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Top 7 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Maine: Off- & On-Leash Places (2026 Guide)

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woman hugging her dog on the beach

Maine is a beautiful state with plenty of coastlines to enjoy. And what’s better than spending a day at the beach with your furry friend?

We’ve compiled a list of the top seven dog-friendly beaches in Maine so that you can make the most of summer with your pup.

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The 7 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Maine

1. Laite Memorial Beach (Camden)

️Address: Laite Memorial Beach, Camden, ME
Open Times: 6 am to 8 am & 6 pm to 10 pm from May to September
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes, with owner control
  • Pets are allowed on the beach and in the water
  • The main attraction is the stunning views and lovely surroundings
  • Expect plenty of room to run and play with your pup

2. Hendricks Head Beach (Southport Island)

️Address: 22 Salt Pond Rd, Southport, ME
Open Times: 24 hours
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes
  • Pets are allowed on all beaches and don’t have to be on a leash
  • Plenty of freedom to run and play off-leash
  • Expect to find plenty of other pet owners and dogs playing around
  • Mini mountain offers picturesque views of the Sheepscot River

3. East End Beach (Portland)

️Address: Eastern Promenade Trail, Portland, ME
Open Times: 24 hours
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes, Labor Day to Memorial Day, before 9 am, after 5 pm
  • Pets are allowed to roam without a leash
  • Excellent views of Peaks Island and Fort Gorges
  • Visitors can expect a beautiful beach with plenty of amenities for both themselves and their furry friends

4. Long Sands Beach (York)

️Address: 189 Long Beach Ave, York, ME
Open Times: 24 hours
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes, May 20th to September 20th, after 6 pm and sunrise to 8 am
  • Pets can roam leash-free until 6 pm
  • Expansive beach that stretches for miles
  • Visitors can expect to find plenty of sand to play in and waves to surf
  • Long Sands General Store has delicious ice cream for you and your dog

5. Gooch’s Beach (Kennebunk)

️Address: Beach Ave, Kennebunk, ME
Open Times: 24 hours
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes, before 9 am, after 5 pm
  • Truly unique atmosphere for lasting memories with your pup
  • Incredible ocean views and lots of roaming space
  • Expect a relaxing day with beautiful surroundings

6. Willard Beach (South Portland)

️Address: Willard Beach, South Portland, ME
Open Times: 24 hours
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes, May 1st to September 30th, 7 am to 9 am, 7 pm to 9 pm
  • Off-leash times available
  • Wide open space for dogs to run and play
  • Expect a clean, quiet beach with plenty of amenities nearby

7. Bar Island Sandbar (Bar Harbor)

️Address: Bar Island Trail, Bar Harbor, ME
Open Times: 24 hours
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: No. 6-foot leash only
  • Pets are allowed on the beach as long as they are on a leash
  • The main attraction at Bar Island Sandbar is the unique sandbar that is only accessible during low tide
  • Visitors can expect to have plenty of room to run and play with their pets
  • Bring plenty of water for both you and your furry friend
  • Plan your beach day around the tides

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Conclusion

There are many great dog-friendly beaches in Maine that you and your four-legged friend can enjoy together. From the scenic Laite Memorial Beach in Camden to the fun and lively East End Beach in Portland, there’s a perfect beach for every type of pup.

So get out there and enjoy all that Maine has to offer with your furry friend by your side.

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Featured Image Credit: Shift Drive, Shutterstock

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