Ocean Path is Acadia National Park's signature coastal trail—and for good reason. This 2.2-mile path hugs the rocky shoreline from Sand Beach to Otter Point, passing Thunder Hole, Monument Cove, and the dramatic Otter Cliffs along the way. It's the quintessential Acadia experience, offering the perfect combination of accessibility and natural beauty.
The trail is nearly flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for almost everyone. Yet the scenery—pink granite, crashing surf, twisted pines—is world-class. No visit to Acadia is complete without walking at least part of Ocean Path.
Trail Overview
Basic Stats
- Distance: 2.2 miles one way (4.4 miles round trip)
- Elevation Gain: Minimal (100 feet)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time: 1.5-3 hours depending on stops
The path runs parallel to Ocean Drive (Park Loop Road), with multiple access points along the way. This means you can walk any portion—just Sand Beach to Thunder Hole, or the full length to Otter Point, or any section in between.
Most people walk north to south (Sand Beach to Otter Point) to have the sun at their back for photography, though both directions are equally rewarding.
Highlights Along the Path
Sand Beach
The northern trailhead at Sand Beach—one of the few sand beaches in Acadia, formed from crushed shells. It's a popular swimming spot (for the brave—water temperatures rarely exceed 55°F), and the surrounding pink granite cliffs are stunning.
Thunder Hole
About 0.5 miles south of Sand Beach, Thunder Hole is a natural rock formation where waves crash into a narrow inlet, creating a thunderous boom. Timing matters—the effect is best at mid-tide with significant swells. Calm days produce little drama.
Monument Cove
A small rocky cove with a sea stack called "The Monument." It's worth the short detour from the main path.
Otter Cliffs
Rising 110 feet above the water, these are the highest sea cliffs on the Atlantic coast north of Brazil. The view from the top—or from the carriage road below—is spectacular.
Otter Point
The southern terminus offers beautiful views back along the coast and across Frenchman Bay. It's a fine spot to rest before heading back or catching the bus.
Practical Information
Getting There
The trail parallels Ocean Drive (the one-way section of Park Loop Road). Access points include:
- Sand Beach parking lot (fills early in summer)
- Thunder Hole parking area
- Otter Cliffs/Otter Point parking
Shuttle Option
The Island Explorer bus (free, summer only) stops at Sand Beach and Otter Cliff, making it easy to walk one way and bus back.
Best Times
- Early morning: Best for photography and avoiding crowds
- Mid-tide with swells: Best for Thunder Hole
- Shoulder season: May-June and September-October have fewer visitors
Accessibility
Most of the path is relatively flat and compacted gravel, though some rocky sections require careful footing. It's not fully wheelchair accessible but is manageable for most mobility levels.
Making the Most of It
Tips for Your Walk
- Start early to beat the crowds (before 8 AM in summer)
- Check tides for Thunder Hole—mid-tide with incoming waves is ideal
- Bring layers—ocean breezes can be cool even in summer
- Watch for seals and seabirds along the cliffs
- Take your time—rushing defeats the purpose
Photography
Ocean Path is one of the most photographed locations in Acadia:
- Sunrise colors the cliffs pink
- Soft overcast light reveals rock textures
- Slow shutter speeds create silky wave effects
- Stormy days produce dramatic skies (but stay back from edges)
Quick Reference
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 2.2 miles one way |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Highlights | Thunder Hole, Otter Cliffs |
| Parking | Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Otter Point |
| Shuttle | Island Explorer buses (summer) |
Ocean Path distills everything special about Acadia into two manageable miles—dramatic geology, crashing waves, Atlantic vistas, and the distinctive beauty of Maine's coast. It's not challenging hiking, but it's essential Acadia. Walk it early, walk it slowly, and let the ocean work its magic.
