Maine beaches allow dogs, but restrictions vary by location and season. Check the list below to see if your furry friend is welcome at your favorite spot.
MAINE, USA — Friday marks the first official day of summer, and with warm weather ahead, tourists and locals will be flocking to Maine’s coastline. But for dog owners, one question looms: Can I take my dog to the beach?
Seasonal or local restrictions vary depending on the location.
Maine’s official tourism site, Visit Maine, encourages beachgoers to check with individual towns or state parks for the most up-to-date pet policies.
Some beaches welcome leashed dogs during the off-season, while many restrict or prohibit dogs during the peak summer months to protect nesting birds, such as the endangered piping plover, and to ensure public safety.
Dog policies at some of Maine’s most popular beaches:
Note: Some towns allow early morning or evening access for leashed dogs during summer. Always check the town’s website for current rules.
Campgrounds and pet rules
Dogs are allowed at most Maine state park campgrounds, except Sebago Lake State Park, where pets are not permitted. In parks where dogs are allowed, pet owners may be assigned to less congested sites, and pets must not be left unattended.
A note on horses
While not considered pets, horses are allowed on coastal beaches from Oct. 1 through March 31. They are prohibited from April through September, and a special permit is required to ride at Popham Beach.
What dog owners should know before heading to the beach
Whether you’re traveling with a yellow lab or a pocket-sized pup, planning ahead ensures a safe, legal, and enjoyable beach day for everyone, two-legged and four-legged alike.
Editor’s note: These policies are not comprehensive and subject to change, so be sure to check with your favorite local beach before bringing your furry friends.
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