For landscape photographers, Acadia National Park is a goldmine in the Northeast. I’ve taken some of my best shots here, and it’s an ideal place for experimenting with different styles and techniques. The park offers everything from dramatic cliffs to peaceful woodlands, and there’s something worth capturing around every corner.This guide covers some of my favorite locations around Acadia for landscape photography, each offering unique and dynamic scenes to shoot.

Many people don’t realize that Acadia National Park is actually divided into two sections: the main area on Mount Desert Island and the Schoodic Peninsula. Both offer a range of fantastic photo opportunities, each with its own unique attractions. In this guide, I'll cover these areas separately to help you make the most of each location.

To start off, we are going to cover Mount Desert Island, the largest section of Acadia, featuring iconic sights such as Cadillac Mountain, Thunder Hole, and more.

Boulder Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking to photograph Acadia’s coastline at sunrise. The calm waters reflect off the large, smooth boulders, creating a stunning scene as the early light hits. With its unobstructed views and serene surroundings, Boulder Beach is a prime location for those looking to photograph the peaceful side of Acadia. The best time to visit in my opinion is at sunrise. You’ll be treated to incredible sights of the sunrise reflecting off of the field of round boulders. Not to mention, there’s a good chance you’ll have the beach to yourself!

Thunder Hole is one of Acadia’s most iconic spots, famous for the powerful sound that occurs when waves crash into a narrow inlet, creating a thunderous roar. The best time to visit is during high tide when the waves are at their peak, and the sound reverberates through the rocks. It’s a popular spot, so arriving early in the morning can help you capture the scene without crowds, but it’s also a great location for dramatic seascapes and long-exposure shots of the waves crashing against the rocks.

If you’re looking for a challenging hike with breathtaking views at every turn, the Precipice Trail is a must. This steep, nearly vertical route up Champlain Mountain offers a heart-pumping climb with some incredible photo opportunities along the way. As you make your way to the summit, you’ll be treated to expansive views of the Mount Desert Narrows and the surrounding islands. The trail is not for the faint of heart—there are sections with exposed rock and steep drop-offs—but if you’re not afraid of heights, the payoff at the top is more than worth it. There are alternative trails to reach the top if you do not wish to climb up via the precipice trail.

Bass Harbor offers a mix of coastal charm and rugged beauty, with lobster boats dotting the water and mountains framing the horizon. It’s a great spot for capturing the quiet bustle of the harbor, or for shooting wide landscapes that highlight Acadia’s coastline.

The Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is one of Acadia’s most iconic landmarks. Perched on a rocky cliff, it offers spectacular views of the coastline and ocean, particularly at sunset. The ease of access and stunning scenery make it a must-visit for photographers. 

Note that this is a very popular location. If you are planning to photograph it at sunset, I suggest showing up at LEAST an hour early to secure a good spot.

Tucked away on the quieter side of Mount Desert Island, Southwest Harbor is a hidden gem for photographers. With its scenic harbor views, charming small-town feel, and access to stunning coastal landscapes, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to capture the softer, more tranquil side of Acadia.

No photography guide to Acadia would be complete without Cadillac Mountain. This towering peak is the most visited spot in the park, offering stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding islands and coastline. It’s a must-see for photographers, especially during the dramatic light of sunrise and sunset. 

Due to the popularity of this spot at sunrise and sunset, I suggest showing up 1-2 hours early if you wish to get a good spot with a view. 

Roughly an hour’s drive from the main section of Acadia, the Schoodic Peninsula is a destination that feels like a world apart. Its rugged coastline, windswept pines, and expansive ocean views offer a quieter, more untouched side of the park. It’s the kind of place where you can take your time, soaking in the natural beauty without the usual crowds.

Perched high on the cliffs of the Schoodic Peninsula, the Raven’s Nest is an unmarked and unforgettable destination. Its breathtaking ocean views and rugged beauty make it an ideal spot for sunset photography or a peaceful moment by the sea.

This spot is not marked on any official maps of Acadia, but can be found with just a little bit of digging. 

At the southernmost tip of the Schoodic Peninsula is Schoodic Point, a haven for photography enthusiasts. Sunrises and sunsets alike paint the sky with vivid colors, while the remote location ensures pitch-dark skies perfect for astrophotography once night falls.

On your way out of the Schoodic Peninsula, don’t miss Prospect Harbor. This spot combines classic Maine charm with a quiet, laid-back vibe, making it a perfect stop to wrap up your visit to this side of the park.

Whether you’re chasing the sunrise over boulder-strewn beaches, the crashing waves at Thunder Hole, or the quiet, windswept cliffs of the Schoodic Peninsula, Acadia offers endless inspiration for photographers of all levels. Take your time exploring, experiment with different perspectives, and let the park’s diverse landscapes guide your creativity. No matter how many times you visit, there’s always a new scene waiting to be captured—so grab your camera and start discovering the beauty that makes Acadia so unforgettable.


A guide to some of the best photography locations in Acadia National Park.

Nick Leyland

Landscape Photographer and Filmmaker

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