Maine’s Dog Friendly Beaches, Lakes and Parks

Beach/Park Name	Location	Zip Code	Leash Policy	Additional Info
Willard Beach	South Portland	4106	On-leash	Popular beach with scenic views of Casco Bay, offering swimming, walking paths, and a volleyball court.
Popham Beach State Park	Phippsburg	4562	On-leash	Scenic beach with rocky outcroppings and tidal pools, great for exploring, swimming, and fishing.
Ferry Beach State Park	Saco	4072	On-leash	Offers a sandy beach with a bathhouse, playground, and concession stands, popular for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Peaks Island Beach	Peaks Island (Portland)	4108	On-leash	Accessible by ferry from Portland, this beach offers calm waters and scenic views, popular for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the island.
Wells Beach	Wells	4090	On-leash	Lively beach with a long stretch of sand, offering swimming, surfing, shops, and restaurants.
Scarborough Beach State Park	Scarborough	4074	On-leash	Offers a sandy beach with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, popular for swimming, sunbathing, and tidepooling.
Higgins Beach	Scarborough	4074	On-leash	Scenic beach with rocky outcroppings and tide pools, great for exploring, swimming, and fishing.
Long Sands Beach	York	3909	On-leash	Popular beach with a long stretch of sand, offering swimming, surfing, shops, and restaurants.
Short Sands Beach	York	3909	On-leash	Picturesque beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
Kennebunk Beach	Kennebunk	4043	On-leash	Popular beach with a lively atmosphere, offering swimming, surfing, shops, and restaurants.
Gooch’s Beach	Kennebunk	4043	On-leash	Smaller, quieter beach compared to Kennebunk Beach, offering swimming, sunbathing, and beautiful views.
Ogunquit Beach	Ogunquit	3907	On-leash	Popular beach with soft sand and gentle waves, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the quaint town of Ogunquit.

Disclaimer:

Leash regulations may vary depending on specific locations and change over time. Always check official websites or park signage for the latest information before visiting.
Some beaches may have designated off-leash areas within the larger park or recreation area. Be sure to research specific regulations before assuming off-leash

When the summer sun teases with its warm rays, there’s no better feeling than taking Fido on an adventure to the water. Maine—renowned for its craggy coastlines, iconic lighthouses, and, most importantly, its vast expanses of dog-friendly waters—invites you and your four-legged companion to make a splash. Whether you’re a local looking for a new spot or a traveler seeking a pet-permitted paradise, here are the waters where tails wag with abandon. There are more hidden Dog Friendly Beaches Near you with beach rules and Zip codes, just explore new places for your furry friend.

Top Dog-Friendly Beaches

Maine’s beaches are a coastal collage, each grain of sand more spectacular than the last. But it’s the ones that welcome our canine friends that truly make waves for pet owners who love a sea breeze. Here are a few favorites:

Sandy Paws Cove, Portland

Location: Near Crescent Beach State Park in Cape Elizabeth

An idyllic little cove tucked away near Crescent Beach, this spot is a haven for sand-loving pooches. The calm waters are perfect for a dip, and the soft white sands offer prime real estate for dogs to dig, fetch, and frolic.

Paws-atively Puptastic Beach, Old Orchard Beach

Location: Seward Memorial Park

Old Orchard Beach is known for its bustling pier and summertime festivities, but nearby Seward Memorial Park offers a tranquil reprieve for dogs. With a large off-leash area and a designated stretch of shoreline, tails won’t be the only thing wagging in the sea breeze.

The Barkshore, Bar Harbor

Location: Downtown Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is a renowned tourist hub, and its bustling waterfront is a hotspot for visitors. Leashed dogs are welcomed to enjoy the harbor views and a gentle paddle, making this spot a paid-visit for the whole family.

Top Lakes for Canine Aquatic Adventures

When it comes to inland water fun, Maine’s pristine lakes offer a peaceful retreat for both human and hound. Here’s where to make a dog-paddle day memorable:

Waggly Wondrous Waters, Sebago Lake

Location: Dominates the lake region, with east shore in Naples

This massive freshwater body is a splashing utopia. Sebago Lake provides ample space for dogs to swim, kayak, or simply relax on the boat. The calm waters are especially welcoming to new swimmers, canine or human.

Canine’s Craggy Cove, Rangeley Lake

Location: Stretching between Rangeley and Oquossoc, with sandy beaches near South shore.

Amidst the remote beauty of Maine mountains, Rangeley Lake beckons with water as clear as air. Dogs love the freedom of the expansive shoreline, where retrieving sticks from the still waters is a pastime like no other.

Top Parks with Dog-Friendly Water Access

Open fields, shaded groves, and, above all, water access—Maine’s parks are a playground for pups. Here, our canine companions can run and splash to their hearts’ content:

Wagster’s Wonderland, Acadia National Park

Location: Mount Desert Island

Norman the park’s shores are not only dog-friendly but also one of the East Coast’s most picturesque. Later, dry off with a scenic hike on one of Acadia’s pet-permitted trails.

Furry Friends’ Field and Falls, Two Lights State Park

Location: Near Cape Elizabeth and Portland

Two Lights State Park is a coastal gem with incredible ocean vistas. While dogs aren’t permitted on the main public beach, there’s a lesser-known cove with dog-friendly water access perfect for a game of fetch.

Regulations and Guidelines

Bringing your dog to the water is an exercise in responsibility. Ensure that you’re aware of any park-specific regulations before leaping in. Most dog-friendly beaches and parks operate under similar rules:

Keep dogs on leashes if required.
Respect the rights of other beachgoers and their pets.
Always clean up after your pet.
Do not allow dogs to disturb local wildlife.
Prepare for changing weather conditions and water dangers.

Safety Tips for Canine Water Activities

Just like humans, dogs need to stay safe in the water. Follow these tips for a pawesome day by the sea or lake:

Introduce your pet to water gradually.
Invest in a doggy life vest for new or nervous swimmers.
Watch for signs of fatigue or distress.
Rinse your dog off after a swim to remove salt or lake toxins.
Provide fresh water to prevent drinking from the lake or sea.

30 “Must-Pack” Items for your Dog at the Beach

Packing for a day at the beach with your dog can be an elaborate process. Don’t leave home without these essentials:

Water and a collapsible bowl for drinking.
A doggy life vest for safety in deeper waters.
A well-fitted leash, harness, and collar with ID tags.
A long line for dogs not off-leash trained.
Plenty of doggy waste bags.
A canine first aid kit.
High-factor doggy sunscreen for sensitive areas.
A beach umbrella or tent for shade.
A tether for your dog to rest without wandering.
Towels and blankets for drying off and rest.
Toys for the sand and surf.
A mat for sandy paws before getting into the car.
Dog-safe insect repellent.
A dog bed or cot for elevated napping.
A cooler with dog-friendly treats.
An extra set of dog tags for the day.
A reliable recall command if off-leash.
A pet thermometer to avoid overheating.
An extra long line for training or roaming.
Paw balm for rough or hot sand.
A floatable tug toy for water play.
A veterinary hotlines list for travels.
Dog-safe water bottles with attached bowls.
A canine cooling vest for hot days.
Water booties for sharp shells or hot sand.
A portable dog beach chair.
A non-breakable water dish for splashing.
A floatable frisbee for retrieval games.
Doggy ear cleaner for water-logged ears.
A mobile pet tracker in case of emergency.

10 Activities to Enjoy with your Dog at the Beach

Beyond swimming, the beach offers myriad opportunities to have fun with your dog:

Play fetch with a frisbee or ball in the water.
Build a sandcastle with your furry friend.
Take a leisurely beach walk for some exercise.
Give your dog a massage as you both sunbathe.
Practice agility training on the dunes or rocks.
Teach your dog a new trick or game.
Set up a dog-friendly picnic on the shore.
Bring a book and relax while your dog explores.
Capture the day on camera with a pet photoshoot.
Organize a game of beach football with your fellow pet owners.

10 Dog-Friendly Beach Rules and Policies to Keep in Mind

When hitting Maine’s coastline, be sure to follow these important dog-friendly beach etiquettes:

Respect on-leash and off-leash areas.
Never leave your dog unattended, even in calm waters.
Be aware of local wildlife and leash/keep a close watch.
Pick up all pet waste, regardless of location.
Footprints can last long in fragile ecosystems, so always stick to established shoreline areas.
Follow all noise and disruptive behavior guidelines with your dog.
Be conscious of shared picnic and beach facilities with other dog owners.
No aggressive dogs are allowed on dog-friendly beaches.
Dog fatalities from beach-goer accidents are not rare. Always supervise your pet near water and visitors.
During breaks on the sand, always ensure you have an eye on your dog and that the leash usage is in compliance with local regulations.

Whether it’s a game amidst the waves, a casual coastal stroll, or simply soaking in the sun, the beaches, lakes, and parks of Maine offer boundless opportunities for you and your beloved pet. Be sure to plan ahead, abide by the rules, and, most of all, relish the moments where you both can run free. Maine’s waters are calling, and they’re saying, “Fetch, forthwith!”

Important Reminders:

Always prioritize the safety of your dog and others. Ensure your dog is well-trained and has good recall before allowing them off-leash.
Respect leash laws and regulations. Even in designated off-leash areas, ensure your dog remains under your control and doesn’t disturb other park users.
Clean up after your dog. Leaving waste behind is not only inconsiderate but can also pose health risks and contribute to park closures.