Cape Elizabeth

Planning a trip or just curious about the weather in Cape Elizabeth? Here you'll find the most up-to-date information, including detailed forecasts and weather charts, to keep you informed of any changes.

The climate in Cape Elizabeth is characterized as temperate with four distinct seasons. Visitors can expect significant changes in weather conditions throughout the year, allowing for a variety of activities depending on the timing of their visit. Winters here are cold, while summers are warm and comfortable, making it an attractive destination at different times of the year.

Winter (December–February) brings average temperatures below freezing, dropping to -2.1°C in January, with lows reaching -5.4°C. Spring (March–May) is marked by gradual warming, with average temperatures rising from 2.2°C in March to 12.6°C in May. Summer (June–August) is the warmest time of year, with average temperatures around 18–21°C; July is the peak month with maximum temperatures reaching 24.1°C. Autumn (September–November) brings a gradual cooling, from a pleasant 17.7°C in September to 5.8°C in November. Precipitation is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, ranging from 2 to 5 mm per month, with no pronounced rainy season. The number of rainy days is also relatively stable, ranging from 8 to 13 days per month.

The climate in Cape Elizabeth is characterized by notable seasonal temperature changes throughout the year. The hottest months are typically July, with an average temperature of about 21.4°C and maximum values reaching 24.1°C, and August, where the average temperature is 21.0°C and the maximum is 23.7°C. In contrast, the coldest months are January (average -2.1°C, low -5.4°C) and February (average -1.3°C, low -5.0°C), when the thermometer regularly drops below freezing.

Summer months in Cape Elizabeth, particularly June, July, and August, offer residents and visitors pleasantly warm weather. Average daily temperatures during this period range from 17.8°C in June to 21.4°C in July. Maximum daytime temperatures are usually within a comfortable range of 20.9°C to 24.1°C, creating ideal conditions for coastal activities and outdoor walks. Spring months, such as April and May, show a gradual warming trend, with average temperatures of 6.8°C and 12.6°C respectively, leading up to the summer season.

Winter in Cape Elizabeth, covering December, January, and February, brings cool and sometimes freezing weather. Average temperatures in these months range from -2.1°C in January to 0.8°C in December, with minimum night-time temperatures potentially dropping to -5.4°C. In autumn, during September and October, temperatures gradually decrease from a pleasant 17.7°C to a cooler 12.5°C. Diurnal temperature fluctuations throughout the year are generally moderate, with the difference between daytime highs and nighttime lows staying within 5–7°C, which is especially noticeable during the winter and transitional months.

In Cape Elizabeth, monthly precipitation is low and fluctuates within a narrow range. The highest average precipitation, around 5 mm, usually occurs in December, while May is the "driest" month, receiving only about 2 mm. The frequency of days with precipitation is also relatively stable: the highest number of such days is observed in April (about 13 days), and the lowest in September (about 8 days). In other months, the number of days with precipitation generally varies between 10 and 12.

The nature of precipitation in Cape Elizabeth changes depending on the season and air temperature. During the winter months, especially from December to February, when average monthly temperatures drop below freezing (for example, in January the average temperature is -2.1°C and lows can reach -5.4°C), precipitation primarily falls as snow. During transitional periods, such as March (average temperature 2.2°C) and November (average temperature 5.8°C), both rain and sleet are possible, particularly during night-time cold spells. In the warmer season, from April to October, when temperatures are significantly higher, precipitation falls mostly as rain.

When planning a trip to Cape Elizabeth, it is important to consider the changeable weather characteristic of this coastal region. Regardless of the season, it is recommended to pack layered clothing. In summer (June–August), daytime temperatures are pleasant, averaging around 21°C, so T-shirts, shorts, and light trousers are appropriate. However, evenings can be cool, especially near the water, so a light jacket or sweater will come in handy. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun can be quite strong. Given that an average of 10–12 days in the summer months may see precipitation, a light waterproof jacket or umbrella will also be useful.

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) in Cape Elizabeth are characterized by cooler weather and frequent precipitation. Temperatures in spring gradually rise from an average of 2.2°C in March to 12.6°C in May, while in autumn they drop from 17.7°C in September to 5.8°C in November. During these seasons, you'll need warm sweaters, fleeces, jeans or heavy trousers, and a waterproof, windproof jacket. Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes are a must, as the number of days with precipitation remains significant (8–13 days per month).

Winter (December–February) in Cape Elizabeth is cold, with average temperatures around -1°C to 0°C and overnight frosts. You'll need to pack a warm winter jacket, a hat, a scarf, gloves, and possibly thermal underwear. Although the amount of precipitation in millimeters is low (3–5 mm), it often falls as snow or freezing rain, so warm, non-slip waterproof footwear will be essential. Regardless of the season, don't forget comfortable walking shoes, as there is plenty to see in Cape Elizabeth.