Bar Harbor is a gateway to one of the most stunning national parks in the U.S., offering a variety of ways to explore its rugged coastline, mountain peaks, and lush forests. Whether you’re after a guided hike with an expert naturalist or a personalized private tour that hits your must-see spots, Bar Harbor has a lot to offer. We particularly love tours that combine active exploration with insightful stories about the area’s flora, fauna, and history — like the Acadia Full Day Small Group Tour that keeps the group intimate and packed with expert knowledge.
If you’re looking for a flexible, tailored experience, the Acadia Full Day Private Tour and Hike offers a chance to customize your day with a naturalist guide. And for travelers eager to connect deeply with the landscape, options like the Acadia Full Day Small Group Tour & Hike provide immersive hikes and rich storytelling in a very personal setting. Let’s dive into what each of these top tours has to offer.
1. Acadia Full Day Small Group Tour
This 6 to 7-hour adventure is perfect if you want to see the best of Acadia National Park with a small, passionate group. Your naturalist guide — who could be a botanist, geologist, or historian — will take you to iconic spots like Ocean Path and Bubble Rock, sharing stories that bring the landscape to life. The tour emphasizes walking and learning, with about 2 hours of hiking on mild to moderate trails, including a visit to Thunder Hole and walks along the coast.
What makes this tour stand out is its intimate size — no more than eight people — which allows for personalized attention and plenty of Q&A. The guide’s enthusiasm is contagious, and reviews rave about guides like Hailey, who shares detailed insights into local geology and history. Highlights include a picnic lunch at Jordan Pond, sampling the famous popovers, and exploring Hunters Beach for marine wildlife.
This tour is priced at $384.30 per person, making it a good value considering the expert guidance and small group experience. It’s ideal for active travelers who want to hike, see the highlights, and learn from passionate naturalists. The only downside? It’s a bit on the pricier side, but the personalized touch and expert storytelling make it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a relaxed, small-group environment with expert guides and a balance of hiking and sightseeing, this tour is a top choice.
2. Acadia Full Day Private Tour and Hike
For around $765.85, this private tour offers a tailor-made experience that can be customized to your interests. The 6 to 10-hour day is led by a naturalist guide who adapts the itinerary based on what you most want to see—be it the classic Thunder Hole, Jordan Pond, or a more challenging off-the-beaten-path hike like Precipice Trail (for the brave of heart).
What makes this tour unique is its flexibility. It can include a scenic drive to Cadillac Mountain, the highest point in the park, with breathtaking views. Your guide will serve you a picnic lunch, or you can request specific stops, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups who want to maximize their time and focus on their personal interests.
Guests rave about guides like Ash, who is described as knowledgeable, patient, and engaging. This tour suits travelers who prefer a private experience, have specific hiking goals, or want the comfort of traveling in a climate-controlled vehicle between scenic stops. The main drawback is the cost, but for the personal attention and flexibility, many find it well worth the price.
Bottom Line: For those who want a fully personalized, flexible day tailored to their tastes, this private tour is hard to beat.
3. Acadia Full Day Small Group Tour & Hike
This 8-hour tour emphasizes a deep connection with Acadia’s natural beauty through guided hikes and storytelling. Like the first tour, it’s limited to small groups, ensuring a personal experience. Participants explore Ocean Path, Thunder Hole, Bubble Rock, and Jordan Pond, with guides who are naturalists, botanists, and geologists.
What makes this tour special is its focus on education and nature. The guides share insights into flora, fauna, and geological features, helping you understand the landscape beyond just taking pictures. It’s perfect if you prefer a more immersive experience, combining walking with learning. The tour includes a pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, making logistics simple.
Rated highly by past travelers, this tour offers a detailed look at Acadia’s diverse landscapes and provides a more intimate, educational experience. Priced at $427 per person, it offers good value if you want to learn and walk at a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a shorter but more educational experience, focusing on nature and geology with a small group.
4. “Private Acadia” & Mount Desert Island Tour
At approximately 6 hours and for up to 7 people at $995, this tour offers the quintessential full-day exploration of Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park. It’s designed to maximize your experience with a private guide who will take you to highlights like Cadillac Mountain, Eagle Lake, Thunder Hole, and the Jordan Pond area. Lunch at a local lobster pound can be included, adding a taste of Maine’s famous seafood.
What sets this tour apart is its flexibility and depth, with a focus on scenic landscapes, cultural spots, and local flavor. Past reviews praise guides like Pete for their knowledge and personable approach, making even a busy six hours feel relaxed and tailored. It’s perfect if you want a rundown but prefer a private, exclusive experience.
Its main drawback is the price — higher than other options — but for private, customizable service with a local touch, many find it worthwhile. It suits travelers who want a curated day with a personal guide who can adapt on the fly.
Bottom Line: For a personalized, all-encompassing day with local flavor and the freedom to customize, this private tour is an excellent pick.
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Bar Harbor
Choosing between these options depends on your priorities. If you prefer a small-group experience with lots of storytelling and a balance of hiking and sightseeing, the Acadia Full Day Small Group Tour is a solid choice. For those wanting a completely tailored experience, the Private Tour offers flexibility and exclusivity.
Travelers on a budget might opt for the smaller, more educational Small Group & Hike, which balances cost with an immersive experience. If privacy and customization top your list, and you’re willing to splurge, the Private Acadia Tour delivers.
In all cases, consider your fitness level, how much hiking you want to do, and whether you prefer a relaxed or active day. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date and guide.
Final Thoughts
Bar Harbor offers a range of full-day tours that cater to different tastes and budgets, from intimate guided hikes to private, customized adventures. The small-group tours excel for those who want insightful commentary and social interaction, while private tours suit travelers seeking a more personalized experience. Whichever you choose, booking ahead ensures you get the best out of your visit to this remarkable natural area.
No matter your interests—be it learning about Acadia’s geology, enjoying scenic drives, or sampling local seafood—there’s a tour that will make your trip memorable. So pick the experience that fits your style, and start planning your perfect day in Bar Harbor today.