Great weather, delicious lobster, and low prices: choosing the best time to travel to Maine

With its rocky coastline dotted with lighthouses, picturesque sandy beaches, and wooded hiking trails, Maine lives up to its nickname, "Vacationland." The comfortable climate in summer makes this state a popular destination for tourists looking for an escape from the heat.

However, at any time of the year, the region offers unique benefits and activities for visitors. Whether you're planning a trip to admire nature, go fishing, or try fresh lobster, there's always a good time to visit Maine," Travel + Leisure writes.

The tourist seasons here fall into three main categories: high season - from June to August, shoulder seasons - May and September-October, low season - from November to April.

Best time to visit Maine for small groups

Maine's high season starts around Memorial Day and runs through Labor Day. During this period, June is a slower month as the weather is generally still mild but may be too cold or rainy to enjoy beach days. In late August and September, the temperatures are warm enough to enjoy the coast without the peak summer crowds. "I find May, early June and October to be the best time to visit Maine," Daniel Brown, manager of The White Barn Inn in Kennebunk, told Travel + Leisure. "During this time, the weather is still great and there are fewer tourists, allowing travelers to experience the small-town charm that Maine has to offer."

September and October are relatively quiet compared to the bustling summer season. Fall is perfect for trips to enjoy the quintessential New England fall foliage and apple picking at local farms.

"The pace of life slows down a bit, the crowds thin out a bit, the weather is crisp, dry and beautiful, and my personal interests - fishing and hunting - are at their peak," says Andrew Taylor, chef and co-owner of the James Beard Award-winning Eventide Oyster Co.

September offers a balance between fantastic weather and fewer crowds.

"There really isn't a bad time to come to Maine, but I think my favorite time is the end of September," says Ben Conniff, co-founder of Luke's Lobster. - It's still warm, some days as warm as summer. But the tourist flow slows down, so it's easier to get around, and parks, restaurants, and other attractions are not as crowded."

Brown echoed this opinion about a September trip: "In my opinion, September is the best time to visit Maine for weather. Free from the heat and humidity of August, the days are pleasantly warm for outdoor activities, and the evenings bring a refreshing coolness. Water temperatures remain pleasant, allowing visitors to enjoy swimming in the ocean or lakes, and of course, September, with fewer crowds, offers a relaxed environment to fully enjoy Maine's many attractions."

Cozy evenings by the fireplace and opportunities to save money

When the temperature drops, prices at resorts also drop. In winter, you can often find accommodation for a fraction of the peak summer prices. Brown recommends planning a trip between January and April for lower prices. "Despite the cold, this period offers a unique and cozy experience worth traveling for. The quintessential winter stay in Maine is the joy of being able to cozy up to the fireplace with a warm drink in hand while the snow falls outside. It's a scene straight out of a storybook, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere that encapsulates the essence of a winter vacation."

For winter recreation enthusiasts, there are plenty of opportunities to explore nature on skis, snowshoes and ice fishing. On the fourth Sunday of March every year, Maine celebrates Maple Day, which welcomes spring. For this beloved state tradition, maple syrup producers open their doors to the public and demonstrate how the syrup is made, usually offering samples to visitors who stop by.

Bluefin tuna, scallops and lobsters: when the local seafood season starts

Although Maine is best known for its signature shellfish, it offers more than just lobster. Bluefin tuna, halibut, and scallops are just some of Maine's best local seafood. "All the seasons are pretty special, but I think fall and winter are the best," Taylor says. "In the fall, the bluefin tuna fishery is at its peak, and the oyster and mussel harvest is in full swing. The water cools, beautiful swordfish emerge from the Gulf of Maine, and lobsters are cheap (relatively) and plentiful."

For visitors who want to plan their trip around lobster season, Conniff agreed that fall is the best time to come. "The end of September is also a great time for seafood, as it is the peak season for lobsters in their new shells."

Another industry is flourishing in Maine's coastal waters. "Maine kelp is also amazing, and it adds a great revenue stream for fishermen and shellfish farmers," says Conniff. - "I add it to just about every green dish or sauce I make, and it adds a nice umami flavor and a lot of health benefits.

When not to visit Maine

Each season has its advantages and disadvantages, so determining the best and worst time to visit Maine depends on what you want to see and do. In spring, the state receives a lot of rain, summer is crowded with tourists and has the highest hotel prices, fall is a bit cool for outdoor activities, and winter is all about ice, snow, and storms.

Do you want to relax on the beach on the warmest days, despite the traffic jams, overcrowded restaurants, and advance reservations? July and August are the warmest (and busiest) months in Maine. Are you ready to get a little warmer in exchange for the most delicious lobster and fewer crowds? September and October are the months for you. Do you want to curl up by the fire, try your hand at cold weather activities, and take advantage of some of the lowest prices offered by hotels? A mid-winter escape during the first few months of the year is for you.