Hulls Cove Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, things to do and places to stay in Hulls Cove with this ultimate guide. Explore the scenic landscapes and experience the local culture and cuisine of this stunning destination.


Introduction to Hulls Cove

Located on Mount Desert Island in Down East, Maine, Hulls Cove is a charming village that attracts visitors from all over the globe. With breathtaking natural scenery, fascinating cultural landmarks and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, Hulls Cove is an ideal destination for those looking for a unique vacation experience.

List of Places to Visit in Hulls Cove

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visitors looking to explore the rich history of Hulls Cove should take time to visit:

  • Abbe Museum: This remarkable museum exemplifies the rich indigenous culture of the Wabanaki people with permanent and special exhibits.
  • Bar Harbor Historical Society: Discover the vibrant history of Hulls Cove and the surrounding area through fascinating exhibits showcasing local events and culture.
  • Asticou Azalea Garden: A must-visit location for horticulture lovers, the garden offers a diverse range of azaleas, rhododendrons, and other native plants.

Natural Attractions of Hulls Cove: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Hulls Cove is blessed with an array of natural attractions perfect for outdoor enthusiast, including:

  • Acadia National Park: This sprawling park is the crown jewel of Hulls Cove, with more than 49,000 acres of pristine wilderness offering hiking, camping, and scenic drives.
  • Bar Island Trail: Hikers looking for a more challenging trail should consider the Bar Island Trail, which offers stunning views of the coastal scenery and the town of Bar Harbor.
  • Carriage Roads: Take a relaxing bike ride or walk through the lush forests of Acadia and experience the unique beauty of this well-manicured path.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hulls Cove

Visitors looking to explore the natural beauty of Hulls Cove on foot or bike should consider taking one of the following trails:

  • Jordan Pond Path: This easy trail of roughly 3 miles takes visitors around the serene waters of Jordan Pond, through an area surrounded by lush greenery of the Acadia National Park.
  • The Precipice Trail: This challenging trail climbs over granite cliffs and through narrow crevasses with thrilling and panoramic views of the ocean and its surroundings, but it requires special attention.
  • Beech Mountain Trail: A scenic trail with a few beaches with views of the mountains and the sea from the top, a perfect hike for beginners.

Best Things to Do in Hulls Cove: Activities and Tours

Hulls Cove has numerous exciting activities and tours to suit any traveler’s tastes, including:

  • Kayaking and Canoeing Tours: One of the popular activities in Hulls Cove, enjoy kayaking on the crystal clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Whale Watching tour: It offers adventure seekers a chance to catch a glimpse of magnificent humpback whales and other sea creatures in their natural habitat.
  • Lobster Fishing tour: Get a unique perspective of the Maine coastline and learn the process behind lobster fishing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hulls Cove

Here’s an itinerary to help visitors make the most out of their week-long stay in Hulls Cove.

  • Day 1-2: Make your way to the Acadia National Park and explore its hiking trails and natural landscapes during your stay.
  • Day 3: Take an excursion through the picturesque coastal town of Bar Harbor to learn more about the local culture and cuisine of Hulls Cove.
  • Day 4-5: Partake on whale watching and lobster fishing tours and savor the scenic views of the Maine coastline.
  • Day 6-7: Spend a leisurely afternoon sailing or kayaking around Hulls Cove, soaking in its beauty, and unwinding before heading back to your home.

Food and Drink Scene of Hulls Cove

Hulls Cove’s local cuisine is a treat for food lovers with fresh sea bounties and locally sourced produce. Here are the top dishes and local beverages to try while visiting:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Rolls: Experience the signature seafood of Hulls Cove with this mouth-watering delicacy.
  • Wild Blueberry Pie: A sweet dessert made with the wild blueberries of Maine.
  • Clam Chowder: A savory dish loaded with clams, potatoes, and cream.

Local Beverages

  • Shipyard Beer: A lightly bitter beer brewed in Maine and sold in several establishments across Hulls Cove.
  • Vidal Blanc Wine: A local white wine brewed with the local grapes produced in Maine.

Where to Stay in Hulls Cove: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hulls Cove has an array of accommodations, from cozy inns to luxurious resorts, that cater to every budget, preference, and style. Here are a few top options:

  • Atlantic Oceanside Hotel and Event Center: A picturesque hotel overlooking the Hulls Cove shore, providing stunning views of the ocean, and unbandant amenities.
  • Bar Harbor Inn: An elegant and luxurious resort nestled in the heart of Bar Harbor.
  • Peregrine Cottage: A quaint and cozy bed and breakfast loaded with modern amenities and friendly and hospitable staff to assist your stay.

What to Buy in Hulls Cove: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors looking to take a bit of Hulls Cove’s essence home can buy unique and authentic souvenirs and local products, including:

  • Wild Blueberry Syrup: A delicious syrup made with locally sourced wild blueberries, perfect for adding some flavor to your pancakes in the morning.
  • Acadia National Park gear and accessories: Take a piece of the park with you with their unique backpacks, hats, and other gear unique to the region.
  • Handmade Crafts and arts: Available in various shops in the area or at the farmers’ market, including pottery, knitwear, and other handmade crafts worthy of being part of your collection.

Local Culture and Customs of Hulls Cove

Hulls Cove locals are friendly and welcoming, and reflecting the pride they take in their quaint New England village culture. Visitors are encouraged to explore the Acadian culture’s unique history, traditions and norms, and cuisine when they visit Hulls Cove.

Best Time to Visit Hulls Cove

Anytime’s a good time to visit Hulls Cove, depending on the traveler’s preference. Hulls Cove’s weather can quickly change from warm to cool, especially during the winter months, making it a perfect destination for summer or fall breaks.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hulls Cove

Do:

  • Take home a unique souvenir.
  • Respect the natural environment and its inhabitants.
  • Learn about the interesting history behind Acadian culture.

Don’t:

  • Litter the area.
  • Disturb the wildlife.
  • Ignore the local’s customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Hulls Cove is known for its friendly and hospitable locals, and the area is generally safe for tourists. However, travelers should always exercise caution when exploring new environments.

Safety in Hulls Cove

  • Take extreme caution when driving on narrow and winding roads of the Acadia National Park.
  • Steer clear of the wildlife and be sure to keep a safe distance if your paths cross.

Health in Hulls Cove

  • Visitors should ensure they carry adequate health insurance coverage before they visit Hulls Cove.
  • Be wary of ticks while hiking or exploring the outdoors as they are known to carry Lyme Disease in this area.

Getting to Hulls Cove: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hulls Cove

The closest international airports are Bangor International Airport (BGR), about 45 miles away, and Portland International Jetport (PWM), located about 152 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Hulls Cove

  • Concord Coach Lines operates several buses from Boston, the capital city of Massachusetts, to Hulls Cove.
  • Greyhound Lines’ buses stop at neighboring towns and cities in Maine.

Other Options

  • Ferries: Visitors can also take a ferry ride from Boston to Bar Harbor, which is a short distance from Hulls Cove.
  • Rental Cars: Rental cars are available at the airports near Hulls Cove.

How to Get Around in Hulls Cove

Visitors can get around Hulls Cove comfortably by car, bike, or on foot. Visitors can rent bicycles in various shops around the area, while car rentals are available at the Bangor airport,

Where to Go Next from Hulls Cove: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors looking to explore more areas in Maine after visiting Hulls Cove has several potential destinations, including:

  • Portland: This picturesque and bustling coastal town is packed with history, culture, and cuisine.
  • Kennebunkport: A few hours’ drive to the south, this coastal town famed for its picturesque beaches and nautical charm provides visitors with a unique Maine coastal experience.

Conclusion

Hulls Cove is a picturesque and pleasant destination that offers visitors endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, exploration of the region’s cultural landmarks, and an abundance of locally sourced seafood cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, Hulls Cove is the perfect destination, guaranteed to provide visitors with unforgettable experiences and memories.