Bayview Beach

Bayview Beach in Maine is quickly becoming one of the favorite dog-friendly beaches in Maine, as it's especially accommodating to those with mobility issues who want their dogs to have a fun beach experience too.

Bayview Beach Dog-Friendly Beach Details

Bayview Beach is tucked along Seaside Avenue/Route 9 between Ferry Beach State Park and Goosefare Brook. As it's owned by the city of Saco (pronounced "Sock-OH"), it falls under the city's updated dog access ordinance that went into effect in March 2021.

April 1 - September 30

Dogs can be on the beach as long as they are leashed at all times. The leash must be no more than 12 feet long. There is no off-leash time of day during these months to protect the Piping Plover nests. During any time of year, a Piping Plover nest is sectioned off, a dog cannot be within 100 feet of the protected area.

The amended ordinance intends to protect endangered and at-risk wildlife, not restrict dogs. This ordinance is in effect for Bayview Beach, Kinney Shores, and Camp Ellis Beach. - City of Saco statement regarding changed to dog access on beaches

NOTE: This is a change from previous rules allowing dogs to be off leash in July and August before 9:00 am and 5:00 pm.

Horses are not allowed on the beach during these months.

October 1 - March 31

Dogs can be off-leash any time of day, provided they are under voice control and can be seen by the owners at all times. For a dog to be under voice control, it must respond to being called immediately and not approach other people or dogs without express permission.

If a dog isn't under voice control, they are welcome to be on a leash as long as the leash is not longer than 12 feet long.

All at times, dogs must be on a leash as they enter and exit a vehicle and parking area. During off-leash times, don't remove the leash until you are on the sand.

Pet Waste

Saco's updated rules require owners to have pet waste bags on them at all times. Bags are not guaranteed to be provided by the city at the beach entrance. You must pick up waste immediately and carry it with you until returning to the parking lot, where there is a trash can.

Bayview Beach Dog-Friendly Beach Amenities

Bayview Beach is a long, wide beach with plenty of space to explore. Lifeguards are on duty from mid-June through late August and cover 200 yards along the beach. Staffing challenges in 2022 and possibly in the future could cause reduced lifeguard hours. It is not a guaranteed benefit.

Portable toilets are available during the summer, but you should bring your own fresh water supply for your dog throughout the year. Trash cans are available in the parking lot.

During the summer months, a blue mat is laid out on the beach walkway and beachfront that gives access to beachgoers in wheelchairs. A beach wheelchair is also available by asking a lifeguard or contacting the city.

Need more age and accessibility options with your dog in Saco? Contact Age Friendly Saco.

Is Bayview Beach Safe for Dogs?

Bayview Beach is tucked away on a short path from two long parking lots, leaving little risk of an excited dog running onto a major road.

Always check with the Maine Healthy Beaches Dashboard before visiting any beach between Memorial Day and Labor Day to get water quality information.

There is little shade here, so bring an umbrella. Even at high tide, there is still plenty of room to play.

Homes also line this stretch of beach, with stairways or paths leading to the yards. Keep dogs off private property unless invited by the owner.

Parking at Bayview Beach

As soon as you turn onto Bayview Road from Seaside Avenue or continue past Seaside Avenue on Bayview, you'll be in the first of two parking lots. A parking pass is required that you'll need to purchase in advance. Passes are only required between Memorial Day and September 30.

Resident Parking Passes

Purchase your pass online and print it out to place on your windshield, or get a pass from city hall at 300 Main Street. You'll need your Maine car registration showing a local address to get a pass. Free passes are available to:

• Veterans (no age limit)
• Residents 62 and older

Non-Resident Parking Pass

Visitors who don't live in Saco can purchase a permit online as well. The cost is $25 for one day, $150 for the season, or $360 annually.

There are two crosswalks from the parking lot across the roads, but be sure all drivers see you before you cross the road.

Parking Without a Pass

There are two gravel parking lots just across Seaside Avenue that are metered parking, with a cost of $10 per day (but that rate is subject to change at any time).

What’s Near Bayview Beach

Need to walk off some of that sand or want a change of scenery? The Atlantic Way Trail is just a seven-minute walk where you can explore several half miles of trails through the forest and soak in marsh views. How's that for an eco-fantastic day?!'

Bayview Beach Dog-Friendly Beach Rating: A