Things To Do In The Summer In Maine
Summer in Maine is nothing short of magical. Enjoy long days, salty breezes, lobster rolls, and endless opportunities to explore the coast, lakes, and mountains. Here are some of the best things to do and places to visit in Maine during the summer.
Maine in the Summer – Ocean Breezes, Lakeside Escapes, and Endless Adventure
Summer in Maine is pure magic. Warm days and cool ocean breezes make it the perfect season to explore the state’s incredible variety of landscapes. Along the coast, sandy beaches like Ogunquit and Popham Beach invite swimming, body surfing, and sunbathing, while rocky headlands offer tidepools and lighthouse views. Inland, sparkling lakes and rivers like Sebago Lake and the Kennebec River come alive with boating, fishing, and kayaking.
The mountains of western and northern Maine are a hiker’s paradise in summer, with trails leading to summits like Bigelow Mountain and Mount Katahdin, rewarding adventurers with sweeping views and alpine air. Towns and villages buzz with activity—farmers’ markets brim with fresh blueberries, lobster shacks serve rolls right off the dock, and festivals celebrate everything from seafood to music.
From sunrise at Cadillac Mountain in Acadia to campfires by a quiet lake, summer in Maine offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable beauty.
Feast on Lobster by the Sea
Where: Five Islands Lobster Co. – Georgetown and The Clam Shack – Kennebunkport
No Maine summer is complete without cracking into a fresh lobster roll. Whether you’re sitting at a dockside shack or a white-tablecloth restaurant, you’ll find some of the best lobster in the world here. Five Islands offers a stunning harbor view; The Clam Shack is a cult classic.
Hit the Beaches
Where: Old Orchard Beach, Reid State Park and Sand Beach in Acadia
Swim, sunbathe, or stroll along Maine’s scenic coast. Old Orchard Beach has classic boardwalk fun and arcade games, while Reid State Park offers more rugged natural beauty. Sand Beach in Acadia is a gem nestled between mountains and rocky shores.
Sail the Coast
Where: Camden Harbor and Portland Schooner Co.
Hop aboard a windjammer or take a sunset schooner cruise to soak in the coastal views. From Camden, you can book multi-day sailing trips. In Portland, enjoy an evening cruise with views of lighthouses and historic forts.
Hike to a Summit or Waterfall
Where: Tumbledown Mountain – Weld and Gulf Hagas – Katahdin Iron Works
For panoramic views and a little adventure, hike Tumbledown, which features an alpine pond at the summit. Gulf Hagas, often called the "Grand Canyon of Maine," offers a rugged gorge with stunning waterfalls which are perfect for a summer trek.
Bike the Trails
Where: Acadia’s Carriage Roads and Kennebec River Rail Trail – Augusta to Gardiner
Acadia’s car-free carriage roads are ideal for biking in summer. For a riverside ride, the Kennebec River Rail Trail provides scenic views and historic charm. Bike rentals are widely available in Bar Harbor and other towns.
Paddle Maine’s Lakes and Rivers
Where: Belgrade Lakes, Androscoggin River and Stonington Archipelago
Canoe, kayak, or paddleboard through quiet lakes and scenic coastlines. Stonington offers island-hopping on sea kayaks, while the Belgrade Lakes are great for a more relaxing freshwater experience.