More than just a resort town, Ogunquit, Maine, is a premier destination for people who love to travel with their pets. From beautiful parklands and trails to dog-friendly eateries and attractions, there’s definitely a little something for everyone.
You can even let your dog enjoy a fun playdate at a nearby boarding center whenever you want to take a deeper dive into this city’s vibrant arts scene. You’re able to travel without worry, too, because there’s an excellent emergency pet clinic nearby just in case anything goes awry.
Ready to have a fantastic time with your pooch in tow? Just use this guide to take a look at all the best dog-friendly travel destinations in Ogunquit, Maine.
Pawsome Parks for Pets in Ogunquit, Maine
There’s perhaps nothing better than spending time in nature with your dog by your side. Your dog undoubtedly agrees, especially whenever they get a chance to sniff around at their leisure.
Ogunquit, Maine, has only one off-leash dog park, but it’s plenty big enough for all the pups in town to frolic together. Beyond that, you have your choice of two amazing parks and preserves, each offering a unique glimpse at the local flora and fauna.
Ogunquit Dog Park
From dawn to dusk, you’re welcome to bring your furry friend to the Ogunquit Dog Park for off-leash fun. The park stays open seven days a week year-round.
Keep your dog on their leash as you walk through the double gates and firmly click them closed behind you. Then, set them free and let them explore the fully fenced acre of land as they see fit.
The park has a watering station set up from April to November. And you can find poop bags near the front gate if you forget your roll. Trash cans are by the entrance as well.
Payeur Preserve
Payeur Preserve is a 35-acre green space set right next to the dog park, making it the perfect spot to cool down after a brisk off-leash run. You’ll just want to clip your dog back on their leash and then seek out the loop trail going through the woods.
While on that trail, you’ll get to walk past the vernal pool rich in greenery and the sounds of frogs and other wildlife. You can also check out the interesting stone walls that help protect the local watershed as you complete the one-mile loop.
Josias River Public Park
Josias River Public Park might not have much room to roam, but its serene setting always feels wholly rejuvenating. Bird calls paired with the burbling river have a calming quality that soothes both people and pets.
During your visit, keep your dog on a leash at all times while walking the short trail and sitting on the bench. Also, avoid letting your dog go into the river or otherwise disturb the plants and animals in this conservation space.
As you explore parklands, remember to pick up after your pet and leave the area cleaner than you found it. Your commitment to helping protect the land will help keep Ogunquit green spaces beautiful for generations to come.
Pet-Friendly Hiking Adventures
If you have a high-energy pup or just feel up to a challenge, you cannot go wrong with a trip down any of these pet-friendly Ogunquit, Maine, hiking trails:
Ogunquit River Trail
The Ogunquit River Trail takes you and your dog on a nearly two-mile trek along the riverbanks. You’ll start this trip on the Breen-Norris Farm Trail before quickly taking the river trail detour. From there, you’re unlikely to encounter any other hikers, making it a truly relaxing jaunt through the woods.
In the winter months, you can tromp down the trail with snowshoes on to avoid sinking into the snow. Your dog will undoubtedly enjoy hopping through the snow but be ready to turn back if they get too chilly.
Hilton-Winn Preserve Loop
For a bit of a longer walk, hit the Hilton-Winn Preserve Loop for three miles of explorations. Unlike the river trail, this loop gets a lot of visitors throughout the year. So, get ready to wave hello and maybe make a few new friends along the way.
The trail will take you across the river, but it’s best to cut your walk short if it has been raining heavily recently. You’ll likely see many people doing the same when you arrive at the riverbank, letting you know it’s unsafe to cross. If not, just look at the water height and speed of the current to decide if you’re good to keep going.
Hunting is allowed on a seasonal basis, so don your orange apparel and have your dog do the same. The bright orange colors will alert hunters that you’re nearby, helping keep you safe while exploring the Ogunquit’s beautiful landscape.
Ogunquit, Maine, Dog-Friendly Beaches
Dogs are welcome to explore Ogunquit, Maine, beaches alongside their owners during the off-season. So, plan your visit from September 9th through March 31st if you’re dead set on enjoying beachside adventures with your pup.
Otherwise, you’ll need to drop your pet off at doggy daycare before getting a chance to soak in the beauty of the oceanfront. If you time it right, keep your dog on a leash while visiting the beach and bag up their waste for disposal in a nearby trash can.
Ogunquit Beach
When you and your pup just want to dip your toes in the sand, Ogunquit Beach won’t let you down. At this popular beach, you can enjoy watching the brilliant blue waters lapping against the golden sands.
On top of that, it’s always a blast to spend the day hopping the waves, swimming in the surf, and simply sunbathing on the beach. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see surfers riding the waves, doing neat tricks, and even attempting to hang ten.
Footbridge Beach
Further to the north, you can find Footbridge Beach, offering you and your canine companion even more waterfront adventures. You’ll need to use the footbridge to cross the estuary and reach the barrier island beyond it.
The golden sands stretch as far as the eye can see, giving you plenty of space to explore. You’re also welcome to swim, play Frisbee, and even have a picnic on the sand if you wish. Just be sure to stick around until the early evening hours to catch the stellar sunset and grab a few selfies with your pup.
While visiting these waterways, remember not to let your dog swim around in the Ogunquit River Estuary or run on the sand dunes. Even during the offseason, playing around in those areas can disturb the vital habitat of the endangered piping plovers.
Attractions to Enjoy with Your Pet
There are only a few pet-friendly attractions in Ogunquit, Maine, but they are all well worth experiencing at least once. As soon as you get a taste of all the fun to be had, it won’t matter anyway since you’ll likely be back to enjoy these adventures all over again.
Stroll Down Marginal Way
Want to enjoy scenic views of the coast while getting your steps in for the day? Just set your sights on a relaxing stroll down Marginal Way. Like the beaches, you’ll want to plan your trek for between October and March because dogs are not allowed on the path for the rest of the year.
On this mile-long walk, you’ll come across the stunning Lobster Point Lighthouse, a miniature version of the coastal beacons found all along the beaches in Maine. This lighthouse was built in 1948 and has been tastefully renovated several times since then. Use it as a backdrop for photos to commemorate your visit to Ogunquit with your dog.
Go on a Finest-Kind Lobstering Trip
A trip to Maine is not complete without lobster in your midst. By signing up for a Finestkind lobstering trip, you can go beyond simply noshing on these creatures to learning all about what makes them tick.
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are warmly welcomed to come along on this trip, too. As the lobsters come out of the water, it’s always a delight to see the excited look on each pup’s face. Sea urchins and other creatures come up in the traps, too, giving you an in-depth glimpse at the diverse marine life just off the shores of Ogunquit.
Pair these attractions with visits to the parklands, beaches, and hiking trails to easily fill the day with fun and adventure. Before you know it, you’ll both be looking for a place to put up your feet and get in more than a little rest time.
Pooch-Perfect Places to Eat in Ogunquit
When hunger strikes as you explore Ogunquit, Maine, you can stop by any of the following dog-friendly restaurants for tasty drinks and a bite to eat:
Many of the local restaurants close seasonally. So, keep a few eateries in mind whenever you’re ready to find a great place to enjoy a meal.
If you don’t find anywhere that’s open, head on over to the Village Food Market. They have freshly prepared salads, homemade soup, sandwiches, paninis, and so much more year-round.
Transit for You and Your Furry Companion
The Ogunquit Trolley and other public transportation providers do not allow pets to ride with their owners. Zipcar does allow small pets if they’re secured in a carrier. Rideshare companies leave the decision up to the driver.
If you’re traveling to Ogunquit from out of town, you can bring your pet on the Amtrack Downeaster. They only accept small dogs and cats up to 20 pounds, however, and they must be kept in a carrier the whole time.
Ogunquit, Maine Emergency Hospitals for Pets
Wells Dog and Cat Hospital is the closest emergency clinic for pets to Ogunquit, Maine. You’ll find this clinic about six miles north on US-1.
At this clinic, their team provides the full range of veterinary services, including diagnostic labs and surgical procedures. Call 207-687-1654 to let them know you’re coming by if possible or just drop in and wait to see the vet.
Comfy Daycare and Boarding Kennels
When you want to explore attractions that don’t allow pets, you can keep your pup safe and sound at nearby doggie daycare facilities, like the following:
Fetch ‘N Fun
Fetch ‘N Fun is a popular daycare for dogs designed to keep pups playing and having a great time. They have a daily rate for boarding and just charge a little bit more for an overnight stay. During the day, all well-behaved dogs frolic together freely and then take a nap from noon to 2 pm. At night, dogs get their own kennel to sleep in and one-on-one attention from their staff.
York Bark and Play
Dogs love to spend their days and nights at York Bark and Play, and for good reason. Their staff provides tons of attention and lets the dogs run and play all day long. In fact, their daycare program stays full more often than not, but you can sometimes find an opening if you call ahead. If you can get a spot, ask about their add-on services, like photos, video clips, and a daily report card.
If you cannot get a spot for your pets, consider searching for dog boarding services from private providers on Rover. You can review each pet sitter’s profile to learn about their experience, service offerings, location, rates, and more.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations in Ogunquit, Maine
Looking for a place to stay with your pet while visiting Ogunquit, Maine? Here are several pet-friendly accommodations to consider:
- Inn on Shore Road
- Ogunquit Resort Condo
- Juniper Grove & Evergreen Terrace
- Ogunquit Hotel and Suites
- Cottage Near the Sea
Whether you’re just coming by for a day trip or want to enjoy a full weekend getaway, keep this guide on hand for help making the most of your Ogunquit, Maine, travels. Knowing just where you can take your pet will help you easily plan out an amazing itinerary that lets you see all the top spots in the area.
