Sullivan, Maine
Gateway to Downeast beyond Acadia
Overview
Sullivan sits at the head of Frenchman Bay, east of Mount Desert Island, providing gateway access to Downeast Maine. This working-class coastal town offers authentic character, spectacular views across to Acadia's mountains, and affordable living.
Key Facts
Population 1,200
Region Downeast & Acadia
County Hancock
Founded 1789
Nearest City Ellsworth (10 miles), Bar Harbor (25 miles)
What Sullivan Is Known For
Sullivan Local Highlights
Schoodic Peninsula Proximity
Gateway to Acadia's remote Schoodic section.
Working Harbor
Active lobster fishing and aquaculture.
Taunton Bay
Scenic tidal bay with mud flats and wildlife.
Views of Mount Desert
Stunning views across Frenchman Bay to Cadillac Mountain.
Things to Do
1
Drive to Schoodic Peninsula
Explore Acadia's quiet Schoodic section.
2
Kayak Taunton Bay
Paddle protected bay waters.
3
Watch sunset over MDI
View Mount Desert Island mountains from shore.
4
Explore working waterfront
See authentic lobstering operations.
5
Bird watch
Excellent birding on mud flats and shores.
Living in Sullivan
Sullivan offers affordable Downeast living with Acadia proximity. Housing includes modest year-round homes, older properties, and waterfront land. Working-class community with lobstering, aquaculture, and service economy. Good regional schools, strong community traditions. Quieter and more affordable than Ellsworth or Bar Harbor.
Weather & Seasons
summer
Cool maritime, 65-75°F
winter
Cold coastal, 20-35°F
spring
Cool and foggy, 38-52°F
fall
Crisp autumn, 42-60°F
Local Wildlife & Nature
Bald eagles Harbor seals Shorebirds on flats Loons
How to Get There
Route 1 north from Ellsworth, Route 185 to peninsula and shore. 10 miles from Ellsworth, 25 from Bar Harbor.
Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.
Satellite preview
Sullivan outline
Key Facts
Population
1,200
Region
Downeast & Acadia
County
Hancock
Founded
1789
Nearest City
Ellsworth (10 miles), Bar Harbor (25 miles)