UPDATE 2021: Dogs will continued to be allowed. However, dogs need to be leashed and under control of their owners from April 1st to September 30th on beaches in Saco where piping plovers or least terns are present or have traditionally nested. Previously, dogs only had to be on leash on the beach from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in July and August. Now they must be on a leash no longer than 12 feet, at all times from April through September. However, from October 1st through March 31st dogs can be off leash if they are under “Voice Control and Sight Control.”

Kinney Shores in Saco, Maine is an excellent dog friendly beach because dogs are allowed all day!  Unlike most Maine Beaches were dogs are limited to the early morning hours or evenings, Saco Beaches welcome dogs all day, as long as they are on leash. This way the entire family can enjoy a day at the beach!  Please note though, dogs are NOT allowed at Ferry Beach State Park.

Featuring long stretches of white sand, with rocky areas for tide pooling, Kinney Shores is a great place to walk and play with your dog.  During high tide the beach does get smaller, but there is still room to play.  During the Summer Season lifeguards are available.  Our one complaint with Saco beaches is that there is very limited parking.  Designated lots are for permit parking only, and visitors are relegated to limited on-street parking on narrow crowded streets.  We had to circle the winding roads a few times before we were able to locate parking at 8:00 AM.  So come early if you want to ensure a spot!  Also please be respectful of the private homes that line the beach and use designated access points.

To learn more about Kinney Shores, and to plan your visit including current weather conditions and directions, Click Here.  Also  visit our Dog Friendly Places page for more reviews on dog friendly beaches in Maine and New Hampshire.