This island, discovered and named by Samuel de Champlain in 1604, was part of L'Acadie, which encompassed the coasts of what are now Eastern Maine, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The name that has been given to Acadia National Park is thus appropriate. These towns differ from one another in appearance, character and function. Each one has a harbor that is distinctive. Fisherman are predominant in Bass Harbor on the west side of the island.
Southwest Harbor is ringed by boatyards where boats of many kinds are built.
Northeast Harbor is a haven for yachts from all over the world, and Bar Harbor, with its deep water, is a port of call for cruise ships, homeport for many sightseeing boats, and the terminal port for the international ferry to Nova Scotia. There is much to do within Acadia National Park. The vigorous visitor can hike the many marked trails, bicyle on the carriage paths, canoe on Long Pond or climb mountains. For the less active, the many miles of paved roads offer many scenic views of lakes and sea. Carriage rides are reminders of past times.