Moria and I spend a lot of time on Mount Desert Island, Maine. We grew up in Bangor, but our summers were always spent on the island, better known as MDI. Our parents fell in love with Northeast Harbor during their boating days, and weekends were often filled with island-hopping adventures, exploring the coast, and stringing beads or making friendship bracelets as the boat rocked along. No matter where we wandered, we always returned to the quaint, picturesque harbor town they now happily call home.
As we got older, our family settled more permanently in Northeast Harbor. Summers meant working in town—me in a grocery store, Moria as a waitress and later in a bakery. Those jobs gave us our first lessons in small business life. We learned from hardworking shop owners who had only a few short summer months to capture the attention of seasonal visitors. Their hustle, energy, and dedication made a lasting impression on us—we truly owe a lot to them.
These days, when we return to Acadia, it’s all about decompressing. For us, a trip to the island means hiking, swimming, and staying active. And since we’re often asked what to see, do, and eat, we thought we’d share some of our favorite spots to visit this Labor Day weekend—along with the jewelry that’s been on repeat for us all summer.
Our Acadia Favorites
Hikes
Parkman Mountain
Acadia Mountain
Ladder Trail (harder than we remember)
Dog Walks
A stroll through town
Little Long Pond
The Triad
Eat & Drink
Asticou – Recently remodeled, and we loved it for both dinner and lunch. The food was delicious, the setting is stunning, and though they’re still smoothing out details, it’s absolutely worth a visit.
Le Brun – A charming spot for French food.
Havana – Cuban-inspired cuisine in Maine? Yes, and it works.
Lobster/clams/mussels – Our rule: lobster should always be eaten outside (or in the garage!), never in a restaurant. Favorites include Beal’s in Southwest Harbor and Thurston’s.
Nor’Easter – The best fries and BLT, with a great atmosphere started by local fishermen so seafood is great. We also buy fresh fish from their market.
Harbour Cottage Inn – Stay in the beautiful inn & our friend Susan Allen has the best cocktail menu and small bites, served from 4–8 pm in Southwest Harbor.
Islesford Dock Restaurant; Take the public Ferry from Northeast Harbor to this Little Cranberry Island restaurant.
If you’ve been to Acadia, we’d love to hear your favorite places too—we’re always looking for something new to explore.
-Megan & Moria
