And had a fun time skipping rocks! Would definitely recommend if you are in the area at the right time of day!

There is a unique phenomenon that happens twice a day at low tide. If you walk down Bridge street towards the the Harbor at low tide you can join the many tourists crossing the natural land bridge and cross to Bar Island. You do however need to be aware of when high tide begins and make sure you don't get stranded for many hours on Bar Island. If you visit Bar Harbor Don't forget to try this out.

We went to Bar Harbor to actually see this and was not disappointed. . Was disappointed it rained and didn’t get to walk across at low tide.

We managed to get here at the right time. Low tide does give you a couple of hours. Do pay attention to particular tides for your time. To get stuck on Island at wrong tide could be unpleasant, depending on weather. Sunset was specutalar,

Nice walk. Colors were beautiful. It was fun to walk across to the island. It was so weird to think it had been covered with water before. Great adventure. Go do it!

I was so surprised by the amount of land exposed by the low tide, in Bar Harbor! We walked out through the "tide pools" and turned some rocks over to find some bright, colorful starfish and TONS of crabs of all different sizes! So many different kinds of shells, as well as mussels and other edible shellfish. My hubby did not wear his water shoes, and I did, so I had WAY more fun than he did. Be sure to wear shoes that you can dunk into the water with! We barely made it over to the island, and did not get to explore there, before we needed to head back. We were too excited about what was in the tidepools! The only thing I'd do differently is to get out there earlier, so we would have enough time to explore the island. I hear it is REALLY cool!

Great activity that can be enjoyed by children, teens and adults. Some opportunity for beach combing. Great view of the harbor from a different perspective. Best to wear Keens or similar footwear, though you can easily avoid getting your shoes wet.

This was such a neat experience and a must do if near Bar Harbor. It was so neat waiting for the water to recede so we could walk all the way across and seeing all the little sea creatures left behind.

Super cool to see the land disappear when tide comes in and know you were on it walking! It's just a plain ole cool thing to do...nice walk and pretty!

I have missed this the previous times that I have been in Bar Harbor and ended up doing it twice in one tidal period. It is quite fun to walk across the land bridge, watching traveler's search for sea glass and shells. Make sure to look back at Bar Harbor while on the bridge and do a 360, taking in the village, the harbor sites and the island. The hike up Bar Harbor is fairly easy, less than 15 minutes. Be sure to add your own rock to the large cairn and then peak through the trees to see some of the harbor views.

I did it once in early morning with almost no one around, then again with my late riser husband with a more crowded pathway.

Great experience and fun mini-hike. Just watch where you step when you explore off the main path as there is a lot of shell life in and around the tidal pools.

At low tide you can walk all the way to Bar Island! Be warned there is a window of an hour and a half before high tide sets in. You don’t want to get stranded at the island!

This is a fun walk to an island! I really enjoyed watching how the water comes in, and goes out. Be sure to return before high tide!

Well worth checking when the bar is exposed and walking cross to Bar Island. Don't park on the road down to the bridge and keep an eye on the tide.

Us ladies just happened upon this while in Bar Harbor eating. We were then told when the tide is out you can walk the ocean bottom out to Bar Island. We were going to drive out there but with our low profile vehicle the entrance was way to rough. So we walked. Very nice. Found a bunch of sea glass and some very interesting looking rock! A kid told me how to search for the sea glass. And now I know! Will be looking at many other beaches in the future. Just a fun activity.

This is just a simple little thing to do. Nothing majorly jaw dropping but kinda neat. The walk to the “summit” isn’t particularly inspiring and we had more fun just hanging out around the sand bar and looking for things in the water. I will say about the timing that it didn’t seem as strict as the +\- 1.5 hours around low tide that you read about. I understand that the consequences for getting stranded are pretty serious so that is a factor to consider. But we were there at 1.5 hours past low tide and you could still easily make your way back. And it looked like there would still be several minutes left as well. In fact I had planned to watch the tide cover the sand bar but it was taking so long I got tired of waiting and just left. Be sure to come back some time later at high tide and see how different it looks from where you walked before.

You can get across totally dry on the high part of the sand bar wearing any footwear, but if you want to explore more you'll need water shoes or sandals as the rocks and barnacles will destroy bare feet in some areas. Exploring is fun. We saw stranded jellyfish on rocks. We watched a seagull catch a crab, drop it on rocks from 25 feet in the air to kill it and crack it open, then ate it. Lots of various types of shells.

Once you get across to Bar Island there is a trail with an easy hike to the top that is about a mile each way. My wife and teen daughter did the hike in flip flops. Beautiful view of the harbor from an outcropping looking back at Bar Harbor village. The trail looks like it goes straight (and part of it does), but to get to the open area with a view you'll need to notice the upwards rocky trail to the right.

Note that Bar Island is part of Acadia National Park so technically you need a park pass (which I knew and brought ours from the car), but no one checked it even though I saw a couple of park rangers there.

Parking on West Street is the the best choice for this attraction as it is most plentiful plus it is free and without a time limit.

Its like mythological story! Water gives way to pedestrians for a short window of time. Check the low tide charts because its a short window of time.

During low tide you can walk across the land bridge to Bar Island. We enjoyed looking at the rocks, shells, and barnacles that were exposed when the water receded.
Once you reach Bar Island you will have great views of the shoreline, shops, and cottages of Bar Harbor.
Make sure you leave the island in plenty of time to get back across the land bridge before high tide or you will get wet!

This is the Bar in Bar Harbor! Wonderful experience and a must do in Bar Harbor. Just be careful of the tides so you are not stuck on Bar Island.

on a return visit many years later we stopped here and wow, what a natural walk with an amazing view....its an easy stroll and you can just walk to the beginning to see the breathtaking beauty...lovely little quaint streets with gardens lead you to the entrance of the bar island sand bridge

We didn't walk the entire way across because it was getting late and we had the dog and were tired. But DON'T MISS THIS. Who can say they've walked on the ocean floor!!

When it is low tide you can walk to Bar Island. Check when low tide is because it is the only time you can walk to the island. Make sure you have plently of time. It is worth the trip to be able to do this.

Walking the Land Bridge to Bar Island is a fun activity for kids of all ages. Check the tide chart before heading there, especially if one plans to hike to the top of Bar Island and make it back to Bar Harbor before the tide comes in again.

Don't miss it! It's amazing how much the tide recedes and exposes this great land bridge to Bar Island. There's a nice out and back trail on the island but don't get caught when the tide comes in or at least be prepared with some wet shoes for walking back. Seriously, you only have about 90 minutes to explore. Once the tide starts rolling in again, it's amazing how fast it creeps up on you. If you have time, hang out on the Bar Harbor side when it all starts happening. It's Cool!

Great views. Very peaceful walk and opportunity to enjoy the island in a different way. Easy walk that can be done in an hour.

Walking across this during low tide is a must. The tides are so amazing, and you can learn so much by visiting this area during low and high tides.

It is an easy walk across the sandbar at low tide. We walked across with lots of exploring and rock throwing. Then we did the short (1 mile loop) hike to the bar island summit and actually saw some nice views of bar harbor without too much fog. By the time we walked back down and started heading back across the sandbar, the fog was starting to roll back in and get thicker. There is not much room at the summit, but it is a must see when in the area.

We arrived within the time-frame required to walk on the land bridge. Later was when we were at the top of Cadillac mountain we could see that the land bridge was being cover with water. We built ourselves a cairn as a memorial of our visit. Wonder if it will still be there years from now?

When decided to try the land bridge too Bar Island yesterday. We were not disappointed as when you walk out it is just amazing to see this land area completely exposed when the tide is low. We walked to the other side which takes less than 10 minutes and took a few photos. My husband looked over at the tide schedule located on bar island and realized that within an hour the tide would be so high we would not be able to return back for 8-9 hours. We looked back and it was already starting to fill in the land bridge. We were on the island less than 5 minutes so this was quite shocking to us. We had to take off our shoes and walk through water in a few areas. By the time we got back to the other side, the tide was coming in so much that the land bridge was almost completely gone. Take note that our entire time there was only 20 minutes so that I can come in quite quickly. Definitely worth it but I would recommend going prior to 10 AM

Wait for low tide to cross the island bridge. Walk up the trail and bear right.

Caution....we took the left trail after seeing some people coming from the left. At some point, it felt like we were lost in the woods. Luckily, our family pet took us back on the trail. Beautiful experience.

This was so much fun. We spent two days just tide pooling on the bar. We had so much fun finding lobsters, crabs, and snails we never made it over to the island.

This is not a priority if you are on a tight schedule but it is a fun place to get out into the bay and wade in the water. If you time it right you can walk to the island and back. We arrived after the water was starting to flood the bridge again so just went halfway out. If you have on shoes that are easy to take off, you can wade through the water that first starts to flood the bridge to get back, but if you have on street shoes you'll want to be back across in plenty of time. There are a couple of lower places on the bridge that flood first. This would be fun for children.

We walked across at low tide. I never did find a tidal pool on the west side as the ranger said. The wooded trail on the island had some insects. Trail is flat and well-trafficked. the land bridge is wide, so even thought here are many people combing, you don't get the feeling of being crowded and this was on the Fourth of July.

We finished dinner just in time to catch Low Tide. Like many others have said, visiting the land bridge is all about the timing. You can only walk across during Low Tide. You can find the times online or you might find it posted around town. Our motel and the visitor center had them posted.
Vehicles are not allowed on the land bridge. There is no parking in the immediate area.
Our kids thought it was neat to be walking somewhere that was completely covered in water just hours before. It is a neat experience that you should do at least once.

Twice a day the tides drop low enough to walk the gravel bar to Bar Island. It is a nice easy walk that just about everyone can enjoy. Once you get out to the island you can chose just how much farther you want to go. The views from the opposite shore looking back at Bar Harbor and Cadillac and great and picture worthy! You can also continue up on the island to the height of the ground and get more great views of Bar Harbor from and elevated view point. It is a little more challenging to hike to this point but not really hard for anyone who likes hiking.

This is only accessible when low tide. You can walk across to bar island like a hour and half before low tide and during low tide to a hour and a half before high tide. Check the tide schedule before you go so you will not get trapped on the island. Hike to the top of Bar Island the view is worth it. Take water

While dining in Bar Harbor, I saw we were near low tide and decided to find information about walking to Bar Island, which I heard about previously. We found out we had plenty of time to walk across during low tide to Bar Island. It was a fun experience. It takes about 20 minutes to walk there and back. There are signs warning you prior to walking to Bar Island that you if get stuck on the island, then high tide is 9 hours later. After high tide, the only options to get back from the island are a water taxi or Acadia Dispatch.

A good experience with a hint of adventure...particulatly recommend if you like collecting sea shells!

Parking can take some time so recommend going in advance. The bridge was open 1.5 hours before and after low tide when we went and seemed everyone was arriving at that time.

This is a very unique experience, walking the 'land bridge' to Bar Island, and provides a unique water perspective of Bar Harbor. Wish we had enough time to stroll Bar Island, it was very peaceful but we had time constraints. There is plenty of time between the tides and the walk across the land bridge was less than a mile one way.

So, I completely blew this off as something not worth doing, but my husband disagreed and I’m very glad he did. It was actually quite impressive when you realize that twice a day for nine hours in between tides this strip of land is covered in 12-feet of water. 
While it is dry enough that you could potentially push a wheelchair with all-terrain tires across, you don’t have to because you can actually drive across it in your vehicle!
Neat experience indeed!

I loved watching the sand bar get covered and uncovered, but the hike on Bar Island was a little underwhelming.

This is worth the time to do while on the island. It is a broad enough area so you don't feel crowded as it seems with most everything else this year. Scenic, relaxing and fun.

While on a cruise to Bar Harbor, we had time before tendering back to our ship, so we decided to take the walk to the Land Bridge. It was a beautiful day and the walk pleasant. Road going down is pretty steep and once on the beach a little bit of a walk to the island. Many people there, cars were driving across, would not attempt that, maybe with a truck. Spent about a half hour exploring, then back up the hill. Would recommend if you are there during low tide.

It is amazing to walk or you can drive over. Nice hiking trails once over there that give you a great view of bar harbor. Keep an eye on fhe clock because when tide comes in, you would be stuck without a boat!

Check the tide tables, you dont want to be stranded on the Island.
You can walk 1.5h before and after low tide
It is a very nice stroll, keep your eyes open for all the small sea creatures.

The hike to the top of Bar Island mountain is about 3km

During low tide, this land bridge opens and provides a pathway to Bar Island. It is interesting to be able to walk across the sand bridge which is quite wide. There is one section that is not as rocky. Explore the rocks but don't disturb nature.

Something you don't get to d everyday, Highly recommend you read you up on the time of high and low tide as you don't want to get stuck out on the island, The walkway seems to be crushed gravel and is easy walking

Loved exploring the path once the water receded. We hiked the trail on the island which was great. Little kids would really love exploring the path - finding shells, snails, and such.

Low tide allows this free activity, not to mention being outdoors and witnessing the wonders of what is under the water. Exploring a land bridge that will disappear in a few hours time is really cool:)

We walked it during the regulated low tide and then hiked the summit on Bar Island which was more interesting. I wouldn't do it twice or knowing what I know now, once.

at low tide you can walk across a sand bar and get to Bar Island. this is one of the coolest things I've done--like Moses parting the Red Sea...you walk to an island. Bar Island is part of Acadia n.p. so there are walking trails to use--but watch out for the tides or you wait 6 hours for the next crossing!

Started our day with breakfast in town, timing it just right with low tide.

So much fun and so scenic and beautiful. We parked on Cottage St and walked down to the water.

We made our way leisurely across stopping to find crabs and various other marine life in all the little tide pools.

The views are beautiful on both sides and even though it was a cloudy morning it was still an awesome experience.

This is a great thing to do with little kids because the tide pools occupy attention for a long long time and chasing little crabs never gets old.

Absolute must do when visiting Bar Harbor with or without kids.

At low tide you can walk across the bay to an island! How cool is that!? Loads of stones for skipping. The walk is a bit challenging for and can get hot in the summer sun. Would recommend - check it out!

Really nice experience. Make sure you listen to the signs about the tides, we walked across when the sandbar was fully uncovered and within about 45 min it was almost gone! Really cool view of Bar Harbor and not a difficult trail.

I had read that the path would appear 1.5 hours before low tide. We got there about 2 hours before low tide, and it was neat to watch the path appear...until it didn't. With less than an hour to go to low tide, the path was still only about 75% of the way across - there was a short section (15 feet or so) that still had water up over our ankles. Some people took off their shoes. Those of us with waterproof over-ankle boots finally just tromped through. This was nice, as only a handful of people did it and it made our island hike more peaceful. There's not much to the island, it's not a great hike. It's the experience of watching the trail appear that is unique and worthwhile.

For a zany experience, head down Bridge Street at low tide and walk across the bar to Bar Island. Whether just for the stroll or to explore tidal pools or hike the island, you'll walk on a shell and stone bar that was covered by the Ocean during high tide. Twice a day you can make the trek. But don't stay too long or the tide comes in and you're stranded! Fun and "controlled" danger at the same time.

What an experience this was to be able to drive across the ocean floor during low tide. Beware though as the tide comes back up rather quickly. I would definitely recommend doing this and best part it is is free!

We enjoyed taking the sandbar walk to Bar Island while in Bar Harbor. Got there a bit before low tide and walked over to Bar Island and then hiked. Very easy and scenic. Just make sure you note when High Tide starts, as the entire sandbar totally disappears making it impossible to make it back to the main land until the next low tide, usually 8 hours later. We did notice some one posted a sign with a phone number to call if you get stuck on the island during high tide. Cost $50 to get you back to main land.

We walked nearly half way before losing interest and turning back.
Did not find any photo opps as we had hoped save one or two.

We arrived right as the tide was low. It was pretty amazing to be able to walk out on dry ground to the island. While the ground was dry be aware that it is covered by tiny pebbles and you do sink in a bit as you walk. If you are using a cane or walker this is not something you want to do.

We were there while at full tide and came back in the evening as it was receding. Such a fun experience for the family. The kids over looking at the crab shells and creatures left behind.

On a suggestion from a friend we decided to check this out while on our trip to Maine. It was, jaw dropping, awesome. Could not believe how cool of a phenomenon this was. If you find yourself in Bar Harbor, ME make sure to par-take of this "attraction".

I was looking for the land bridge and had no idea I was staying in front of it. Its very easy to access. It’s a must for adults and children and even saw people driving across for those who couldn’t make the walk. We easily spent 2 hours walking on the island, finding sea glass, checking out the sea life in the tidal pools. It was one of my favorite things to do. It did get chilly and breezy with the wind coming off the water but we knew to dress accordingly.
I loved this part of the trip and can’t wait to do it again.

Yes - you can walk out to Bar Island from Bar Harbor when the tide is low! That in itself is pretty amazing. We did it because we happened to be in the right place at the right time. Was it a really cool or amazing nature experience? Not compared to Acadia and the zillions of other great sights and tours in this area. I think if we had made special plans for this I would have been disappointed - as amazing as it is. But, the very good news is you are in Bar Harbor! So, lot's of eating, shopping, walking, boat tours . . .

Crossing the land bridge to Bar Island on low tide was a very unique experience for my entire family. Do check the timings of the low tide as you can only cross it 1.5 hours before and 1.5 hours after low tide. The gravel and sandy surface remains somewhat wet at low tide for those who wish to discover the rocks, dig in the sand, find shells, seaweed and other organisms that live on the bar through its twice a day tidal flow of up to 12 feet. I would highly recommend doing this if you are in Bar Harbor. Once you are in Bar Island, an easy 20 minute hike will take you to the top of the island which gives you a very good view of Bar Harbor.

Definitely do this if you can! As low tide approaches, the gravel bar to Bar Island is revealed. Kids can poke around the tidal pools as well as hike on the island. Make sure you are off the island within 1-1.5 hours after low tide (tide tables online).

The land bridge is wonderful: we spent an hour just looking for crabs and sorting through shells. Be sure to wear shoes that can get wet (crocs, flip flops) and check the tide tables about a day before you want to go, so that you don't miss it. I suggest parking in town and walking down to the access point (go past the really fancy hotel on the water and you'll find a little alley that leads right down to the land bridge ... or ocean, at high tide :)).

Apparently this is why Bar Harbor got its name! At low tide this sand bar is walkable for about 90 minutes to an island. We went out about half to 3/4 way as it was not fully exposed. Really cool!

How many places can you walk across a bay in the ocean to reach an island? I would say, probably not too many. But you can in Bar Harbor! At low tide, a sand bar appears and you are able to walk over to Bar Island. It is pretty cool, especially for those that do not have access to a boat. We walked across close to sunset and it was really interesting. There were plenty of neat rocks, some shells and even crabs to see along the way. As the tide goes out, it creates tide pools and you never know what you might find in a tide pool. You have about 3 hours to walk around and get back. Check the tide schedule and watch your time so you don't get stuck. Best thing about all of this, is that it is FREE and something that you can only do in a few places. Definitely worth a visit

Great trip! We arrived at approximately 6:30 pm and were amazed by what we saw. We had been here a couple hours prior, and what was once the ocean, was now a huge sand bar that was leading up to an island. The walk over to the island took us about 10 minutes, and there were many small rocks we had to climb over in order to get there. The views were spectacular, and we were surrounded by water on all sides. This was truly a unique experience to witness.

Tip: I recommend spending 45 minutes here if you truly want to see everything.

When the tide goes out you can walk over to this island and get a completely different view of the town. But he warned that if the tide comes back in you have just made a nine your commitment!!!

Check low tide. It's twice a day. You have a conservative 4 hour window starting two hours before low tide starts then ending two hours after. So many people were confused by this?!? If you check the low tide times for that day (you must check the particular day you plan to visit because it changes every day! I overheard a family say that they missed it because they thought low tide was at 8am like it was four days prior but this day it was 10am.) So if the first low tide is stated for 9:18am, you have from 7:18am to 11:18am to walk across the Sand bar, explore, hike the trail, and go back. Four hours is way more than enough time to do all this at a leisurely, slow pace!! Then the next low tide will be approximately 9 hours later.

Got most of the way across and the tide was already coming in. I thought I knew when low tide was but it seems you need to go before then because it comes in fast. Will try it again if I can. I would love to see the island.

I was sort of skeptical about how much fun this could be. But we decided to go and check it out for ourselves. So glad we did!! The kids had a blast! Would definitely recommend this experience, especially for families!!

Let's be honest first... it's a walk along a sandy bar... manage your expectations...

At the same time, it's a fun walk, not too long, full of skipping stones, and fishing seagulls, and neat shells and such, leading to a charming island you can walk around...

Just be aware of when the tide goes in and out... there is no way back if you get stuck, and water taxis are slow and expensive... especially if you happen to have a cruise ship out of town to catch... if you're lucky enough to be there at the right time though, it's a real bar harbour experience.

In town for two nights, we had no idea about this wonder until we arrived. Tide was out and we went for it. A few hours later, it was covered by water. Amazing!

If your schedule is packed and you need to cut something out you can certainly miss this.....it's just a strip of beach. There are so many more fantastic and beautiful things to do in the area!

Beautiful area to explore. Many things to uncover including starfish, crabs and more. Nice easy walk. Obviously make sure you go during low tide. Parking in the area is free before noon on Sundays.

This was such a unique experience! I highly recommend doing this while in the Bar Harbor area. You can easily find tide tables online and the Acadia Visitor Center also has them posted. We started our walk about 1 hour before low tide. It would have been neat if low tide would have corresponded to sunset, but while we were there, low tide was always in the middle of the day. It was at 3:00 the day we did the walk.

Parking nearby can be very hard to come by. If you have lodging within walking distance, that's probably best. We didn't go all the way to Bar island but spend about an hour exploring the tide pools, seeing lots of crabs and cool sea shells. It was easy enough to get away from others and not feel crowded. The views were beautiful. It was quite warm on a July afternoon and am glad we put sunscreen on. Overall a unique experience you can't do many other places in the world and very surreal to see it consumed by the ocean just hours later.

We wandered past this on the afternoon we arrived, and it was a fun hour walk through rock pools across the sand bar. You need water shoes or at least flip flops. I was Ill prepared in leather sandals!

We were visiting the area with four adults and four kids of ages 10-13. All eight people in our group really enjoyed walking the path. We saw (but didn't touch) a handful of starfish. We spent an hour just walking around the sand bar. We did not venture onto Barr Island. It was a memorable experience!

We do this every time we visit Bar Harbor. Simple, pure, free fun with beautiful views, especially at sunset (if the tide table aligns). Just hang out on the sandbar and/or hike a very easy Bar Island. Great photo opportunities. Quite doable for young and old...maybe about 1/4 mile across. A great place to find some flat rocks and skip some stones.

Walk the sand bar ~2 hours before and 2 hours after low tide. Just don't wait too long to return otherwise you will be sleeping on the island or will need to call an expensive. The sandbar can be damp at times so bring appropriate shoes

And, if you are fans of sandbars like this, Gloucester, MA has a similar one starting at Good Harbor Beach.

Fun to walk on the Landbridge! First time for me! Then to trek a bit on Bar Island was good exercise!

Very cool to walk across to the island during low tide. Be sure to check times for low/high tide. Fun to look for shells/see the seaweed etc. interesting to see it again when tide was high. Difficult to find parking. Have to park along street and pay then walk to area.

This is simply an incredible must do easy experience to do at low tide. The tidal difference in Bar Harbor is like 12 ft. At low tide you can actually WALK across the Harbor on the sandbar to Bar Harbor island which is part of Acadia National Park where there is a short trail to the top with beautiful views back across tbe Harbor to Bar Harbor and the sand bar you just crossed. Make sure you do this within 1.5 hrs of low tide so you don’t get stuck on the island and require a $50 water taxi to get back across after the tide comes in.

Make sure you time your hike just right, or else you will get stranded on the island for 9 hours while you wait for the tide to go out! The hike is unique, and the island gives you a great view of town from across the water. My only complaint is the idiots that hiked with us - some of which decided to drive across the sandbar in a car instead of hike to the island. I would say that this is a must see in Bar Harbor. PSA: you are required to have an Acadia Daily pass to hike the island - although I am not sure how they would check it unless you run across a park ranger on the island. :)

Take the trip ove to Bar Island and dont forget to explore the bar for starfish, jellyfish and crabs galore. Shells everywhere. Do go to BAR Harbor without visiting its name sake. Our little family made lots of memories turning over rocks here for hours.

Enjoyed seeing this. I am fascinated with things like this. Interesting to see the before and after.

I think every tourist has to do this one. It is eye-opening to watch the tide go out and expose a road to the island. There isn't anything spectacular we saw from the island so the land bridge itself is the actual draw. There are some interesting tidal pool things to see if you go to the outer edges at low tide but otherwise it is just a gravel bar exposed.

When we took a 30 minute Olli's Trollies town tour our guide pointed this out or we would have missed it. It is an easy stroll to cross the sand bar and have perfect views of the water & surroundings.

The number one thing to note is that you can't get on Bar Island without a park pass, so if your plan is to cross the sand bar and walk around the island, make sure you have your pass with you. Walking around on the sand bar is a very popular thing to do. It gives you a nice look at the harbor and the bay and you can wade around. We didn't walk around the island (the park pass was in the car).

We walked over to Bar Island early in the morning, with the fog and mist rising up. It was beautiful! Hearing the various birds and the whistles from the ships going out was so cool! Don’t miss the opportunity to do this & make sure you have a fully charged camera! Lots of great photo’s to be taken here.

The land bridge is only accessible during the low tide window ... very nice walk across to Bar Island, a national park area. You can explore the island if you time it correctly.

If stranded, it will cost about $150 a person to be rescued by boat

We made the obligatory walk to Bar Island while staying in Bar Harbor. For those unfamiliar, the tides change the depth of water 12 feet in the bay so when low tide comes around the water leaves a land bridge to Bar Island that you can walk over or driver over to the island. There is a hike to the top of Bar Island that has some nice views of town. It’s a couple of blocks up from downtown and has good signage. We literally Kayaked over it that morning then walked it that evening. It is interesting to see the bottom of the bay and the shells and sea life left behind from the tides. It is a unique experience and everyone should do it once but if we go back I’m not sure I would make special effort to do it again.

Took the Island Explorer to Village Green and walked to the bar. We decided not to go all the way to the the island, but did spend about 90 minutes or so playing with crabs and checking out the tide pools. Would have stayed longer but the kids didn’t bring water shoes and the rocks were quite painful for them. WEAR WATER SHOES!!!

Look at the tides and plan accordingly. We thought this to be an experience novel to Acadia! Walking to Bar Island was unique as was exploring the island.

Maybe there are 2 hours when the tides are low and the land bridge becomes safe enough to cross but, if not timed right, people do get stranded on the island until the next low tide. That probably won't work out too well for those who have a strict tour timetable dictating how much "time" there really is.

The island is uninhabited and is forested by pine and birch trees. It is part of Acadia National Park and is not under the jurisdiction of Bar Harbor.

Go down the short alley/lane to the small beach (such as it is) and pay attention to those tidal ups and downs.

This is only open during the low tide and the difference between the tides is amazing. The tide is twelve feet high so low tide is the only time you can walk across to Bar Island from Mt. Desert Island. Well worth the walk.

This adventure cost you nothing but time. You need to see the stretch of land before and after high tide - then walk it. Nature can blow you away and this one did it for me.

Great place to go on an adventure. Lots os starfish and shells. Check the tides to know when you can go here, etc. It's also nice that's it is downtown. We saw some great yard sales, too on a side road leading down.

We did this twice while visiting Bar Harbor in Oct 2018. The first day it was freezing, The 2nd day I had to take off my jacket!. Its a nice walk if you can walk on stones and gravel as its flat. We didn't walk into the Bar Island, you need a Nat'l Park Pass. Its hard to believe but folks actually get stranded when the tide comes in. You have hours of low tide and it doesn't take that long. NOTE:There is a steep hill to get to it about 1.5 blocks long after you park on the street. You can't park on that street and There is no parking before the bar.

Possible only during low tide, this easy walk on a sandbar gives you stunning views of Bar Harbor waters.

It was a great experience. There was such a steady stream of people, you'd almost want to look back over your shoulder for Pharoah's chariots .... It was especially neat to come back at high tide to see the difference.

An easy 30ish minute hike one way from Bar Harbor to the summit of Bar Island. Pay close attention to low tide or risk getting stuck for 9 hours.

My wife and I decided to cross this land bridge at low tide and hike to the top of Bar Island. We have a wonderful time with amazing views.

We enjoyed walking across the huge sandbar at lowtide. Didn't walk all the way across to the island.

Go to the start of the land bridge at low tide and walk across to Bar Island. Come back nine hours later and see how much water has entered. So high that you cannot go back knee high because its over your head. Just fun to experience.

Nice easy walk. Great view of Bar Harbor. Good walking shoes recommended. Can walk on small smooth stones or more adventurous can venture on muddied or rockier terrain.

Walk to Bar Island at low tide and escape from the heavily trafficked Bar Harbor streets. Bring a small container for the kids to collect interesting stones and other treasures. Notice the different types of rooted seaweed waiting patiently for the tide to rise. Poke around in shallow tide pools. Your footwear should be designed to get wet! Begin two hours before the day’s low tide and linger for up to two hours after low tide. With proper outerwear this would be a fine stroll on one of the frequent rainy days. A pleasant activity for kids of all ages and dogs on leash.

Our family was excited about being able to "walk across the water" when the tide was low. It was a relatively short walk to the island. We went to the island, and came right back. It was a nice view of Bar Harbor and good for someone that doesn't want to do the harder hikes on the island. I would recommend it if you are in Bar Harbor.

If you have the opportunity visit this sandbar which is about 5 minutes walk from the pier.you will be able to understand why vehicles often get trapped here by the very fast current as the tide comes in. If possible do a second visit to see the sandbar covered and the gushing water through the channel.

You have to time your walk for the couple hours around low tide, or you will be stranded for longer than you will likely want to spend on this little island within view of the harbor pier. A short walk up a trail down the length of the island will take you to an overlook facing Frenchman Bay. Great views of sunset from the bar if the low tide coincides with sunset.

One of the highlights of our trip! We loved walking across the land bridge and we were in complete awe when the high tide came in and it had disappeared. We found crab shells and claws all over. And found a tiny crab alive! The weather was terrible (thick heavy fog, rain, and rough seas) when we stayed in Bar Harbor so this was a wonderful activity to do with our family. Word to the wise, the land bridge is for walking... NOT driving. We saw some lady trying to drive across.

This is a fun walk. As long as you check the tide chart and getting your timing figured out you should have plenty of time to explore the island. If traveling with kids be sure to come back to the entrance at high tide so they can see the difference.

Check the tides! This is fun to see and walk ! Walked over to bar island. Short walk but seeing the variation in tide level is amazing! The hardest part is finding parking the view is terrific there were a lot of people but not overly crowded easy to stay socially distant

We did the land bridge at low tide with my 5 and 11 year old. The kids enjoyed the walk, but didn't really understand the importance of it until we showed them what it looked like at high tide. Low tide happened to be at midday so it was a little too hot for my grandparents in their 70's. Also, the hill to get to the bridge is steep, so getting them back up was slow going. Otherwise, it was a fun, free way to spend some time.

Kind of crazy to be able to do this walk. You really have to pay attention to the time so you don't get stuck over on island. Nice little walk.

This was fascinating to us. We got there a while before low tide, so we decided to go have breakfast to kill some time, maybe an hour tops. Went back to check an within that very short period of time the entire bridge was exposed. Walking to bar island was wonderful. Tons of Tide Pools, shells, & seaglass.

Seriously a favorite thing! We have been here 3 years now, and it’s been different each time. We love looking for the baby crabs under rocks that are still pooled in water. This trip we found sand dollars, live and dead ones!! We love watching the seagulls find crabs and eating them. The water in the fall is so warm, and how clear it is never ceases to amaze. We could spend hours just exploring through the water.

Wonderful “trip” across to the island. The walk is short and fairly flat. We did not walk around the island, but that seems like it would be a nice adventure. It was quite cold in March so boots, hats, coats, etc. It was fun to see both sides of the water and think what it would look like at high tide. Check the tide schedule and plan on going 90 minutes before (for the most time) or up to 90 minutes after. We got there right at low tide and had plenty of time to just walk across and back.

You're not going to find a natural land bridge that gets you to an island but disappears under water most of the day anywhere. That in itself is worth it but the sea life you find along the way is fascinating as well as the views from Bar Island back to Cadillac Mountain and the rest of Bar Harbor. Bar Island is pretty but it's not that big a deal in comparison to just being out on the bar and exploring. Don't feel you need to walk onto and up the Island.

Low tie was at 6:54 pm today. We came to the bridge at 5:30 pm and able to cross at sunset time. Round trip of walking was less than 1/2 hour. It was fun and beautiful. Highly recommended. Did not have to wear any special shoes because it was dry and easy walk on gravel- not sand.

We enjoyed the simple walk across the land bridge when the tide was low. Easy to walk across--rocky, and you can wade into the water a bit and look for shells and lobster claws.

Great for all ages. Fun to walk and mingle with other tourists and locals. Nice spot for photos. Loved it. Would go again soon.

Every time we visit Acadia we do this walk. First we walk along West Street and take in the "cottages" then we do the walk across the sand bar to Bar Island. What an experience to walk on the bottom of the ocean! Get a tide schedule from the Visitor Center or online. You have 1 1/2 hours on either side of low tide giving you a total of about three hours to safely take your walk and explore the uncovered sea floor. Keep an eye on the time--you don't want to be stranded on Bar Island. Do not pass up this rare experience.

The land bridge to Bar Island is visible at low tide twice per day. Check with the ranger station to find out the times. Start out 1 hour before low tide. It is amazing to see the land bridge appear. We hiked to the summit and took pictures. Be careful not to spend to much time on the island and get stuck there. There is a charge to be rescued.

Would definitely recommend the land bridge walk (during low tide) as an "easy must-do" when visiting Bar Harbor. Right downtown (behind the Harborside Hotel), so easy to get to - with breathtaking views and a sense of adventure getting to/walking around Bar Island once you get across!

This is a must do if you like going for long walks and want to see a cool land bridge that opens up at low tide so you can literally walk from the village of Bar Harbor across what is usually 10 feet or so of water to Bar Island which was a trail that takes you to a summit which opens up to amazing view of Bar Harbor. Tons of people do it every day and you can even drive across. Very cool.

I was traveling in the area and just wanted to see the water for the first time when we stumbled upon the Sandbar. On the corner of Bar Harbor Path and Village Route we noticed the small sign and decided to take a look. We didn’t understand why people were running past us as if they were late for something until we saw the tide going out and the warning signs of getting stranded on the island. Guess you do need to be on time for the glimmer of the Sandbar/ Land Bridge to cross to the island. I never been to a beach that was all rocks, but it was beautiful as the sun was setting and the tide was going out revealing the rocky beauty hidden beneath the waters. Ended up just exploring the Sandbar as it was exposed and never crossed over to the island. Great way to start the vacation of the area. Beautiful views.
Not crowded on the Sandbar. No public restrooms visible in this area. Did street parking, kiosk every so often to pay for street parking/ credit card. Streets are narrow and parking is limited in the immediate area.

Since i was young, i enjoyed walking out to the island. There was not as many people this year which was nice. But i dont get the cars driving out there. Parking a van right in the way of a spectacular sunset. There was a slight cheer when the tide comes in and water starts lapping at the tires.

We walked across at low tide and then walked around Bar Island. The trail nearer the ocean was better for views and there weren't as many people on it as the summit trail.

Need to check the tide schedule but really interesting to walk across and see the bottom dwellings of the harbor. Also cool to watch the tide come in and close the land bridge.

I personally found this very boring. It has to be well planned since the experience is contingent of low tide which changes every day.
My 11 and 13 year old found it fascinating! They brought along their metal detectors and shovels and proceeded to dig away for a few hours. They also spent time skipping rocks in the water. So, they would gladly return, I would not.
I think this is a great experience for those with very young children.

We went looking for the natural land bridge that appears at low tide. It was easy to find once we determined when low tide was expected. Crossing it and going to the top of the hill on the island did not take long, maybe 30 min. Because we went mid November, there was not much sea life to find. But, we enjoyed the views and the short hike that took us out into nature. we enjoyed being out on the bar, exploring and understanding why bringing vehicles out there is not recommended. The best part is that the tide goes in and out daily, year round and costs nothing to venture out there as long as you stick with low tide.

Very cool to walk across during low tide! Amazing view as you look towards the bay and see all the fishing boats as you stand in the middle of the bridge and think in just a couple of hours this is covered with water and part of the bay!

We walked the land bridge to bar island during low tide. And we walked to the summit of the bar island to see bar harbor, The view was just OK. I had a good time walk along the land bridge, checked out the tide pool.

Walking across the bar is such a unique experience; a must do! Be sure to research what time the tide will be out the day you visit. The bar is awesome to walk around, explore, and take in the views. It is also dog friendly! Be on the lookout for crabs if you walk in the water. There are also gorgeous purple starfish to be found!

We first saw this not at low tide, so just saw water. What a difference going back the next day during low tide and seeing the full sand bar going all the way across! We hiked to the summit- so worth it and great views.
NOTE: You can go 1 and 1/2 hours before low tide - it's worth going early as it takes a while to walk across and do the hike up and down.

Watching nature as the tides roll in and out was pretty cool for the kids. They were amazed how fast the tides roll in. Very neat to see at low tide and then how fast the tide comes in. We made sure we were not one of the stranded few needing a water taxi home!

What fun to walk across the water, so to speak! Be sure to check Google for low tide; our innkeepers at the Black Friar told us we would be safe to cross an hour on either side. Wear shoes you don’t care about getting wet or be able to go barefoot as there was one spot on our return that was wet. The view of the shore, the rocks and birds is lovely.

This is the coolest! Walking across water during low tide to an island. So much to explore on the sand bar as well as the island. The hike on the island is a little over a mile, so make sure you plan things accordingly. On the sand bar, out to the island look for shells, crabs, snails and starfish. Very neat experience.

Nice walk across the land bridge, although the best views are once you go to the top of the trail on Bar Island.

At high tide you look out and sea an island. At low tide you can easily walk there. The tide changes 12 feet. Nice views from the top of the island. Just remember to check the tide tables our you could get stuck out there.

I did not even know you could do this until we got into town. I was a really fun thing to do that you can't do anywhere else (that I know of). You can walk the land bridge and hike to the top of Bar Island in and back in 60 -90 minutes and it was worth it and it is even free.

On a previous visit to the area about six years ago, I had no idea this was there. On this visit (in port from the Veendam) I was able to find the bar and walk on it. You really have to watch the tides here and not delay your return trip too long. But well worth the walk and time spent exploring.

Crazy little surprise! A land bridge to Bar Island that appears at low tide! Hard rock and sand. Not muddy at all! Access from downtown Bar Harbor and cross to Bar Island to a hiking trail on the island. Just make sure you don't forget the time and are able to get back before the tide rolls back in!

We were lucky enough to catch the low tide towards the end of the day. The hike up to the "summit" is quite easy and so peaceful. We were graced with sunset upon our return. Stunning.

We had fun taking the simple walk across the bar at low tide to Bar Island. There's a 90-minute window either side of low tide in which you can walk from the mainland to the island. The bar is crushed gravel, so easily walked. I saw many people with compromised walking abilities walking this wide path. It wasn't very long. I tried to find the distance online, but found it difficult to find a consistent distance. Fun to take children, etc. But do beware! If you forget the time you'll be stuck on the island for 9 hours unless you are able to call a water taxi to come rescue you.

This is a fun experience, knowing that there is some element of “danger” associated with crossing the land bridge. The views of the harbor are unique given the point of view you have on the land bridge.

As soon as the tide begins to recede, go out there and make it to the beautiful island with lovely trails, abandoned ruins and the scent of balsam pine and fresh sea air.

Everyday the locals and tourists show up at this place to walk out to the island in the harbor. It takes about 40 minutes to do the trip, and you have 3 hours to do it (90 minutes before low tide to 90minutes after low tide).

Keep an eye on the tides, they come in QUICKLY.
It's perfect to stroll, search for unearthed treasures like sea-glass, shells, smoothed stones, etc. You can walk to the little island for a short walk and remember: watch the tide.

We enjoyed walking across the land bridge during low tide. While there is nothing on the island, on a nice day it is a very pleasant way to spend some time and get a bit of walking in. The best thing we did though was to go back another day just before high tide came in - within less than 30 minutes, then entire thing was gone. It was amazing how fast the water went from so calm there were barely any ripples to seeing and hearing waves crashing in.