True to its name, the Bayview sits on a sprawling and gorgeous slice of waterfront property in Bar Harbor, with beautiful views over Frenchman Bay. At the entrance is an elegant iron gate flanked by flowers, which leads the way down a tree-shrouded private road. The hotel consists of two separate buildings – the main building housing hotel rooms, and a separate structure that contains the townhouses. The lobby is located in the main building, a welcoming space with a typical New England inn style. The lobby has a selection of tourist brochures as well as a small stand with local products for sale, such as wild blueberry syrup and jams. There is also a lovely dining room with a large porch neighboring the lobby, but little else in terms of indoor common areas. Outdoors, however, there are several picnic tables near the pool area and barbecue grills available for guest use.

Though close to the main road, the Bayview retains a quiet and serene atmosphere as well as sense of seclusion and privacy due to its spacious grounds and its location outside of downtown Bar Harbor. Steep rates attract travelers who don’t mind splurging for relaxation comfort, and this is a popular choice for families and groups, thanks largely to the townhouses that are set up for extended stays. 

The Bayview is located off of a main road by the waterfront, a four-minute drive from downtown Bar Harbor. The area is quiet and houses mostly hotels and inns, as well as the College of the Atlantic. The nearest restaurant, Jack Russell’s Steak House and Brewery, is a two-minute walk away down the road. Acadia National Park is a six-minute drive away and can be accessed by a free courtesy van operated by The Bayview, which shuttles guests to the park and downtown upon request.

The Bayview is surrounded by lush and well-maintained grounds that include an outdoor pool as well as several picnic tables and barbecue grills available for guest use. Guests rave about the free breakfast, which includes tasty pastries and breads as well as hot items that change daily, such as Eggs Benedict. Breakfast is served in the elegant dining room that extends out onto an outdoor porch with gorgeous views over the bay. The Bayview operates a courtesy van that's available on demand throughout the day for trips into downtown Bar Harbor. Delicious homemade cookies are served for free in the lobby every afternoon. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.