As someone who has worked in Bar Harbor and lives close by-it’s a tourist trap. But if you enjoy hiking then it might be worth the 3+hour trip if the congested traffic once you hit Ellsworth doesn’t bother you. I’m not as familiar with the southern Maine area but in the summer I prefer to head north toward the county. The areas around the Golden Road are some of my favorite spots. Plenty of water, hiking trails, unique historical sites, and the tourist traffic is usually less than that around Bar Harbor. It would be a long drive but plenty of mom and pop restaurants and places to see.
Wells to Bar Harbor is a good 3+ hours in the summer. If you have to ask, you will probably find it's too cold to swim in July. Go in the late afternoon around high tide if you want somewhat warmer water.
No just Wells to Bar Harbor. Once you hit Ellsworth it will come to a crawl. There is only one bridge onto the island and all roads to that bridge go through Ellsworth and Trenton so all of the cars and campers trying to get on the island make it a slow go.
You don't say how long you will be in Maine. If you are here for a week or two, save yourself the drive to Bar Harbor. If you are here for the summer, put it on the list. Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park are both beautiful and worth the visit. If you have less time there are plenty of places within a short drive from Wells that are also nice. Explore the lakes region by taking a ride to Naples, ME. Visit Portland. If you are really set on driving up the coast go to Boothbay Harbor.
ZingZongZaddy t1_jdfjuv0 wrote
It's a tourist trap. You'll love it.