Maine Coast Water Temperature, Tides & Buoy Report

Region: Maine

The Maine coast stretches over 3,500 miles of rocky shoreline from Kittery to Eastport, making it one of the most geographically complex coastlines in the United States. Situated at the western edge of the Gulf of Maine — one of the most rapidly warming bodies of water on the planet — this coast experiences some of the most extreme tidal ranges on the East Coast, with spring tides reaching 9–20 feet depending on location. The combination of cold, deep water, powerful tides, and full Atlantic exposure creates conditions that demand constant monitoring.

NOAA Stations Near Maine Coast

• GULF OF MAINE - 78 NM East of Portsmouth, NH (44005)
• PORTLAND - 12 NM Southeast of Portland,ME (44007)
• Jonesport, ME - 20 NM SE of Jonesport, ME (44027)
• Buoy B01 - Western Maine Shelf (44030)
• Buoy F01 - Penobscot Bay (44033)

Frequently Asked Questions

What conditions does Big Buoy track near the Maine coast?

Big Buoy tracks real-time water temperature, wave height, swell period and direction, wind speed and direction, and atmospheric pressure from 14 stations across the region, including Gulf of Maine (offshore reference), Portland, Jonesport, Western Maine Shelf, and Penobscot Bay. You also get 7-day tide forecasts, solunar tables, and extended weather outlooks covering the coast from Casco Bay to the Downeast shore.

What is the tidal range along the Maine coast?

Tidal range along the Maine coast is among the most extreme on the East Coast — approximately 9 feet at Portland and increasing to over 18 feet near Eastport on the Downeast coast. The enormous volume of water moving through the rocky channels and island passages on every tide change creates powerful currents that can be hazardous in the narrows and around offshore ledges.

What conditions should I check before heading out on the Maine coast?

Tidal phase and current strength are critical — the 9–14 foot tidal range creates powerful currents through the island passages and channels. Check fog conditions before departing: dense fog blankets the coast frequently from June through August when warm air moves over the cold Gulf of Maine water. Wind direction matters for sea state — nor'easters build steep, confused seas over the shallow ledges and shoals. Water temperature stays cold even in summer (45–60°F). Big Buoy shows real-time data from five NOAA stations covering the coast plus tide and weather forecasts for planning.

What NOAA stations does Big Buoy track near Maine Coast?

Big Buoy tracks 882 NOAA buoys and 3,400+ tide stations nationwide, with many in the Maine Coast area — including GULF OF MAINE - 78 NM East of Portsmouth, NH (44005), PORTLAND - 12 NM Southeast of Portland,ME (44007), Jonesport, ME - 20 NM SE of Jonesport, ME (44027), Buoy B01 - Western Maine Shelf (44030), Buoy F01 - Penobscot Bay (44033). Each station reports water temperature, wave height, wind speed and direction, and more — updated every 10 minutes. Open the map to see all stations near Maine Coast.

What marine conditions are available for Maine Coast?

Big Buoy shows real-time water temperature, wave height, swell period, wind speed and direction, 7-day tide tables with exact high and low times, and daily solunar peak windows for Maine Coast.

Is Big Buoy free to use for Maine Coast marine conditions?

Yes. Real-time buoy data, tides, and solunar for Maine Coast are completely free with no account required. Big Buoy Pro adds the Wind Tab, the Depth Chart, satellite overlays (sea surface temp, chlorophyll, currents), 16-day forecasts, and forecast model switching.