Bar Harbor Journals

Bar Harbor

A June 2001 trip to Bar Harbor by kfs1980

Quote: Bar Harbor, Maine.

Bar Harbor

Overview

Quote:
For a place that seems so small at first, I have yet to run out of things to do here. Over the different trips, I have probably spent almost a month in Bar Harbor, and I have never had to do the same thing twice (unless by choice, of course). It seems like the perfect place for any age group - family, couples, seniors - anybody really.

Quick Tips:

Depending on the time of year you go, it can actually be less expensive than most touristy little towns. I have found that almost all activities are available (and at their least expensive) in late May, or early June.

Best Way To Get Around:

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This is a beautiful spot. The rules are a little sticky (min 2 nt stay, 25 day cancellation policy) but when you're as busy as they are, I guess you have to be sticky. The rates are quite high (anywhere from 275$ to 475$ per night) so this isn't really where you want to be for a week long vacation. It's more of a special occasion place. All rooms but one (the Mate's room) have a beautiful ocean view. You're better off to plan as far in advance as you can - I called in February for a room in June and had to be put on a waiting list... If you're there for an anniversary, wedding, something you want to remember forever, this would be the place to stay.

Member Rating 5 out of 5 on July 21, 2003

Bar Harbor Tides
119 West Street
Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
(207) 288-4968

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This is one of the cutest places I have ever seen. They have several cottages, with or without kitchens, with up to 4 bedrooms. The cottages are a good size, clean and have tv's in each bedroom. The rates are great - during the summer, you can get in and out for a week for right around 650$ US. If you're going with a crowd, book early and get the 4 bedroom - screened in porch (handy because it can get really buggy), and a fireplace.

We used to agonize over where to stay - the less you spend on hotels, the more you have to spend everywhere else. This is definetly the best I've found. It's not really even a question anymore; if I'm going, and they have room, that's where I'll be.

Member Rating 5 out of 5 on July 21, 2003

Hinckley's Dreamwood Cottages
RR 3
Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
(207) 288-3510

Pier Restaurant

Restaurant | "The Pier Restaurant"

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Amazing food, good prices, and friendly staff. It's no wonder this place is almost always busy. There are very few people (besides my father) who can do seafood chowder right. These guys have it nailed. This seems to be the case with everything they serve. I have yet to order anything that was even questionable. The prices are very reasonable (around 20$ per person for dinner & dessert) and the portions are huge. It's a little smaller than most places, and not as well advertised, but once you try it, you'll never go anywhere else.

Member Rating 5 out of 5 on July 21, 2003

Pier Restaurant
55 West St
Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
(207) 288-5033

Rupununi

Restaurant

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Not so great. Not bad, but not as good as others in the area. If you're in a hurry, it's great. I'm not quite sure how, but I have never waited more than 10 minutes from ordering to have my lunch arrive. Burgers seem to be the way to go.... they have several different types, and there has to be at least one to suit every taste.

Member Rating 2 out of 5 on July 21, 2003

Rupununi
119 Main St
Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
(207) 288-2886

Quote:
These guys are definetly the best in the area. The only caution I have is to dress warmly. Even if it's 85 degrees in the parking lot, grab a sweater. The boat I always take (FriendshipV) is incredibly stable, and can go quite a distance out. They have food on board (everything from potato chips to chicken dinners).

The boats are large (always comforting) clean, and Coast Guard approved. There's a 50% money back guarantee if you don't see a whale. I have yet to go out and NOT see one.

Their website is:
http://www.whalesrus.com/

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on July 21, 2003

Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company
1 West Street
Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
(207) 288-2386