By Anna Vidoni, Financial Services Assistant at S&B Financial Services
Summer in Maine. Arguably the best summer spot in the world, and although I haven’t traveled the world, I can confidently say it’s the best summer spot in New England. Lobster rolls, rocky coastlines, blueberry pie, hiking, beaches, lakes, ocean… Maine really does have it all.
When those perfect June temperatures hit after the long winter hibernation, we forget it won’t stay a blissful 74 degrees forever. Soon enough, August rolls around and everyone starts to panic. We’ve been conditioned to think summer is over after August, or even sooner. But it’s not!
Did you know that the last official day of summer is the autumnal equinox on September 22? Also, the average high temperature in Maine in September is a delightful 71 degrees! I think we, as Mainers (she says with gusto), are doing the summer season a disservice if we don’t grasp at every last drop of warmth it has to offer.
With that said, here are some fun-in-the-sun activities to help you enjoy summer all through September. After all, that is what summer deserves!
Sail Casco Bay with Portland Schooner Company Sails
Where: Portland, Maine
When: Four sails daily – one in the morning, two in the afternoon, and a dreamy sunset sail.
Nothing says summer like the salty breeze on your face and a lobster roll in hand. Hop aboard a classic schooner for a two-hour sail through Casco Bay. It’s BYOB and picnic-friendly, so grab something delicious in the Old Port, kick back, and dine alfresco — on a sailboat. Think Portland skyline views, historic lighthouses, and full-on main character energy..
Evening Beach Visit in Old Orchard Beach or Kennebunkport
Where: OOB: 1 Portland Avenue — Kennebunkport: Colony Beach (Ocean Avenue) and Goose Rocks Beach (Kings Highway)
When: Anytime, but evenings are my personal favorite
As the crowds thin and the tourists head home, beach evenings are a great way to kick back and relax after work. Pack a blanket, grab a pizza (or an ice cream — no judgment) and stay until the sun goes down. Whether it’s a solo escape, a date night, or a laid-back family dinner, the beach is a great way to unwind, get outside, and soak in the Maine coast.
Kayak or Paddleboard the Scarborough Marsh or Kennebunk River
Where: Scarborough Marsh (92 Pine Point Road, Scarborough) or Kennebunk River (public launch located at the end of Mill Lane, Kennebunkport)
When: Warm September afternoons or golden hour paddles.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard (or borrow one from that friend who’s always trying to get you on the water) and glide through the natural beauty of Maine’s scenic marshes or winding rivers.
Portland Paddle and
Fun & Sun Rentals are great local options.
Bonus tip: Try a dusk paddle and catch birds beginning their migration — it’s like drifting through a scene straight out of The Notebook.
Ride Retro at the Seashore Trolley Museum
Where: 195 Log Cabin Road, Kennebunkport
When: Open weekends in September – check their schedule for events
All aboard for a sweet ride into the past. The Seashore Trolley Museum features vintage trolley cars you can ride, picnic spots to relax, and wide-open space for the kids and dogs to run free. It’s charming, low-key, and delightfully retro.
Bonus: September 7 is Grandparents Day — bring the whole family and make a memory!
What I wish for you, dear reader, is that these few ideas have rekindled your summer state of mind. You work hard and deserve to relax and enjoy every last vestige of the warm season. So, try something new. Enjoy the weather while we have it. Invite your friends. Bring your family. Because, soon enough, hibernation season will arrive, and we’ll find ourselves happily reminiscing on the summer memories we made in September.
