Welcome to Southwest Harbor
Welcome to Southwest Harbor, Maine, a coastal fishing town located on the eastern shore of beautiful Mount Desert Island. Here, you can enjoy Acadia magic all over again. With its calming coastal backdrop and lush green foliage, it’s no wonder that this quaint location has become a highly sought-after destination for luxury home buyers.
The harbor and marina are particularly impressive. With plenty of space for those hoping to dock their boat for a few days or weeks, this area is well-protected from both high winds and waves and provides exceptional views for nature lovers. Its breathtaking sunsets are only overshadowed by the sound of waves lapping against fishing boats and luxury yachts. Southwest Harbor is sure to delight year-round with its charming coastal vibe, delicious eats, and locally-renowned architecture featuring homes built by master craftsmen known throughout New England.
What to Love
- A charming, walkable town with top-notch restaurants and luxury shops
- Near the world-class nature of Acadia National Park
- Beautiful protected marina and harbor
Local Lifestyle
Nestled in the heart of Maine, Southwest Harbor is a leisurely respite from the hustle and bustle of city living. This quaint fishing village provides an unbeatable atmosphere of serenity amid luxury. Residents and visitors alike are enveloped in a laid-back vibe that belies the town's wide variety of amenities.
With this marina comes even more possibilities to experience the splendor of seaside living, with sweeping views of the harbor nearby. With an abundance of restaurants, shops, and outdoor activities, Southwest Harbor is an idyllic location where class meets recreation in perfect harmony.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
In Southwest Harbor, it is easy to enjoy all that this exclusive part of Maine has to offer. After spending a day admiring boats at the marina and walking through town, indulge in some fresh seafood at Sips Cafe, a local favorite that offers classic American and Mediterranean cuisine. If you’re there at the right time, you’ll catch some live music along with your delectable meal and full bar offerings.
If you want a luxurious evening on the water, head to the four-star Claremont Hotel. Home to an array of restaurants, you can take your pick among four impeccable options. The Claremont’s Little Fern Restaurant offers Down East essentials of Maine fare. With the best view in the house, Batson River Fish Camp is located on the hotel's private dock, where you can watch the boats on the water as you dine. If you enjoy passing the time by the docks, sip on drinks while enjoying a stunning backdrop. Harry's Bar serves up every cocktail under the sun from the hands of master mixologists. Finally, Buttercup Bakery serves guests its delightful old-fashioned sweets, beverages, and breakfasts.
For unique finds, explore the Coast Guard Exchange for souvenir treasures or high-end apparel to take home. They have all the trinkets you could imagine.
Things to Do
One of Southwest Harbor’s main attractions is its gorgeous Dysart’s Great Harbor Marina, which hosts an array of the finest yachts and boats at its full-service marina. Spend a sunny afternoon eyeing the seafaring vessels of Acadia, and afterward, enjoy a hearty meal at one of the marina’s restaurants and bars or make your own using its picnic tables and barbecue grills.
The town hosts plenty of festivals and celebrations all year round. Acadia National Park’s Half Marathon is a huge event. You’ll find many Arts Fairs on local calendars to showcase local talent. The Strawberry Festival is a sweet treat to enjoy the best harvest of the season. Make sure to check out the 4th of July fireworks display. You'll be dazzled by the vibrant colors that light up over the harbor!
Schools
Southwest Harbor, Maine, is served by the Mount Desert Island Regional School System for education.
