Kayaking Acadia National Park is a popular activity that allows you to explore the beauty of the Park from the water. This will be a way to explore that will leave you with more impressions with the distance being longer than you think during the tour. Besides, Acadia’s ocean waters also allow you countless opportunities to witness Acadia Nation Park wildlife firsthand. I often spotted seals checking us out as we paddled, and we were sometimes startled by the nearby exhalation of harbor porpoises as they surfaced to breathe between dives.
Do you find what I just told you great? If you’ve never had the chance to explore Acadia National Park from the water and are afraid you don’t know where to start, you’ve come to the right place. I am here to share with you the best experiences through my experiences. So don’t wait any longer, grab my guide at Nationalparkshops.com and plan an amazing underwater exploration of Acadia.
Brief Overview of Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park, located along the stunning and rugged shoreline of Maine, serves as a paradise for those who love outdoor activities. The park boasts breathtaking mountains, untouched beaches, and a wide array of wildlife, making it a destination that promises an extraordinary experience for visitors. While many people flock to the park’s extensive hiking trails and picturesque scenic drives, exploring the area by kayak reveals an entirely different level of stunning beauty and thrilling adventure.
On Mount Desert Island, numerous lakes and ponds are ideal for boating and kayaking Acadia National Park activities. However, each of these waterways has its own set of restrictions regarding the types of watercraft that can be used. In addition, all the towns around the island provide convenient launching areas for saltwater activities, often located near town docks and municipal piers. For those looking to enjoy a day on the water without their own equipment, local communities offer rentals for canoes, kayaks, sailboats, and motorboats. Moreover, a variety of commercial services operate in the area, providing opportunities for ferry rides, fishing trips, nature cruises, sailing adventures, and even whale-watching expeditions, enhancing the overall experience that Acadia National Park has to offer.
Why kayaking Acadia National Park?
I will prove to you that kayaking Acadia National Park is an activity worth experiencing. Kayaking is more than just a leisurely paddling activity. This is also an opportunity to connect with nature on a deeper level, immersing yourself in the serenity of the water and the majesty of the surrounding landscape. Here’s why you should consider kayaking in Acadia:
- Unique Perspective: Kayaking offers an intimate perspective of the park’s beauty, allowing you to explore hidden coves, secluded islands, and the rugged coastline from a vantage point few experience.
- Wildlife Encounters: Acadia’s waters teem with life. Kayaking provides a chance to observe seals basking on rocks, ospreys soaring above, and even the occasional harbor porpoise or humpback whale.
- Peaceful Exploration: The gentle rhythm of paddling and the sound of water lapping against your kayak create a sense of tranquility, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
- Accessibility: Kayaking is a relatively accessible activity, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. There are numerous launch points and rentals throughout the park, making it easy to find a spot that suits your needs.
Best kayaking locations in Acadia National Park: Popular with visitors
Acadia National Park boasts some of the best kayaking spots. Each location will bring you a completely new experience. But which location should we choose? Think no more, here are some of the top places kayaking Acadia National Park that you can explore.
Jordan Pond
The first famous place that many tourists choose to kayak is Jordan Pond. Paddling on historic Jordan Pond will give you beautiful views of Bubbles and the Jordan Pond House. This popular kayaking stop is a hub of hiking trails, historic carriage roads, and the Jordan Pond House restaurant.
Please note, however, that swimming, paddleboarding, and waterskiing are not allowed in Jordan Pond, which provides drinking water for Seal Harbor. Pets are also not allowed in the water. Motor boats are only allowed to travel at a maximum speed of 10 mph. Especially for safety, everyone is required to have their own life jacket when boating in Acadia. Children 10 years old and under must always wear life jackets while on board.
Long Pond
As its name suggests, Long Pond is the longest lake in Acadia. Therefore, you can completely experience the feeling of kayaking Acadia National Park with the longest stretch at Long Pond. Long Pond is located on the less busy east side of Mount Desert Island, four miles long. Hidden from the coastal winds, Long Pond is the place to paddle without the tides.
The boat launch at the south end of Long Pond includes limited parking next to a small sandbank. There is also a public boat launch at the north end of Long Pond, outside the park boundary. But be aware that nearly half of Long Pond’s shoreline is on private or local land outside Acadia and may not be available for public use.
Eagle Lake
If Long Pond is the longest lake in Acadia National Park, then Eagle Lake would be the largest lake east of Mount Desert Island. Surrounded by a famous stagecoach route, Eagle Lake is a great place to see birds and other wildlife. Especially if you come to Acadia in the fall, you will get a panoramic view of the changing colors here while kayaking.
However, Eagle Lake is also one of the kayak-only lakes in Acadia National Park but swimming, paddleboarding, and waterskiing are not allowed because the lake provides drinking water to Bar Harbor. Pets are not allowed in the water. Motorboats are allowed to travel at a maximum speed of 10 mph.
On the south side (near Eagle Lake), there is a limited parking area with restrooms and a cement boat ramp. Here you can also access the Eagle Lake Carriageway.
Echo Lake
Echo Lake will be the place to bring you a new experience when kayaking Acadia National Park. Launch your kayak from Ikes Point, which has a concrete boat ramp and limited parking. Here, you’ll see views of the surrounding mountains and tree-lined cliffs on the western side of Mountain Desert Island. In summer, keep an eye out for nesting loons!
Specifically, swimming and pets are allowed at Echo Lake. However, you need to keep your distance from hares and other wild activities.
Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor, the main town in Acadia National Park, offers stunning views of Frenchman Bay and surrounding islands. Therefore, if you start from Bar Harbor, you will still have a wonderful experience. You can paddle around the harbor, explore the historic waterfront, and admire the colorful houses along the shore. Keep an eye out for seals perching on the rocks and seabirds soaring overhead.
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Bar Harbor’s location on the Maine coast offers many opportunities for kayaking enthusiasts to explore the Atlantic Ocean. Kayaking is the perfect way to immerse yourself in nature. You can kayak independently or join a guided tour.
Southwest Harbor
Southwest Harbor, situated on the western side of Mount Desert Island, is a delightful and picturesque town known for its stunning harbor. Engaging in kayaking activities in Southwest Harbor presents an excellent opportunity to navigate the serene and tranquil waters of Somes Sound, which is a fjord that deeply penetrates into the heart of the island. As you paddle through the slender waterway, you’ll find yourself enclosed by majestic cliffs that rise high above and vibrant forests that provide a lush backdrop.
While enjoying your time on the water, be sure to look out for bald eagles that may be nesting within the rocky crevices of the cliffs, as well as ospreys that can often be seen resting gracefully on the branches of nearby trees. This natural environment not only offers breathtaking views but also a chance to observe these magnificent birds in their habitat.
The most reputable kayaking rental and tours in Acadia
Because of its extensive lake and pond system, kayaking Acadia National Park is one of the things to do in Acadia National Park. As a result, Acadia National Park offers a wide variety of kayak rental options and guided tours, catering to different skill levels and interests.
Maine State Sea Kayak
- Address: 254 Main Street, Southwest Harbor, Maine 04679 – 39 Cottage Street, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
- Phone Number: (207) 244-9500
- Website: mainestatekayak.com
With many years of experience, Maine State Sea Kayak focuses on arranging tours around Mount Desert Island, which I highly suggest. Their guides possess a wealth of knowledge and are committed to honoring nature while ensuring you have an unforgettable adventure, in case you feel lost.
Maine State Sea Kayak typically offers two tours – Aqua Safari and Acadia Youth Kayaking and Oyster. The Aqua Safari tour lasts approximately four hours to ensure you maximize your experience. Sometimes, they also offer adults-only sunset tours. Because I often go with friends, I often choose a kayaking tour where I can watch the sunset for a beautiful experience.
Their tours take you to Western Bay, Blue Hill Bay, and Somes Sound just north of Northeast Harbor.
To get detailed rental prices and tour schedules of Maine State Sea Kayak, visit the website or contact them directly by phone.
Coastal Kayaking Tours
- Address: 48 Cottage St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States
- Phone Number: (207) 288-9605
- Website: acadiafun.com
Like other companies, Coastal Kayak Tours has decades of experience and offers a wide variety of tours. Their options are extensive, so everyone will definitely find the most suitable result. For example, you can choose between tours lasting from two and a half hours to a longer duration of four hours.
You can choose tours geared towards older children and adults, or if you’re traveling with younger children, they offer family-friendly excursions. This is perfect for kayaking Acadia National Park, right?
Tours at Coastal Kayak Tours are offered from mid-May to mid-October, so book in advance to ensure availability. They also organize hikes or private sea kayak excursions if that interests you.
Prices of kayak tours you can refer to:
- Kayak Tour-Half-Day: $82 | 4 Hours
- Kayak Tour-Family Half-Day: $82 | 4 Hours
- Kayak Tour-Harbor Tour: $67 | 2.5 Hours
- Kayak Tour-Sunset Tour: $67 | 2.5 Hours
Acadia Sea Kayaking Adventures
- Address: 195 Hadley Point Rd, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States
- Phone Number: (207) 808-2380
- Website: acadiaseakayakingadventures.com
Acadia Sea Kayaking is another great option for your trip. Their Acadia National Park kayaking tours take up to eight people total, which makes them unique. Additionally, small groups will give you more one-on-one time with an experienced guide.
They offer several different day tours and a Sunset Harbor option. For two hours, you can bask in golden hour along the coast and enjoy beautiful views of Acadia. Or you can be adventurous and choose the Acadia After Dark ride, a three-hour trip along the Frenchman Bay shoreline in Bar Harbor. If you want a day tour, consider the Dirigo Tour. For families, there’s the Too Easy Tour, modified to suit the needs of all ages and skill levels.
Acadia Paddle
- Address: ME-3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States
- Phone Number: (207) 801-1531
- Website: acadiapaddle.com
If you are leasing a property, you have the option to have sea kayaks delivered by Acadia Paddle. Your rental comes with all the required gear, such as the kayak, paddle, and life vest. They handle both delivery and collection. Rentals are available for a duration of three days or one week. This service is tailored for those who wish to explore on their own rather than participate in guided activities.
Additionally, you can rent fashionable paddle boards. Keep in mind that paddle boards may be in high demand, so it’s wise to make arrangements in advance.
Acadia Outfitters
- Address: 106 Cottage St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States
- Phone Number: (207) 801-9086
- Website: acadiaoutfitters.com
Acadia Outfitters is another rental option for Bar Harbor area visitors kayaking Acadia National Park. Unlike Acadia Paddle, this business provides the option to rent kayaks individually for a day or multiple days. They offer both single and tandem kayak rentals, although paddle boards are not available.
Additionally, they provide guided tours for those who require assistance in exploring the area. These tours typically last approximately 2.5 hours, with sunset tour options available.
The 6-day kayaking itinerary is available for reference
If you don’t have much time at Acadia National Park, you can choose one of the short tours lasting 2 – 4 hours provided by the reputable companies I suggested above. In case you have more time, I’ll give you a 6-day plan kayaking Acadia National Park for fun. Please take a look:
Day 1: Arrive in Bar Harbor and check into your accommodation. If you haven’t found a suitable place to stay, you can refer to the hotels near Acadia National Park that I have shared. After settling in, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront and enjoy the views of Frenchman Bay. In the evening, have dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Bar Harbor.
Day 2: Start your kayaking adventure with a guided tour of Frenchman Bay. This tour will take you past the iconic Thunder Hole and the Cranberry Isles, offering stunning views of the coastline and opportunities to spot seals and seabirds. Afterward, enjoy a picnic lunch on a secluded beach.
Day 3: Explore the serene waters of Jordan Pond by kayak. Paddle around the pond, admiring the reflection of the mountains in the water and stopping at the Jordan Pond House for a delicious lunch or classic popovers.
Day 4: Venture into the wilderness of Long Pond. Paddle the length of the lake, enjoying the tranquility of the surrounding forest and keeping an eye out for loons, turtles, and other wildlife.
Day 5: Discover the charm of Southwest Harbor by kayaking in Somes Sound. Paddle through the narrow channel, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush forests. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and ospreys.
Day 6: Spend the morning exploring Echo Lake, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning views of the surrounding granite cliffs. After lunch, head back to Bar Harbor and reflect on your unforgettable kayaking adventure in Acadia National Park.
Safety Tips for Kayaking Acadia National Park
While kayaking Acadia is generally safe, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Check the Weather: Before heading out, always check the weather forecast and tide charts. Be aware of potential wind conditions, fog, and rain, and dress appropriately.
- Wear a Life Jacket: Always wear a properly fitted personal floatation device (PFD), even if you are a strong swimmer.
- Let Someone Know Your Plans: Inform someone about your kayaking route, planned departure and return time, and any other relevant information.
- Carry a First Aid Kit and Emergency Supplies: Pack a basic first-aid kit, a whistle, a waterproof flashlight, and a spare paddle.
- Be Aware of the Tides: Tides can significantly affect water levels and currents, making it crucial to check the tide charts before setting out.
- Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and avoid disturbing their habitats.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
Conclusion
Kayaking Acadia National Park will be an unforgettable experience, offering a unique perspective on the beauty of the park. So, if you have the opportunity to come here, whether you know how to swim or not, I recommend that you still try it once. And don’t forget to take all safety measures. By following safety guidelines and choosing the right tour or kayak rental, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable kayaking adventure in Acadia. Let’s go!
In addition, I also have some articles sharing my experiences at Acadia National Park, you can refer to:
