Sand Beach derives its descriptive name from being the largest sandy beach in Acadia National Park, though the 290-yard crescent is largely comprised of unique sand formed from shell fragments created by pounding surf. Located on the eastern side of Mount Desert Island in Newport Cove between mountains and rocky shores, this beach is accessible via Park Loop Road on the southeastern side of Bar Harbor.
The beach offers swimming in cold ocean water rarely exceeding 55 degrees, with restrooms, changing rooms, and wheelchair-accessible parking, though the beach itself requires navigating a staircase down the cliffside. The nearby Ocean Path extends 1.5 miles south to Otter Cliff and Otter Point, passing Thunder Hole along the way, while pets are prohibited May 15 through September 15 due to heavy visitation that fills parking by 9am during peak season.
Bar Harbor offers dining at Geddy's for fresh Maine lobster from the live tank and lobster rolls steps from the waterfront, Bar Harbor Inn for fine dining and casual outdoor options with water views, and Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound for fresh catches with stunning scenery near the park entrance.
