Last updated on April 26th, 2023 at 12:13 pm

14 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Maine

Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Maine:

1. Fort Foster Beach
2. Wells Beach
3. Goose Rocks
4. Kennebunk Beach
5. Short Sands Beach
6. Long Sands Beach
7. Kinney Shores
8. Gooch’s Beach
9. Seapoint Beach
10. Williard Beach
11. Drakes’s Island
12. East End Beach
13. Laite Beach Park
14. Old Orchard Beach

As the summer season is in full swing, people are looking for ways to beat the heat and what better way to do so than by spending some quality time with your furry friend at the beach. If you’re looking for the best dog-friendly beaches Maine, look no further! From the Atlantic ocean to Portland, Maine has a variety of beaches that allow dogs. Here is a list of the best dog-friendly beaches in Maine that your pooch is sure to love.

Fort Foster Beach

Fort Foster Beach is a great place to take your dog for a walk or a run. The dog-friendly beach is located in Kittery Point, Maine, and is open from morning until sunset. You can also see seals playing in the water here, which makes it a great spot for seal watching. Just remember that dogs must be on a leash at all times while at the beach.

Address: Fort Foster Park, 38C7+68 Kittery, ME, See map: Google Maps

Fort Foster Park Pet Policies and Regulations

• Dogs are prohibited from Pier Beach east of the Pier (left side from parking lot) for approximately 400 feet, or as designated by signs. (8/23/04)

• Except for dogs, no domestic animals are permitted in the park. 
• On weekends in May and September, as well as every day from Memorial Day to Labor Day, doggos are not permitted on Pier South Beach, as stated by signs. 
• Dogs must be on a leash from 10 a.m. until the park closes on weekends in May and September, and all day from Memorial Day to Labor Day, inclusive.
• From the day after Labor Day of one year to the day before Memorial Day of the next, dogs must be on a leash from 10AM to 3PM.
• The maximum leash length is ten feet.
• While in the park, dog owners must pick up and secure pet feces as soon as possible.
• Dog waste must be collected by dog owners on public property; it cannot be left for future retrieval.  
• While in the park, dogs are not permitted to be brought in excess of three at once.

Wells Beach

Wells Beach is a great place to bring your dog to run around and explore. The beach is named after one of Maine’s oldest towns, Wells, and it is a beautiful place to visit. Dogs are allowed to roam off leash, and they will surely enjoy meeting other friendly dogs on the beach. There are also stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean to enjoy. Just be sure to keep an eye on your dog around the sea birds nesting on the shore.

Address: Wells, ME 04090

Wells Beach Pet Policies and Regulations

Beaches in Wells have specific pet policies that must be followed in order to ensure the safety of all beach-goers.

• Dogs are not allowed on the beach from April 1st to June 15th, unless they are on a leash and with a responsible person. 
• From June 16th to September 15th, dogs are not allowed on the beach between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., but they are allowed during other hours as long as they are on a leash and with a responsible person. This does not apply to seeing-eye dogs or other dogs assisting an individual with a disability, or to working police dogs. 
• Any feces left by the dog at Harbor Park disposal is accomplished by transporting the feces to an appropriate waste receptacle. This section does not apply to working police dogs while on duty or to a dog accompanying any handicapped person who, by reason of his/her handicap, is physically unable to comply with the requirements of this section. 
• Ponies, llamas, vicunas, alpacas, and other large domesticated animals are not allowed within beach areas. This is permitted between October 2 – March 3.

Paid Parking Lots

Hours: 8AM to 7PM, Closed from 11PM to 6AM – No overnight parking.

Paid Parking Rules: Resident Beach Sticker. Meter Parking: $4 per hour – strictly enforced. Meters accept Credit Cards, Tokens & Coins with a pay and display ticket to be placed on front dashboard.

Goose Rocks

Goose Rocks Beach is a beautiful sandy beach that stretches for three miles. It is a popular spot for families and their pets, as it is one of the few beaches that allow dogs. The calm waters of Goosefare Bay make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the fresh salty air with your pet. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.

The Trust owns seven beachfront lots, which are open to the public year-round. The preserved land adds 97 acres and a 13 acre island to the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. Families have been enjoying Goose Rocks Beach for generations and it has become a special spot for all who experience it.

The beach also serves as an outdoor classroom for the Trust In Our Children and Discovery Days programs. These programs allow learners of all ages to come and explore the area.

Timber Point is another area that the Trust has worked to preserve. The land was donated to the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge in order to protect the abundant wildlife and its habitats. The public now has access to this sanctuary with footpaths to explore.

Address: Kennebunkport, ME 04046

Goose Rocks Beach Pet Policies and Regulations

Seasonal dog rules are posted on signs at beach entrances. Please follow them to respect everyone’s enjoyment of the beach.

• April 1- June 14: Dogs must be leashed
• June 15 – Labor Day: No dogs allowed 9 AM – 5 PM / leashed other times
• Labor Day – September 15: Dogs must be leashed (end of nesting plover season)
• September 16 -March 31: Dogs must be leashed Noon – 6 PM / unleashed other times if under voice control

Schedule For Dogs On The Goose Rock Beach

Goose Rock Beach Rules

• PARKING only permitted in posted spaces on King’s Highway, Dyke Road, & New Biddeford Road. 
• Parking PERMITS are required from Memorial Day Weekend – Labor Day between 8 AM and 6 PM. 
• PARKING FEES – Nonresident: $25 daily, $100 weekly, and $200 seasonal. Passes can be purchased at kiosks at the GRB General Store and near Proctor Avenue entrance. 
• PUBLIC BEACH ACCESS only at posted entrances. 
• RESPECT 25 – FOOT RESERVED AREAS – Beach Use Agreement signers may ask you to sit or play beyond their 25-foot sand “Reserved Areas.”Plovers and Terns in the Goose Rocks Beach

Goose Rocks Beach is one of Maine’s essential habitats for endangered Plovers and Terns. Historically, the birds have nested at the west end from April through August. However, Plovers have been known to nest elsewhere on the beach.

• Be alert to signs & wire cages that mark nesting areas.
• Dogs must be leashed and kept at least 200’ away from marked nesting areas.
• There are fines for noncompliance of the Dog Leash Ordinance as well as serious federal fines possible under the Endangered Species Act.
• RESPECT DUNE GRASSIt protects homes, maintains beaches and enhances wildlife habitat.

Kennebunk Beach

Kennebunk Beach is a beach located in Kennebunk, Maine that is perfect for families with small children. The beach is also known as Mother’s Beach due to the amount of mothers who bring their children here during summertime. The sand at the beach is soft and there are plenty of tidal pools for exploring. There are no lifeguards on duty, but there is a playground for children to enjoy.

Address: Kennebunk, ME 04043

Kennebunk Beach Pet Policies and Regulations

• Pets are not allowed on the beach during the busy season from June 15th to Labor Day. The reason for this is that the beach becomes very crowded during these months, and it is not safe for pets to be around so many people. Pets are only allowed on the beach before 9 AM and after 5 PM during the busy season.
• After Labor Day to June 14, dogs are allowed on the beach any time. This is because the beach is not as crowded and there are not as many people around. Dogs must be under voice control or on leashes at all times. Owners must carry a leash with them at all times in case their dog needs to be put on a leash.

Short Sands Beach

Short Sands Beach is a very popular beach that is located in the village of York Beach. The beach is a quarter-mile long and is made up of sand that is tucked between rocky cliffs. 

The beach offers public restrooms, seasonal lifeguards, metered parking, a large sandy playground, basketball courts, a gazebo and a large grassy park area. There is also a promenade walkway that runs along the beach and has many conveniently located benches. 

Throughout the summer, the Ellis Park Trustees host free concerts and events in their park. There are a variety of shops, entertainment, attractions, restaurants, and hotels close by that make Short Sands Beach a desirable tourist destination. 

Town of York owns and operates Ellis Park and Short Sands Beach under a private Board of trustees known as the Ellis Park Committee

Address: Ocean Avenue – Route 1A, York Beach, ME 03910

Short Sands Beach Pet Policies and Regulations

• From May 20th to September 20th, no domestic animals are permitted between the hours of 8:00am and 6:00pm.
• Between May 20th and September 20th, between 6:00 p.m. and sunrise, you must have a leash on your dog.

Long Sands Beach

Long Sands Beach is located about halfway between York Harbor and York Beach in the town of York. From mid-June to Labor Day, Long Sands Beach is a popular tourist destination with an average of three to five thousand people passing through each day.

Swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and volleyball are some of the most popular activities on the beach. Long Beach Avenue has metered parking that is available from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., and there is a public toilet facility halfway along the beach with paid parking. Handicapped parking and access ramps are close by near the public toilet facility.

Restrooms, food concessions, and cold drinks are available at the beach. Lifeguards are on duty from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and there is a first-aid station located in the public restroom facility. Beachgoers are reminded to swim only when lifeguards are on duty and to heed all posted warnings.

The beach is open to the public from sunrise to sunset. Dogs are not allowed on the beach from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

Address: Long Beach Avenue – Route 1A, York Beach, ME 03910

Long Sands Beach Pet Policies and Regulations

• From May 20th through September 20th, no domestic animals are permitted between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
• Between May 20th and September 20th between 6:00pm and sunrise, your dog must be on a leash.

Kinney Shores

Kinney Shores is a great place to visit for pet lovers who want to give their four-legged friends a unique experience. Located in Saco, this beach allows dogs at any time of the day during the summer season. Visitors can swim, surf, run or walk with their dog as much as they want.

In addition to Kinney Shores, there is also Ogunquit, Saco Beach. Ogunquit is best to avoid from April 1st to October 1st as there is a ban on pets during this period. Also, unlike Kinney Shores, dogs are required to be on a leash and under control from April 1st to September 30th.

Address: Kinney Shores, Saco, Maine 04072, USA

Kinney Shores Beach Pet Policies and Regulations

• Dogs must be leashed on beaches from April 1st through September 30th. This includes Kinney Shore, Bayview Beach, and Camp Ellis Beach. From April 1st through September 30th, on the Beaches of Saco, a leash with a length of no longer than 12 feet should be used at all times.
• Dogs can be off leash if they are under Voice Control and Sight Control from October 1st through March 31st.
• When a section of a beach has been roped off, fenced off, or otherwise demarcated or marked as a protected area to safeguard the piping plover’s nesting ground or any other threatened species under federal law, no dog shall approach within 100 feet of that area.
• On beaches, dogs must be on a leash while entering or exiting vehicles.

Gooch’s Beach

Gooch’s Beach, located in Kennebunk, is one of the cleanest pet-friendly beaches in Maine. With your pet, you may go for a peaceful stroll or an energetic run here. 

Address: Gooch’s Beach, Kennebunk, Maine 04043, USA

Gooch’s Beach Pet Policies and Regulations

• Your dog may enjoy being leash-free as long as they can follow your voice and remain under your control (from June 15th through Labour Day, dogs must be on a leash).
• From June 15th through September 3rd, dogs are not allowed on the beach between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
• 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. is the only time that dogs are allowed on the beach from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
• Dogs must be under control and quiet at all times while on Gooch’s Beach.

Seapoint Beach

At low tide, a dog-friendly beach is always ideal for your pet to romp about. Seaboint Beach in Kittery Point is one such location, where you can start playtime with your doggie right after 5 p.m., as opposed to other beaches where you must wait until 7 p.m. Here, you may come across some rocks to play fetch with your pup as well.

Address: Seapoint Beach, Kittery Point, Maine 03905, USA

Seapoint Beach Pet Policies and Regulations

• Dogs are not allowed on the beach from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
• From October 1st through March 31st, dogs may be off leash as long as they are under Voice Control and Sight Control.
• From April 1st through September 30th, dogs must be on a leash at all times while on the beach.
• Dogs are not allowed in the water from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
• Dogs must be under control and quiet at all times while on Seapoint Beach.

Williard Beach

The best dog-friendly beaches in Portland, Maine are Heckleberry Park and Upper Willard Beach. This beautiful beach is located in South Portland and allows dogs during the summer season. One may take their pet for a brief run or go for a stroll while taking in the ocean view.

Address: Willard Beach, South Portland, Maine 04106, USA

Willard Beach Pet Policies and Regulations

• The period of time during which pets are welcome is 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., from Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day.
• Dogs are not allowed on the beach from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
• From October 1st through March 31st, dogs may be off leash as long as they are under Voice Control and Sight Control.
• From April 1st through September 30th, dogs must be on a leash at all times while on the beach.
• Dogs are not allowed in the water from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
• Dogs must be under control and quiet at all times while on Willard Beach.

Drakes’s Island

This is a fine location for dog beaches in Maine. This pet-friendly beach is found in Wells and allows dogs, but there’s a restriction. 

Address: Drakes’s Island, Wells, Maine 04090, USA

Drakes’s Island Pet Policies and Regulations

• The dog owner must supervise all feces or messes that their pet creates, as well as any resulting pollution.
•  Dogs are allowed on the beach from June 15th to August 16th, daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Dogs must be on a leash at all times while on the beach.
• Dogs are not allowed in the water from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
• Dogs must be under control and quiet at all times while on Drakes’s Island.

East End Beach

This Portland city park beach is the finest dog-friendly location in Maine since you may set your pet free here from his or her constraints (i.e. off-leash) and let them have fun on their own alongside the beach sections. If your pet enjoys rolling or running on the beach, visit East End Beach in Portland, which is located close to the Eastern Promenade.

Address: East End Beach, Portland, Maine 04101, USA

East End Beach Pet Policies and Regulations

• Dogs are not allowed on the beach from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
• From October 1st through March 31st, dogs may be off leash as long as they are under Voice Control and Sight Control.
• From April 1st through September 30th, dogs must be on a leash at all times while on the beach.
• Dogs are not allowed in the water from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
• Dogs must be under control and quiet at all times while on East End Beach.

Laite Beach Park

The Laite Memorial Beach in Camden, Maine, is one of the finest dog beaches in the state. Keeping a leash in your hand and having control over your pets is necessary here so that your pet may enjoy an off-leash day.  

Address: Laite Beach Park, Camden, Maine 04843, USA

Laite Beach Park Pet Policies and Regulations

• Dogs are not allowed on the beach and in the water from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
• From October 1st through March 31st, dogs may be off leash as long as they are under Voice Control and Sight Control.
• From April 1st through September 30th, dogs must be on a leash at all times while on the beach. 
• From 6 am to 8 am and from 6 pm to 10 pm from 1 May to 30 September, the dogs may be off the leash.
• Dogs must be under control and quiet at all times while on Laite Beach Park.

Old Orchard Beach

This is a very popular dog beach in Maine that people visit with their pets. You can find this beach in the town of Old Orchard Beach and it’s one of the top destinations for travelers with pets. 

Address: 1 Portland Ave, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, USA

Old Orchard Beach Pet Policies and Regulations

Pet policy is similar to the rules of the beach Laite Beach Park

Other Dog-Friendly Beaches in Maine

If you’re interested in other dog-friendly beaches in Maine, here’s a summary of them:

Bay View Beach

In Saco, Bay View Beach is located. The dogs here may enjoy the beach all day long, but they must be leashed on certain days due to piping plover nests (from April 1st to September 30th).

Mother’s Beach

This beach is a great spot for pups in Kennebunk. Dogs must be on leash at all times. During the off-season, your pet may enjoy the seaside fun from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m., and from 6 pm until 9 am during the summer season.

Camp Ellis Beach

Camp Ellis Beach is a beautiful beach that’s ideal for a quick holiday with your lovely dog. Keep your dog on a leash and enjoy all the low-paced activities on the beach.

Higgins Beach

While in Scarborough, one must follow certain regulations when it comes to pets, as there are several rules that apply at various stages of the season. Depending on the season, pet dogs are permitted here both on and off leash. When going for a walk along the beach, keep in mind the restricted zones.

Little Tunk Pond

The Little Tunk Pond, located in Sullivan, is a lovely spot with a pet-friendly sand beach along its pond. You can bring your pet here as long on a leash as it behaves itself.

If you’re looking for a beach that allows dogs, the answer might surprise and delight you:

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10 Tips For Taking Dogs To Beaches in Maine

Sure, here’s an expanded numbered list of tips for taking dogs to beaches in Maine:

1. Research dog-friendly beaches: Before taking your dog to the beach, do some research to find dog-friendly beaches in Maine. Make sure to check the beach’s policies, such as leash laws and designated dog areas.
2. Bring the essentials: When bringing your dog to the beach, make sure to bring plenty of water, waste bags, a leash, and a towel to dry them off after swimming. You may also want to bring a shade or umbrella to provide a cool spot for your dog to rest.
3. Be prepared for the sun: Dogs can get sunburned just like humans, so it’s important to protect them from the sun. You can use dog-specific sunscreen or provide shade with an umbrella or canopy.
4. Keep an eye on your dog: It’s important to keep a close eye on your dog at all times when at the beach. Make sure they stay on the designated dog area, keep them on a leash if required, and ensure they are well-behaved around other beach-goers.
5. Respect other beach-goers: While you may be enjoying your time at the beach with your dog, it’s important to respect other beach-goers. Keep your dog from approaching strangers or other dogs without permission, and clean up after your dog to keep the beach clean.
6. Provide proper training: Before taking your dog to the beach, make sure they have proper training to ensure they listen to basic commands. This will help keep them under control and ensure they behave appropriately around others.
7. Check the tide: Be aware of the tide schedule before heading to the beach, as high tide can limit the space available for your dog to run and play. It’s also important to note that strong tides and currents can be dangerous for dogs to swim in.
8. Be aware of local wildlife: Maine’s beaches are home to a variety of wildlife, including seagulls and crabs. Keep an eye on your dog to prevent them from chasing or harassing the local wildlife.
9. Provide proper hydration: Dogs can become dehydrated quickly in the sun and heat, so it’s important to provide plenty of water for them to drink. Bring a portable water bowl or bottle to make it easy for them to stay hydrated.
10. Have fun: Lastly, remember to have fun with your furry friend at the beach! Enjoy the sunshine, sand, and surf, and create lasting memories with your dog.

FAQ

Are there any dog-friendly beaches in Maine? Are dogs allowed on Maine beaches?

Yes, there are several dog-friendly beaches in Maine where you can bring your furry friends to enjoy the sand, surf, and sunshine.

What are some of the most popular dog-friendly beaches in Maine?

Some of the most popular dog-friendly beaches in Maine include Popham Beach State Park, Scarborough Beach State Park, and Willard Beach.

Are there any restrictions on dogs at beaches in Maine?

While most dog-friendly beaches in Maine allow dogs, there are usually some restrictions, such as requiring dogs to be on a leash or limiting the hours when dogs are allowed on the beach.

Can I bring my dog to the beaches in Maine during the summer months?

Yes, you can bring your dog to the beach during the summer months, but it’s important to keep in mind that beaches can get crowded during this time, so it’s important to keep your dog under control and to clean up after them.

Are there any amenities for dogs at these beaches in Maine?

Some dog-friendly beaches in Maine offer amenities for dogs, such as dog waste bags and water fountains, while others may not have these amenities. It’s always a good idea to bring your own supplies, such as water and waste bags, just in case.

Sure, here are 5 more frequently asked questions about “Dog-Friendly Beaches in Maine”:

Are there any fees for bringing my dog to the beaches in Maine?

Some dog-friendly beaches in Maine may have a fee for bringing your dog, while others may not. It’s best to check with the individual beach to see if there are any fees or restrictions.

Can my dog swim in the ocean at beaches in Maine?

Yes, most dog-friendly beaches in Maine allow dogs to swim in the ocean, but it’s important to keep a close eye on your dog and make sure they are comfortable in the water.

What should I bring with me when bringing my dog to the beaches in Maine?

When bringing your dog to the beach, it’s important to bring plenty of water, waste bags, a leash, and a towel to dry off your dog after they swim.

Are there any rules or guidelines I should be aware of when bringing my dog to the beaches in Maine?

Yes, it’s important to follow the rules and guidelines of the individual beach when bringing your dog, such as keeping them on a leash, cleaning up after them, and respecting other beach-goers.

Can I bring my dog to the beaches in Maine year-round?

While some dog-friendly beaches in Maine may be open year-round, others may have restrictions or limited hours during the off-season. It’s best to check with the individual beach to see their specific policies.

Conclusion

The beaches in Maine are some of the most beautiful and welcoming in the country, and that extends to their policies on dogs. Whether you’re looking for a place to take your dog for a swim or just want to enjoy a walk on the beach with your furry friend, there’s sure to be a dog-friendly beach in Maine that’s perfect for you.

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