Summer is Maine’s main tourist season. Days are warm, the coast is busy, lakes and trails are open, and every town runs its festivals and farmers’ markets. It is also the most crowded and most expensive time to visit, so planning ahead matters. Weather figures below are from the National Weather Service.
Looking for a summer boat trip? See whale watching in Maine.
Want to sleep outdoors without a tent? See glamping in Maine.
Looking for something to do? See the dates for Maine fairs, from July to October.
Looking at a single month? See Maine in June for weather, black flies and lupines, Maine in July for fireworks and beaches, or Maine in August for peak-season tips.
Visiting earlier in the year? See Maine in Spring.
What Is the Weather Like in Maine in Summer?
Using the National Weather Service’s 1991-2020 normals for Portland, daytime highs climb from about 69°F on June 1 to 78°F by June 30, and reach about 80°F on August 1. By the end of August the normal high is about 76°F. Overnight lows run from the low 50s in early June to about 60°F in August. Portland averages roughly 4.2 inches of rain in June and 3.6 inches in August.
The coast is cooler than inland Maine, and the ocean stays cold all summer, so bring a sweater for evenings and boat rides. Lakes warm up more than the sea.
How Crowded Is Maine in Summer?
July and August are the busiest months, especially around Acadia, Portland, and the southern and midcoast beach towns. Lodging, campsites, and popular restaurants book up early, and prices are at their highest. June and the days after Labor Day are quieter. Compare the seasons in our best time to visit Maine guide, or see Maine in September for a calmer option.
Best Things to Do in Maine in Summer
- Beaches: see our best beaches in Maine and hidden beaches.
- Hiking and Acadia: start with our best hikes in Maine and the Acadia National Park guide.
- Boats and lighthouses: try a windjammer cruise or visit the best lighthouses in Maine.
- Food: a lobster roll is the classic. See our lobster roll guide.
- Wild blueberries: the harvest runs through late summer. See our blueberry picking guide.
- With children: see Maine with kids.
Festivals and Events in Summer
Summer events include Independence Day celebrations, county fairs, music festivals, and the Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland in early August. In July, Waterville hosts the Maine International Film Festival. See our Waterville guide and the Maine events calendar for current dates and official links.
Camping and Where to Stay
State park campsites and many inns fill up months ahead for July and August. Read our guide to state park camping reservations and browse Maine campgrounds. For an itinerary, see our one-week Maine road trip.
Summer Tips
- Book lodging, campsites, and tours early.
- Expect black flies in the woods in late spring and early summer, and ticks in tall grass. Bring repellent.
- Start popular hikes and visit Acadia early in the day.
- Pack layers. Coastal evenings and boat rides are cool even on hot days.
Maine in Summer FAQ
Is summer the best time to visit Maine?
It has the warmest weather and the most activities, but also the biggest crowds and highest prices. Many people prefer June or September.
Can you swim in Maine in summer?
Yes. Lakes and ponds are comfortable by midsummer. The ocean is cold, even in August, so ocean swims are short.
How hot does Maine get in summer?
Normal highs in Portland are in the 70s, with about 80°F at the warmest. Hotter days happen, and inland Maine can run warmer than the coast.
What should I pack for Maine in summer?
Shorts and T-shirts for the day, a sweater or light jacket for evenings, a rain jacket, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Weather figures are National Weather Service 1991-2020 normals for Portland. Event dates and seasonal schedules change each year, so confirm details with the organizer before you go.