Experience paddle boarding in the serene bays of Mount Desert Island with expert guides from Acadia Stand Up Paddle Boarding. Perfect for all skill levels, enjoy stunning views and a safe adventure on the calm waters near Bar Harbor.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic stamina and balance ability suitable for standing and paddling for a couple of hours.
Wildlife
History
Mount Desert Island has a rich Indigenous Wabanaki heritage and later became a popular destination for maritime trade and fishing through the 19th century.
Conservation
Efforts to preserve the fragile marine ecosystems include promoting responsible paddling practices and protecting shoreline habitats from erosion and pollution.
Acadia Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Experience paddle boarding in the serene bays of Mount Desert Island with expert guides from Acadia Stand Up Paddle Boarding. Perfect for all skill levels, enjoy stunning views and a safe adventure on the calm waters near Bar Harbor.
Acadia Stand Up Paddle Boarding, based in Bar Harbor, Maine, provides guided paddle boarding and e-bike experiences across Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park. The company operates small-group paddle tours — including Sunset Paddle Board Tour, Harbor Paddle Boarding in the bays of MDI, and guided lake sessions on Acadia’s freshwater lakes — that include safety orientation, on-water instruction, and necessary gear such as wetsuits and boards.
For cyclists, Acadia Stand Up Paddle Boarding offers Class 1 E-Bike rentals (half-day and full-day) and a 4-hour Guided E-Bike Tour. Rentals come with a choice of step-through or step-over frames and a pedal-assist range of roughly 50 miles, enabling riders to navigate the Park Loop Road and historic Carriage Roads with ease.
Tours are tailored for families, beginners, and intermediate paddlers and riders. Guides provide local route knowledge, basic instruction, and on-water or on-bike support to help guests focus on scenery and safety. Small group sizes promote a personalized experience on lakes, harbors, and coastal shorelines, suitable for older teens and adults.
Guests receive ready-to-use gear including boards, paddles, and wetsuits, plus comprehensive safety orientation before all departures. Scheduling options include morning, afternoon, and sunset departures when available, subject to seasonal operating hours in Bar Harbor. Reservations are recommended during peak summer months.
Location
Bar Harbor, ME
Gateway to Acadia National Park
Where to Explore
Lakes & Bays of MDI
Acadia lakes, harbors, and carriage roads
E-Bike Rentals
Class 1 E-Bikes
Up to 50-mile battery range
Tours Offered
6 Experiences
Small group and guided options
Check availability for Sunset, Lake, and Harbor paddle tours or guided and rental e-bike options — online reservations recommended to secure preferred times.
Wear a Wetsuit Even on Warm Days
The waters around Mount Desert Island can be chilly year-round, so wearing a wetsuit helps maintain comfort and prevent hypothermia.
Check Weather and Tides Before Heading Out
Wind and tide conditions can change paddling difficulty; reviewing local forecasts helps ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Bring Sunscreen and Hydration
Protect your skin from sun exposure and stay hydrated during your paddle, especially on sunny days with limited shade on the water.
Maintain a Relaxed Stance for Better Balance
Keep knees slightly bent and arms relaxed to improve stability and maneuverability while paddle boarding on varying water conditions.
Wetsuit
Keeps you warm and comfortable in cool spring waters.
spring
Water-resistant Sunscreen
Protects skin from UV rays during prolonged outdoor exposure.
summer
Quick-Dry Clothing
Allows for comfort and quick drying after splashes or accidental falls.
summer
Insulating Layers
Adds warmth during cooler paddles as temperatures drop.
fall