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.”

Bay View Beach in Saco, Maine is an excellent dog friendly beach because dogs are allowed all day!  Unlike most Maine Beaches where dogs are limited during the summer to the early morning hours or evenings, Saco beaches welcome dogs all day, as long as they are on-leash. Please note though, dogs are NOT allowed at nearby Ferry Beach State Park.

Featuring long stretches of sand and rock outcroppings, Bay View Beach is a great place to walk and play with your dog.  We visited during high tide, and there was still plenty of room to play.  Please be respectful of the grass covered dunes, and the private entrances to the beach.  Also, please be aware that rip tides may occur, which can trap even the strongest swimmers.

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 very small lot across the street from the beach entrance.  However, for those planning an extended stay in the area, parking permits may be purchased for a nominal fee at the Saco Town Hall (300 Main Street) and the Police Department (20 Storer Street).

For more information to plan your visit, including directions, current weather, photos and video highlights, click here.  To learn more about other dog beaches in the area including the adjacent beaches of Kinney Shores and Old Orchard Beach, please visit our Dog Friendly Places page.