Coastal Maine summer rental

Question

Looking for a house to rent for 2 weeks next August. I've checked VRBO and Air B&B, but there don't seem to be many listings. Am I too early or too late? When's the best time to find a rental?

Answer

Coastal Maine is an extremely popular destination for summer rentals, especially in August, which is peak season. This high demand means that many desirable properties get booked well in advance, sometimes a year or more ahead. By now, depending on the exact location, many of the best rentals may already be reserved.

Regarding timing for finding a rental:

Too early? No, looking now is not too early. In fact, many people start searching in the fall or winter for the following summer. The challenge is that high-demand weeks in August fill quickly, so early planning is essential.
Too late? Potentially, yes. If you are seeking a specific type of property—like a waterfront home with multiple bedrooms and easy beach access—availability in August can be limited this close to the season. Prices may also be higher for the remaining rentals.

Strategies to improve your chances:

Expand your search beyond VRBO and Airbnb. Consider local real estate offices that handle summer rentals, seasonal rental agencies, or smaller regional websites.
Be flexible with dates if possible. Sometimes shifting your two-week stay by a week or even a few days opens more options.
Consider nearby towns along the coast. If Bar Harbor or Kennebunkport are full, neighboring towns might have available properties while still giving you access to the coast.
Sign up for waiting lists or “notify me” alerts on rental sites. Some homeowners cancel or release properties closer to the season.
Be prepared to act quickly when a suitable rental appears. Good properties in August often get reserved within hours or days.

In short, for an August rental in Coastal Maine, you are not too early, but due to the high demand, it’s a competitive market. Expanding your search, being flexible, and using multiple channels can help you secure a rental.