July is the first full month of Maine summer: warm days, cool nights, open beaches, and a packed calendar of town parades, fireworks and fairs. It is also the first of two very busy months, so planning ahead pays off. Here is what to expect.
Quick Answers
- Weather: In Portland, July averages a high of about 79°F and a low of about 59°F.
- Rain: About 3.6 inches in an average July in Portland.
- Crowds: Among the busiest weeks of the year, especially around July 4.
- Black flies: Mostly over. In the far north they can last into early July.
- Best for: Beaches, boating, camping and hiking.
- Ogunquit Beach
- Wells Beach
- Kennebunk and Kennebunkport beaches
- Old Orchard Beach
- Book early: Lodging and campsites fill well ahead, especially around July 4.
- Start early: Beach and trailhead parking fills in the morning.
- Pack layers: Evenings are cool, especially on the water.
- Look inland or north: The western mountains and the Moosehead Lake region are far less crowded than the coast.
Weather in July
Portland averages a daytime high near 79°F and an overnight low near 59°F in July, with about 3.6 inches of rain, based on 1991 to 2020 climate normals. The coast is usually a few degrees cooler than inland, and evenings can turn chilly, especially near the water. Thunderstorms can pass through on hot afternoons. Bring a light jacket even in midsummer.
Black Flies in Early July
For most of Maine, black fly season has ended by July. A seasonal guide lists the longest windows in the North Woods, Moosehead Lake and Katahdin region, which can run to about July 5, and in Aroostook, which can run to about July 10. If you are heading north on the first days of July, pack a head net just in case. See Maine in June for the full regional windows.
Independence Day
Many Maine towns hold parades, fireworks and community suppers around July 4. Dates and times vary by town and change each year, so check the local town or chamber website. Expect heavy traffic and full lodging on the holiday weekend, and arrive early for the best viewing spots.
Beaches in July
Beaches are in full swing, and parking and dog rules vary by town. Read the local guide before you go:
The ocean is still cold, and lakes are usually much warmer for swimming. For more beaches, see the best beaches in Maine.
Camping and the Outdoors
July is prime camping and hiking season, and popular sites book up early. See our guides to Maine campgrounds and state park camping reservations, and reserve as far ahead as you can.
Tips for July
Plan the Rest of Your Trip
For the whole season, see Maine in summer. Just before July, read Maine in June, and for the busiest weeks, Maine in August. Not sure which month? See the best time to visit Maine.
Maine in July FAQ
Is July a good time to visit Maine?
Yes. It has warm weather, open beaches and plenty to do, but also crowds and high prices, so book early.
How warm is Maine in July?
Portland averages a high near 79°F and a low near 59°F. It is cooler on the coast and at night.
Are there black flies in Maine in July?
Rarely, and mostly in the far north in the first days of the month.
Is the ocean warm enough to swim in July?
The ocean stays cold, so many visitors swim in lakes instead.