Is it too soon to have sex?

My boyfriend and I have been dating for almost 3 months. The past month he's been in California visiting family (I live in Virginia). My 18th birthday is August 3rd and he comes back to VA on August 1st. He's been hinting around the idea of having sex. Do you think it's too soon? Do you think his motive of dating is for physical attraction? Although we've only been dating for a short period of time, we've been close friends for over a year now and I truly do love him. I know he loves me too, I just need advice about if it's too soon or not. Of course we'll be using protection. Thanks for your help!