Experience the Majestic Thunder Hole

Discover the awe-inspiring Thunder Hole in Acadia National Park, where the Atlantic Ocean meets dramatic cliffs, creating a natural spectacle like no other.

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Maine
Hancock County
Thunder Hole

Nestled within the stunning Acadia National Park, Thunder Hole is a captivating natural attraction that mesmerizes visitors with its breathtaking coastal views and the dramatic sounds of crashing waves. A must-visit for any tourist in Bar Harbor, Maine, this scenic spot is perfect for photography and enjoying the great outdoors.

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 experience of the waves crashing.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning coastal views and the unique wave action.
Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
Wear sturdy shoes for hiking if you plan to explore nearby trails.

Getting There

Car

If you are traveling by car, start from the center of Bar Harbor, ME. Drive south on Main Street (US-3) for about 1.5 miles. You will pass several shops and restaurants. Keep an eye out for the signs for Acadia National Park. Turn left onto Park Loop Road, which is a scenic drive. Continue on Park Loop Road for about 3 miles until you see the signs for Thunder Hole. There is parking available nearby, but note that there may be a fee for parking in the national park, typically around $30 for a vehicle for a week.
Public Transportation

If you are using public transportation, check for local bus services that operate in the Bar Harbor area. The Island Explorer bus service runs throughout the summer and connects to various points in Acadia National Park. If you are in Bar Harbor, catch the Island Explorer bus that heads to the park. The route to Thunder Hole is usually well-marked. Make sure to ask the driver for the nearest stop to Thunder Hole. Be aware that there may be a small fare for the bus, typically around $3 per ride.
Walking

For those already within Acadia National Park or nearby, you can walk to Thunder Hole. From the nearest parking area, follow the clearly marked walking paths. The walk to Thunder Hole is relatively short, about a 0.3 mile (approximately 10 minutes) hike along the scenic coastline. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and take your time to enjoy the views of the ocean along the way.

Discover more about Thunder Hole

Thunder Hole, located in Acadia National Park, is one of Maine's most iconic natural attractions. Here, visitors can witness the incredible power of the Atlantic Ocean as waves crash against the rocky shore, creating a thunderous sound that echoes through the landscape. This unique phenomenon occurs when water rushes into a narrow inlet, forcing air and water to explode outwards, much like a thunderclap. The best times to experience this spectacle are during high tide, when the waves are at their most powerful, and the overall atmosphere is simply electric. In addition to its dramatic auditory experience, Thunder Hole offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the surrounding landscape. The area is also a popular spot for hiking enthusiasts, with numerous trails weaving through the park, allowing for exploration of its stunning beauty. The nearby paths lead to various vantage points where you can take in the stunning vistas of the ocean and nearby islands, making it a perfect location for avid photographers and nature lovers alike. While visiting, be sure to take advantage of the various amenities available. Picnic areas allow for a leisurely lunch with a view, and interpretive signs throughout the area provide insights into the geological and ecological significance of this coastal wonder. Thunder Hole is not just a place to visit, but an experience that showcases the raw beauty of Maine's coastline and the incredible forces of nature at work. Whether you're there for the sound, the sights, or a peaceful day in nature, Thunder Hole is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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.

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

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Experience the Majestic Thunder Hole

A brief summary to Thunder Hole

Local tips

Getting There

Car

Public Transportation

Walking

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

Otter Cove Bridge & Causeway

Ocean Path Trailhead

Sand Beach

Otter Cliff

Beehive Trail

Great Head

Schooner Head Overlook

Little Hunters Beach

Precipice Trail

Hunters Beach Overlook

Hunters Beach

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

Cottage St. Pub