Southwest Harbor, Maine

Southwest Harbor, Maine, is situated just west of the southern entrance to Somes Sound on Mount Desert Island in Hancock County. It is the largest municipality on the southwestern “quiet side” of the island. The town boasts an array of charming shops, galleries, and eateries worth exploring. Many visitors to Acadia National Park choose to stay here for its relaxed atmosphere and the wide range of excellent accommodations, including vacation rentals to bed & breakfasts and inns. Boat access to the offshore islands is also available via taxi service, mail boat, or rentals. As of the 2020 census, the population is approximately 1,756, slightly down from 1,764 in 2010, and the area covers about 8,884 acres or 22.69 square miles (58.77 km2). One of the most picturesque areas is Manset, offering distant views of Bear Island Lighthouse, Sutton Island, Little and Great Cranberry Islands, and the open ocean.

Somes Sound Acadia Activities
Sunset over Southwest Harbor, Maine with reflections across the surface of the ocean
Southwest Harbor, Maine golden sunrise with long dock in silhouette
Yachts in the harbor with Cadillac Mountain seen in the background

First Steamboat Wharves

The earliest known visitors to Mount Desert Island were the Abnaki Indians, who would travel from the mainland to the island to fish and gather berries and shellfish. Recent excavations and carbon dating confirmed that the "Red Paint People" inhabited the island as far back as 4,000 BC. The first settlement on the island by a person of European descent was in 1761 by Abraham Somes, a sailor and fisherman from Massachusetts, on the northern shore of Somes Sound. Initial steamboat wharves and hotels were constructed in Southwest Harbor to be closer to the entrance of Somes Sound. When you look out into the harbor, you will see the Bear Island Lighthouse, which marks its southern entrance.

Master Yacht Builders

This region is renowned for its exceptional yacht manufacturers. The Hinckley Company, situated just south of the town center on Manset Shore Road, is globally recognized for its craftsmanship. Similarly, Morris Yachts, Inc., can be found on Clark Point Road, just east of the town center. Many of the stunning yachts you will admire in the harbor and offshore around Mount Desert Island are likely crafted by these esteemed builders. While visiting, consider taking a guided boat tour with available Captain Services, or if you are experienced, rent a powerboat or sailboat from one of the local rental services. Southwest Harbor has one of the most beautiful harbors on the island.

Places to See

Discover the Wendell Gilley Museum of Bird Carving, showcasing the exceptional works of the world-renowned Wendell Gilley, a pioneer in this American art form. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For more information, call (207) 244-7555. Nearby, you can also visit the Seal Cove Auto Museum, which features an extraordinary collection of "Brass Era" automobiles from 1886 to 1917. If you enjoy freshly baked goods, there's a charming bakery located on Main Street in the town center, on the right as you enter. There are often arts and crafts type shows in town which adds to the festive and warm community atmosphere.

Beaches MDI Towns & Villages

Additional Information

  • Mt. Desert Oceanarium:
    172 Clark Point Rd., (207) 244-7330
  • Public Library:
    338 Main St., (207) 244-7065
  • Town Center:
    Main St. and Clark Point Rd.
  • US Coast Guard Office:
    184 Clark Point Rd., (207) 244-4200
    GPS 44.275381, -68.312349
  • Wendell Gilley Museum:
    4 Herrick Rd., (207) 244-7555
  • National Park Headquarters:
    Rt. 233 Eagle Lake (207) 288-3338

Exploring Southwest Harbor

The character of this part of Mount Desert Island is noticeably distinct from its northern counterpart. It isn't necessarily better or worse—just different, with its own unique qualities and ambiance. Personally, I appreciate its more relaxed atmosphere. This area is renowned as a master boat-building community set in a unique location, serving as a central hub for several points of interest both within and outside Acadia National Park. To the north in the park, you'll find Echo Lake and Echo Lake Beach, a favorite spot for many knowledgeable visitors and locals alike. On the southeast side lies an area known as "Manset," which is an excellent location for photographing sunrises and the numerous yachts that frequent the harbor. Continuing past Manset, you'll reach Seawall and Bass Harbor Head Light, both located on park land. To the east is the Bear Island Lighthouse. Although Bear Island is closed to the public, it still offers excellent photo opportunities from a boat. If you haven't yet explored this side of the island, I highly recommend it.

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