Experience the Majesty of Thunder Hole

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Thunder Hole in Bar Harbor, Maine, where crashing waves create a thunderous symphony against a stunning coastal backdrop.

4.6

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Thunder Hole is a stunning natural wonder located in Bar Harbor, Maine. This scenic spot offers visitors a unique glimpse of the ocean's power as waves crash against the rocky coastline, creating a thunderous roar that echoes through the area. The breathtaking views and dramatic landscapes make it a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike.

A brief summary to Thunder Hole

Bar Harbor, Maine, 04609, US
+1207-288-3338
Visit website

Local tips

Visit during high tide for the best wave action and sound.
Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and the dramatic crashing waves.
Wear sturdy shoes, as the rocky terrain can be uneven and slippery.
Check the tide schedules before your visit to plan for the best experience.

Getting There

Walking

If you are starting from the Hulls Cove Visitor Center, head south on the Park Loop Road toward the Jordan Pond area. After approximately 1.5 miles, you will reach a bus stop for the Island Explorer shuttle service. From there, you can catch the Green Line shuttle, which will take you directly to the Thunder Hole stop. Once you get off the shuttle, follow the signs that lead you to the Thunder Hole viewing area, which is about a 5-minute walk from the stop.
Biking

If you have rented a bike, start from the Park Loop Road. Cycle south from the entrance of the loop for about 1.5 miles until you reach the junction with the road leading to Thunder Hole. Turn left at the junction and continue for another 0.5 miles. You will see the designated bike parking area near the Thunder Hole entrance. From there, it’s a short walk to the viewing platform.
Hiking

For those who enjoy hiking, you can take the Ocean Path trail. Start at Sand Beach and follow the Ocean Path heading south. It's about a 2-mile hike along the coastline with beautiful views. Once you reach Thunder Hole, you’ll find it easily marked along the trail. The hike will take you approximately 1 hour at a leisurely pace.
Public Bus

If you prefer public transport, you can take the Island Explorer bus service from any of the designated stops within the park. Make sure to board the Green Line bus, which heads toward Thunder Hole. The bus operates during the summer months and has multiple stops along the Park Loop Road, making it easy to reach. Once you arrive at the Thunder Hole stop, it's a short walk to the viewing area.

Discover more about Thunder Hole

Thunder Hole is one of the most iconic scenic spots in Bar Harbor, Maine, celebrated for its breathtaking coastal views and the incredible natural phenomenon it offers. When the tide is high, waves crash violently against the rocks, producing a thunderous sound that gives this location its name. It's a favorite among tourists and locals alike, who come to witness the spectacular display of nature's power. The best times to visit are during high tide, when the waves are most active, and the seascape transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle. Visitors can enjoy several vantage points along the rocky coastline, perfect for capturing stunning photographs or simply soaking in the dramatic scenery. In addition to the awe-inspiring views, Thunder Hole is part of Acadia National Park, providing access to numerous hiking trails that weave through the rugged terrain. The park's natural beauty is complemented by its rich wildlife, making it a hotspot for birdwatching and nature walks. The surrounding area offers amenities such as picnic spots and information kiosks, ensuring that visitors have a comfortable and enriching experience. Whether you are an avid hiker or simply looking to enjoy a peaceful day by the sea, Thunder Hole is a destination that promises unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the raw beauty of Maine's coastline. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and the magical moments created by the crashing waves.

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

5.9 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

Explore Ocean Path in Bar Harbor, Maine – a scenic coastal trail offering breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and a serene escape into nature.

Gorham Mountain Trailhead

0.5 km

Discover breathtaking views and invigorating trails at Gorham Mountain Trailhead, a must-visit hiking destination in Acadia National Park.

Gorham Mountain Trail

0.6 km

Explore the breathtaking Gorham Mountain Trail in Bar Harbor, Maine, and experience stunning views and natural beauty in Acadia National Park.

Boulder Beach

0.8 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Boulder Beach in Bar Harbor, Maine, where rocky shores meet serene ocean views for an unforgettable coastal experience.

Ocean Path Trailhead

1.0 km

Discover the breathtaking coastal views and serene landscapes at Ocean Path Trailhead in Acadia National Park, a must-visit for every traveler in Bar Harbor.

Sand Beach

1.1 km

Experience the stunning natural beauty and tranquility of Sand Beach in Bar Harbor, Maine, a perfect destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Otter Cove Bridge & Causeway

1.1 km

Discover the stunning natural beauty and architectural marvel of Otter Cove Bridge in Mount Desert, Maine, a must-visit for every traveler.

Otter Cliff

1.1 km

Explore the breathtaking Otter Cliff in Bar Harbor, Maine—where stunning ocean views and rugged cliffs meet the serene beauty of Acadia National Park.

Beehive Trail

1.2 km

Experience the breathtaking Beehive Trail in Bar Harbor, Maine, with stunning views, thrilling climbs, and the beauty of Acadia National Park.

Great Head

1.4 km

Explore the breathtaking coastal views and scenic trails at Great Head in Acadia National Park, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Schooner Head Overlook

2.3 km

Discover the stunning beauty of Schooner Head Overlook in Bar Harbor, Maine, with panoramic views of the Atlantic and Acadia National Park.

Little Hunters Beach

3.1 km

Experience the serene beauty of Little Hunters Beach in Mt. Desert, Maine, a perfect coastal escape for relaxation and exploration.

Precipice Trail

3.3 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling challenges of Precipice Trail in Bar Harbor, Maine, a must-visit destination for adventure seekers.

Hunters Beach Overlook

3.4 km

Explore the stunning coastal views of Hunters Beach Overlook, a serene natural escape in Mount Desert, Maine, perfect for relaxation and photography.

Champlain Mountain

3.4 km

Explore Champlain Mountain, a stunning scenic spot in Bar Harbor, Maine, offering breathtaking views, diverse hiking trails, and a rich natural experience.

Experience the best of American cuisine at Side Street Cafe in Bar Harbor - where fresh flavors meet coastal charm.

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.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Thunder Hole with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Experience the Majesty of Thunder Hole

A brief summary to Thunder Hole

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Biking

Hiking

Public Bus

Unlock the Best of Thunder Hole

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Thunder Hole

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Monument Cove

Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead

Highseas

Pemetic Mountain

Bubble Pond

Stanley Brook Bridge

Jordan Pond House Restaurant

Jordan Pond Dam Bridge

Bunker Ledge Monument

South Bubble

Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden

Cobblestone Bridge

Jesup Path and Hemlock Path Loop

Cliffside Bridge

Deer Brook Bridge

Unmissable attractions to see

Ocean Path

Gorham Mountain Trailhead

Gorham Mountain Trail

Boulder Beach

Ocean Path Trailhead

Sand Beach

Otter Cove Bridge & Causeway

Otter Cliff

Beehive Trail

Great Head

Schooner Head Overlook

Little Hunters Beach

Precipice Trail

Hunters Beach Overlook

Champlain Mountain

Essential places to dine

Burning Tree Restaurant

Havana

Everyday Joe's

Bar Harbor Lobster Co.

Project Social Kitchen & Bar

Salsa Verde Grill

McKay's Public House

Cafe This Way

Blaze

CherrySTONES

Lunch Bar Harbor

The Independent Cafe

Veranda at Balance Rock Inn

Bar Harbor Beer Works

Side Street Cafe

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Thunder Hole Gift Shop

Otter Creek Market

Cadillac Mountain Gift Shop

Arts and Ends

Fabricate LLC

The Maine Store

Sagegrass Gallery

Christmas Vacation Shop - Changing Seasons

Christmas Vacation Shop

Serendipity

The Acadia Country Store

Sunrise Clothing Jewelry

Island Trading Company

Island Artisans

Native Arts

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Garden Lounge

Tap & Barrel Tavern