Thunder Hole: A Majestic Natural Wonder
Experience the awe of Thunder Hole in Bar Harbor, Maine, where crashing waves create a symphony of nature's power and beauty along the rugged coastline.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Thunder Hole in Bar Harbor, Maine, where the Atlantic waves crash against the rocky coastline, creating a stunning spectacle. This iconic scenic spot is perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering an unforgettable experience of Maine's rugged coastline. Witness the thunderous sounds of the ocean as you explore the surrounding trails and soak in the mesmerizing views.
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 sound and view experience.
- Dress in layers as coastal weather can change rapidly.
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Bring binoculars for better views of marine life and distant landscapes.
- Consider combining your visit with a hike on the nearby trails to explore more of Acadia National Park.
Getting There
-
Walking
Begin your journey from the center of Bar Harbor at the Village Green. Head south on Main Street towards the waterfront. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with West Street. Turn right onto West Street. Follow West Street as it curves and becomes the Park Loop Road. Keep walking along this road until you reach a sign for Acadia National Park. Thunder Hole is approximately 1.5 miles down Park Loop Road. Look for the designated path leading to Thunder Hole on your left.
-
Biking
Rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in Bar Harbor. Start at the Village Green and head south on Main Street. Continue to West Street and take a right. Follow West Street until it becomes Park Loop Road. Biking will allow you to cover the distance to Thunder Hole more quickly, approximately 1.5 miles. Keep an eye out for a marked bike path leading to Thunder Hole on your left.
-
Public Transportation
Catch the Island Explorer shuttle bus from a stop near the Village Green in Bar Harbor. The shuttle service operates seasonally and is free. Board the bus heading towards Acadia National Park and inform the driver you want to get off at Thunder Hole. The ride will take about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Once you arrive, follow the short walking path that leads directly to Thunder Hole.
-
Hiking
If you're feeling adventurous, consider hiking to Thunder Hole. Start at the Village Green and take the scenic route along the Shore Path, which runs parallel to the water. This will lead you toward the entrance of Acadia National Park. Once you reach Park Loop Road, continue on the road until you see the Thunder Hole sign. The total distance will be around 2 miles one way, providing a beautiful hiking experience.
Discover more about Thunder Hole
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monument Cove
0.3 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Monument Cove in Bar Harbor, Maine - a serene bay offering adventure and relaxation amidst breathtaking coastal landscapes.
Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead
2.3 km
Discover the breathtaking views and natural beauty at Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead, an unforgettable hiking experience in Maine's Acadia National Park.
Highseas
3.9 km
Explore marine research at Highseas in Bar Harbor, Maine, where science meets the stunning beauty of the ocean.
Pemetic Mountain
4.7 km
Explore Pemetic Mountain in Maine - a breathtaking peak offering stunning views, diverse hiking trails, and a connection to nature's beauty.
Bubble Pond
4.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Bubble Pond in Bar Harbor, Maine, a serene lake surrounded by nature's splendor and ideal for relaxation.
Stanley Brook Bridge
4.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Stanley Brook Bridge in Seal Harbor, Maine – a picturesque spot for relaxation and stunning photography.
Jordan Pond House Restaurant
5.2 km
Experience the iconic flavors of Maine at Jordan Pond House, a scenic restaurant in Acadia National Park known for its popovers and stunning views.
Jordan Pond Dam Bridge
5.3 km
Explore the breathtaking views at Jordan Pond Dam Bridge in Acadia National Park, a scenic haven for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Bunker Ledge Monument
5.3 km
Explore the Bunker Ledge Monument in Mount Desert, Maine, a serene historical landmark offering breathtaking views and a deep connection to the past.
South Bubble
5.6 km
Experience breathtaking vistas and outdoor adventure at South Bubble, a stunning peak in Acadia National Park, Mt. Desert, Maine.
Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden
5.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden in Seal Harbor, Maine, where nature and art blend seamlessly for a tranquil retreat.
Cobblestone Bridge
5.6 km
Discover the enchanting Cobblestone Bridge in Mount Desert, Maine, a picturesque blend of nature and historic architecture, perfect for memorable explorations.
Jesup Path and Hemlock Path Loop
5.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Jesup Path and Hemlock Path Loop in Bar Harbor, a hiker's paradise within Acadia National Park.
Cliffside Bridge
6.0 km
Marvel at the stunning Cliffside Bridge, a breathtaking architectural gem offering panoramic views of Mt Desert's natural beauty.
Deer Brook Bridge
6.3 km
Discover the scenic Deer Brook Bridge in Mt. Desert, Maine—a perfect blend of history and natural beauty in Acadia National Park.
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.
Essential places to dine
Burning Tree Restaurant
1.5 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.