How to Find Cheap Hotels in Bar Harbor, Maine. Bar Harbor is on Mount Desert Island, off the coast of Maine. The majority of the island consists of Acadia National Park. From the mid-18th century to the mid-19th century, Bar Harbor (named Eden until 1918) was the summer playground of the ultra-rich. They did their best to outdo each other with elaborate mansions and yachts. Although many scions of the upper class remain, finding cheap accommodations is possible.
Fly to Bangor International Airport, an hour's drive away.
Try Bar Harbor Airport, a smaller airport that's actually in Trenton, Maine, the town on the mainland that connects to Mount Desert Island by bridge. There's a free bus in the summer.
Bus from Boston on a bus line that operates during the summer season.
Take they ferry that connects to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia or Portland, Maine from May to October.
Ride free on the Explorer buses that connect different parts of the island.
Explore Acadia National Park, which covers most of the island. Go swimming, bird and wildlife watching as well as hiking and biking.
Sail away on a schooner through Frenchman's Bay. You might get the chance to see mighty whales as they migrate past the island.
Kayak in the ocean, skimming the waves with paddle in hand.
Hike on a number of trails in and around Bar Harbor.
Venture around and about the town with a rent bike. If you feel tired, put it on the front of a city bus.
Contact airlines and hotels and see if they have package deals for transportation, car rental and accommodations. These deals may require you to fly into Bangor rather than Bar Harbor Airport. To book accommodations, contact Downeast Acadia Regional Tourism at (888) 665-3278 or visit their Web site (see Resources, below).
Look into staying at a Bed & Breakfast. They are very popular in Maine, and are often housed in Victorian mansions or converted farmhouses. In addition to friendly local hosts, you'll also get free breakfast. Rates start in the off-season at around $60.
Camp in any of the area's 3 campgrounds. If you truly want something cheap, get out your tent and sleeping bags. Rates start at around $20.
Look for a hotel or motel on the water within walking distance of the ferry to Nova Scotia. This will save you money and give you a million-dollar view at the same time. Oceanside motel rooms and cottages start at just $45.
Think about renting an apartment, condo or studio during your stay. They're often just as cheap as a motel room. Plus, you can find local ambiance in a converted farmhouse or downtown home repurposed as a residence hotel.
