10 Best Dog Friendly Beaches In Maine for Coastal Canine Exploring

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With its stunning natural landscapes, Maine truly excels in providing enjoyable and memorable dog-friendly beaches. In this article, we provide a top ten list of the best options for visiting with pets. You’ll also learn how warm the Atlantic Ocean is off the coast of Maine and what time of year to go. 

Let’s jump in!  

Does Maine Have Good Dog Beaches? 

Maine is a haven for pet lovers, with a variety of wonderful dog-friendly beaches scattered along its picturesque coastline. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or an energetic romp in the sand, Maine’s dog beaches have something to offer every canine and their human companions. 

Are Maine’s Atlantic Coast Beaches Warm? 

Maine’s Atlantic Coast beaches may not be known for their warm waters like those found in tropical destinations, but they still offer unique charm and allure. The temperatures of the ocean vary depending on the season. 

During the summer months, from June to August, the water temperatures range from around 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Your dog might find it refreshing to swim and play fetch. However, you may find these temperatures cold if you need to run in after your pup.

The BEST Dog Beach in Maine

When Is the Best Time to Visit Maine Dog Beaches?

The best time to visit Maine’s Atlantic Coast beaches largely depends on personal preferences and desired activities. Summer is the most popular time, as the weather is generally mild, and the beaches come alive with visitors. If you prefer warmer water temperatures for swimming, late July and early August are typically the warmest times to take a dip in the ocean.

For those seeking a quieter and more tranquil beach experience, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall can be ideal. There are fewer crowds, and the weather remains pleasant. Also, many of the dog beaches relax their rules before and after summer. So, if your pup likes to run off-leash, there’s a better chance of finding a sandy stretch of shoreline for this in spring, fall, or winter.

Overall, Maine’s Atlantic Coast beaches offer a unique coastal experience with their rugged beauty and cooler waters. Whether you visit during the bustling summer months or opt for a quieter time of year, each season has its own charm. There’s no shortage of natural wonders to explore along Maine’s picturesque coastline with your fur baby.

Pro Tip: If you’re road-tripping through Maine, check out our five golden rules for RV camping with pets.

10 Best Dog Friendly Beaches In Maine for Coastal Canine Exploring

Are you ready to explore the best dog-friendly beaches in Maine? Let’s dive into the sand, rugged shorelines, and refreshing waters. The list starts with beaches on the southern coast of Maine and moves north to number 10, which is close to the Canadian border on the Atlantic Ocean.

Just remember, always pick up after your pets and leave no trace.

1. Long Sands Beach in York

Long Sands Beach in York, Maine, has 1.5 miles of sandy shore to walk. Dogs are allowed on the beach before 8 a.m. and after 6 p.m., mid-May through mid-September. They’re required to be on a leash, except between sunrise and 8 a.m., they can run free. Outside of those dates, you can enjoy the shoreline any time of day with your pup. 

Address: 189 Long Beach Ave, York, ME 03909

2. Wells Beach in Wells

Wells Beach is clean and sandy and has plenty of space to run and play. Dogs are required to be leashed on the beach. From mid-June to mid-September, dogs are allowed on the beach before 8 a.m. and after 6 p.m. only. The rest of the year, the beach is pet-friendly all day.

Address: Mile Rd & Atlantic Ave, Wells, ME 04090

3. Gooch’s Beach in Kennebunk

Gooch’s Beach in Kennebunk allows dogs on a leash or under voice control anytime in the off-season. But during peak season, from mid-June to Labor Day, they can be on the beach before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. The shoreline is sandy and a fun place to play fetch and catch some waves.

Address: 100 Beach Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043

4. Bayview Beach in Saco

Bayview Beach in Saco is a popular dog-friendly beach with no time restrictions. Your pup is required to be on a leash from April through September but is allowed off-leash outside of the summer months. Piping Plovers or Least Terns, shore birds, nest in this area. So, be sure not to disturb them. 

Address: 107 Bayview Road, Saco, ME 04072

5. Higgins Beach in Scarborough

Higgins Beach in Scarborough is a mix of sand and rocks. Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. from mid-May to Labor Day. However, they’re not allowed in the restricted beach area between Champion Street and the Spurwink River. In the off-season, pets are also allowed on the beach from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Address: Bayview Ave, Scarborough, ME

6. East End Beach at Eastern Promenade Park in Portland

East End Beach at Eastern Promenade Park in Portland, Maine, is dog-friendly, with a designated area for off-leash. The hours for off-leash fun from Memorial Day to Labor Day are before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. Outside of the summer months, you can play on the beach with your dog any time during park hours.

Address: 86 Eastern Promenade, Portland, ME 04101

7. Laite Memorial Beach in Camden

Laite Memorial Beach in Camden is popular, so the number of dogs is limited. Only 30 dogs are allowed on the beach from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. from May through September. They can be off-leash during these time frames as long as the owner has control.

Address: Bay View St, Camden, ME 04843

8. Lamoine Beach Park in Lamoine 

Lamoine Beach Park is near Bar Harbor and the beautiful Acadia National Park. It’s a rocky beach with stunning 360-degree views. The dog-friendly beach allows leashed pets year-round. Take note while finding it that while Lamoine Beach Park is close to the state park, it’s separate from it.

Address: 828 Lamoine Beach Rd, Lamoine, ME 04605

9. Hadley Point Beach in Bar Harbor

Hadley Point Beach in Bar Harbor is another breathtaking area that’s close to Acadia National Park. The dog-friendly beach is rocky, and pups must be on a leash at all times. It’s open to canine companions year-round and also has picnic tables and grills for your visit.

Address: Bar Harbor, ME 04609

10. Mowry Beach Preserve in Lubec

Mowry Beach Preserve in Lubec is the northernmost dog-friendly beach in Maine on our list. However, it’s one of the easternmost points in the U.S. It’s a 48-acre preserve with a sandy beach. Dogs must be leashed on the beach.

Address: 86-78 Pleasant St, Lubec, ME 04652

Pro Tip: Make sure you have these pawsitively essential pet accessories for your next day on the beach with your pup!

Enjoy Dog Walks on the Beach in Maine

Whether you’re visiting or live in Maine, discover the amazing dog-friendly beaches in the state. Your pup will love running around with cool breezes coming off the Atlantic Ocean. In addition, you’re likely to get some great photos of your fur baby with an amazing natural backdrop. 

Have you visited any dog-friendly beaches in Maine? Let us know in the comments which you would add to our list.

Love traveling with your dog? Check out our guide to dog-friendly beaches in Michigan too!