Last updated: June 15, 2026
Place
Echo Lake Beach Accessibility Information
NPS Photo by Robyn Smyth
Quick Facts
Location:
Echo Lake Beach Rd, Southwest Harbor, ME 04679
Significance:
Freshwater swimming
Amenities
19 listed
Accessible Sites, Beach/Water Access, Benches/Seating, Bicycle - Rack, Bus/Shuttle Stop, Entrance Passes for Sale, Parking - Auto, Pets Allowed, Picnic Table, Recycling, Restroom, Restroom - Accessible, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Toilet - Flush, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles, Water - Drinking/Potable, Wheelchair Accessible, Wheelchairs Available
Echo Lake Beach is located on the western side of Mount Desert Island, near Southwest Harbor. Known for its sandy beach, views of Beach Cliff, and common Loon sightings, Echo Lake Beach is a great location for families and visitors with mobility limitations to enjoy a beach front setting.
Note: Echo Lake Beach is the only wheelchair accessible sand beach in Acadia National Park.
The beachfront is wide with ample space to relax or to swim. Be aware: the lake water can be shockingly cold, even in the summer. There is no lifeguard on duty.
Getting to Echo Lake Beach
Off state route 102, drivers will find a large parking lot with five accessible parking spaces. All accessible parking spots are designated by a sign on a post and blue paint on the ground. An Acadia parking pass or valid NPS Entrance Pass is required to park at Echo Lake. There is an automated parking pass distributor located in front of the changing rooms at Echo Lake Beach.Visitors can also use the fare-free Island Explorer Bus to visit this destination. The bus drops off and picks up at regular intervals throughout the day at the Island Explorer bench seating, designated by a sign.
There is a wide paved path, on the right hand side of the parking lot between the accessible parking, that goes down a small hill and leads to the accessible restrooms, changing room, and wooden path on the sandy beach.
What to Expect
From the main parking lot, there is a paved path down to the beach area. Along this path visitors will find accessible restrooms, water fountains, an accessible changing room, and a feet rinsing station with a bench.Past these there is a grassy field with a wooden walkway that leads down to the beach area.
An accessible chair with large inflatable tires is available for public use at Echo Lake Beach during the summer visitor season. Please email us at least five days in advance to arrange for staff to meet you there.
- For a listing of national parks across the United States that offer mobility devices available for loan for use on beaches and trails, please visit this page about Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids.