We're considering renting a cottage on the ocean in southern Maine, and we're trying to decide when is the best time to do so -- assuming we can even still find one at this point, of course.

However, we're concerned about black flies and the weather, in general. (We've experienced black flies here in VT in June, and they can be MEAN!)

When do black flies typically show up in southern Maine, especially near the ocean? What might we expect for weather in June, July, August or September?

We stay a bit more north, in Bar Harbor, but I think the answer is similar. We've had trouble with mosquites in July/August, and have found mid-September to be the nicest time of year. Good weather, less crowded, and no mosquitoes to torment my husband!

~Liz

elberko:

Thanks for the reply.

Yes, we've stayed in many places in Maine over the years, but I really am interested in June on the coast this year. Any comments on that month, please?

Thanks!

Two years ago we camped for the 4th of July week. The weather was fantastic, even a bit hot. The campground was on a tidal river near some marsh but the only problems we had with bugs was in the evening when the mosquitos came out. We have also camped mid-June on the ocean and black flies haven't been a problem. Of course, if the cottage has a screened porch, you would be all set.

Thanks for the replies. We've gone ahead with plans to rent the cottage. It looks lovely, right on the water, with not much else around it.

Black flies aren't usually a problem on the ocean. They like it best inland a bit where there is clean fresh water. September is usually the nicest and most predictable month, but we can also get hurricanes in September.