Maine in July: 25+ Summer Things to Do, Weather & More

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If you visit Maine in July, you won’t be disappointed! The weather in July is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and camping. You can also explore this stunning New England coastline and visit some of the most picturesque towns in the United States.

We love Maine, & my experience having traveled around the world since I was 13, & planning trips for family, friends and solo, give me a unique perspective on finding the best things to do, where to eat & places to stay no matter where we roam.

We’ll give you a guide to all our favourite & the best summer things to do in Maine, plus tips for weather, popular events, where to stay & more. Great for families, friends, or couples looking for a true Downeast adventure.

Ready for your Maine summer vacation? Let’s go!

Maine Weather in July

July is a great time to visit Maine and enjoy a bit of warm summer weather.

• Average temperature: During the day temperatures ranges the mid-70s to low 80s °F (23-28 °C). Though they can get up to the 90’s.

• Cooler times: Nights, early morning hikes or late-night stargazing tend to be cooler, with temperatures dropping to the mid-50s to low 60s °F (12-17 °C). Just be sure to bring a light jacket.

• Average rainfall: About 3″, depending on the region.

Depending on where you are in Maine, temperatures may be higher or lower due to regional differences. Coastal areas can be cooler than inland areas because of the sea breeze. Conditions can change rapidly on the coast & in mountainous areas, so bring & wear layers.

25+ Best Things To Do In Maine In July (& the Summer)

The beautiful state of Maine is alive with visitors, attractions & outdoor areas to explore in summer. There’s so much to see and do for all ages.

Just be aware that summer is peak season for Maine, so hotels, food and attractions tend to be more crowded and expensive. Book oceanfront hotels & lodging well ahead. On the plus side, everything is open, and sailing & whale watching excursions are running.

Renting a car in Maine is essential if you plan on driving the coast, seeing multiple lighthouses, or want flexibility during your trip. Especially with kids. 

Must-visit Coastal Towns

1. Explore Bar Harbor, Maine in July

Summertime in Bar Harbor is the perfect time to explore all of the beautiful sights and attractions that this beautiful Maine coastal town has to offer. Plus this Acadia nearby is one of the best things to do in Maine.

Besides the usual suspects such as wander the quaint downtown area & main street, grab an ice cream at Mount Desert Ice Cream or Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium. Or cross the Land Bridge to Bar Island.

There are a few things to do in Bar Harbor, Maine in July not to miss:

1. Fourth of July Celebrations – kick off the day with a pancake breakfast, followed by lobster races, music, family activities, craft fairs, seafood festival & fireworks. Avoid the crowds with a special fireworks cruise hosted by Acadia Nature Cruises.

2. Boat Tour – Take a Tall Ship Cruise out on the Harbor, a whale watching tour to see these majestic creatures or try Ed’s Dive-In Theatre for the Kids, it’s a hoot.

3. Bar Harbor Music Festival (end of June into July annually) – for over 50 years this live music festival has happened. Introducing musical styles from classical, jazz, opera to music lovers of all ages.

4. Movies in the Park – Wednesday evenings take in a movie at Agamont Park. They start at dusk (around 8:15 pm), but stake your spot with a blanket early (we suggest around 4 p.m.)

2. Visit Acadia National Park in July

July is one of the best times to visit and explore the beautiful Acadia National Park! Just down the road from Bar Harbor.

With its stunning views, sunsets, diverse wildlife, and endless activities, you’ll be sure to be busy from sun up to sun down.

From scenic hikes to incredible sunsets, here are five of the best things to do in Acadia National Park in July:

• Take a hike or three – Walk the Ocean Path Trail or Wonderland Trail (easy & kid-friendly), or the cliff side Bee Hive Trail.

• Night Hike up Cadillac Mountain – As it’s still light out until about 9pm, a night hike may just be the thing to do mid summer. (Take the North Ridge Trail from Park Loop Road)

• Head to the Beach – Make plans for a Beach Day. There are plenty of Acadia Beaches to enjoy. Try Sand Beach for dipping your toes in the ocean or Echo Lake for a swim in a lake.

• Acadia Sunrise – watch as nature awakens at the Otter Cliffs or Cadillac Mountain

• Lighthouses! – Take a family photo in front of the iconic Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

We also have a list of fun things to do in Acadia in the Rain & and a full 4 day Acadia National Park itinerary for more year round things to do in both Bar Harbor & Acadia.

Summer is peak season in Acadia, so do be prepared for crowds, especially at the most popular spots along Park Loop Road. The Schoodic Peninsula area tends to be quieter if you’re looking to escape the crowds.

3. Enjoy Kennebunkport: A Seaside Haven

Coastal Maine in summer means planning a day at the beach. 

Kennebunkport, Maine has an abundance of natural beauty and cultural charm, making it the perfect spot for a summer vacation. 

Put on your swim trunks and cool off at Goose Rocks Beach, one of the best beaches in Maine. Tourists and locals flock here for its white sand and reef that shelters the bay. Making it great for little kids and swimming or looking for special treasures.

Surf’s up at Gooch’s Beach. Lessons are offered if needed.

Looking to avoid the crowds, Colony Beach (aka Arundel Beach) is the place for beach treasures and sunset strolls. Just note there’s no washrooms, and very little parking.

There are plenty of fun things to do in Kennebunkport, ME in summer to make this a worthshile stop on a summer road trip.

4. Camden: Where the Mountains Meet the Sea

Camden, an idyllic seaside town, is often rated one of the most beautiful places in Maine. Located mid-coast Maine, it’s a favorite stop for food, and views of Mount Battie, where it meets Penobscot Bay.

Camden Hills State Park has 20 trails to choose from, rated easy to moderate. 

• Hike the 1.0 mile loop trail up Mount Battie and back, rated moderate for a few steep areas, but worth it for the views. 

Fresh and Co is a family favourite, and our top pick. The service is always fantastic, and their fusion food is so tasty from their fish and chips to their Brazilian stew, & Hangar steak, you can’t go wrong. You’ll need a reservation if you don’t want a long wait.

Savor Some Tasty Maine Seafood

Maine is the place for seafood lovers to get your seafood fix. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a full-fledged meal or a fine dining experience. 

The best lobster is fresh from the boats, and steamed, then dipped in a bit of butter, or made into an iconic Maine lobster roll.

5. Classic Lobster Pounds &  Shacks to Try

Lobster Pounds & Lobster Shacks are the quintessential dining spots where you have to try fresh Maine lobster at least once. With their abundance of fresh seafood, it’s easy to find the perfect seafood dish that will satisfy your cravings.

Local favorite Lobster Pounds & Shacks in Maine include :

• Thurston’s Lobster Pound on Mount Desert Island (stop off on your way to Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse)
• McLoon’s Lobster Shack, South Thomaston (no fried seafood here!)
• Shaw’s Fish & Lobster Wharf in New Harbor, ME (near Pemaquid Point Lighthouse)
• The Lobster Shack in Harpswell, ME.

Maine is home to a diverse array of seafood choices. Some local favorites include:

• The Massive Lobster Rolls & fried scallops at Red’s Eats in Wiscasset, ME.
• Steamers – soft-shell steamed clams with broth & butter at Shaw’s Fish & Lobster Wharf
• Oysters on the half shell at Eventide Oyster Co in Portland, ME
• Locally sourced poke bowls, clam pizza, and Pemaquid oysters at the Contented Sole in New Harbor

Maine has many other culinary delights should the young uns not appreciate seafood. Most restaurants will offer a variety of dishes to suit everyone’s tastes. 

So if you’re looking for a delicious seafood experience, head to Maine in July and enjoy some of the freshest catches!

Lighthouse Hopping in Maine

6. See a Maine Lighthouse Up Close 

If you are a fan of lighthouses, Maine has over 60 along the coast. You really do blink, and there’s another one. 

Each has their own unique history, and place in Maine’s maritime history. Here are 3 ideas of lighthouses to visit in the summer months to get you started:

• Portland Head Light (aka Portland Head Lighthouse) in Cape Elizabeth is a historical gem and the oldest lighthouse in Maine. It’s also sits next to the 90-acre Fort Williams Park. Perfect for letting the kids run around and explore old fort structures. 

• Pemaquid Lighthouse in mid-coast Maine is famous not only for its picturesque setting, and Fisherman’s Museum in the old Lightkeeper’s Home. It was also the first lighthouse to be featured on US currency (Maine’s quarter). 

• Cape Neddick (Hubble) Lighthouse is located on a tiny island off of York. It’s one of the most painted and photographed lighthouses around.

Beach Escapes

7. Visit  Old Orchard Beach & Palace Playground

Old Orchard Beach is a fun coastal New England town for a family beach vacation, and anyone who’s looking to enjoy rides at the Palace Playland. It’s in our top 10 list of the best things to do in Maine in July.

This oceanfront amusement park opened  in 1902, and is a summer destination for many Mainers too. Try out rides like the Electra Wheel, Sea Viper and bumper cars. 

Then relax along the seven miles of beaches that stretch from the Old Orchard Pier and boardwalk.  

8. Ogunquit, Maine in July

Ogunquit is exactly what you imagine a small Maine coastal town should be.

Well known for its artists, Ogunquit Beach and fabulous restaurants, it makes for a lovely romantic getaway, or family vacation in Southern Maine. 

Ogunquit Beach

Ogunquit Beach has a three-mile stretch of soft sand running from Main Beach, near the center of town, to Footbridge Beach and North Beach.

It’s the perfect place to walk, sunbathe, play, or relax, while enjoying the salty breeze and watching surfers ride the waves.

Walk Marginal Way in Ogunquit

The scenic coastal cliff walk of Marginal Way is a perfect way to start your summer day. A peaceful walk with breathtaking ocean views. 

Thirty-five benches scattered along this 2.5 mile coastal hike, provide you with ample opportunity to sit, rest and contemplate your day.

⭐️ Where to stay: Cliff House Resort in Cape Neddick minutes away from Ogunquit Beach is perfect for romantic getaways, or family friendly vacation. Pools, restaurants, activities for all ages.

9. Reid State Park: A Quieter Beach Getaway

This hidden gem nestled on the shores of Georgetown, ME boasts two of the most stunning wide sand beaches in the state – Mile and Half Mile. Plus it’s a top place to surf in Maine.

These aren’t your average beaches! They’re also a sanctuary for endangered least terns and piping plovers.

When you’re ready to explore beyond the beach, wander through the park’s diverse trails, through salt marshes to rocky ledges. Enjoy the breathtaking views of nearby islands and lighthouses on Seguin Island, The Cuckolds, and Hendricks Head.

Perfect for a coastal retreat that’s a little off the beaten path.

Exploring Portland’s Arts, Culture & Sites

10. Visit Portland, Maine

Portland is one popular destination in Maine, for good reason. Great food, and craft beer, history and outdoor attractions to enjoy. 

Here are a few summer time favorites:

• Take an Old Port Culinary Tour – Portland is a foodie haven. Take this guided walking tour to discover & taste the best local food.

• Walk the 2 mile  Eastern Promenade Trail – Enjoy beaches, sweeping bay & coastal views and even a playground for the littles.

• Visit Portland Observatory – the last standing maritime signal tower built in 1802. Also offers the best view of the bay. You can go on guided tours from May to October. 

• Enjoy this Portland Fire Engine Co. Tour – A Kid friendly way to see Portland on this one hour tour in a real vintage fire truck.

• Eat a Holy Donut – Made with real Maine potatoes, and baking up flavors such as Maple Bacon, Fresh Lemon and vanilla glazed. You can’t go wrong. There’s even gluten-free options.

• First Friday Art Walks – First Friday evening of every month, the city’s artists, galleries, and arts venues open up their doors for an Art Walk. Take a free self-guided tour.

• Maine’s Discovery Museum – Cultivate your kid’s curiosity about science, art, technology and more on 3 floors of hands on exhibits.

• Portland Museum of Art – Over 18,000 works of art, this museum boasts an impressive collection of American and European art, including works by Winslow Homer, Claude Monet, and Andy Warhol.

11. Enjoy the Craft Beer Scene in Portland, Maine

Did you know that Portland has the most breweries per capita in the US?

It’s the perfect place to indulge in a craft beer or two. There’s nothing like sitting on a patio drinking a cold one on a sunny afternoon. Am I right? 

Allagash Brewery offers a tour and a patio, to indulge in tasting craft local beers, with a focus on Belgian style beers. 

Bissell Brothers operates in a 100-year old former rail car repair building.With an on-site kitchen and menu, plus IPAs like Exponent & Nothing Gold, lagers and One Little Stone, a  Czech style dark lager, it’s a great place for a bite and a brew. 

Or maybe this Maine Brew Cruise tour is more your speed. Get driven around in comfort, while tasting the many different styles and flavors of alcohol Portland is known for at breweries around the city.

12. Pose for Photos at Portland Breakwater Lighthouse (aka: Bug Light)

Bug Light is a cute, unique  lighthouse that sits at the end of a breakwater, and is still in use today. The decorative columns were modeled after Greek Corinthian columns. 

It’s a popular place to take an oceanside walk, and for kite-flying. There’s even a Bug Light Kite Festival On the third weekend of May each year.

Didn’t bring a kite? No worries, they usually sell them at the museum gift shop onsite.

Summer Island Hopping in Maine

13. Take the Ferry to Peakes Island

Peakes Island is the perfect summer escape, just a short 20 minute ferry ride from Portland, ME. Ferries have been docking here at the Forest City Landing since the 1880s.

Biking the small island is a popular way to get around.

It takes only 40 minutes to cover the whole island. But you’ll want to take your time meandering alongside Maine cottages, stopping at the shops, galleries and welcoming Sandy Beach or Cairn Beach along the way.

14. Monhegan Island: An Artists’ Paradise

Get ready to experience Maine’s coastal charm with a summer island-hopping adventure to quaint Monhegan Island! It’s only a square mile in area. 

Just a quick passenger ferry ride away from Port Clyde, this picturesque gem offers stunning vistas, tranquil hiking trails, and a tight-knit community of artists. You can also reach the island from New Harbor, and Boothbay Harbor.

You can find lodging, restaurants, art studios, crafts co-op, and the Monhegan Museum of Art & History in the village area. 

The ‘wildlands’ features  9 miles of hiking trails, leading to the highest ocean cliffs on the Maine coastline.

Sailing Adventures Along Coastal Maine

15. Sail the Casco Bay

See Portland, ME & Casco Bay from a unique vantage point  aboard this classic Tall Ship Cruise. 

A family friendly cruise aboard a Maine-built windjammer, is a fun way to experience Maine’s rugged coastline, lighthouses, seals, and seabirds.

Feel like a captain of the sea. You can  join the crew to hoist the sails or take a turn at the ship’s wheel if so inspired. 

Family-Friendly Attractions: Maine in July 

16. Kids Day at Fun Town Splashtown in Saco, Maine

Just 20 minutes outside of Portland, ME, Fun Town Splashtown (a Fun Park with a Water Park) is the place to spend the day with kids. 

The Fun Park is great when you want to dry off and hop on Maine’s only wooden roller coaster, dragon ride or kiddies bumper boats. There’s kiddie rides, family rides and thrill rides, 

Parents, get those brownie points with the kids, and they may even not whine when you want to stop to visit another lighthouse. 

17. York’s Wild Kingdom Zoo & Amusement Park

Check out York’s Wild Kingdom, a family-run zoo and amusement park just a stone’s throw from Short Sands Beach in York Beach, Maine.

Get up close with amazing critters like African lions, lemurs, and prairie dogs. Hand-feed adorable pygmy goats, deer, and ducks, or stroll through our parakeet and butterfly enclosures.

When you’re tired of animals, move on to the amusement park section. There’s amusement rides for all ages, such as roller coasters, go karts, Bounce house and merry go rounds. 

As well as snack bars, picnic areas and mini golf. Plan to spend the day here. 

Shopping Local in Maine

18. Shop & Explore Freeport

Shopping may not be the first thing you think of when someone says Maine (Lobster & lighthouses anyone ?!?) 

However Freeport is home to the L.L. Bean store and infamous bigger than life size Bean Boot statue. As well as many other recognizable store outlets. 

Other fun activities around Freeport include hiking & picnicking in Wolfe’s Neck State Park, visiting the dunes of the Desert of Maine and trying some artisan bread at When Pigs Fly Bakery.

19. Go Antiquing in Boothbay Harbor

Looking for treasures? Head to the Boothbay Antiques Show & Sale early in July. Set in a perfect east coast village of Boothbay it’s a wonderful place to find collectibles, antiques and more.

20. Kittery Outlets: Bargain Hunting

If you’re a bargain hunter, you can’t miss the Kittery Outlets.

With over 60 outlet stores, you’ll find everything from designer clothes to home goods at discounted prices. Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

• Clothing and Accessories: From Calvin Klein to Children’s PLace, Old Navy and  J. Crew Factory, you can find high-quality clothes and accessories for men, women, and children.

• Shoes: Looking for a new pair of kicks? You’re in luck! Adidas, Nike, and Skechers are just a few of the shoe stores at the outlets.

• Home Goods: Spruce up your home with discounted home decor, kitchenware, and bedding from stores like Le Creuset and Pottery Barn Outlet.

• Specialty Stores: For something a little different, check out the specialty stores like Yankee Candle and Harry & David.

Outdoor Activities for Nature Lovers

21. Do a Little Glamping or Camping in Maine

Summertime is the best and most popular time to pitch a tent in the beautiful wilds of Maine. 

Campgrounds along the Saco River are one of the best places to camp, if you also want to do some river tubing. 

There’s even a choice Saco River one-of-a-kind glamping spot for couples or solo adventurers looking for a quiet place, away from the crowds.

Some other beautiful and iconic spots include:

• Hermit Island Campground, Phippsburg (tents only) – Head to one of seven sandy beaches accessible only to campers.Popular with generations of locals too.

• Mount Desert Campground – family run, sites right on Somes Sound, and only 20 minutes to Acadia’s many trailheads. It’s also a stop on the Island Explorer bus route. 

• Wolfe’s Neck Oceanfront Campground, Freeport – Organic farm & campground. Choose the tent-only sites in Middle Bay or one of  the nine walk-in sites at Quiet Cove, for a more peaceful experience.

• Cathedral Pines Campground, Eustis – For the RVers. Sites sit amongst old-growth red pines scattered around the campground. There’s a private beach on Flagstaff Lake and playground for the kidlets.

22. Have a Cook-Out at Popham Beach 

Popham Beach State Park in Phippsburg lies on south side of the Kennebec River is a popular state park, for good reason. 

Miles of sandy beach, interesting  dune formations and an outstanding bathroom/shower set up make this a great spot to spend a day or two with kids, or just the adults.

⭐️ Just note: there’s strong surf & undertow so not the best for the littles to swim in.

At low-tide you can walk seemingly forever, and there’s a couple of islands to explore by walking on a sandbar. Just be sure to come back before the tide rises.   

Use the grills (bring charcoal) in the picnic area for a beach cook-out lunch or dinner. No fires on the beach allowed. Bring a Maine wild blueberry pie along for dessert. 

Make sure to save time for exploring the nearby old Fort Popham. 

23. Kayak Sebago Lake

Sebago Lake near Portland is the second largest lake in Maine at 45 square miles. Plenty of space to play.

Kayaking on Sebago Lake offers multiple beaches for swimming, man-made canals, natural coves and inlets to explore. Fishing is also a popular activity here. 

Sebago State Park sits on the lake’s northeast corner in the towns of Casco and Naples, offers camping, picnic areas and boat launches as well. 

For the kids, Seacoast Fun Parks is close by in Windham, ME, with mini golf, go karts, and other amusement rides. 

Festivals In Maine in July

Summer is a time for festivals in Maine. We’ve highlighted below the most popular, happening in July, from music to celebrating clams. 

24. Yarmouth Clam Festival

Clam lovers and festival enthusiasts unite for one of Maine’s most beloved summer traditions – the Yarmouth Clam Festival.

Taking place on the third full weekend in July every year since 1975, this spectacular three-day event is a must-visit for families, foodies, and fun-seekers.

There’s a whole host of family-friendly activities including a a vibrant and lively parade Friday night, array of arts & crafts stalls, a bustling carnival with games & rides, and performances by talented local and regional musicians.

And it doesn’t stop there! There are competitions and events for all ages. But the main event (pun intended) is the Maine State Clam Shucking Contest. Competitors race against the clock to see who can win the title of the fastest clam shucker in the state.

25. North Atlantic Blues Festival 

Mid July is an exciting time in Rockland, Maine, as it marks the annual two-day blues music festival. This highly anticipated event features some of the nation’s most talented blues performers, who take to the stage to deliver electrifying performances.

Public Landing is situated in the heart of Rockland, overlooking the beautiful Rockland Harbor. Visitors can take in the stunning views while enjoying the music, local food and festivities, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

26. Moxie Festival 

If you’re looking for a unique and fun way to celebrate summer in Maine, then look no further than the Moxie Festival. This festival is all about celebrating Maine’s most iconic drink – Moxie!

Moxie, it’s a soft drink that has been a beloved part of Maine’s culture for over a century. It’s known for its unique flavor, which has been described as a mix between root beer and cough medicine. It’s way better than it sounds!

One of the highlights of the festival is the Moxie parade, which features floats, vintage cars and bands. 

But the parade is just the beginning – there’s also a Moxie 5K race, a Moxie recipe contest, and even a Moxie chugging contest (if you’re feeling brave!). And of course, no Moxie Festival would be complete without plenty of opportunities to sample this beloved drink.

Celebrate the iconic Maine drink “Moxie” the second weekend in July in Lisbon, ME. 

27. Great Schooner Race & Parade

Ahoy, mateys! Are you ready for some good ol’ seafaring fun? 

Mark your calendars, because the Great Schooner Race & Parade in Rockland, Maine,  is an event you don’t want to miss!

Since 1977, the Great Schooner Race & Parade is the largest annual gathering of traditional schooners in America, set in picturesque Penobscot Bay. They come together every year in early July to showcase their beauty, speed, and elegance as they race each other along Maine’s stunning coastline.

The race begins and ends at Rockland Breakwater. While the race is the main attraction, there’s also a parade of sea vessels, the day before the race, and  seafood and other delicious treats to try. While enjoying the laid-back, coastal vibes.

So, are you ready to hoist the sails and set course for the Great Schooner Race & Parade in Maine this summer?

Grab your crew and make your plans now.

Final Thoughts: Best Things to do in Maine in July

Visiting Maine in July is the perfect time to take a beach vacation, do a little hiking at Acadia, or camp along the Saco River.

With warm weather, coastal breezes, and gorgeous coastline to explore, you won’t want to miss everything this amazing US state has to offer.

Just remember that summer is peak season. So make sure to book your Maine car rental, and book your favorite resort, hotel or camping spot early.

PIN for Later

MORE MAINE RESOURCES

• Boston to Bar Harbor Road Trip: What not to miss
• 13 Best Breakfast Spots in Bar Harbor, ME
• Best Maine Activities in Spring
• Best Oceanfront resorts & hotels in Maine
• Airports in Maine
• What Maine is Known For
• Weather in Maine