Located just five miles south of Portland with easy access to the great outdoors, Cape Elizabeth, Maine is the perfect pet-friendly destination. Travel here to get away from it all without getting too far out of the way. Its craggy shores and unspoiled sandy beaches skirt the southern shores of Casco Bay. This area is most well-known for its lighthouses, including Maine’s oldest and most prominent, Portland Head Light.
Read on for my top recommendations for dog-friendly places to eat, stay, and play in Cape Elizabeth.
Where to stay
Inn by the Sea: For pet-friendly accommodation in Cape Elizabeth, look no further than this oceanfront, luxury resort. Located on the first floor and available at no extra fee, their dog-friendly suites have direct access to private decks and the inn’s expansive lawn, making daily walks and playtime a breeze. Pamper your pooch with pet massages and gourmet pet menus, or leave Fido at home for the night with pet sitting services available on request. Explore the surrounding area with recommendations from the knowledgeable Inn staff about nearby walking trails, pet-friendly beaches, and free-range parks. Our favorite nightly ritual: snuggling up with s’mores around the fire pit set up on the Inn’s lawn each night.
Where to eat
Sea Glass: Inn by the Sea’s premiere restaurant welcomes dogs at the outdoor seating or in the fireplace lounge. This more casual dining area offers a limited menu but does have tasty treats available for your pup, and is a great place to relax if the weather is rainy or chilly.
Bite Into Maine: Located in Fort Williams State, this outdoor food truck offers the quintessential Maine experience – fresh lobster rolls! Enjoy a traditional roll or one of their nontraditional takes, like one with Wasabi mayo, while enjoying the scenic surroundings of Portland Head Light.
Where to play
Fort Williams State Park: Located adjacent to the famous Portland Head Light, Fort Williams State Park offers more than 90 acres of space where you and your doggo can enjoy a picnic, walk along the paths, and explore the cliff-side loop and rocky beach. Be sure to check out the large off-leash area at the south end of the park, the perfect spot for you and your pup to meet new friends.
Higgins Beach: This half-mile sandy stretch near the mouth of Spurwink River is a popular spot for pups to play in the waves. From May 15 to Labor Day, dogs are only allowed on the beach before 9am and after 5pm. In off-season, well-behaved dogs are welcome off-leash at any time.
Do you have tips for a dog-friendly visit to Cape Elizabeth, Maine? Share in the comments!
Mapped by Megan 