Maine is known as “Vacationland” in New England, and there’s a very good reason for that! With over 200 miles of coastline, charming towns, amazing beaches, and the only national park in the region, it’s one of the best places to plan a vacation, especially in the summer.
Are you looking to plan a getaway to Maine in the summer? Well, you’ve come to the right place! I’ve been exploring New England for over 15 years now, and spend most of my time on the coast. I’ve taken lots of road trips along the entire Maine coastline, been to Acadia National Park so many times I’ve lost count, and I’ve made it my own personal goal to find the best towns and destinations in Maine (spoiler alert, I totally did 😉).
This post is all about the summer season, and where to find the best beach towns, where to stay that’s worth your time and money, and the most fun things to do in Maine during the summer months. With that, let’s start planning your Maine summer vacation!
New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our Privacy Policy.
Short on time? I’ve got you covered!
Here are my top recommendations on where to go and stay in the summer:
⛱️ Ogunquit – stay at the fabulous Cliff House Resort or Anchorage By The Sea
⛱️ Bar Harbor – stay at the beautiful Bar Harbor Inn & Spa or The Claremont
Want more ideas? Then just keep reading – I’ve got tons! 😉
What Is Maine Like In The Summer?
Much like the rest of New England, Maine sees its best weather in the summer. This is when you’ll experience the warmest days, and fewest chances of rain, making it the ideal season to be outside and exploring, especially on a beach.
This is also peak tourist season in Maine for many destinations, including anywhere on the coast. You’ll find the highest prices at hotels and vacation rentals, as well as the biggest crowds. But the trade-off is the awesome weather, and the fact that all seasonal businesses and boat tours are open.
Maine Summer Weather
You’ll want to prepare for hot and humid weather during the summer in Maine. I’ve seen some reports and articles say that Maine does have more comfortable weather in the summers, compared to other states in New England (and across the country!). But in my experience, I still find it pretty warm and humid.
Generally speaking, the summer season also bring fewer rainy days, but since this is New England, rain is never out of the question. Maine will typically only experience 7-8 days of rain per month in the summer. Of course, there are very dry years where it hardly rains at all, and then wet years, where rainfall is higher than average. It really depends. But July and August offer the most rain-free days throughout the year.
Maine is also a big state, and weather, rainfall, and temperature could depends on where you are. The further north you go, the colder it will likely be, so a summer vacation in Bar Harbor, for example, will average daily temperatures a bit lower than southern Maine places like Kennebunkport.
It’s also good to know that New England is definitely trending hotter in recent years due to global warming, so I highly suggest you check the weather forecast a few days before your trip for the most accurate idea of what kind of weather to expect. I once went to Maine in July, and the temperatures were reaching close to 95°F, with a high humidity, and it was … intense!
But overall, especially by the coast, weather trends warm, but offers a nice breeze throughout the season to keep you somewhat cool.
Average temperatures in July & August in Maine: 80°F during the day, and 60°F at night.
Best Summer Month To Visit Maine: July, August, Or September?
Each of these months are honestly great, and they all will offer something a bit different. But generally, they’re also pretty similar. Allow me to explain 😉
July in Maine is lovely because it’s the start of the summer season, and also, the famous New England hydrangeas are in full bloom around the state. This month also offers the longest days in the summer, which is really nice. Generally, I love July around New England for this reason!
August in Maine is pretty much the same as July in terms of weather, and the hydrangeas begin to fade for the season. So, you’ll still get to see them in bloom, but they won’t be as colorful, and they could be showing signs of drying up. Days are a bit shorter in August, but a nice perk of this month is that you’ll usually have warm ocean water (well, warm for the northeast, anyway!), as it’s had more time in the sun by now.
September is really nice, and once Labor Day is over, you’ll begin to see lower hotel prices, slightly fewer crowds, and more mild weather. If you travel in September along the New England coast, and want weather that’s most similar to summer, I always suggest right after Labor Day through mid-September. Once you get past mid-September, the weather usually begins to cool down a bit more, and you’ll have days that start to feel more like autumn.
In a nutshell, it just depends on what you want to prioritize. July offers the longest days and peak hydrangea blooming. August offers warm(er) ocean water. September has the shortest days, but fewest crowds and more mild weather.
Overall, I personally love July for a summer vacation in Maine, but it’s just personal preference because I’m such a sucker for those long summer days and beautiful New England hydrangeas 😍
Best Places To Visit In Maine In The Summer For Vacation
1. Ogunquit
My absolute favorite beach town in Maine is Ogunquit, for a few different reasons:
✓ One, it has one of the best beaches in Maine.
✓ Two, most everything is walkable, including the beach! I also love the location in southern Maine because you’re not far from York, Cape Neddick, Kennebunkport, or even Portland. If you’re coming in from Boston, it’s also less than a 90 minute drive.
✓ Three, the town itself is filled with New England charm, and there are plenty of things to do to stay busy, including lots of awesome choices for dining.
Ogunquit Beach stretches for about 3 miles, and its beautiful, pristine sand, and offers tons of room to spread out. It does get very busy in the summer, but even in July and August, it never feels overly crowded because if its size.
The beach is an easy walk from town, and this is where you’ll find streets lined with cute shops and fantastic restaurants. One of my favorite things to do in Ogunquit is Marginal Way, which is a paved walking path along the coast that connects Ogunquit’s town center with Perkins Cove, a charming little harbor with its owns shops and restaurants. The views along here are amazing, too!
There are also some nice hotel options in Ogunquit, with options both in town and right on the beach or Marginal Way.
Overall, this is such a fantastic and easy summer vacation spot that’s in a great location, and is perfect if you want to spend lots of time at the beach.
Where To Stay In Ogunquit:
⛱️ Cliff House – Located on Cape Neddick about 10 minutes from Ogunquit, this is one of the best resorts in Maine, and I love to recommend it when visiting this area!
⛱️ Anchorage By The Sea – Located along Marginal Way right in town, and walkable to most everything.
⛱️ Norseman Resort – A more basic hotel, but right on the beach, making it hard to beat!
Psst! Be sure to check out my guide on the best things to do in Ogunquit for even more ideas 😉
2. Kennebunkport
Located not far from Ogunquit is Kennebunkport, which is another fantastic beach town in Maine. The biggest difference between Kennebunkport and Ogunquit is that the beach in Ogunquit is much more impressive than the beaches in Kennebunkport. That said, Kennebunkport’s beaches are still really nice and absolutely worth visiting in the summer.
The biggest appeal of Kennebunkport as a summer destination is its beautiful and idyllic coastal scenery. After all, there was a reason President Bush and his family made this their summer home base of all the places in the U.S.! You’ll find the famous Clam Shack seafood joint open in the summer, and boat tours around the harbor in full swing.
In Kennebunkport’s downtown, you’ll find charming streets built around the river and the cove, and they’re lined with historic homes, colorful store fronts, and wonderful dining options. The downside to Kennebunkport is that the beaches are not walkable from town, and you’ll need to drive to them, unless you choose to stay closer to the beaches.
That said, Kennebunkport offers the best of both worlds in terms of a summer vacation, and just so happens to be one of the most picturesque places in Maine.
Where To Stay In Kennebunkport:
⛱️ Tides Beach Club – Right on the beach, which is perfect if that’s your main reason for visiting.
⛱️ Hidden Pond – Another one of the best summer resorts and spas in New England! This is located outside of town, but it feels like an authentic Maine escape with top-notch amenities.
⛱️ Cottages at Cabot Cove – Only open seasonally, this grouping of individual, storybook-looking cottages is right on the cove, but walkable to town. Complimentary use of the row boats and daily breakfast delivery is included!
There are so many other amazing hotels in Kennebunkport that I love, and this is just a small sampling of some that I recommend the most. One of the best things about Kennebunkport is the amazing hotel selection! I also love the Captains Collection, Kennebunkport Inn, White Barn Inn for a luxurious getaway, and the Nonantum Resort for families.
3. Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park, Of Course!
I mean, it goes without saying that Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park are going to be tops on my list, right? 😉 Acadia is one of the absolute best things to see when visiting New England, and it just so happens that the park’s closest town, Bar Harbor, is one of the most charming coastal destinations in the region, too. You really get the best of both worlds during your trip, which makes the drive all the way to Acadia so worth it.
Peak season in both Bar Harbor and Acadia is July and August, and for good reason. All the seasonal businesses are open, boat tours are in full swing, and you’ll have the longest days to explore the park to get the most out of your trip.
Of course, you’ll want to budget plenty of time to explore Acadia, and depending on how many days you have for your trip, the great thing about the park if that you can see the highlights in about 2 days. However, I usually recommend about 3-4 days to have time to leisurely explore the top sites, and also get a good feel for Bar Harbor, since it’s a worthy destination on its own.
The top things I suggest you do in Acadia on your trip are:
✓ Park Loop Road, the most scenic drive in the park.
✓ Lunch at the Jordan Pond House, and get their famous popovers!
✓ Sunrise on top of Cadillac Mountain – it’s one of the first places to see the sunrise, so it’s a special and popular thing to do. The park requires permits for vehicle access to the summit mid-May through October, so be sure to get your reservation here.
✓ Walk Ocean Path, which runs along Park Loop Road.
✓ Tackle a few hikes. I really love the Great Head and Bubble Rock trails for easy-moderate hikes with good payoff, and also Beehive for a more thrilling hike.
✓ Spend the day at Sand Beach, which is stunning, and best visited in the summer.
Where To Stay Near Acadia:
⛱️ Bar Harbor Inn & Spa – Located right in town and walkable to shops and dining, it’s also waterfront!
⛱️ Bar Harbor Villager Motel – Perfect for more budget-conscience travelers (I stay here a lot if my focus is exploring the park!). Also walkable to shops and dining in town.
⛱️ The Claremont – A luxury waterfront resort in Southwest Harbor, in a more quiet area near Acadia, which is romantic and perfect for couples. It’s also beautifully decorated and offers great amenities.
Here are some of my guides on this area you may find helpful:
- My Perfect Acadia National Park Itinerary
- Best Time To Visit Acadia National Park
- Best Places & Towns To Stay When Visiting Acadia National Park
- Day Trips From Bar Harbor
4. Sebago Lake
While the ocean coastline is popular in Maine, let’s not forget about the beautiful lakes, and my favorite is Sebago Lake. This destination is perfect for all kinds of travelers, whether it’s a romantic getaway, or families with children.
One of the best things about Sebago Lake, in addition to its beautiful scenery, is the Migis Lodge. This resort has been in business since 1916, and feels both upscale, and down to earth. It’s unique in that it’s completely all-inclusive, including meals and activities, and you have your choice of cottages and lodge rooms to choose from.
The whole experience feels like a nod to the classic resorts that were popular in the 60s, but everything is, of course, updated for today’s world. One tradition that has continued to live on (in addition to the wonderful service), is the dress code at dinner. Gentlemen are required to wear pants, collared shirts, and jackets, which is the perfect excuse for everyone to dress up and enjoy a night out together.
Life slows down a bit on Sebago Lake, and the scenery provides an authentic Maine summer experience.
Where To Stay Around Sebago Lake:
⛱️ In addition to Migis Lodge, there are tons of wonderful vacation rentals around the lake worth checking out. Click here to see your options on VRBO!
5. York
Not far from Ogunquit and Kennebunkport (and also Wells, which is next on my list 😉) is the beautiful coastal town of York. It’s not as popular as the places previously mentioned, but if you’re looking to stay somewhere that’s slightly lesser-known to tourists, this may be a great option for your summer vacation in Maine.
York is home to some lovely beaches, a quaint little downtown area, and some beautiful waterfront scenery. The beaches in York are typically pretty calm, too, making this a great choice for families with younger children.
All the beaches in York run along Route 1A with street parking, but that means that shops, dining, and many hotels are not that far away.
During your summer visit to York, I love to suggest visiting Cape Neddick to see Nubble Lighthouse, do the scenic Cliff Walk, and enjoy the fun atmosphere at Short Sand Beach, which is close to town and the very cool and retro Fun-O-Rama arcade.
Where To Stay In York:
⛱️ Cliff House – I mentioned this as a top place to stay near Kennebunkport, but wanted to mention it again since it’s located in York on Cape Neddick 😉
⛱️ Stage Neck Inn – A cozy inn that’s on the water and a short walk to York Harbor Beach.
⛱️ York Harbor Inn – Another cozy inn option with 7 buildings, and some rooms that have amazing balconies with water views.
6. Wells
Also in southern Maine, near Kennebunkport and York, is Wells, which is another great option to consider for a summer vacation. Wells is a bit different from the other nearby destinations in that everything runs along the main road, so there’s not a true, walkable downtown. But, there are some great shops, dining, and beaches to enjoy here along the main strip that are worth your time.
The most popular beach in the area is Wells Beach, which is a beautiful, wide sandy beach with some nice tide pools, making it great for kids to explore. But there’s also a few other beaches in town that are wonderful to visit.
You’ll also want to check out the awesome nature trails in Wells at the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge and Wells Reserve at Laudholm. Wells is also known for its incredible antique stores, so if that interests you, you’ll definitely want to carve out some time to explore them.
Where To Stay In Wells:
⛱️ Atlantic Oceanfront Hotel – Right on the beach, and many rooms come with balconies with ocean views.
⛱️ Wells Moody Motel – A great budget-conscience option that’s semi-walkable to the beach.
7. Phippsburg
Situated between Harpswell and Boothbay Harbor is Phippsburg, and what makes this destination worthwhile is Popham Beach State Park, which is a gorgeous beach in Maine. This is also a lesser-known area to tourists, so if you’re looking for something a little more off-the-beaten-path, this is a great option.
Popham Beach is really where it’s at in Phippsburg, and this long stretch of soft sand is the perfect place to visit for a beach vacation in the summer. Around the the whole Phippsburg area, you’ll also find lots of idyllic Maine scenery, and you’re not too far from other great places to visit, like Georgetown, Reid State Park and downtown Bath for shopping and dining.
It’s good to know that Phippsburg is more of an escape beach vacation. There isn’t a prominent downtown area, and everything is more spread out. But that’s what makes this such a wonderful, authentic Maine getaway. Natural beauty is around every turn, and it’s very much worth a visit!
Where To Stay In Phippsburg:
⛱️ Sebasco Harbor Resort – Located right on the water, and their rooms in the lighthouse building are really cool!
8. Scarborough
Just outside of Portland, Scarborough is a super convenient place to visit in the summer season in Maine for a beach getaway. And since you’re not far from Portland’s downtown, you get the best of both worlds.
With a long, beautiful shoreline to enjoy during the day at Scarborough Beach State Park, you’re only about 25 minutes away from the top things to do in downtown Portland at night. And you’re also only about 30 minutes from Old Orchard Beach, which makes for a fun afternoon excursion and beach day.
Where To Stay In Near Scarborough Beach:
⛱️ Black Point Inn – The closest hotel to the beach, and also has nice water views!
9. Boothbay Harbor
One of my favorite coastal towns in Maine is Boothbay Harbor, and while it’s not a big beach destination, the coastal scenery here is wonderful, and it’s full of authentic, Maine charm for a summer getaway.
Boothbay Harbor is just a short drive to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, which is especially perfect in the summer since everything will be in full bloom. But its very own downtown is worth exploring, and filled with colorful storefronts and great dining options.
One of the best things about Boothbay Harbor is the variety of options for boat tours, and each tour not only takes you around the beautiful harbor, but also gives you a taste for what the stunning scenery is like once you’re out on the open water. There are awesome wildlife and puffin tours, sailing cruises, and more that all depart right from downtown Boothbay Harbor.
I also love to recommend that you make a reservation at Cabbage Island Clambakes, which is such a quintessential Maine experience. You’ll be brought by boat to the family’s private island and residence, where you can enjoy the scenery and have a delicious and authentic Maine clam bake on the water.
Where To Stay In Boothbay Harbor:
⛱️ Harborage Inn On The Waterfront – I love staying here on my visits, and it’s just a very short walk to the heart of downtown.
⛱️ Spruce Point Inn – The perfect choice if you’re looking for lots of amenities and beautiful scenery.
Psst! Be sure to check out my guide on the best things to do in Boothbay Harbor for even more ideas 😉
10. Camden
My last suggestion on the coastal mainland is the beautiful town of Camden, and this is another destination that’s not really a beach town, but it makes up for it with lots of stunning coastal scenery.
Camden is home to a wonderful Main Street filled with gorgeous shops and wonderful restaurants, and it’s all very walkable. And since the entire town is situated along the harbor, it’s easy to enjoy all the coastal beauty without having to go very far. It’s truly one of the most beautiful places in Maine to see!
Camden is known for its sailing vessels, and so hoping aboard a windjammer tour during your visit is an absolute must! Camden Hills State Park is also great for hiking, and there’s also an auto road you can drive to the very top of Mount Battie to enjoy the views of Camden’s harbor from above.
Where To Stay In Camden:
⛱️ Camden Harbour Inn – Walkable to Main Street, and home to one of the best restaurants in town!
⛱️ 16 Bay View – A more modern, but still cozy option with an amazing rooftop deck overlooking the water.
11. Vinalhaven
Looking to venture off the mainland? Then you may want to consider staying on Vinalhaven Island. As one of the most beautiful islands off the coast of Maine, Vinalhaven is perfect if you’re hoping for unspoiled nature and gorgeous coastal scenery.
The island is only 23 square miles, so it offers you the luxury of enjoying everything at a slower pace since there’s no real rush to see everything. It’s also mostly locals that tend to visit and stay on the island, so this is a wonderfully authentic Maine experience if you’re looking for something off-the-beaten-path.
The ferry to Vinalhaven is located in Rockland, and it takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes each way.
Where To Stay On Vinalhaven:
⛱️ The Tidewater: The only hotel on the island!
⛱️ Click here to check out vacation rentals on Vinalhaven for more options!
12. Chebeague Island
Much like Vinalhaven, Chebeague is another wonderful island destination for a truly relaxing summer vacation. Also offering a lot of unspoiled natural beauty, beaches, and a slower pace of life, this feels like a true escape from reality.
One of the best parts of visiting Chebeague is the Chebeague Island Inn, which is the only hotel on the island. This beautiful inn offers such a welcoming home away from home during your stay, and they invite you to relax on their wrap-around porch, enjoy their lawn games, and take out their bikes to explore.
Where To Stay On Chebeague Island:
⛱️ Chebeague Island Inn: The only hotel on the island!
13. North Woods
For those looking for tranquility and seclusion, but don’t necessarily need to be by the ocean, the North Woods is such a dreamy summer vacation spot. This region is most definitely the most unspoiled part of Maine, and where locals tend to go when they really need to get away from it all. Oh, and this is also a great place to look for Moose!
With quiet lakes to row around, tons of hiking and nature trails, and stunning wooded and mountainous Maine scenery, the North Woods is unique in that it really does offer you a separation from your every day life – and I mean that quite literally because you’ll often lose cell phone service!
One of the best places to stay in the North Woods region is the Nahmakanta Lake Wilderness Lodge, where you can book one of their lakefront cabins, and enjoy a true wilderness experience away from the crowds. There are more places to stay in the area, but Nahmakanta is truly secluded and far from the main roads and other summer cottages. They also offer a dining package where they bring you fabulous home-cooked meals to enjoy each day, making it a stress-free vacation.
Fun Things To Do In The Summer In Maine
Now that we’ve gone over where to go in Maine,
here are some extra suggestions on fun things to do in the summer season!
14. Plan An Epic Road Trip
Road tripping along Maine’s coast in the summer is honestly just incredible, especially because all the seasonal businesses are open, and you have the longest days to explore and drive. Since there are so many stops to make along the coast, each just as amazing and beautiful as the next, this is such a bucket list-worthy thing to do at least once in your life!
If you’re super ambitious, you could technically plan an even more epic road trip that goes all the way to Canada to explore some of the beautiful sites up that way (which is very worth it, and something I’ve done).
Here are some of my coastal road trip posts you may enjoy:
- Unforgettable Boston to Bar Harbor Road Trip Itinerary
- Best Stops To Make Driving Portland, Maine To Acadia National Park
- Fun Stops To Make Driving Boston To Portland, Maine
15. Tour The Lighthouses
Of course, some of the best stops to make on a Maine coastal road trip are all the beautiful lighthouses, and since Maine is home to over 60 lighthouses, it’s easy to see quite a few while exploring the coast!
I actually have an entire post on a detailed Maine Lighthouse Road Trip Itinerary that you can check out to help you plan your adventure. And good news! Many of the places I mentioned above can easily be worked into the itinerary for one memorable coastal road trip!
16. See Maine By Seaplane (Rhyme Intended 😉)
One of the coolest splurges you can make during your summer vacation in Maine is booking a seaplane tour to enjoy all the scenery from above! The best place to enjoy a seaplane tour is around the Rangeley Lake region, and there are a few different options you can book:
→ Seaplane Fly & Dine, which includes a flight tour over the lakes region, and then a 3-course lakeside dinner.
→ Mountain Explorer Seaplane Tour, which includes a very cool water landing for the ultimate adventure!
17. Pick Maine’s Famous Blueberries
Most people know that Maine is synonymous with both lobster and blueberries, and one of the best ways to enjoy the summer season is by picking your own Maine blueberries. I have an entire guide on Blueberry Picking In Maine, which includes the best spots to visit.
And don’t worry! If you’re not down for picking your own, many places also offer pre-picked blueberries you can buy and snack on during your visit.
Blueberry season in Maine typically begins at the end of July, which aligns perfectly with summer.
18. Eat At All The Best Seafood Shacks
You definitely can’t come to Maine in any season and not try the lobster! Well, unless of course you’re allergic to seafood. But if you’re not, summer is an incredible time to enjoy all the very best seafood shacks along the coast. Many of them are very seasonal, and are only open in the summer months, so you’ll have your pick of all of them.
Lobster rolls, lobster dinners, lobster bisque, New England clam chowder, steamers, and so much more are all caught locally in Maine, and are absolutely delicious. Some of my favorite seafood shacks along the coast to visit are:
→ Five Island Lobster Co.
→ McLoon’s Lobster Shack
→ Thurston’s Lobster Pound
But really, there are so many fantastic seafood shacks along the entire coast, in addition to fabulous restaurant options that serve equally as fresh seafood. So anywhere you go, you’ll have amazing options, and be sure to take advantage of them during your summer vacation!
19. Hit The Beach
This goes without saying, but I’ll just say it again anyway 😉 Maine is home to some fabulous beaches, so planning at least one day at the beach during your vacation is a good idea. I personally really love Ogunquit Beach and Sand Beach in Acadia the most, but here are some more really fantastic ones (these were already mentioned above, but let’s round ’em up):
→ Popham Beach
→ Wells Beach
→ Goose Rock Beach
→ Scarborough Beach State Park
→ Old Orchard Beach
20. Eat All The Ice Cream
I mean, is there anything better than an ice cream cone in the summer after a long day at the beach? I think not 😉 This may be personally motivated because I really do love good ice cream, but honestly, there are some amazingly delicious ice cream places all over Maine that are worth a stop. Here are some of my favorites:
→ Downeast Ice Cream
→ Scoop Deck
→ Wicked Good Ice Cream
→ Mount Desert Island Ice Cream
→ River Ducks
21. Visit A U-Pick Flower Farm
Another one of my favorite things about summer living in a four-season climate is all the beautiful flowers that bloom, and around Maine, there are some lovely places that offer U-pick flowers in their fields, or have cute little farm stands with freshly-cut bouquets to buy.
What I love about buying flowers directly from flower farmers is that they’ll typically have so much more than what you can find at the local grocery store, which makes for a special experience out in the field, or buying a unique bouquet from their stand.
Here are some great places to visit for either U-pick flowers, or pre-made bouquets:
→ Mainely Flower Farm
→ Fox Meadow flower Farm
→ Little River Flower Farm
→ Broadturn Farm
22. Visit The Pier At Old Orchard Beach
One of the top summer destination in southern Maine is Old Orchard Beach, and it’s also a very fun beach to visit in the state! I love to suggest a day trip to Old Orchard to enjoy the actual beach itself, and the very cool pier that’s filled with nostalgic games and eateries.
There’s also a cute little downtown area to explore, and places to eat along the waterfront where you can end your day.
Old Orchard Beach is worth visiting when in Maine, but the reason it didn’t make my list of the top summer destinations is because it doesn’t really feel like Maine, if that makes sense. It has more of an Atlantic City or Jersey Shore vibe, which is very cool. But if you’re visiting Maine for the first time, this is a place you can visit for a few hours, or skip entirely, so you have more time to soak up more authentic Maine vibes elsewhere.
23. Explore The State Parks
Beyond the state parks with incredible beaches like Popham and Scarborough, there are tons more to explore throughout Maine that offer wonderful nature trails and hiking. If you’re looking to get moving on your summer vacation, here are some great ones to check out:
→ Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park
→ Quoddy Head State Park
→ Baxter State Park
→ Owls Head State Park
→ Camden Hills State Park
→ Bradbury Mountain State Park
→ Grafton Notch State Park
24. Take A Scenic Hike
Speaking of getting outdoors into nature, Maine is packed with incredible hikes. And yes, while many of the best ones are up in Acadia National Park, you can actually find amazing ones all over the state. Here are some of the best ones to check out that are outside of Acadia:
→ Table Rock in Grafton Notch
→ Moxie Falls Trail
→ Mount Battie
→ Fire Warden’s Trail
→ Mount Kineo
→ Tumbledown Mountain
25. Celebrate Christmas In July
Get a head start on the holidays during your summer visit to Maine! A few places around the state get into the holiday spirit throughout July, and offer up special shopping promos, fun events, and Nubble Lighthouse’s Christmas lights are even lit on certain days in July as a festive way to celebrate!
York Days is one of the top Christmas in July events in Maine, and that just so happens to be where you can find Nubble Lighthouse. Santa even makes an appearance!
Naples in the Sebago Lakes region also does a very cool Christmas in July boat parade to check out.
26. Enjoy The July Fourth Fireworks
Fourth of July always bring very fun fireworks shows to most places around the U.S., and Maine is no exception. Most towns mentioned in this post will have a fireworks show to celebrate the Fourth, but just to round up the list, here are some great places to enjoy the fireworks:
→ Bar Harbor
→ Kennebunkport
→ Ogunquit
→ Boothbay Harbor (they also offer a fireworks cruise!)
→ Camden
→ Phippsburg
→ Portland
27. Head Out On A Whale Watch Tour
Since whale watching is such a seasonal event in New England, summer is one of the best times to head out on a tour! And also, you’ll get to enjoy the best weather, and you probably won’t be as cold out on the water as opposed to tours that run in the spring and summer 😉
Here are some of the best whale watch tours to check out in Maine:
→ First Chance Whale Watch in Kennebunkport
→ Cap’n Fish’s Cruises in Boothaby Harbor
→ Bar Harbor Whale Watch
28. Stay On A Private Island With A Lighthouse
One of the coolest things to experience in the summers in Maine on your vacation is a stay on a private island that has its very own lighthouse. Maine is so lucky to have wonderful people that continue to keep overnight stays at Little River Lighthouse open to the public, and if you love lighthouses, this is truly a bucket list experience to have.
Located just south of Lubec and north of Bar Harbor, this island is completely yours during your stay, which includes access to the lighthouse while you stay in the lightkeeper’s house on the island. Enjoy the ultimate sense of tranquility during your stay, and hopefully you get awesome weather to also enjoy sunset from the island.
29. Catch A Gorgeous Sunrise
While you can find some beautiful sunsets in New England, let’s face it, we’re known for our sunrises on the East Coast 😉 And in Maine, there are so many places to catch an epic sunrise.
One of the best places is, of course, Cadillac Mountain in Acadia, and as mentioned, you’ll need a vehicle reservation to visit mid-May through October. But this is definitely worth it if you can time it just right with a clear morning.
Lubec is another great place for a sunrise, which is the most northeastern town in the entire state, and another one of the very first places to catch the sunrise in the U.S.
But really, most of the coastline in Maine will offer a spectacular sunrise, so pick a place, and enjoy!
Psst! Be sure to check out my guide on Visiting Lubec, Maine if you’re interested in planning a trip there.
30. Relax On A Sunset Cruise
On the other end of the spectrum, you should totally enjoy sunset, too, and one of the best ways to do that in the summer season is on a scenic sunset cruise. Here are a few of my favorites to check out during your visit:
→ Windjammer Sunset Cruise in Camden
→ Schooner Sunset Sail in Boothbay Harbor
→ Sunset Lighthouse Cruise in Portland
31. Head Out On A Lobster Boat
Another fantastic way to enjoy the warm summer weather in Maine is by hopping aboard a lobster boat! Since lobster is famous in this area, it’s such a fun thing to experience, and you’ll really get a better understanding of the industry, its importance, and also get the chance to haul up a Maine lobster trap on your trip!
Here are some fantastic lobster boat tours to check out:
→ Rugosa Tours in Kennebunkport
→ Lighthouses, Lobster Haul, & Seals Tour in Boothbay Harbor
→ LuLu Lobster Boat Tours in Bar Harbor
32. Take A Day Trip To Peaks Island
Just off the coast of Portland is the little Peaks Island, which makes for such a fun day trip in the summer when visiting this area! The island is only 720 acres, so it makes it very easy to experience in a day, or even a half day.
It’s home to lots of scenic coastal views, some cute shops and eateries, and some really nice opportunities to bike or golf cart around the island.
33. Attend The Main Lobster Festival In Rockland
Typically held the last weekend in July or the first weekend in August, the Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland is a 5-day long event with all the lobster you could possibly hope for. If you’re looking to eat lots of Maine lobster, you’ll probably want to plan to attend 😉
During the event, expect live music, local arts and craft vendors, a parade, activities for the kids, a seafood cooking contest, and lots of food vendors! Come hungry.
34. Experience The Windjammer Festival In Camden
Another popular summer event in Maine is the Windjammer Festival in Camden, which is typically held on Labor Day weekend.
Enjoy all kinds of fun events like the arrival of all the beautiful windjammers (which is pretty much worth attending just for this, honestly!), lobster crate races, live music, chowder contents, a boat parade, fireworks, and lots more.
35. Enjoy A State Fair
Lastly, why not enjoy a Maine state fair in the summer? There are a few throughout the state that are worth checking out, and this offer such a quintessential summer experience – rides, fair games, and fair food! Here are the best state fairs to experience this summer:
→ Bangor State Fair
→ Skowhegan State Fair
→ Blue Hill Fair
Summer In Maine FAQ
Best Places To Go For Families
✓ Migis Lodge on Sebago Lake for the kid’s activities and calm water.
✓ Kennebunkport for the beautiful beaches, and lots of family-friendly hotels to choose from.
✓ Spruce Point Inn in Boothbay Harbor for their awesome children’s activities.
Romantic Summer Vacations In Maine For Couples
Honestly, most everywhere in Maine along the coast is pretty romantic, but these are the ones I especially recommend for a romantic couples vacation:
✓ Camden for sunset windjammer cruises and awesome dining, plus cozy and romantic hotel options.
✓ Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park for a more adventurous romantic escape because of the small-town charm of Bar Harbor, and great hotel options. I love The Claremont and the Bar Harbor Inn & Spa for this type of getaway.
✓ Kennebunkport is also perfect for this category, too, because of the beautifully romantic hotel options like the White Barn Inn, Hidden Pond, and Cottages at Cabot Cove.
✓ Ogunquit for long strolls on the beautiful beach and romantic walks on Marginal Way. For a romantic weekend, I’d recommend staying just a few minutes away on Cape Neddick at the Cliff House.
Is Summer In Maine Expensive?
Unfortunately, yes. As mentioned, summer is high season along the Maine coast, and hotels and vacation rentals will charge a premium this time of the year. New England also tends to be a more expensive destination in general, so you can expect to pay a bit more for a vacation here.
Visiting In The Summer On A Budget
Of course, there are ways to visit on more of a budget! Camping options are all over, and there are some excellent campgrounds in Acadia National Park! I also love to stay at motels with efficiency kitchens, which will allow you to cook or BBQ so you can save some money on food during your trip.
If you’re on a budget, keep in mind that your Acadia park pass is good for 7 days, so you may want to stay for at least a few days there to really get your money’s worth out of your park admission fee.
Tips For Visiting Maine In The Summer
→ Book in advance, including hotels, tours, and dinner reservations. The summer season books out months in advance in many places in Maine, so for the most options, you’ll want to book everything as soon as you can.
→ Not all the best places to eat take reservations, though! A lot of popular casual places like seafood shacks don’t take reservations, and the lines can get long at peak meal times, especially dinner time on weekends. You’ll want to budget some extra time to wait in line, or dine a bit early (I usually plan to eat early at these places, and kind of enjoy it!).
→ Pack casual clothes. Maine isn’t an overly fancy place for a vacation, and you’ll find most everything pretty casual. Shorts, sandals, sundresses, and t-shirts are all pretty standard. Unless you plan to dine out at a fancy or upscale restaurant, keep everything casual. The only big exception is if you’ve booked a stay at Migis Lodge on Sebago Lake. In that case, have fun, and pack your dinner jackets, khakis, and dresses for a fun, dressed up night out!
→ Plan ahead to visit Cadillac Mountain in Acadia if that’s on your list! I know I’ve mentioned this before, but it bears repeating, as I’d hate for you to miss out if this is something you really want to experience. You’ll need to purchase a separate vehicle permit to drive to the top of Cadillac Mountain from mid-May through October.
→ Offline maps if taking a road trip. Cell service through most of Maine is pretty good, but inside Acadia National Park, near some beaches, and along a few places along the coast, I’ve lost service, so I always recommend offlining Google Maps to your phone if you’re not familiar with the area just to be safe.
More Of My Maine Travel Guides:
- Best Whoopie Pies In Maine
- Best Breweries In Portland, Maine
- Maine In November
- Spring In Maine
- Maine In October
- Maine In The Winter
More posts you may find helpful:
- Best Beach Towns In New England
- Most Incredible Lighthouses In New England To Visit
- Must-See Towns On The New England Coast
- New England Islands Worth Visiting
- Summer In New England: Where To Go & What To Do!
- My Ultimate 7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary
That’s A Wrap On Maine In The Summer
And there you have it! Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on all the best places to plan a vacation in Maine in the summer, you’re ready to book your trip! Whether you’re excited to plan an epic road trip along the entire coast, enjoy the perfect beach vacation in Ogunquit, or get off-the-beaten-path on Vinalhaven, one thing’s fore sure – it’ll be one of your most memorable trips yet. Happy planning!
