Summer in Southern Maine is a dream for beach-loving dog owners—but each town has its own set of rules to keep everyone safe and happy. Nothing’s worse than packing up your pup with all their gear and getting to a beach that doesn’t allow our furry friends to roam free.
Here’s your guide to when and where your pup can enjoy the sand and surf in Kennebunkport, Wells, Ogunquit, York, and Kittery this summer.
🐾 Kennebunk/Kennebunkport
Goose Rocks Beach & Colony Beach:
- June 15 – Labor Day: Dogs allowed before 9:00 AM and after 5:00 PM, on a leash.
- April 1 – June 14 & Labor Day – September 15: Dogs permitted on-leash at any time.
- Note: Keep dogs at least 200 feet away from marked Plover nesting areas.
🐾 Wells
Wells Beach, Drakes Island Beach, Crescent Beach:
- June 16 – September 15: Dogs allowed before 8:00 AM and after 6:00 PM, on a leash.
- April 1 – June 15: Dogs permitted at all times, but must be leashed.
- September 16 – March 31: Dogs allowed at all times.
🐾 Ogunquit
Ogunquit Beach & Marginal Way:
- April 1 – September 8: Dogs not permitted.
- September 9 – March 31: Dogs allowed on the beach, on a leash.
- Marginal Way: Dogs allowed October 1 – March 31, on a leash.
- Note: Dogs are never allowed in the Ogunquit River Estuary.
🐾 York
Cape Neddick Beach, Short Sands Beach, Long Sands Beach, Harbor Beach:
- May 20 – September 20: Dogs allowed before 8:00 AM and after 6:00 PM.
- Off-season: Dogs permitted at all times.
- Note: Dogs must be leashed between 6:00 PM and sunrise.
🐾 Kittery
Seapoint Beach & Crescent Beach:
- May 15 – September 30: Only dogs licensed to Kittery residents are permitted.
- June 15 – September 10: Resident dogs allowed before 10:00 AM and after 5:00 PM, on a leash.
- Note: Maximum of three dogs per visitor; dogs must not chase wildlife or disturb other beachgoers.
🐶 Tips for a Tail-Wagging Beach Day
- Leash Up: Even if off-leash is permitted, always have a leash handy.
- Stay Clear of Wildlife: Respect nesting areas and wildlife habitats.
- Clean Up: Always pick up after your dog to keep beaches clean.
- Hydrate: Bring fresh water for your pup to prevent dehydration.
Local rules are subject to change at any time. Be sure to double-check the current rules for dogs before heading out in Southern Maine!
Enjoy the sun, surf, and sand with your furry friend this summer!
Maine Faves is for more than just browsing! Create an account to submit listings, leave comments, and more. And don’t forget to sign up for the Maine Faves newsletter for all of the latest updates on events, sales, and news around town.
We’re also on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, posting daily about the latest happenings! Join us as we explore the coast of Southern Maine.
Comments