Big Beach – Frenchboro

Big Beach is in Frenchboro, on Outer Long Island (Maine), about 10 miles south as the crow flies from the southern tip of Mount Desert Island and 35 miles east of the mainland. If you make the effort to get here, you'll find a dog-friendly place with plenty of natural wonders. This is truly the definition of "unplugging."

Big Beach is part of the Frenchboro Preserve of the Maine Coast Heritage Trust.

Getting to Frenchboro and Big Beach

You can take the Frenchboro Ferry as one of the Maine Department of Transportation options. Pet-friendly cabins are available, but confirm the availability before you book. The ferry departs from Bass Harbor on Mount Desert Island, meaning you're likely pairing this trip with an adventure through Acadia National Park.

Private boats are allowed to dock here, but you'll need to rent a mooring.

Big Beach Dog-Friendly Details

All that is asked of dog owners is to "keep pets under control." You should use a leash unless your dog is under complete voice control and will stay by your side. Parts of this area are generously allowed public access by private landowners. Keep your dog close and quiet (excessive barking can draw complaints), and don't let them disturb any wildlife.

Bag all pet waste and carry it with you. Do not bag it and drop it, as that's a hazard to the environment and water quality. You are required to carry your own waste and toilet paper in a trash bag until reaching a proper place to dispose of it.

The beach and surrounding preserve are only available for daily use. No overnight camping is allowed.

Most of the beachfront is made of rocks, from small stones to boulders. If you're looking for a more sandy beach, try nearby Little Beach or Eastern Beach on the other side of the island. The preserve has more than eight miles of shoreline, so there's sure to be a place that works for two- and four-legged family members.

Is Big Beach Safe for Dogs?

The rocks might make paws sore, and dogs (and humans) need to watch their footing while walking the beach.

There are no resources on this island, so bring everything you need—pet waste bags, drinking water, snacks, towels, bug spray, tick removal kit, etc.

Don't let dogs drink saltwater since it can make them sick.

Know the tide schedule and weather forecast to avoid any potential hazards from the water or sky.

A few pieces of advice:

• Do NOT miss your ferry back to Bass Harbor. There are no overnight accommodations available.
• There are no grocery stores or supply shops here. Even the few island residents get their groceries from the mainland.

Parking at Big Beach

You'll be walking from the dock to the beach, which is about a mile along roads and eventually through woods until you reach the shore. If you are lucky enough to have a car or a ride, check with the preserve for parking locations, as it's assumed most people will be walking.

What's Near Big Beach?

Not much, other than the list of options from the preserve. That's really the whole point of Frenchboro, and you'll likely be alone in your adventure.

Big Beach Dog-Friendly Beach Rating: A