Live on the Northeast’s rugged coastline with a pup, or thinking about house sitting as a pet sitter in Maine? You’ve in the right place - find the ultimate guide to pet-friendly Maine’s beaches, restaurants, hikes and parks below.
Portland & Casco Bay
The bustling city of Portland sits on Casco Bay - a working waterfront known as “Calendar Islands”, and popular with locals for watersports and lobster. Want to get to know your local area better? Explore the dog-friendly restaurants, hikes, beaches and more below.
Dog-friendly restaurants in Casco Bay & Portland
For a taste of the restaurants in Casco Bay and Portland, take a look below - and remember to always call ahead to check that dogs are still welcome.
Luke's Lobster Portland Pier
If you’re a seafood lover and you want to get to know dog-friendly Maine a little better, check out Luke’s Lobster on Portland Pier. It’s a laid back spot loved for its lobster rolls and ocean views.
Location: 60 Portland Pier, Portland, ME 04101, United States
Rising Tide Brewing Company
Got a taste for craft beer and community vibes? Check out Rising Tide Brewing Company in the East Bayside neighborhood. One of the most popular dog-friendly breweries in Portland, you’ll get to try home-brewed favorites like the Maine Island Trail Ale, seasonal brews and limited lagers.
Location: 103 Fox St, Portland, ME 04101, United States
Flatbread Company
Or how about a wood-fired pizza overlooking Casco Bay? Head to Flatbread Company where pups are welcome on the outdoor deck.
Location: 72 Commercial St # 5, Portland, ME 04101, United States
Dog-friendly beaches in Casco Bay & Portland
East End Beach
Dogs are welcome off-leash (under voice control) at Portland’s popular East End Beach. It’s loved by kayakers as well as dog walkers - and anyone who enjoys the sea breeze and views across Casco Bay.
Location: Eastern Promenade Trail, Portland, ME 04101, United States
Willard Beach
In south Portland you’ll find Willard Beach - a sandy and pebbled spot loved for its calm waters and charming lighthouse views. Dogs are currently welcome on a leash and off-leash - check the local, up-to-date rules as seasonal restrictions apply.
Location: South Portland, ME 04106, United States
Higgins Beach
Located just 10 miles south of Portland, Higgins Beach is loved for its soft sand, calm surf and local vibes. Restrictions apply for pups, so check local rules before entering with your furry friend.
Location: Bayview Avenue, Scarborough, ME 04074
Dog-friendly walks in Casco Bay & Portland
Stroll along the Eastern Promenade
The Eastern Promenade is an iconic dog-friendly place in Maine. Well-loved locally for an evening (leashed) walk with furry friends, the Promenade is located at the base of Munjoy Hill, and home to wide-open fields and views across Casco Bay.
Location: Portland, ME 04101, USA
Bradbury Mountain State Park
Located just 30-minutes north of Portland, Bradbury Mountain State Park covers 800 acres of forests, hiking trails and views across Casco Bay from the top.
Location: 528 Hallowell Rd, Pownal, ME 04069, United States
Mackworth Island Trail
Accessible via the Andrews Avenue causeway, Mackworth Island Trail is an easy 1.25 mile loop trail with ocean views, forested tracks and ample birdwatching opportunities. Keep your dog on a leash to explore this popular trail on one of Casco Bay’s Calendar Islands.
Location: Falmouth, ME 04105, USA
Dog parks in Casco Bay & Portland
Want to find a spot where your pup can run off-leash? Find a local, fenced dog park to let them burn off some energy, and meet new canine friends.
Quarry Run Dog Park
For miles of trails and open space for your dog to run free, head to Quarry Run Dog Park. Find a fenced area for smaller dogs to explore safely, as well as wooded trails popular with locals.
Location: 1026 Ocean Ave, Portland, ME 04103, United States
Valley Street Dog Park
In the Parkside neighborhood of Portland is Valley Street Dog Park - a fenced, off-leash space with a wooded, hillside trail.
Location: 162 Valley St #138, Portland, ME 04102, United States
And if you live in Portland, Maine with a pooch or you’re house sitting in Portland soon, check out our complete guide to dog-friendly Portland, ME for more beaches, hikes and places to eat.
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Portland, Maine
Southern Maine Coast
Loved for its sandy beaches and iconic lighthouses, there’s a whole lot to do with dogs on the Southern Maine Coast. Take a look below for places to eat and things to do with your pup.
Dog-friendly restaurants on the Southern Maine Coast
The Pilot House
If you’d like to get to know pet-friendly Kennebunkport, check out The Pilot House - a dog-friendly restaurant with a casual atmosphere, popular for serving up local seafood favorites like fish and chips, lobster rolls and fried scallops. And the best part? Dogs are welcome at the outdoor seating area.
Location: ME-9, Kennebunk, ME 04043, United States
Cornerstone Artisanal Pizza & Craft Beer
Looking for a spot in dog-friendly Ogunquit where pups can join you on the outdoor patio? Check out Cornerstone for freshly-made wood-fired pizza and a rotating beer menu.
Location: 228 Main St, Ogunquit, ME 03907, United States
Some Brewing Company
And if you’d like to get to know the restaurants in pet-friendly York, you’ll have plenty of options. Check out Some Brewing Company for a huge selection of local brews, as well as loaded fries and ice cream sandwiches.
Location: 1 York St Ste 3, York, ME 03909, United States
Dog-friendly beaches on the Southern Maine Coast
Long Sands Beach
On the shores of York in the Southern Maine Coast is Long Sands Beach - a two-mile stretch of sand where dogs can explore, and their humans can enjoy views of Nubble Lighthouse. While dogs are welcome, they must be kept on a leash, and are only allowed before 8am and after 6pm during peak season.
Location: 189 Long Beach Ave, York, ME 03909, United States
Mother’s Beach
On the coastline of Kennebunk, you’ll find Mother’s Beach - located close to other popular spots like Gooch’s Beach. Mother’s is dog-friendly all year round, with restrictions during peak hours in the summer season.
Location: 263-267 Beach Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043, United States
Goose Rocks Beach
Known for its white sand, protected reef and calm waters, Goose Rocks Beach is the perfect spot for a stroll with your pooch. Enjoy views across Timber Point, and keep your pup on a leash as you explore the 3-mile stretch. Dogs are currently allowed on the beach before 9am and after 5pm from June 15th to Labor Day. Off-season, restrictions tend to relax slightly - check local signage for the most up-to-date rules.
Location: Kennebunkport, ME 04046, United States
Dog-friendly hikes on the Southern Maine Coast
Marginal Way
For panoramic views of Ogunquit Beach and Perkins Cove, check out Marginal Way - a paved coastal path atop the cliff that runs above the southern coast’s beaches. Just be aware that dogs aren’t permitted on the beach between April 1st and September 30th.
Location: Marginal Way, Ogunquit, ME 03907, USA
Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park
On the peninsula of Freeport is Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park - a 244-acre park with popular walking trails and marshes. Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a leash at all times.
Location: 426 Wolfe's Neck Rd, Freeport, ME 04032, United States
Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region
Leashed dogs are welcome at Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region - a stunning 30,000-acre area that’s home to the highest density of rare species in Maine. Explore for Atlantic Ocean views, varied hiking trails and hawk sightings.
Location: 21 Mount Agamenticus Rd, York, ME 03909, United States
Fort Foster Park
A local treasure to Kittery Point, Fort Foster Park is a historic seaside park on Gerrish Island that was once a military site. Dogs are welcome, but they must be kept on a leash, and there are restrictions in place - so always double-check your pup is welcome ahead of any visit.
Location: 76 Pocahontas Rd, Kittery Point, ME 03905, United States
Tips for walking your dog on the Southern Maine Coast
When exploring the Southern Maine Coast with your furry friend, be sure to always double-check local leash rules, and ensure your pup is welcome before visiting. Always pack poop bags to make sure you’re cleaning up after your dog, and be sure to keep them under control around any wildlife.
Dog parks on the Southern Maine Coast
Belfast Dog Park
Located within Walsh Field Recreation Area, Belfast Dog Park is loved by locals for the huge space it provides for dogs to run free. The park is fully fenced, with separate areas for small and large dogs.
Location: 122 Lincolnville Ave, Belfast, ME 04915, United States
Ogunquit Dog Park
Near the town center of Ogunquit is this popular 1.5 acre dog park - it’s rated for being well-maintained, with shelter, seating and a summer water supply for visitors.
Location: Spring Hill Rd, Ogunquit, ME 03907, United States
Kennebunk Dog Park
Operated by the Town of Kennebunk, this fenced dog park is perfect for pet parents with smaller dogs - with separate areas for small and large dogs. The play areas are both sandy and wooded, with seating, water bowls and waste bags.
Location: 36 Sea Rd, Kennebunk, ME 04043, United States
Marginal Way, Maine
Midcoast Maine
Known for its rocky coastline, lighthouse views and quaint maritime villages like Camden, Boothbay Harbor and Bath, this part of the state is filled with dog-friendly things to do. So below, explore some of the dog-friendly restaurants, activities and dog parks Midcoast Maine has to help plan the perfect day out with your furry buddy.
Dog-friendly restaurants in Midcoast Maine
Sea Dog Brewing Co.
For views of the Megunticook River, dine on the dog-friendly deck at Sea Dog Brewing Co. in Camden. It’s the perfect, dog-friendly spot to enjoy a lobster roll and other seafood favorites that the local area is known for.
Location: 1 Main St, Camden, ME 04843, United States
Home Kitchen Cafe
Head south along the coast and you’ll get to Rockland - where you’ll find restaurants dotted along the coastline. If you’re looking for a dog-friendly place to enjoy breakfast, head to Home Kitchen Cafe’s garden space for your eggs, coffee and pancakes.
Location: 650 Main St, Rockland, ME 04841, United States
Mine Oyster
Looking for a quaint, waterside bar to enjoy local catches? Check out Mine Oyster - a locally-loved seafood restaurant where dogs are welcome at the outdoor seating area.
Location: 16 Wharf St #1, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538, United States
Dog-friendly beaches in Midcoast Maine
Midcoast Maine is lined with a rocky coast that’s popular with both hikers, tourists and dog walkers alike. Head to the shore for quaint lighthouse views, and always double-check the dog rules before entering any beach with your pup.
Hendrick’s Head Beach
If you’re looking for beaches in Maine that allow dogs year-round, check out Hendrick’s Head Beach for calm water views, rock pooling, and Hendrick’s Head lighthouse. And if you’d like to check out the hiking trail, keep your dog on a leash to enjoy the panoramic coastal views safely.
Location: 22 Salt Pond Rd, Southport, ME 04576, United States
Popham Beach State Park
Along the coast of Phippsburg is Popham Beach State Park - a 605-acre area known for its Atlantic surf, tidal pools and expansive beaches that stretch along the mouth of the Kennebec River. Just be aware that the park is only dog-friendly from October 1st to March 31st, when dogs are welcome on a leash.
Location: 711 Popham Rd, Phippsburg, ME 04562, United States
Sandy Point Beach
Looking for another of Maine’s dog beaches, this time in Stockton Springs? Head to Sandy Point Beach for leashed walks along the beach and wider park that’s perfect for picnicking and birdwatching. And to prevent erosion, make sure that your dog doesn’t climb the bluff.
Location: Stockton Springs, ME 04981, United States
Dog-friendly hikes in Midcoast Maine
Camden Hills State Park
For panoramic views of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay, head to Camden Hills State Park with your dog on a leash. With over 30 miles of hiking trails including Mount Battie and Maiden Cliff, you’ll be visiting time and time again with new sights to enjoy.
Location: 280 Belfast Rd, Camden, ME 04843, United States
Dodge Point Preserve
This 521-acre conservation area in Newcastle ME is known for its 8,000 feet of river frontage that runs along the western shore of the Damariscotta River. Keep your dog on a leash and explore the pocket beaches, red pine forests and remnants of brickmaking operations from the 18th and 19th century on Brickyard Beach.
Location: Newcastle, ME 04553, United States
Trout Brook Preserve
Keep your dog on a leash and explore Trout Brook Preserve - a conservation area in Alma ME. You’ll discover historic railway remains, Trout Brook and Sheepscot River, along with countless hiking trails.
Location: 1888 Alna Rd, Alna, ME 04535, United States
Dog parks in Midcoast Maine
Jean H. Kislak Community Dog Park
If you live in Rockport or you’re house sitting in Maine, it’s always good to know where your local off-leash park is. Check out Jean H. Kislak Community Dog Park for a reliable fenced area, separated for small and large dogs.
Location: Rockport, ME 04856, United States
Merrymeeting Dog Park
Brunswick locals love Merrymeeting Dog Park - it’s known for being well-maintained, with fenced-off areas for small and large dogs.
Location: 94 Water St, Brunswick, ME 04011, United States
Thomaston Dog Park
This 3-acre dog park is perfect if you live in Thomaston and you’d like to let your pup run off-leash. Head to the dog park to let your dog enjoy the tunnels and obstacles, and meet new furry friends on the grass and wood-chip areas.
Location: 21 Dwight St, Thomaston, ME 04861, United States
Hendrick’s Head Lighthouse, Maine
Acadia National Park & Mount Desert Island
Acadia National Park and the surrounding Mount Desert Island draws in locals (and their dogs) for its stunning hiking areas and iconic landscapes. If you live locally and you’ve recently adopted a pup or you’re house sitting in Maine, explore where to eat and what to do below.
Dog-friendly restaurants in Mount Desert Island
If you live near Bar Harbor, you might have heard about Side Street Cafe - a relaxed spot serving up burgers and lobster, where dogs are welcome at the outdoor seating area.
Location: 49 Rodick St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States
McKay's Public House
Sit outside the quaint, cladded house in the dog-friendly seating area and enjoy a warm welcome, along with hearty pub fare - think shepherd’s pie, burgers and homemade meatloaf.
Location: 231 Main St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States
Leary's Landing Irish Pub
Looking for a laidback spot to enjoy a beer and a bite to eat with your furry friend? Check out Leary’s Landing - an Irish pub with an eclectic menu of fish and chips, chowder and sandwiches.
Location: 156 Main St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States
Dog-friendly beaches in Mount Desert Island
Hadley Point Beach
Keep your dog on a leash and explore Hadley Point Beach in Bar Harbor - a local gem loved for its sunset views and birdwatching. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles and osprey!
Location: Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States
Little Hunters Beach
This secluded cobblestone beach is a must if you’re exploring Acadia National Park - keep your dog on a leash and listen out for the sounds of the granite stones crashing against one another as the waves ebb and flow.
Location: Mt Desert, ME 04660, United States
Lamoine Beach Park
For sweeping views of Frenchman Bay and Cadillac Mountain, check out Lamoine Beach Park on Mount Desert Island - just be sure to double-check the seasonal restrictions before arriving with your dog.
Location: 828 Lamoine Beach Rd, Lamoine, ME 04605, United States
Dog-friendly hikes in Acadia National Park & Mount Desert Island
Acadia’s Carriage Roads
Acadia National Park is home to 45 miles of car-free roads - originally built by John D. Rockefeller Jr. between 1913 and 1940. The roads offer a safe, paved route through the National Park - perfect for a scenic stroll with your furry friend.
Location: Various locations throughout Acadia National Park
Jordan Pond
Stroll around Jordan Pond - a lake in Acadia National Park for tranquil waterside views, with a backdrop of The Bubbles.
Location: Mt Desert, ME, USA
Wonderland Trail
This trail within Acadia National Park is the perfect easy route to explore with your dog. It’s roughly 1.5 miles long, and mostly flat with pine forests and shores edged with tide pools.
Location: 772 Seawall Rd, Southwest Harbor, ME
Tips for exploring Mount Desert Island with a dog
If you live locally, you’ll likely want to explore the stunning landscape that Mount Desert Island has to offer. Just be aware that with a delicate ecosystem and wildlife, many areas require dogs to stay on a leash, with various seasonal restrictions in place. So, always plan your visit ahead of time to ensure you’re following local rules.
Jordan Pond, Acadia National Park
Tips for pet parents: Important things to know about Maine
- Stay tick-aware. If you’re walking your dog amongst Maine’s open spaces, be sure to check them for ticks and take necessary precautions.
- Get to know tide schedules. Maine is filled with dog-friendly beaches and some are affected by the tides, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Check for seasonal restrictions and closures. Maine is home to various wildlife systems, including ground nesting birds - these can cause restrictions and closures for dog walkers, so check before visiting.
- Plan ahead for your vacation. Your pup will clearly never run out of things to do while living in Maine - but what about when the time comes for a vacation? Well as vets agree pets are happier at home, consider keeping your pup in their favorite place with an in-home pet sitter. Click below to find out how it works.
Connecting with pet sitters in Maine
Tips for pet sitters
- Get to know local leash rules. If the pup you’re taking care of has permission to explore local dog parks, play it safe by letting them off the leash in a designated zone. And if you venture for walks in local wildlife areas, always double-check the rules beforehand.
- Follow advice from pet parents. Get to know the pup’s energy levels and the types of activities they enjoy before the sit begins.
- Be aware of local wildlife. Maine is home to rare birds, seals, deer and more - so get to know how the dog in your care is likely to respond, and always keep them under close control.
- Explore Maine through house sitting. Want to see the sights of Maine for yourself, with furry friends for company? Sounds like it’s time to get your house sitting adventure started - click below to learn how it works.
House sitting in Maine
More dog-friendly travel guides near Maine
Thinking about house sitting near Maine, visiting a nearby place with your canine companion, or welcoming a pet sitter soon? Explore our travel guides below for dog-friendly places to visit, along with local tips and advice.
Pet-friendly Maine: FAQs
Are dogs allowed on Maine beaches year-round (and are there seasonal leash rules)?
Some beaches in Maine welcome dogs, but rules vary depending on where you’re visiting. Learn about the seasonal restrictions in place, and only take your dog to the beach if you’re confident they’re welcome.
Is Acadia National Park dog-friendly, and where are dogs not allowed?
Dogs are allowed at Acadia National Park - just be sure to keep them on a leash, and get clued-up on areas that are off-limits, such as Sand Beach during peak season.
Do Maine state parks allow dogs?
Yes, many of Maine state parks welcome dogs - including Camden Hills State Park and Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park - but always double-check any destination’s seasonal rules before visiting with your dog.
