Bar Harbor Best Hotel?

Question

Hello, We are a group of three active adults traveling to Maine later this month. Plan is two nights in downtown Portland, and two in Bar Harbor exploring Acadia. I know, we are doing a lot in a short amount of time, but that is how it goes. We are open to any recommendations you have for restaurants, hikes, etc... also choosing between these three hotels in Bar Harbor: Holiday Inn, Blue Nose, Atlantic Oceanside, and Bar Harbor Motel by the end of this week. Love the idea of being near the water, and a hot tub at night. Hoping the weather holds for us! :). Big thanks to any recommendations you have.

Answer

For a short stay in Bar Harbor with a focus on convenience, waterfront views, and a hot tub, here’s a detailed look at your hotel options and additional recommendations for dining and activities.

Regarding the hotels you mentioned:

Holiday Inn Bar Harbor – Centrally located, close to downtown and the waterfront. Offers standard amenities, and some rooms have water views. It’s convenient for walking to restaurants and shops, but it may feel more commercial and less “Maine cozy.”
Blue Nose Inn – Located right on the waterfront with excellent harbor views. Rooms tend to be larger with comfortable furnishings, and they have hot tubs available. Ideal if you want to unwind with a view after exploring Acadia. Close enough to downtown to walk, but quieter than being right in the heart of the village.
Atlantic Oceanside Hotel – Right on the harbor and has a reputation for great views and casual, comfortable accommodations. Hot tub availability depends on the room type. Very scenic and gives a true coastal Maine experience, though a slightly longer walk into downtown compared to Blue Nose.
Bar Harbor Motel – Budget-friendly, clean, and simple accommodations. It’s a bit further from the harbor and lacks the luxury or hot tub amenities you mentioned, so may not meet your preference for relaxing at night with waterfront views.

Given your preferences—water views, a hot tub, and easy access to downtown—the Blue Nose Inn would likely be the best fit. The Atlantic Oceanside Hotel is a close second if you prefer a more casual vibe. Holiday Inn is convenient but less charming, and Bar Harbor Motel is functional but doesn’t provide the amenities you seem to want.

While in Bar Harbor, some recommended activities and hikes for active adults include:

Drive or bike the Park Loop Road in Acadia, stopping at Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliff.
Hike Cadillac Mountain Summit – even a short walk to the summit offers incredible views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Jordan Pond – Easy loop trail and famous popovers at Jordan Pond House.
Take a short, scenic hike on Bubble Rock for great photo opportunities.

For restaurants and dining in Bar Harbor:

Havana – Modern tapas-style dining with a lively atmosphere.
Side Street Cafe – Casual, popular spot for brunch or lunch.
Galyn’s – Waterfront dining with seafood options.
Thrive Juice Bar & Cafe – Great for a healthy breakfast or lunch before heading into Acadia.
Beal’s Lobster Pier – Iconic spot for fresh lobster and seafood, slightly outside town but worth it.

Overall, prioritize a hotel that maximizes your waterfront experience and convenience for exploring both downtown and Acadia National Park. The Blue Nose Inn aligns best with these goals, giving you the combination of scenic views, amenities, and accessibility.