Visiting Maine in the early days of summer during June means you will see beautiful coastal sceneries and experience fewer crowds. However, there are a few drawbacks and things to consider for this time of the year. With our weather guide and unique tips for each coastal town, your visit will be unforgettable.
This article covers:
- Weather in June
- Crowds
- Outfits / Packing Tips
- Things to Do
- Black Flies(!)
- 10 Coastal Towns / Itinerary
Maine Guides and Hotels
We highly suggest getting the Moon Coastal Maine Guide. Tip: Buy the paperback version if possible. It’s one must-have guide we always carry with us on our trips in coastal Maine.
Tip: Check out the best hotel deals in Maine for June (save your preferred hotels), via booking.com:
Is June a Good Time to Visit Maine?
June is a good time to visit coastal Maine, as the weather is pleasant, especially towards the end of the month. The average high temperature is around 68°F. It’s also not as busy as in the peak summer months, and all restaurants and shops are open, and tours are operating.
Weather
While Coastal Maine certainly warms up in June, the temperatures are still relatively cool compared to the rest of the country.
During June, the weather in coastal Maine is mainly pleasant, especially in the second half of the month. The average high temperatures range from 63°F (17°C) to 69°F (20°C). There are only 8-10 days of rainfall on average throughout the month.
Good to know: Always keep in mind that the temperatures are lower if you go up the coast, with Bar Harbor being about 5º F cooler than Ogunquit.
If you like more tips and weather details about other months in Maine, read our full guide: The Best Time to Visit Maine [Weather, Crowds, Towns].
Early vs. Late June | Coastal Town Temperatures
Ogunquit
- Early June: 69°F (20°C)
- Mid-June: 72°F (22°C)
- Late June: 77°F (25°C)
Portland:
- Early June: 67°F (20°C)
- Mid-June: 71°F (21°C)
- Late June: 75°F (24°C)
Bar Harbor (Acadia National Park):
- Early June: 63°F (17°C)
- Mid-June: 66°F (19°C)
- Late June: 71°F (21°C)
As days get increasingly more sunlight, the temperature rises rather quickly throughout the month. In southern Maine, temperatures go from the high 60s in early June and low 70s in mid-June, all the way to high 70s at the end of the month.
It’s summer weather in June and can be warm and pleasant until the sea breeze will undoubtedly kick it. The ocean breeze draws the cool air off the water and brings it to the island. It will get down into the 40s during some nights earlier in the month.
Day to Night Temperatures
Typical June daily temperature progression in Rockland (Maine):
- Early Morning (7 AM): 59°F
- Afternoon (2 PM): 70°F
- Night (11:30 PM): 59°F
Especially as you go further north, you should know that night and early morning temperatures are much cooler than during the daytime. Acadia and Bar Harbor might feel more like fall than summer in June, with morning and evening temperatures dipping well into the 50s.
Water Temperature
The water in Maine is too cold for most people. The ocean temperature ranges from 50°F (Bar Harbor) to 56°F (Portland). Very few visitors spend longer times in the ocean when it’s that cool.
Activity Tips for June
We highly recommend one of these tours (see above). They are also safe and easy to book: You receive a mobile voucher (very comfortable!).
Crowds
June is the start of Maine’s summer rush. You won’t see quite the crush of tourists as later in the summer months of July and August.
Maine is not crowded in June, particularly until mid-June. Later in the month, when school is out, it’s getting slightly busier, as more families with kids are showing up.
However, visitors double from May to June. Acadia National Park, for example, records nearly 500,000 visitors during this month alone. That means it gets busier in the second half of June, especially towards the end of the month.
There are two easy ways to avoid potential crowds in June:
- Early June: Visit in early June if you can, as you’ll see much fewer tourists than later in the month when the families with kids are visiting.
- Mornings: When visiting later in June, try to get an early start. Parking lots at Acadia National Park or popular beach parking areas in Ogunquit and other coastal towns fill up quickly, so the earlier you can get there, the better.
Outfits | What to Wear & Packing Tips
Even though it’s technically summertime, you’ll still want to bring a lot of layers in June.
In June you wear t-shirts and shorts in Maine during the warmer afternoons. Pack a jacket or a sweater and long pants for early June and the cooler mornings and evenings. Windbreakers are a must, as oceanfront winds can be very strong on the coast.
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💡 Visitor Tip: ‘ Every time we visit Maine in June, I wish I had brought another sweater for the evening or a long-sleeve shirt for an early hike. Don’t underestimate how chilly it can get in June during the night.’
Mornings/Evenings: Be prepared for the cooler temperatures in the morning and evening. It’s best to wear pants and a slightly heavier jacket if you are out early or late. At least bring a sweatshirt or fleece for early mornings and when being on the water if you plan to do any boat trips.
Packing for Hiking
June is a perfect time to hike, especially in Acadia National Park, so bring a few trail essentials. Hiking boots, or at least sturdy shoes, are a must. Trails can be uneven, and boots will keep you from slipping.
Bring a jacket for layering, as well. While parts of the trail will get a bit warm, the shadier areas can still be rather chilly. For hiking, it’s always best to be overprepared.
Is Everything Open in June?
In June, all restaurants, shops, and seasonal hotels in the coastal towns of Maine are open.
Restaurants/Lobster Shacks: Everything is open, so you have a wide range of restaurants and lobster shacks to choose from. Additionally, outside decks with beautiful ocean views will be available.
Hotels: Even the seasonal hotels often closed until April (sometimes May) are open now.
Boat Tours: In June, you definitely should get on the water for some time! There are multiple tours to choose from with a variety of vessels. We highly recommend trying a sailing tour. Check the coastal town tips below for suggestions.
5 Things to Do in June
Hiking
If you are looking to explore Acadia National Park and other regions along Maine’s coast via hiking, June is an ideal time.
Take advantage of the miles of hiking paths in Boothbay Harbor and other coastal areas. Hiking in this beautiful area is exciting. The natural beauty of here continuously reveals new discoveries.
Park Loop Road, Acadia
An absolute must when visiting Acadia National Park is the Park Loop Road, which is open in June. This 27-mile drive takes you to the park’s best attractions and outlooks. Marvel at the crashing waves of Thunderhole, take a stroll around stunning Jordan Pond, and enjoy the scenery.
Portland Head Light, Portland
Located just outside the city is one of Maine’s most iconic lighthouses. Accessible in June (it’s usually open year-round), a visit to the Portland Head Light is a rite of passage for any Maine vacation. With a beautiful Atlantic backdrop, the lighthouse makes a perfect photo-op to begin your journey.
Brewery Hopping, Portland
Besides lobster and ocean views, Portland in Maine is also well-known for its incredible craft beer scene. With 16 breweries to choose from, you’ll have no shortage of beers to try. Some of the most well-known breweries include the Shipyard Brewing Company and Allagash Brewing, both located in the city proper.
Whale Watching
The whale watching season in Maine runs from mid-spring to late October. June is a great month to see these amazing creatures. You may spot Northern Humpback Whales, Minke Whales, and Northern Fin Whales. Maybe even a North Atlantic Right Whale, an endangered species with a very low population.
Black Flies and Mosquitoes
By the third week of June, blackflies are usually gone. The temperature and rainfalls in the previous weeks in spring determine the severity and duration. However, black flies are typically not an issue along the coast.
Mosquitoes are most active about an hour after sun-up when things warm up and about an hour before sun-down. Additionally, Mosquitoes are more of a problem in lakes and rivers. They aren’t as bothersome along the coast.
10 Bucket List Coastal Towns | For Your Itinerary
Everything is open and coastal Maine is in full swing in June. That means you have a wide range of options for restaurants, shops, and tours to choose from in the towns along the coast. You might be wondering: Which is the best coastal town for you?
We got you covered and offer unique insider tips for the 10 best coastal towns:
1. York
- South of Portland
- 44 minutes drive from Portland – Google Maps Route
- 1 hr 10 minutes drive from Boston
- York Google Maps Location
- York Accommodations (via booking.com, price match!)
York is the southernmost coastal town in Maine we suggest visiting. That means, coming from Boston, you don’t have to travel that far if you’d like to see a typical seaside town. It’s an hour’s drive: Google Maps Route: Boston > York. Travelers describe York as a fun-filled, family-oriented summer resort town. While definitely not as big as Portland, York is one of the slightly larger towns along Maine’s coast.
Long Sands Beach & Nubble Lighthouse: While not as impressive as the golden sand beaches in Ogunquit (see below), the gray sand beaches in York are still great. A walk on Long Sands Beach leads you to a view of the remarkable Nubble Lighthouse at Cape Neddick. Not as iconic as the Portland Head Light (see below) but still one of the most photographed lighthouses in Maine.
Short Sands Beach is located downtown, with restaurants and shops right there. Plus, it’s perfect for a fun time with kids: York Wild Kingdom Zoo and Fun Park are at Short Sands Beach, as well as a bowling alley overlooking the ocean. Locals say York has a sort of carnival atmosphere with arcades at the beach and the amusement park area.
Special Food Tip: Visit Dunn’s Ice Cream Stand at Nubble Lighthouse at least once! We had one of the tastiest homemade ice creams we ever tried. Our recommendation: The blueberry ice cream.
Lobster Shack Tip: Drive the 10 minutes to Kittery and eat a lobster roll at one of the best shacks. Bob’s Clam Hut is open in June: Bob’s Clam Hut in Kittery – Route from York
Top Tip: Don’t forget to visit the popular outlets in Kittery. They are also open throughout the year, and some offer nice discounts in the wintertime.
2. Ogunquit
- South of Portland
- 45 minutes drive from Portland – Google Maps Route
- Ogunquit Google Maps Location
- Ogunquit Accommodations (via booking.com, price match!)
- Norseman Resort on the Beach in Ogunquit (Top Tip) Fantastic! It’s the only hotel located directly on Ogunquit Beach.
The best time to visit Ogunquit for great weather and almost endless activities is from late spring to fall, but it’s also a charming year-round destination. The main attraction of this coastal town is the gorgeous beach with fluffy white sand. It is known as the most beautiful beach in New England and is worth visiting any time of the year.
Every restaurant, hotel, and shop is open in June, but it also gets a little crowded in late June.
Marginal Way Tips: This famous paved path is a must-do. It offers gorgeous scenic ocean and cliff views. There are dozens of benches if you’d like to rest. Get there early (around 9 AM) when visiting in late June to avoid the crowds and to find a parking spot. We prefer Perkins Cove (Google Maps). The parking lots at Marginal Way fill up quickly between spring and fall. However, even in the summer, you can enjoy almost solitude by starting the walk around even earlier at 8 AM. Alternatively, get there in the late afternoon, when many visitors already left.
Late June Visiting Tip: Ogunquit Beach gets busier later in the month. Tip: Stay there one night, so you can get up early enough to avoid the crowds and parking hassle. Also, check the tide times for low tide, as it’s much more relaxed during low tide. At high tide, the beach can feel extremely crowded.
Stay One Night: We highly recommend staying at least one night in Ogunquit (in a gorgeous beachfront hotel or a resort) to dodge the crowds and explore the stunning beach and coastal area in solitude in the morning. Otherwise, it’s easy to day-trip Ogunquit from Portland (45 minutes drive).
3. Wells
- South of Portland
- 35 minutes drive from Portland – Google Maps Route
- Wells Google Maps Location
- Wells Accommodations (via booking.com, price match)
Wells is located midway between Ogunquit (see above) and Kennebunkport (see below) and is only a very short 10-12 minutes drive from both towns. It’s smaller, without a nice downtown area, fewer shops, fewer restaurants, and fewer hotels. While the beaches are beautiful in Wells, locals say that Ogunquit is definitely better as far as impressive beaches go.
Wells in a Nutshell:
- Nearby Ogunquit and Kennebunkport but smaller
- Smaller and less touristy than Kennebunkport and Ogunquit
- Fewer restaurants, shops, and hotels but cheaper rates
- Great beaches but not as gorgeous as in Ogunquit
Best Lobster Rolls: We recommend driving a few minutes to Kennebunkport and eating at the excellent ‘Clam Shack’ (see below).
Pizza Tip: In case you already had enough lobster rolls, try the best pizza in Wells at Seacoast Pizza and Pasta
Tip: If you plan to visit in early June expect a quiet time with fantastic scenery. The best place to stay in the town is the Village by the Sea (via booking.com with price match). Their beautiful indoor pool and hot tub are perfect for relaxation after a walk at the beach.
4. Kennebunkport
- South of Portland
- 38 minutes drive from Portland – Google Maps Route
- Kennebunkport Google Maps Location
- Kennebunkport Accommodations (via booking.com, price match)
Just a 20 minutes drive from Ogunquit and a half an hour drive from Portland, you’ll find this historic town with the typical New England charm.
Best Time: A great time to visit Kennebunkport for almost perfect weather is in late June. Top Tip: Late May and early June is a great shoulder season period. You will enjoy pleasant weather without the heavy summer tourist crowds. Also, all the restaurants and shops are open, and almost every activity, from sailing tours to kayaking, is possible.
Activity Tips: The 15 best things to do in Kennebunkport via TripAdvisor
Kennebunkport vs. Ogunquit: Kennebunkport is located very close to Ogunquit (north of it) and offers similar beautiful beaches, also a great downtown area, shops, seafood restaurants, and the famous ‘Clam Shack,’ known as the best lobster shack on our planet, for quite a while. Locals say that Kennebunkport is classier while Ogunquit still has the ‘younger vibe.’
5. Portland
Portland is Maine’s cultural center and a vibrant city throughout the year. There is something to do in Portland every season. Visit captivating museums, explore attractions downtown, the brewery scene, and eat lobster in the best restaurants in the month of June.
Great Base: Portland is the best base if you want to enjoy food, shopping tours, and see the magnificent coastal scenery. It doesn’t offer as many outdoor and hiking options as other places along the coast.
Day Trips: Portland is also the perfect location for day trips to gorgeous coastal towns like Kennebunkport, Ogunquit, or Camden, as they are just nearby via a short drive (35-45 minutes).
Islands via Ferry: The ferry is an iconic and inexpensive way to visit the nearby Casco Islands, or just to view the stunning coastal scenery is a must-do activity. Check Casco Bay Lines for the schedule. They are operating in June.
Food Tip & Lighthouse: The restaurant with the tastiest lobster roll is Eventide! And don’t forget to see the historic and iconic lighthouse Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, which is probably the most photographed lighthouse in the whole world!
6. Boothbay Harbor
- North of Portland
- 1 hr 12 minutes drive from Portland – Google Maps Route
- Boothbay Harbor Google Maps Location
- Boothbay Harbor Accommodations (via booking.com, price match!)
June is one of the best times to visit Boothbay Harbor. However, it’s a year-round town, and there are still restaurants and hotels open in the previous months.
Boothbay Harbor is one of the tinier and less touristy coastal towns:
- A beautiful harbor
- No beach
- Fewer crowds in peak season
- Not as busy as Camden, Ogunquit, Kennebunkport, etc.
- It has a downtown area but not as big as other coastal towns with those dozens of shops and galleries.
Must-Do Things:
- Take a kayak tour around the islands.
- Book a boat trip from the docks.
- Visit the botanical gardens! Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
- TripAdvisor Tips: Things to do in Boothbay Harbor
Best Lobster: Visit Kaler’s Lobster directly in Boothbay Harbor (open in June, but closed in winter until mid-May)! However, we also recommend that you either walk half an hour or drive the 6 minutes over to Robinson’s Wharf in Southport (open year-round, no winter closures). They offer excellent lobster and a great outdoor opportunity to watch the boats while eating.
7. Rockland
- North of Portland
- 1 hr 40 minutes drive from Portland – Google Maps Route
- Rockland Google Maps Location
- Rockland Accommodations (via booking.com, price match!)
Rockland is located alongside Penobscot Bay. The best period to visit is from spring to fall, with June being a great time.
Like other mid-coast towns, Rockland is not known for its beaches, as the shoreline along this section of Maine’s coast is very rocky. That means you won’t find those beautiful long beaches here like in towns of Southern Maine. However, the views are just stunning!
Foodie Haven: Rockland is recognized as the one mid-coast town with the most restaurants, including the famous Primo: ‘A farm, with a restaurant at the edge of it’.
Things to Do: Visit the art museum, photograph the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, take a schooner (‘Windjammer’) sailing trip, and more: TripAdvisor – Best Things to Do in Rockland – Maine
Local Tip: Do something uniquely different: Visit the island of Vinalhaven with the Maine State Ferry Service in Rockland.
8. Rockport
- North of Portland
- Rockport Google Maps Location
- Rockport Accommodations (via booking.com, price match! We highly recommend Glen Cove Inn & Suites)
Rockport is situated right between Rockland and Camden (10 or 5 minutes drive to each town) and home to the historic coastal Samoset Resort. Rockport is smaller and less touristy. There are also fewer activities being offered.
Best Time: June is a great time to visit the smaller town of Rockport as everything is open and in full swing.
Activity Tip: Since Rockport belongs to the Rockland/Rockport/Camden area, you’ll find at least one excellent sailing tour operator here: Schooner Yach Heron (an unforgettable sailing experience!)
9. Camden
- North of Portland
- 1:40 hour drive from Portland – Google Maps Route
- Camden – Google Maps Location
- Camden Hotel Deals – via booking.com
Camden is a larger coastal town in Maine and can be visited year-round. However, June is an excellent time: You will ll find plenty of opportunities for eating and lodging.
Views and Shops: You’ll find truly captivating scenic views of the bay in Camden Hills State Park’s overlooks and in Camden itself along the coastline at any time of the year. If you’re looking for uniquely crafted items, visit the gift shops on the main street downtown. A must-visit is Camden Harbor Park, with a gorgeous landscape design and a beautiful panoramic view of the harbor.
Special Tip: Visit Camden Library and take a stroll around it. It’s a beautiful building with an impressive view of the harbor.
Restaurants: Waterfront vs. Petter Otts? The Waterfront Restaurant is the perfect place for eating delicious burgers and, of course, lobster rolls. Tip: Wait for a table outside and enjoy the fantastic view while eating.
However, for lobster and other seafood, we recommend ‘Peter Otts on the water.’ It’s the perfect seaside restaurant, and the lobster is fantastic (first, eat a burger at Waterfront and then lobster at Peter Otts). Both restaurants offer lovely views. Visit Megunticook River Falls as well.
Sailing Tour Tip: Take a schooner sailing tour. They are available in June and a must-do activity in Camden. Experience the magnificent coastline in such a unique way. View the islands, wildlife, and views of Camden Hills and other coastal mountains from a historic schooner. Penobscot Bay / Camden: Historic Schooner Day Sailing Trip starts at Peter Ott’s restaurant (see above).
10. Bar Harbor
- Google Maps Location
- Bar Harbor Accommodations via booking.com, price match (save the link!)
Bar Harbor is the gateway for all your explorations in Acadia National Park. Additionally, you can do so many things right in Bar Harbor: Eat fresh and tasty seafood, discover all sorts of shops and even art galleries, and explore the village environment.