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Sunrise
Within Acadia National Park, the first thing you need to do is make sure you are on the “correct side of the island.” Locations along the eastern half of Mount Desert Island offer fantastic vistas perfect for viewing the sunrise.
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Enjoy the sunrise from your car: Parking alongside Ocean Drive or at Schooner Head Overlook is a sure bet for some amazing views of the sunrise! Bring coffee and breakfast to-go for an extra enjoyable experience.
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Hike! For the adventurous, consider a morning hike to the summit of your favorite mountain where you can take in the first glimpse of sunshine.
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Relax downtown: If you’re feeling like a more leisurely start to your day, downtown Bar Harbor offers spectacular sunrise opportunities!
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Shore Path: Grab your morning coffee or breakfast to-go and take a stroll along the coast-hugging trail, which faces due east and makes for the perfect sunrise location.
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Grant Park: There are park benches and plenty of manicured lawn space that make for an ideal sunrise picnic location.
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The Town Pier: Go for a dazzling sunrise display over the water.
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Sunset
To catch an unforgettable sunset on Mount Desert Island, choose one of several westward-facing locations in Bar Harbor or a place on the western side of the island.
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The Town Pier and Agamont Park: Both offer beautiful views of the sunset and make for a convenient location—a perfect place to relax before or after dinner (if after, ideally enjoyed with an ice cream!)
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The Bar Harbor Sand Bar: If you’re up for a stroll and the sunset coincides with low tide, walk out on the Sand Bar for a stunning sunset from the heart of downtown Bar Harbor.
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Book a sunset cruise: Feeling inspired to get out on the water? Find a boat tour and book your ticket to golden hour!
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If you're unable to get a parking spot at Bass Harbor Head Light, consider dinner or dessert on the patio at one of Bass Harbor's or Bernard’s restaurants (both located in the town of Tremont) where you can enjoy your meal with a stunning sunset view.
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