For a park surrounded by water and populated by lakes, there aren’t many places to swim at Acadia National Park. The ocean shore is rocky, and violent waves can quickly bash the life out of a person. Most of the lakes and ponds are used for public drinking water and are closed to swimming. Two fresh water exceptions are Echo Lake and Lake Wood, and the only place to swim at the ocean is Sand Beach. Echo Lake and Sand Beach are typically staffed with lifeguards (Memorial Day to Labor Day weekends) while you must swim at your own risk at Lake Wood.
I did not visit Lake Wood. It is located near the Hulls Cove Visitor Center and is only open starting June 1st. To access the lake you must walk .1 mile from the parking lot on a trail with roots and rocks. It is not handicap accessible.
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Last updated on September 2, 2023