Blue Hill Bay is popular for its wide open stretches of protected water. Large swells are rare in the Bay because of the bordering islands. Although it is less dramatic than some neighboring bays, Blue Hill has stunning views to the east of Mount Desert's hills and the town of Blue Hill is also a tourist draw. Blue Hill Harbor is located at the northwest corner and is one of the area's main attractions. Long Island sits in the center of Blue Hill Bay and is Maine's largest island not populated by humans. Though, tourists should know to watch out for the bison!

While the area is recognized for its natural beauty, fishing and sailing, much of the area is also preserved for wildlife. The islands at the southern end of the Bay are rare and important nesting colonies for eiders. The native Penobscot Indians summed it up when they named the area "kollegewidgwok," meaning blue hill on shining green water.