Ocean Path
A scenic 2-mile coastal walk in Acadia National Park, offering dramatic views of cliffs, coves, and beaches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Ocean Path
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 2-mile coastal walk in Acadia National Park, offering dramatic views of cliffs, coves, and beaches.
"Wonderful easy trail from Sand Beach to Otter Point with several scenic spots in between."
Park Loop Road Access
Use the Island Explorer bus to avoid parking issues. It stops at key points along the path. :bus:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path is mostly paved and gentle, but good walking shoes are recommended for comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sand Beach
Start of the Ocean Path
A stunning sandy cove nestled between rocky cliffs, perfect for a stroll or a picnic.
Thunder Hole
Along the Ocean Path
Witness the ocean's power as waves crash into a cavern, creating a thunderous roar.
Otter Cliff
End of the Ocean Path
Dramatic granite cliffs offering panoramic ocean views and a sense of wild coastal beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Safety First on the Coast
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Park Loop Road Access
Use the Island Explorer bus to avoid parking issues. It stops at key points along the path. :bus:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path is mostly paved and gentle, but good walking shoes are recommended for comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Rip Current Awareness
Be cautious of rip currents, especially at Sand Beach. Know how to spot and react to them. :warning:
Low Tide Magic
Some coastal paths reveal themselves only at low tide, creating unique walking experiences. :ocean:
Tips
from all over the internet
Park Loop Road Access
Use the Island Explorer bus to avoid parking issues. It stops at key points along the path. :bus:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path is mostly paved and gentle, but good walking shoes are recommended for comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Rip Current Awareness
Be cautious of rip currents, especially at Sand Beach. Know how to spot and react to them. :warning:
Low Tide Magic
Some coastal paths reveal themselves only at low tide, creating unique walking experiences. :ocean:
Combine with Other Hikes
Ocean Path can be combined with Gorham Mountain or Great Head for a longer adventure. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Ocean Path's stunning coastal scenery, accessibility, and family-friendly nature. It's praised as an easy, enjoyable walk with breathtaking views of cliffs, coves, and beaches, perfect for all ages. Some note that parking can be challenging, and the path can be strenuous for those with significant mobility issues, though still doable.
"Wonderful easy trail from Sand Beach to Otter Point with several scenic spots in between. We took the Island Explorer bus from hulls cove visitor center to Sand Beach and then started the trail from there. Then we walked up to otter point stopping at Thunderhole and several places in between. We then took the bus all the way back to visitor center. We took many pictures at different view points. Very enjoyable trail."
Sanjeeta Pai
"The Ocean Path begins at the Sand Beach car park at Newport Cove and runs parallel to the Park Loop Road along the spectacular rocky coast to Otter Point at the southern tip of the peninsula. There are several car parks and tourist attractions along the way, such as the Thunder Hole, the Monument Cove and the Otter Cliff."
Hubert Trapp
"Stunning walkway filled with gentle slopes overlooking cliff-side beaches on one of the more remote sections of Acadia. Highly recommend at least going for a drive along this route, but a short walk along any segment can lead to incredible views! 👍"
Noah Winstead
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ocean Path is accessible from Sand Beach or Otter Point. Many visitors use the free Island Explorer bus service, which stops at Sand Beach and other points along the Park Loop Road, making it easy to access without a car. :bus: Parking can be very limited, especially during peak season.
Limited parking is available at Sand Beach and Otter Point, but it fills up quickly. Consider using the Island Explorer bus or arriving very early. :car: :warning:
The Ocean Path runs parallel to the Park Loop Road, which is a scenic drive. You can drive along this road and stop at various pull-offs to access different sections of the path. :car: :camerawithflash:
Much of the Ocean Path is paved and relatively flat, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. However, some sections may have uneven terrain or inclines. :wheelchair:
Many visitors start at Sand Beach and walk towards Otter Point, or vice versa. The Island Explorer bus makes it easy to do a one-way walk and catch the bus back. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Ocean Path itself is free to access. However, you will need an Acadia National Park entrance pass if you are driving into the park or parking in designated areas. :ticket:
The Ocean Path is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, access to certain areas like Sand Beach may have seasonal restrictions or limited facilities. :clock:
It's best to purchase your Acadia National Park entrance pass online in advance, especially during the busy summer months, to save time. :computer: :moneywithwings:
The Island Explorer bus is a free shuttle service operating within Acadia National Park and surrounding towns during the summer season. :free_bus:
The Park Loop Road is often closed to vehicles in winter, but the Ocean Path may still be accessible for walking or snowshoeing, weather permitting. :snowflake:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss Sand Beach, Thunder Hole for its dramatic wave action, Monument Cove, and the stunning Otter Cliff for panoramic ocean views. :camerawithflash:
Yes, the Ocean Path is generally family-friendly due to its paved surface and relatively gentle slopes. Always supervise children closely near the water. :family_child:
Walking the entire Ocean Path from Sand Beach to Otter Point takes about 1-1.5 hours one-way, not including stops. You can easily spend half a day exploring its various viewpoints. :stopwatch:
Restrooms are available at Sand Beach and Otter Point. There may be limited facilities at other pull-offs. :toilet:
You might spot seabirds, seals, and if you're lucky, whales offshore. Keep an eye on the water and the sky! :bird: :seal:
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow on the coastline. :sunrise: :sunset:
Sand Beach with its unique setting, the dramatic spray at Thunder Hole, and the sweeping vistas from Otter Cliff are all highly photogenic. :camerawithflash:
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water. :camera:
Drone usage is restricted in Acadia National Park to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check current park regulations before flying. :noentrysign:
Be patient and wait for the waves to crash into the cavern. A faster shutter speed can freeze the action, or a slower one can create a misty effect. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Highlights like Sand Beach offer a chance for play, while Thunder Hole provides an exciting sensory experience. Using the free Island Explorer bus is a game-changer for families, avoiding parking headaches and making the day smoother. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Consider starting early to enjoy the tranquility before the crowds arrive. The path can also be a great starting point for more challenging hikes, like those up Gorham Mountain or Great Head, for those seeking a bit more adventure. 🚗 Road Trippers & Drivers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Rip Currents
If you find yourself caught in a rip current, the most important advice is to stay calm and don't fight the current directly. Instead, swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then swim back to land. If you cannot swim out of the current, float or tread water and wave for help.
Navigating Acadia's Public Transport
Using the bus eliminates the stress of finding parking, which can be extremely difficult, especially during the summer months. It also allows you to enjoy the scenery without the distraction of driving. Plan your route using the bus schedule, and be prepared for potential wait times during peak hours.
Family-Friendly Exploration
The path offers a variety of engaging sights, from the sandy expanse of Sand Beach to the dramatic sounds of Thunder Hole, keeping kids entertained. Remember to prioritize safety by keeping a close eye on children near the water and staying on marked trails. Packing snacks and water is always a good idea for family outings. The ease of access via the Island Explorer bus also adds to its appeal for families, reducing travel stress.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit