If you’re wondering when to visit Maine, July and August are some of our favorite months. There are so many great things to do in Maine in July and August! And, no matter what your summer vacation itinerary entails this year, you’ll find that coastal Maine is the perfect place to enjoy some time away. Here are a dozen great things to do in Maine in July and August!
Whether you want to take it easy or pack in tons of activities while you’re in York, we have come up with some of the best things to do in Maine in July and August to help you start planning your ultimate summer getaway.
Best Things to Do in July
1. Lounge on the Beach
Nothing says summer getaway quite like taking it easy with your toes in the sand and the roaring surf before you. York’s beaches are perfect for lounging, taking walks, sunbathing, playing games and playing in the surf. Whether you go to York Beach, Long Sands Beach or Short Sands Beach, you’ll have some fun in the sun.
2. Go Whale Watching
Another of our favorite things to do in the summer is whale watching in Maine. July is one of the prime whale watching months, so you have a good chance of spotting a Humpback Whale, Minke Whale, or even a rare Blue Whale. Other marine life you may encounter includes dolphins and harbor seals. Head to Granite State Whale Watch or Nick’s Chance Whale Watch Tour to set sail.
3. Enjoy Fresh Maine Seafood
When you’re looking for places to visit in Maine in the summer, be sure to take advantage of all the fresh seafood that comes off the boats. The best place to get a taste of this bounty is at a top-quality York establishment like the Dockside Restaurant. From a Classic Lobster Roll for lunch to New England Seafood Chowder followed by a one and half pound Maine Lobster for dinner, you can get your fill of fresh Maine seafood at Dockside.
4. Stay at Dockside Guest Quarters
We might be biased, but out of all the best summer vacation spots in Maine, the best has to be staying at Dockside Guest Quarters. Not only are our accommodations stylish and comfortable, but our property is a wonderful place to relax and get away from it all. With the lawn overlooking the harbor, it’s easy to find a place to watch the activity on the water or settle in with a book. All of our guests are welcome to play badminton, shuffleboard, and croquet on the property. Bicycles are also available for guests to borrow to take a beach cruise. Staying at Dockside Guest Quarters will make your time in Maine this summer memorable. We’ll see you soon!
5. July 4th Fireworks
It’s time to visit Maine in July! Most towns host a waterfront fireworks show on July 4th! Make sure to check with the various cities to see where you can ooh and aah at a beautifully lit sky.
6. Moxie Festival
The Moxie Festival has been held in Lisbon, ME, since 1982. This festival celebrates Moxie Maine’s original soda pop with included tastings, inspired recipes, collector’s items, and more!
7. Tallships Parade in Portland Harbor
Head to Portland Harbor to watch a fleet of historic ships in a parade. During the parade, the ships are open for tours for two days until they end their voyage at the Tallships America Challenge.
8. Yarmouth Clam Festival
This mid-July festival is one of the most popular in the state! Find your way to Yarmouth, ME, to enjoy this annual three-day event filled with everything clams. The festival includes the Friday night parade, Saturday night fireworks, clam shucking contests, clam cook-offs, clam cooking demos, and more!
9. Annual Boothbay Harbor Antique Show
Finish July at the Boothbay Harbor Antique Show! Whether you’re looking for your next statement piece or just something to spruce up your home decor, you will find a plethora of antiques, collectibles, and treasures from a number of different sellers.
Best Things to Do in August
10. Paddle Battle at Nonantum Resort
Check out this annual race of canoes, paddleboards, and kayaks on the Kennebunk River! Whether you’re stopping by to watch the race, or participating, you’re sure to have a good time.
11. Great Falls Baloon Festival
As one of the largest hot air balloon festivals in northern New England, the Great Falls Balloon Festival holds over 100,000 people. Watch as 30-40 balloons launch from the banks of the Androscoggin River. This festival also features food, crafts, a children’s area, and music!
12. Wells Annual Chilifest
Toward the end of August enjoy a chili cook-off from some of the best chefs in the area. Chefs from all over Wells leave their stations to cook their best chili. Enjoy the food, music and various crafts during the last weekend of August.
Plan Your Summer Vacation to York
Are you ready for a summer vacation to York? Our waterfront Maine bed and breakfast, Dockside Guest Quarters is ready for you! Browse our beautiful rooms and see for yourself how great a summer vacation to York can be!
