Thunder Hole: Nature's Spectacle in Bar Harbor
Experience the breathtaking power of nature at Thunder Hole, a stunning coastal gem in Bar Harbor, Maine, within Acadia National Park.
Thunder Hole, located in Bar Harbor, Maine, is a stunning natural amphitheater where the ocean's waves crash dramatically against the rocky shore. This iconic scenic spot is a must-visit for tourists looking to witness the raw power of nature and the beautiful coastal landscape of Acadia National Park. Ideal for hiking enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, Thunder Hole promises breathtaking views and a memorable experience.
A brief summary to Thunder Hole
- Bar Harbor, Maine, 04609, US
- +1207-288-3338
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during high tide for the best wave action and sound.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the nearby trails.
- Arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning coastal views.
- Check the tide schedule ahead of your visit for optimal viewing.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving from Bar Harbor, head south on Main Street toward the intersection with Route 3. Turn left onto Route 3 and continue for about 2.5 miles. Look for signs directing you to Thunder Hole. You will enter Acadia National Park; follow the park road until you reach the Thunder Hole parking area. The parking lot is located on the left side before you reach the viewing area.
-
Public Transportation
Take the Island Explorer bus service from Bar Harbor. Board the bus at any of the designated stops in town (look for the green buses). Make sure to choose the route that goes to Sand Beach or the Loop Road. Get off at the Thunder Hole stop. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the viewing area. Follow the trail signs that lead to Thunder Hole.
-
Walking
If you are nearby and prefer to walk, you can reach Thunder Hole via the Ocean Path trail. Start at Sand Beach and walk north along the path for approximately 1 mile. The trail is well-marked, and you will enjoy stunning coastal views along the way. Continue until you see the signs for Thunder Hole; the viewing area will be on your right.
Discover more about Thunder Hole
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monument Cove
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Monument Cove in Bar Harbor, Maine, where stunning views and nature's tranquility await.
Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead
2.3 km
Discover the breathtaking views and scenic trails of Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead, the gateway to Acadia National Park's majestic Cadillac Mountain.
Highseas
3.9 km
Explore Highseas in Bar Harbor, a premier marine research foundation offering insight into ocean science amidst stunning coastal views.
Pemetic Mountain
4.7 km
Discover Pemetic Mountain: a breathtaking peak in Maine offering stunning views, diverse hiking trails, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Bubble Pond
4.8 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Bubble Pond in Bar Harbor, Maine, where nature meets serenity amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Stanley Brook Bridge
4.8 km
Discover the beauty of Stanley Brook Bridge, a stunning architectural gem nestled in Acadia National Park, Maine, offering breathtaking views and serene surroundings.
Jordan Pond House Restaurant
5.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and delicious American cuisine at Jordan Pond House, a culinary haven in Acadia National Park.
Jordan Pond Dam Bridge
5.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Jordan Pond Dam Bridge in Acadia National Park, where stunning landscapes and peaceful waters await your visit.
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.
South Bubble
5.6 km
Explore South Bubble, a stunning mountain peak in Acadia National Park, where breathtaking views and nature's beauty await every adventurer.
Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden
5.6 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden in Seal Harbor, Maine—an exquisite botanical paradise for nature lovers.
Cobblestone Bridge
5.6 km
Explore the historic Cobblestone Bridge in Mt. Desert, Maine—a stunning architectural gem surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Jesup Path and Hemlock Path Loop
6.0 km
Discover the enchanting Jesup Path and Hemlock Path Loop in Bar Harbor, Maine, a breathtaking hiking paradise surrounded by nature's beauty.
Cliffside Bridge
6.0 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Cliffside Bridge in Mount Desert, Maine, where nature and architecture meet.
Deer Brook Bridge
6.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Deer Brook Bridge in Mount Desert, Maine, where stunning architecture meets tranquil nature in a picturesque setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ocean Path
0.2 km
Experience the breathtaking views and tranquility of Ocean Path, a scenic coastal trail in Bar Harbor, Maine, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Gorham Mountain Trailhead
0.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Gorham Mountain Trailhead in Acadia National Park, a hiking paradise with stunning views and diverse trails for all adventurers.
Gorham Mountain Trail
0.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Gorham Mountain Trail in Acadia National Park, where stunning views and outdoor adventure await every visitor.
Boulder Beach
0.8 km
Explore Boulder Beach in Bar Harbor, Maine – a breathtaking coastal attraction featuring unique boulders and stunning ocean views for nature lovers.
Otter Cove Bridge & Causeway
1.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Otter Cove Bridge & Causeway in Mt. Desert, Maine, where stunning views and tranquil landscapes await every visitor.
Ocean Path Trailhead
1.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Ocean Path Trailhead in Bar Harbor, Maine, where stunning coastal views and vibrant wildlife await every visitor.
Sand Beach
1.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sand Beach in Bar Harbor, Maine, where golden sands meet stunning coastal landscapes in Acadia National Park.
Otter Cliff
1.1 km
Discover breathtaking views and natural beauty at Otter Cliff in Bar Harbor, Maine, a jewel of Acadia National Park.
Beehive Trail
1.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Beehive Trail in Bar Harbor, where adventure meets stunning panoramic views and serene mountain top lakes.
Great Head
1.4 km
Explore Great Head in Acadia National Park, where scenic trails meet stunning ocean views, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Schooner Head Overlook
2.3 km
Discover the stunning coastal views and serene atmosphere of Schooner Head Overlook in Bar Harbor, Maine, a must-visit scenic spot near Acadia National Park.
Little Hunters Beach
3.1 km
Unwind at Little Hunters Beach, a serene coastal oasis on Mt. Desert Island, perfect for relaxation and scenic ocean views.
Precipice Trail
3.3 km
Discover the stunning Precipice Trail in Bar Harbor, a challenging hike with breathtaking views and unforgettable natural beauty.
Hunters Beach Overlook
3.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Maine's coastline at Hunters Beach Overlook, a serene scenic spot perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Hunters Beach
3.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Hunters Beach in Mt. Desert, Maine, with stunning coastal views and serene surroundings perfect for relaxation.
Essential places to dine
Burning Tree Restaurant
1.4 km
Discover exquisite wines and fresh seafood at Burning Tree Restaurant in Otter Creek - A must-visit culinary haven for food lovers.
Havana
7.2 km
Discover the rich tapestry of Latin American cuisine at Havana in Bar Harbor—where every dish tells a story.
Everyday Joe's
7.2 km
Discover Everyday Joe's in Bar Harbor - where American comfort food meets charming local ambiance.
Bar Harbor Lobster Co.
7.2 km
Experience authentic Maine seafood at Bar Harbor Lobster Co., where fresh flavors meet coastal charm in every bite.
Project Social Kitchen & Bar
7.3 km
Discover seasonal flavors and local ingredients at Project Social Kitchen & Bar in beautiful Bar Harbor, Maine.
Salsa Verde Grill
7.3 km
Discover authentic Mexican flavors at Salsa Verde Grill in Bar Harbor, where fresh ingredients meet vibrant culinary traditions.
McKay's Public House
7.4 km
Experience organic dining and fine wines at McKay's Public House in scenic Bar Harbor, where every meal tells a story.
Cafe This Way
7.5 km
Discover Café This Way in Bar Harbor – where delicious breakfasts meet charming ambiance amidst breathtaking coastal views.
Blaze
7.5 km
Experience wood-fired flavors and local craft beers at Blaze in Bar Harbor - where every meal is a celebration of Maine's culinary heritage.
CherrySTONES
7.5 km
Experience authentic Maine seafood at CherrySTONES in Bar Harbor - where fresh flavors meet coastal charm.
Lunch Bar Harbor
7.5 km
Experience the best local flavors at Lunch Bar Harbor, where fresh ingredients meet delightful culinary creations in Maine's scenic paradise.
The Independent Cafe
7.5 km
Discover The Independent Cafe in Bar Harbor - where fresh ingredients meet delightful flavors in every sandwich.
Veranda at Balance Rock Inn
7.6 km
Experience fine dining with breathtaking views at The Veranda in Bar Harbor - where local flavors meet culinary artistry.
Bar Harbor Beer Works
7.6 km
Discover local craft beers and delicious food at Bar Harbor Beer Works, the perfect brewpub experience in scenic Bar Harbor, Maine.
Side Street Cafe
7.7 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Side Street Cafe in Bar Harbor - where fresh flavors meet coastal charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Thunder Hole Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Thunder Hole Gift Shop in beautiful Bar Harbor, Maine, an essential stop for every coastal adventure.
Otter Creek Market
1.6 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.
Cadillac Mountain Gift Shop
4.6 km
Discover the charm of Cadillac Mountain Gift Shop, where unique Acadia souvenirs meet stunning mountain views.
Arts and Ends
7.5 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local treasures at Arts and Ends in Bar Harbor, a must-visit shop for every tourist.
Fabricate LLC
7.5 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
7.5 km
Explore The Maine Store in Bar Harbor, where unique local gifts and handcrafted treasures await every visitor.
Sagegrass Gallery
7.5 km
Explore the unique fusion of local art and crafts at Sagegrass Gallery in Bar Harbor, Maine, where every piece tells a story.
Christmas Vacation Shop - Changing Seasons
7.6 km
Explore the enchanting Christmas Vacation Shop - Changing Seasons in Bar Harbor, where holiday magic awaits with unique gifts and festive decorations.
Christmas Vacation Shop
7.6 km
Experience the joy of Christmas year-round at Bar Harbor's beloved Christmas Vacation Shop, your one-stop destination for festive gifts and decorations.
Serendipity
7.6 km
Explore the unique clothing and accessories at Serendipity, a charming boutique in Bar Harbor that captures the essence of Maine's coastal style.
The Acadia Country Store
7.6 km
Explore The Acadia Country Store for unique Maine-made gifts and souvenirs, capturing the essence of Bar Harbor's coastal charm.
Sunrise Clothing Jewelry
7.7 km
Explore Sunrise Clothing Jewelry in Bar Harbor for unique souvenirs and locally inspired treasures that capture the heart of Maine.
Island Trading Company
7.7 km
Discover unique Maine gifts at Island Trading Company, Bar Harbor's beloved gift shop featuring local artisans and coastal treasures.
Island Artisans
7.7 km
Discover the heart of Maine's artistry at Island Artisans, where handmade treasures and local craftsmanship come together in Bar Harbor.
Native Arts
7.7 km
Explore Native Arts Gallery in Bar Harbor for unique home goods that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of indigenous craftsmanship.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Garden Lounge
7.5 km
Discover the serene Garden Lounge in Bar Harbor, Maine, where refreshing drinks meet a tranquil ambiance in a picturesque setting.
Tap & Barrel Tavern
7.7 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
7.8 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
8.0 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
8.4 km
Discover the breathtaking Bar Island Land Bridge in Bar Harbor, Maine - a hiking paradise with stunning views and unique coastal experiences.
Thurston's Lobster Pound
15.9 km
Experience the taste of freshly caught lobster and seafood at Thurston's Lobster Pound, a coastal dining gem in Bernard, Maine.
The Travelin Lobster, LLC
16.3 km
Experience the freshest seafood in Bar Harbor at The Travelin Lobster, where every dish celebrates Maine's coastal flavors.
Island Take Out
17.8 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.
Fogtown Brewing Company
30.6 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
65.4 km
Experience the best of coastal Maine cuisine at Whale's Tooth Pub, where fresh local seafood meets a friendly atmosphere and stunning views.
Mad Kat and Company
69.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Mad Kat and Company in Brewer, where delicious grilled dishes meet unforgettable entertainment and fun.
Geaghan's Pub & Craft Brewery
69.7 km
Discover the heart of Bangor's Irish culture at Geaghan's Pub & Craft Brewery, where local brews and traditional dishes meet in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Sound Stage Lounge
69.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Sound Stage Lounge, where music and culinary delights come together in the heart of Bangor, Maine.
Timber Kitchen & Bar
70.0 km
Experience the best of Maine's culinary scene at Timber Kitchen & Bar, where fresh flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere.
Penobscot Pour House
70.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Penobscot Pour House, Bangor's favorite bar for craft beer and community vibes.