What to do in Southwest Harbor, ME

Activities, attractions and tours

Ram Island Lighthouse and sheltered cove
Lobster Boats Anchored in a Maine Harbor
Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, Acadia NP, Maine, USA at sunset
USA, Maine, Mt. Desert Island. Seal Harbor, seaside children's swing set during autumn.
Southwest Harbor
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Most fun & popular experiences in Southwest Harbor

Tours & day trips

See all 54 activities
Acadia National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour

Acadia National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour

Activity duration is 365 days
7.8 out of 10 with 26 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ฿558 per traveller
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Adventure & outdoor

See all 15 activities
Acadia National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour

Acadia National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour

Activity duration is 365 days
7.8 out of 10 with 26 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ฿558 per traveller
Acadia National Park Self-Guided Driving TourOpens in new tab

Wildlife & nature

See all 4 activities
Acadia Full Day Small Group Tour & Hike

Acadia Full Day Small Group Tour & Hike

Activity duration is 8 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is ฿14,027 per adult
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Food, drink & nightlife

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Bar Harbour: Small Group Food Tour with Lobster Rolls

Bar Harbour: Small Group Food Tour with Lobster Rolls

Activity duration is 2 hours
6.8 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ฿3,909 per adult
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Cruises & boat tours

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1.5 to 2-Hr Windjammer Sailing Trip in Maine w/ Licensed Captain

1.5 to 2-Hr Windjammer Sailing Trip in Maine w/ Licensed Captain

Activity duration is 2 hours
8.2 out of 10 with 257 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ฿2,300 per adult
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What to do in Southwest Harbor

Popular places to visit

Ship Harbor Nature Trailhead

Explore the lovely green spaces of Ship Harbor Nature Trailhead and also enjoy the hiking trails in Southwest Harbor. Wander the area's waterfront or simply enjoy one of its lively bars.

Ship Harbor Nature Trailhead

Beech Cliff Loop

Enjoy a trip to Beech Cliff Loop and popular activities such as hiking in Southwest Harbor. Wander the area's waterfront or simply enjoy one of its lively bars.

Beech Cliff Loop

Flying Mountain Trailhead

You can take time to visit Flying Mountain Trailhead during your travels to Southwest Harbor. Stroll along the area's waterfront or simply enjoy its seafood restaurants.

Flying Mountain Trailhead

Wendell Gilley Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Wendell Gilley Museum during your trip to Southwest Harbor. Wander the waterfront and scenic parks in the area.

Wendell Gilley Museum

Wonderland Trail Trailhead

You can take time to visit Wonderland Trail Trailhead during your travels to Southwest Harbor. Wander around the natural setting or enjoy the area's seafood restaurants.

Wonderland Trail Trailhead

Where to stay in Southwest Harbor

Find the best Southwest Harbor areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Seawall

While there might not be top attractions in Seawall, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and Asticou Azalea Garden.

Morning in Manset, near Southwest Harbor, Maine

Manset

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Manset and surrounding area, you can visit Asticou Azalea Garden and Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse.

Frequently asked questions

Is Southwest Harbor worth visiting?
Whether you plan to experience the local charm and cultural highlights or sample unique foods and explore in nature, there are many things to do in Southwest Harbor.
How do I spend a day in Southwest Harbor?
Start your day with a visit to Bubble Rock and Echo Lake Beach. Then, explore different parts of Southwest Harbor for local restaurants and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Southwest Harbor?
Don't leave without visiting Acadia National Park, rated the top tourist attraction in Southwest Harbor.
Is three days enough to stay in Southwest Harbor?
Three days will be enough time to tick off the leading city highlights, such as Acadia National Park, Jordan Pond and Echo Lake Beach. The average stay in Southwest Harbor is three days. If you have the time to extend your escape, Bar Harbour isn't far away.
Is Southwest Harbor a walkable city?
Some leading attractions in Southwest Harbor, like Echo Lake Beach and Northeast Harbour Golf Club, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Only 2 kilometres from central Southwest Harbor is Manset and Bernard is 5 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Southwest Harbor with kids?
If you're searching for activities and attractions for all ages, have a look at these excellent ideas for what to do in Southwest Harbor with kids.

What to do in Southwest Harbor for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Southwest Harbor, with activities for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Maine Granite Industry Museum or Naturalist's Notebook.
Are there free things to do in Southwest Harbor?
From visiting parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Southwest Harbor. If you're stuck for ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. Echo Lake Beach is a great spot for anyone wishing to save on their sightseeing adventures.