Things to do
Outdoor adventures and local flavors, all just moments from your stay
Explore Gouldsboro & Winter harbor
Experience the quiet side of acadia
Nestled on the quiet side of Acadia, Gouldsboro and nearby Winter Harbor offer the perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and small-town coastal charm. Explore rugged shorelines, scenic hiking trails, local art galleries, boat tours, and the breathtaking landscapes of Acadia National Park's Schoodic Peninsula, all without the crowds.
Whether you're planning a day of exploration or simply looking to savor the flavors of coastal Maine, discover our favorite local activites and dining options to help make your stay unforgettable.
experience more than a stay
Coastal Adventures Await
Acadia National Park: the quiet side
While many visitors head to Mount Desert Island and Bar Harbor to experience Acadia's most famous attractions, those staying at The Bluff House Inn enjoy something special, the Schoodic Peninsula, Acadia's quieter and less-traveled side.
Just minutes from the Inn, Schoodic offers rugged granite coastlines, scenic hiking and biking trails, crashing surf, and spectacular ocean views without the crowds. And if you'd like to visit Bar Harbor, Cadillac Mountain, or other iconic Acadia destinations, they're only about a 45-minute drive away.
Bar Harbor
A visit to Bar Harbor is a must for many guests exploring Acadia National Park. Just 45 minutes from The Bluff House Inn, this vibrant coastal town offers waterfront dining, unique shops, art galleries, boat tours, and easy access to some of Acadia's most famous sights.

For an especially memorable experience, consider taking the seasonal ferry from Winter Harbor to Bar Harbor. The scenic ride across Frenchman Bay offers beautiful views of the coastline and surrounding islands while allowing you to avoid the drive and parking.
The best part? You can enjoy all that Bar Harbor has to offer during the day, then return to the tranquility, ocean views, and slower pace of the Schoodic Peninsula each evening.
schoodic lake beach
Schoodic Beach is a peaceful stretch of Maine coastline where guests can enjoy the rugged beauty of the Schoodic Peninsula’s pristine waters, rocky shoreline, and quiet coastal views. Many visitors pair a visit here with the nearby Schoodic Mountain Loop Trail, a rewarding hike through forest and granite outcrops that offers sweeping views of the surrounding coastline.

A favorite local tradition is to complete the loop hike and then unwind with a picnic by the water, taking in the calm, untouched beauty of the area.
Jones Pond
Just minutes from The Bluff House Inn, Jones Pond in Gouldsboro is a peaceful 400+ acre freshwater pond perfect for a relaxing day on the water. Guests can rent single or tandem kayaks from Sea Schoodic Kayak & Bike and enjoy a hassle-free half-day or full-day paddle in calm, scenic surroundings.
With quiet coves, small islands, and abundant wildlife, Jones Pond offers an easy, beginner-friendly way to experience Maine’s natural beauty.
scenic flights of acadia
For a truly unforgettable perspective of Maine’s coast, Scenic Flights of Acadia, is located in Trenton, a 35 min drive from the Bluff House Inn. They offer aerial tours over Acadia National Park, Frenchman Bay, and the rugged Downeast shoreline. These small plane flights are a one-of-a-kind experience that showcase sweeping views of islands, lighthouses, forests, and the dramatic coastline from above.
Taft Point Preserve
Just minutes from The Bluff House Inn, Taft Point Preserve features 65 acres of coastal woodlands, a half-mile of shoreline, and breathtaking views of the Acadia Mountains, Schoodic Mountain, and the islands of Frenchman Bay. Two easy trail loops lead to rocky beaches where guests can explore the coast, watch for eider ducks and shorebirds, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of Maine's quiet coast.
Grindstone Neck Golf Course
Perched along the rugged coast of Winter Harbor, Grindstone Neck Golf Course is one of New England's most scenic public golf courses. Established in 1891, this historic nine-hole course offers stunning views of Frenchman Bay, the harbor, and Maine's iconic pink granite shoreline from every hole.

With beautifully maintained fairways and greens, challenging play, and breathtaking ocean scenery, Grindstone Neck provides a memorable golf experience just minutes from The Bluff House Inn.
Winter Harbor 5&10
A local favorite in the heart of Winter Harbor, the 5 & 10 is a classic old-fashioned variety store filled with Maine-made gifts, souvenirs, beach gear, and everyday essentials. With its nostalgic charm and friendly atmosphere, it’s a fun stop to browse, pick up necessities, or take home a piece of coastal Maine during your stay at The Bluff House Inn.
Corea Heath Preserve
Corea Heath Preserve in Gouldsboro is a peaceful coastal walk through one of Maine’s largest peatland ecosystems. A scenic boardwalk trail winds through open heath, forest, and wetlands filled with wildflowers and birdlife, offering a quiet and unique landscape to explore.

This easy, family-friendly trail is perfect for nature lovers, birdwatchers, photographers, or anyone looking to slow down and experience the quiet beauty of Maine’s coast.
Littlefield Art Gallery
Located in nearby Winter Harbor, Littlefield Gallery showcases contemporary Maine art and sculpture in a peaceful coastal setting. Featuring rotating exhibits from regional artists, it’s a beautiful stop to experience the creativity and natural inspiration of Maine’s quiet coast, just minutes from The Bluff House Inn.
local Dining favorites
the best of coastal maine cuisine on the quiet side of acadia
Musquito harbor brewing company
Located nearby Winter Harbor, Musquito Harbor Brewing is a small craft brewery known for its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. It's a great place to unwind after a day of exploring Acadia, enjoy a flight of Maine-made brews, and experience a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
Treehouse SEaside grill
Located on the waterfront in nearby Winter Harbor, Treehouse Seaside Grill is a seasonal restaurant known for its fresh, locally inspired coastal cuisine and stunning views over Henry’s Cove. Recently reopened for the season, it’s a favorite spot for relaxed dinners featuring Maine seafood, creative dishes, and a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere just minutes from The Bluff House Inn.
the pickled wrinkle
A local favorite in Winter Harbor, The Pickled Wrinkle is a lively coastal restaurant known for fresh Maine seafood, casual comfort food, and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. They often feature live music, adding to the relaxed and welcoming energy. It’s a great spot to enjoy a relaxed meal after exploring the Schoodic Peninsula. This restaurant, too, is just minutes from The Bluff House Inn.
J.M. Gerrish Cafe
Located in Winter Harbor, J.M. Gerrish Café is a local favorite for breakfast, lunch, coffee, and homemade baked goods. Known for its friendly atmosphere and fresh, made-to-order menu, it's the perfect spot to start your day before exploring the Schoodic Peninsula or to enjoy a casual lunch in the heart of town.
Chases Restaurant
A longtime Winter Harbor favorite, Chase's Restaurant serves fresh seafood, classic Maine dishes, and hearty comfort food in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Known for its friendly service and local charm,
it's a popular choice for both visitors and locals alike.
J.M. Gerrish Cafe
Want a lovely breakfast? Visit JM Gerrish Cafe.
Their bakery is fresh and delicious. Their coffee too is really good.
Address: 352 Main St, Winter Harbor, ME 04693, United States
Phone: +1 207-963-7000
Winter Harbor Lobster Shack
A lot of reasons this place is great, starting with lobster and crab rolls. Slider Sundays are not to be missed. Perfect pulled pork sliders. Everything is served with GOOD chips. Charming setting half way up a meadow with picnic tables, umbrellas and a gentle breeze.
Address: 21 Rand Ln, Winter Harbor, ME 04693, United States
Phone: +1 603-828-4686
Down East Mexican
Authentic Mexican food made by real Mexicans in Downeast Maine. The chicken chimichanga was extremely filling and delicious. This is easily the best Mexican food in Maine.
Address: 22 Chicken Mill Pond Rd, Gouldsboro,
ME 04607, United States
Phone: +1 207-546-6065
Me And Ben's Dairy Creme
This little dairy bar in the middle of nowhere is a fantastic stop for a quick lunch. They offer different hot dogs, fresh cut fries, and ice cream. The fries are a must! The best place for soft ice cream. The flavor of the Blueberry/Espresso ice cream is amazing.
Address: ME-186, Winter Harbor, ME 04693, United States
Phone: +12079637752
Corea Lunch on the Wharf
From the beautiful harbor and the friendly people to the outstanding food, you can't go wrong. This is casual dining as it should be. Try the oysters, or the lobster grilled cheese, but don't miss the homemade chowder! The wharf is dog friendly, kid friendly, and all around fun.
Address: 13 Gibbs Lane, Corea, ME 04624, United States
Phone: +12079639077
Ironbound Restaurant & Inn
A casual Maine dining experience in an authentic, old world rusticator atmosphere. Best restaurant in Downeast Maine! Great drinks, excellent service, friendly maitress d'hotel. And the chef uses the freshest locally sourced ingredients for a special meal.
Address: 1513 US-1, Hancock, ME 04640, United States
Phone: +12074223395