GPS to the beach is at Latitude 44.330198; Longitude -68.183998.
Located by the changing rooms is the start of the Ocean Path, which takes you on a gentle 1 1/2 mile hike to Thunder Hole and the Thunder Hole gift shop. It should be noted that Thunder Hole is an underwater water cave that is most active as the tide is coming in or when the weather and winds are rough, that is when Thunder Hole performs its most spectacular shows.
If hiking along with spectacular scenic photographs is what you are looking for, Sand Beach is the perfect starting point. From the far end of the beach is a path leading upward to the Great head Cliffs which offer commanding views of the beach below, where one can capture the kind of photographs one will be taking out and showing to their grandchildren.
Across from the Sand Beach Parking lot is the start of the Beehive Trail, and while it is a strenuous and challenging climb, the rewards of the quality of photos you can capture from the Beehive are well worth the venture, while a nearby trail head up to the summit of Gotham Mountain offers up its own rewards with stunning ocean views,leaving the folks down at the beach below you appearing to be the size of ants.
While Sand Beach may be one of the most popular destinations on Mount Desert Island in the summer months, other swimming locations include Each Lake by Southwest harbor and the gorgeous Lake Wood.
In the height of tourist season parking can become a problem at Sand Beach, a great option if the free Island Explorer Shuttle Bus. It's new quicker route now takes passengers from the Bar Harbor Village Green to Sand Beach with just one stop along the way at the Wild Gardens of Acadia and nature center. The bus you will want to board is the Sand Beach bus and free bus schedules and time tables can be also found by the Village Green.
 |
| Acadia Found - Sand Beach Acadia National Park |
 |
| Acadia Found - Sand Beach Acadia National Park |
