Forget Cape Cod, This Quiet And Charming Coastal Town Has Fresh Seafood, Shops, And A Nearby National Park

Maine is called "Vacationland" for its charming coastline, rugged forests, and the glorious Acadia National Park. Nestled among a confluence of ocean and mountains on Mount Desert Island is Southwest Harbor. It's there that wooden sail masts bob in the sound, lobster boats head out into the water before dawn, and colorful buildings line the streets just beyond the shoreline.

Crowds may flock to other New England hubs like Cape Cod, but Southwest Harbor's biggest draw is its location on the quieter western side of Mount Desert Island, just a mile outside of Acadia National Park. Visitors can spend the morning exploring the harbor or take a boat out to the islands, stop for fresh seafood or browse quiet shops in the afternoon, and still reach Acadia's famous trails and rocky coastline before dinner. Southwest Harbor has a year-round population of roughly 1,500 residents, although that number swells during the summer. Southwest Harbor has long been connected to the surrounding islands and waters, and ferries serve the nearby Cranberry Isles year-round.

The easiest way to reach Southwest Harbor is by car, with Bangor International Airport about 50 miles away and Portland International Jetport roughly 180 miles away. From town, Acadia's western-side attractions are only minutes away, while Bar Harbor and many of the park's most famous sights are roughly 25 minutes by car. A park shuttle bus also runs from June through October with a stop in Southwest Harbor that connects to the rest of the island. Keep in mind that some park facilities close in the winter months.

One of Southwest Harbor's best seafood restaurants is Beal's Lobster Pier, which has been open since 1932. Try a whole boiled lobster or go for a lobster roll; some of its more unique concoctions include the Garlic Lovahs roll, fried lobster roll, and Firecracker lobster roll. Another great option is Harbor Table, which puts Bar Harbor's chef-driven establishments to the test with an inventive menu of local favorites and global flavors.

When you visit, be sure to check out one of Southwest Harbor's art galleries like the Wendell Gilley Art Museum, whose permanent collections feature bird carvings by Wendell Gilley and works by other artists. Continue south to the Clark Point Gallery for more local artwork, or spend some time in one of the charming coffee shops in town like Clark Point Cafe. Some other notable stops in town include Peter Trout's Tavern and Inn in Manset and Acadia National Park's seawall, which is on the far southern point of Southwest Harbor.

Portions of Acadia National Park enter Southwest Harbor's borders, making it a great launching point for outdoor adventures. One of the best easy trails in Southwest Harbor is the often-quiet Ship Harbor Trail, which covers 1.5 miles of forest and shoreline. For a bit more challenge, hike the Acadia Mountain and Man O War Trail, with 702 feet of elevation gain over 2.8 miles. Head east for more trails, like one of these beautiful hikes in Acadia National Park perfect for admiring fall foliage hues.

One of the most iconic stays in Southwest Harbor is the Claremont Hotel. Beyond the suites in the main building, the hotel offers cottages, bungalows, and houses spread throughout the property. The 4-star Harbor Ridge Resort is another popular choice perched on a hill on the outskirts of downtown. More accommodations can be found across the island, with a heavy concentration in Bar Harbor — one of America's most affordable vacation destinations.

Hiking is only one way to experience the landscape around Southwest Harbor and Acadia National Park. One of the most popular places to swim and paddle in the park is Echo Lake, which is on the border of Southwest Harbor. Southwest Harbor is also close to an entrance for Acadia's Carriage Roads in the town of Mt. Desert, which is about 8 miles away. The Carriage Roads aren't strictly for biking; horseback riders, walkers, snowshoers, and cross-country skiers are also welcome, depending on the season.

Summer is the most popular time to visit Southwest Harbor, when long days, warm temperatures, open businesses, and regular ferry service make it possible to experience the town and surrounding islands at their liveliest. September is particularly appealing, with comfortable temperatures, fewer visitors, and the beginning of fall color. By late fall and winter, some seasonal businesses close and park roads and facilities operate on reduced schedules. If you're still unsure of when to visit, consider the best time of year to visit Maine based on your interests.