July vacation ideas please! See below

Question

Hi 👋 Couple here in our 40's visiting Maine 4th thru 11th of July looking for all the must sees, quirky stops and quaint places to eat.

We love to hike ( nothing too strenuous, flat or moderate trails preferred) , love seeing all the beauty that nature has to offer, love odd / out of the ordinary everything - whether it be places to eat, sight see or an experience. We love the water as well: kayaking, swimming , boating.

Please share ideas to help us plan out our days !

We are Staying in Hancock, 15min drive from Bar Harbor. We will arrive late on the 4th, maybe around 6pm or so. We've been here once before but just for 1 day trip - we drove thru acadia on a foggy, drizzly day so we have LOTS left to explore !

We are willing to drive ! Also looking for the best theift stores in town !

Thanks in advance for all the advice I know you will share with us 😊

Answer

It sounds like you’re in for a fantastic time in Maine! With your love for hiking, nature, and quirky stops, you’ll find plenty of things to do during your 4th of July trip. Since you’re staying in Hancock, near Bar Harbor, you’re in a great spot for exploring both the natural beauty of Acadia National Park and the charming coastal towns around the area. Here are some ideas for your time in Maine:

Must-See and Quirky Stops

Acadia National Park – Since you didn’t get the chance to fully experience Acadia on your last visit, make sure you explore some of the park’s beautiful, moderate trails. A great beginner-friendly hike is the Jordan Pond Path, which is a relatively flat 3.3-mile loop with stunning views of the pond and surrounding mountains. Another option is the Ocean Path, a 4-mile trail with incredible views of the coastline.
Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse – A classic Maine lighthouse with a picturesque setting. It’s especially beautiful at sunset, so this is a great stop for a quiet, scenic moment.
Schoodic Peninsula – A less visited but equally stunning part of Acadia, located across Frenchman Bay. You’ll find quiet coastal trails, rocky beaches, and spectacular views. It’s a perfect place for a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
The Quiet Side of Mount Desert Island – While Bar Harbor can get crowded, the "quiet side" of the island offers a more relaxed vibe. Check out Southwest Harbor and Somesville, two charming towns with scenic views and unique shops.
Swans Island – For something truly quirky, take a ferry to Swans Island, where you can explore the small, remote island by bike or foot. It’s a peaceful place, known for its natural beauty and quiet charm.

Water Activities and Scenic Spots

Kayaking and Canoeing – Since you love the water, consider renting kayaks or canoes in Bar Harbor or Southwest Harbor. You can paddle in Frenchman Bay for a chance to see seals, eagles, and even the occasional whale.
Sand Beach – If you enjoy swimming, head to Sand Beach in Acadia National Park. It’s a beautiful spot surrounded by mountains and clear water (though the water can be quite chilly!).
Bar Harbor Boat Tours – Take a scenic boat tour from Bar Harbor to explore the coastline, including the famous Porcupine Islands and the Outer Islands. Some tours also offer opportunities for kayaking, so you can combine both experiences in one outing.

Unique Dining and Odd Stops

Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium – In Bar Harbor, stop by this quirky emporium for ice cream, fudge, and unique chocolate treats. They’re known for their huge variety of flavors and fun vibe.
Thurston’s Lobster Pound – For an authentic Maine lobster experience, head to Thurston’s, located in Bernard, near Southwest Harbor. It’s a casual, family-run spot with fresh lobster served right on the dock.
Chesuncook Lake House – For something different, take a scenic drive to the Chesuncook Lake House for some off-the-beaten-path dining. It’s a little further out, but it’s a hidden gem with a historic atmosphere and beautiful lake views.
Beal’s Lobster Pier – Another great lobster spot with a relaxed vibe, Beal’s in Southwest Harbor offers fresh lobster right by the water with some quirky local charm.

Best Thrift Stores in the Area

Second Hand Rose – Located in Bar Harbor, this secondhand store is known for its eclectic collection of vintage clothing, books, and home goods.
Goodwill in Ellsworth – Just a short drive from Hancock, the Goodwill in Ellsworth is a great place to hunt for unique finds, from clothes to furniture.
The Barn in Bucksport – A fun, quirky spot for antiques and second-hand treasures, with a lot of local character.

Itinerary Suggestions

Day 1: Arrive in Hancock, explore nearby Bar Harbor in the evening. Grab dinner at a local spot like Side Street Café or Geddy’s for casual fare and seafood.
Day 2: Hike the Ocean Path in Acadia, followed by lunch in Bar Harbor. In the afternoon, take a boat tour or go kayaking. For dinner, check out Thurston’s Lobster Pound or The Reading Room.
Day 3: Explore the Schoodic Peninsula for a more peaceful experience of Acadia, or hike up to Cadillac Mountain for panoramic views. Dinner options include Salt & Sea or Beal’s Lobster Pier.
Day 4: Visit Southwest Harbor and take a ferry to Swans Island or explore the coastal towns around Mount Desert Island. End the day with a casual meal at Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium.

Whether you’re exploring the nature trails or stopping at quirky, out-of-the-way spots, you’ll have a wonderful time soaking in the beauty and charm of Maine in early July!