Discover the Serenity of Great Cranberry Island
Explore Great Cranberry Island: A serene escape in Maine with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and outdoor adventures awaiting every traveler.
Great Cranberry Island, a tranquil gem in Maine's coastal landscape, invites tourists to immerse themselves in nature, art, and the charm of island life. This serene getaway offers stunning views, unique local culture, and a truly relaxing experience for all visitors.
A brief summary to Great Cranberry Island
- Cranberry Isles, Maine, US
Local tips
- Visit during the summer months for the best weather and access to seasonal events.
- Bring your own bike or rent one locally to explore the island's scenic paths.
- Don't miss the local art galleries showcasing works by island artists.
- Plan your visit around low tide for the best beachcombing opportunities.
- Check for local seafood shacks for the freshest catch of the day.
Getting There
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Ferry
To get to Great Cranberry Island from Acadia National Park, start by making your way to the town of Southwest Harbor. You can take a local bus or bike along the scenic roads. From the park, head south on Route 102 until you reach the intersection with Route 102A, which leads into Southwest Harbor. Once in Southwest Harbor, follow signs to the ferry terminal located at the end of the Main Street. The ferry to Great Cranberry Island departs from this terminal. Make sure to check the ferry schedule ahead of time, as the service may vary by season. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the surrounding islands and typically takes about 30 minutes.
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Walking
If you are already in the vicinity of the ferry terminal in Southwest Harbor, simply walk to the terminal. It's located at the end of Main Street, which is about a 10-minute walk from the center of town. Follow the pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, and enjoy the local shops and restaurants along the way. Once you reach the terminal, you can purchase your ticket for the ferry to Great Cranberry Island.
Discover more about Great Cranberry Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wonderland Trail Trailhead
4.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Acadia National Park at the Wonderland Trail Trailhead, a serene escape into Maine's stunning coastal landscapes.
Bunker Ledge Monument
5.3 km
Discover the enchanting Bunker Ledge Monument in Mt. Desert, Maine - a historical landmark offering breathtaking views and a connection to the region's past.
Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden
5.8 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden in Seal Harbor, Maine—an exquisite botanical paradise for nature lovers.
Asticou Azalea Garden Parking
7.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Asticou Azalea Garden, a serene botanical oasis in Northeast Harbor, Maine, perfect for nature lovers and tranquil escapes.
Stanley Brook Bridge
7.6 km
Discover the beauty of Stanley Brook Bridge, a stunning architectural gem nestled in Acadia National Park, Maine, offering breathtaking views and serene surroundings.
Gatehouse
7.7 km
Discover the historical charm of the Gatehouse in Northeast Harbor, Maine, where rich heritage meets stunning natural beauty.
Cobblestone Bridge
7.8 km
Explore the historic Cobblestone Bridge in Mt. Desert, Maine—a stunning architectural gem surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Cliffside Bridge
8.1 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Cliffside Bridge in Mount Desert, Maine, where nature and architecture meet.
Jordan Pond House Restaurant
8.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and delicious American cuisine at Jordan Pond House, a culinary haven in Acadia National Park.
Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead
8.7 km
Discover the breathtaking views and scenic trails of Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead, the gateway to Acadia National Park's majestic Cadillac Mountain.
Jordan Pond Dam Bridge
8.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Jordan Pond Dam Bridge in Acadia National Park, where stunning landscapes and peaceful waters await your visit.
Amphitheatre Bridge
9.0 km
Discover the stunning Amphitheatre Bridge in Acadia National Park, where nature's beauty meets architectural elegance, perfect for your next adventure.
Echo Lake Beach
9.7 km
Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of Echo Lake Beach, a hidden gem in Southwest Harbor, Maine, perfect for swimming, picnicking, and relaxation.
Penobscot Mountain
9.9 km
Experience the stunning vistas and natural beauty of Penobscot Mountain in Maine, a premier hiking destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Acadia Mountain Trailhead
10.3 km
Explore Acadia Mountain Trailhead, a breathtaking hiking area in Maine's Acadia National Park, offering stunning views and adventures for all levels of hikers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Seawall Picnic Area
2.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Seawall Picnic Area, a serene coastal retreat in Maine's Acadia National Park, perfect for picnics and nature lovers.
Islesford Historical Museum
2.9 km
Discover the rich maritime heritage of Islesford at the Islesford Historical Museum, a charming treasure trove of local history and culture.
Bunkers Cove
3.9 km
Explore Bunkers Cove, a serene coastal retreat in Cranberry Isles, where nature's beauty and tranquility await every visitor.
Ship Harbor Trail trailhead
4.9 km
Discover the stunning coastal scenery and diverse wildlife of Ship Harbor Trail in Acadia National Park, a must-visit hiking destination in Maine.
Yourcenar House
5.3 km
Explore the serene Yourcenar House in Maine, a museum dedicated to the acclaimed author Marguerite Yourcenar amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Baker Island Lighthouse
5.4 km
Explore the historic Baker Island Lighthouse and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Acadia National Park's coastal landscapes.
Mt Desert Land & Garden Preserve
5.6 km
Explore the natural beauty of Mt Desert Land & Garden Preserve, where gardens meet the coast in a serene Maine retreat.
Southwest Harbor View Point Road
5.7 km
Experience stunning views and natural beauty at Southwest Harbor View Point Road, a scenic gem in Maine's breathtaking coastline.
Great Harbor Maritime Museum
5.9 km
Discover the maritime history of Maine at the Great Harbor Maritime Museum, where engaging exhibits and local stories await every visitor.
Bass Harbor Head Light Station
6.1 km
Discover the stunning Bass Harbor Head Light Station, a historical gem offering breathtaking views and rich maritime heritage on the coast of Maine.
Thuya Garden
6.3 km
Explore the enchanting Thuya Garden in Northeast Harbor, Maine, a botanical haven filled with stunning flora and serene pathways for a peaceful retreat.
Asticou Terraces
6.4 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Asticou Terraces in Mount Desert, Maine, where nature and artistry blend seamlessly for an unforgettable experience.
Wendell Gilley Museum
6.5 km
Explore the Wendell Gilley Museum, where art and nature intertwine in the heart of Southwest Harbor, Maine, showcasing exquisite bird carvings and conservation.
Cooksey Drive Overlook
6.6 km
Experience the stunning vistas of Acadia National Park at Cooksey Drive Overlook, a scenic gem in Mount Desert, Maine.
Asticou Azalea Garden
6.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Asticou Azalea Garden in Mt. Desert, Maine, where vibrant blooms and serene landscapes await.
Essential places to dine
Beal's Lobster Pier
5.1 km
Experience fresh Maine seafood at Beal's Lobster Pier—where every bite tells a story of coastal charm and culinary delight.
Colonel's Restaurant and Bakery
5.8 km
Discover delightful dining at Colonel's Restaurant and Bakery in Northeast Harbor – where fresh flavors meet cozy ambiance.
The Bucking Lobster
5.8 km
Experience the best of Maine's seafood at The Bucking Lobster – your go-to takeout restaurant in Northeast Harbor.
The Upper Deck - Craft Beer - Terrace/Outdoor Dining - Lobster Rolls - Burgers
5.8 km
Experience fresh seafood and craft beer at The Upper Deck in Southwest Harbor - perfect for outdoor dining with stunning views.
123 Main Street: June-Oct, Thurs-Sun, 9-3.
5.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at 123 Main Street in Northeast Harbor – a culinary gem open June through October.
Copita
6.0 km
Discover Copita: A delightful dining destination in Northeast Harbor offering fresh local cuisine and inviting ambiance amidst Maine's stunning scenery.
Red Sky Restaurant
6.1 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Red Sky Restaurant in Southwest Harbor, Maine—where fresh local flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Eat-A-Pita & Cafe 2
6.3 km
Experience Mediterranean cuisine at its finest in Southwest Harbor at Eat-A-Pita & Cafe 2 – where fresh ingredients meet bold flavors.
Rodick's Takeout
7.9 km
Discover fresh seafood and local flavors at Rodick's Takeout in Southwest Harbor, where every bite reflects Maine’s rich culinary heritage.
Burning Tree Restaurant
9.8 km
Discover exquisite wines and fresh seafood at Burning Tree Restaurant in Otter Creek - A must-visit culinary haven for food lovers.
Abel's Lobster
13.0 km
Experience authentic Maine seafood at Abel's Lobster in Mt. Desert – where fresh flavors and family-friendly dining meet.
Havana
16.4 km
Discover the rich tapestry of Latin American cuisine at Havana in Bar Harbor—where every dish tells a story.
Everyday Joe's
16.4 km
Discover Everyday Joe's in Bar Harbor - where American comfort food meets charming local ambiance.
Bar Harbor Lobster Co.
16.5 km
Experience authentic Maine seafood at Bar Harbor Lobster Co., where fresh flavors meet coastal charm in every bite.
Project Social Kitchen & Bar
16.6 km
Discover seasonal flavors and local ingredients at Project Social Kitchen & Bar in beautiful Bar Harbor, Maine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Main Street Mercantile
5.8 km
Explore the charming Main Street Mercantile for unique gifts and local art, capturing the essence of Northeast Harbor, Maine.
The Kimball Shop
5.8 km
Explore The Kimball Shop in Northeast Harbor for unique Maine gifts and charming local crafts that capture the spirit of the region.
Swallowfield
6.0 km
Explore Swallowfield in Northeast Harbor, a unique home goods store and art gallery showcasing local artistry and exquisite gifts.
Acadia Quietside Shop
6.2 km
Explore a charming gift shop in Southwest Harbor offering unique Maine artisan products and souvenirs that capture the essence of Acadia National Park.
Bramble and Stone
6.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures at Bramble and Stone, a charming boutique in the heart of Southwest Harbor, Maine.
Otter Creek Market
9.5 km
Explore the flavors of Maine at Otter Creek Market, your go-to grocery store for fresh produce and local specialties near Acadia National Park.
Thunder Hole Gift Shop
10.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Thunder Hole Gift Shop in beautiful Bar Harbor, Maine, an essential stop for every coastal adventure.
Cadillac Mountain Gift Shop
12.5 km
Discover the charm of Cadillac Mountain Gift Shop, where unique Acadia souvenirs meet stunning mountain views.
Fabricate LLC
16.5 km
Explore Fabricate LLC in Bar Harbor, a must-visit scrapbooking and craft store brimming with unique fabrics and art supplies for every creative soul.
The Maine Store
16.7 km
Explore The Maine Store in Bar Harbor, where unique local gifts and handcrafted treasures await every visitor.
Arts and Ends
16.7 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local treasures at Arts and Ends in Bar Harbor, a must-visit shop for every tourist.
Sagegrass Gallery
16.8 km
Explore the unique fusion of local art and crafts at Sagegrass Gallery in Bar Harbor, Maine, where every piece tells a story.
Indigo Blues - Blueberry Gifts - Art - Jewelry - Local Products/Crafts
16.8 km
Discover Indigo Blues in Bar Harbor, where local art and crafts come together to offer unique gifts and treasures that capture the essence of Maine.
Serendipity
16.8 km
Explore the unique clothing and accessories at Serendipity, a charming boutique in Bar Harbor that captures the essence of Maine's coastal style.
Gift MDI
16.8 km
Explore Gift MDI in Bar Harbor for unique Maine gifts and artisanal treasures that capture the local spirit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Thurston's Lobster Pound
6.9 km
Experience the taste of freshly caught lobster and seafood at Thurston's Lobster Pound, a coastal dining gem in Bernard, Maine.
Garden Lounge
16.8 km
Discover the serene Garden Lounge in Bar Harbor, Maine, where refreshing drinks meet a tranquil ambiance in a picturesque setting.
Tap & Barrel Tavern
16.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tap & Barrel Tavern in Bar Harbor, a top sports bar offering delicious food and local brews for every visitor.
Cottage St. Pub
17.0 km
Discover the charm of Cottage St. Pub in Bar Harbor, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
Eagles Nest Cocktails
17.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique cocktails at Eagles Nest Cocktails in Bar Harbor, where local flavors meet unforgettable moments.
Bar Island Land Bridge
17.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Bar Island Land Bridge in Bar Harbor, Maine - a hiking paradise with stunning views and unique coastal experiences.
Island Take Out
21.2 km
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Island Take Out in Bar Harbor, where each meal is a delightful taste of local Maine flavors.
Sweet Pea's Farm Kitchen
21.6 km
Experience the essence of Maine at Sweet Pea's Farm Kitchen, where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a cozy setting.
Fogtown Brewing Company
35.2 km
Discover the essence of Maine craft brewing at Fogtown Brewing Company, where exceptional beers and delicious pizzas await in a delightful setting.
Whale's Tooth Pub
59.2 km
Experience the best of coastal Maine cuisine at Whale's Tooth Pub, where fresh local seafood meets a friendly atmosphere and stunning views.
Salt Wharf
63.4 km
Experience the best of Maine's seafood at Salt Wharf, where fresh catches meet stunning waterfront views in Camden.
Paper Plane
63.4 km
Discover the essence of Camden at Paper Plane, a premier cocktail and wine bar offering exquisite drinks and breathtaking views.
Camden Harbour Inn
63.5 km
Discover elegance and tranquility at Camden Harbour Inn, a luxurious hotel in the heart of Camden, Maine, with breathtaking harbor views.
Natalie's Restaurant - Relais and Chateaux
63.5 km
Experience the best of modern European cuisine at Natalie's Restaurant, Camden's premier fine dining destination with breathtaking views.
The Waterfront Restaurant
63.6 km
Experience the best of Maine's seafood with stunning harbor views at The Waterfront Restaurant, a must-visit for any coastal traveler.