How to Entertain Your Dog on Vacation
What does your dog do on vacation? Sneak away with some doggie buddies? Throw a dog party while you’re away? Or visit with your friends, family or a dog sitter? Well here’s a novel idea. Why not take him with you on vacation? At Dunes you can do just that. Because now we’re dog friendly. But what do you do to entertain your furry friend while you’re here? That’s the question we’re continually asked. Our answer. How about take him for a walk? Make that walks.
There are lots of places to take your dog for a walk in and around Ogunquit. Beaches. Scenic walkways. Dog parks. They all provide ample opportunity for exercise and fun … year-round. After all, there really is no off season for walking your pal in Ogunquit. Think about it. You can enjoy the quiet solitude of a beach in late fall and winter. Usher in the spring playing fetch off leash. Or hike winding trails through strands of trees to avoid the summer heat.
All you need to know is where and when to do it. And more important, follow the rules and regulations. For example, with a few exceptions, the off season is often the best, and only time, you can take your dog on many of our beaches. On Ogunquit beach, dogs are not allowed from April 1 to September 9. Dogs are also not permitted in the tidal basin or its shore. What’s more, leash laws are strictly enforced – especially in the summer. Want to navigate the ins and outs of walking your dog in Ogunquit? Then check out our list, grab your pooch and get walking.
Ogunquit Beach – The pride and joy of Ogunquit, offers miles of scenic beach along one of Maine’s most scenic coastlines. Fenced in enclosures for natural habitats are off limits. Unleased dogs only allowed from the Footbridge Walkway to Moody Beach on the waterside. Dogs allowed from September 10 – March 31.
Ogunquit Dog Park – The perfect way to keep your dog happy and wear him out. The Ogunquit Dog Park is fully fenced with double gates and a separate area for small dogs.
Fenced-in areas filled with toys and agility equipment, picnic tables and park benches. There’s also a loop through the woods just beyond the fenced in area. There is quite a bit of shade, and a sunny area in front for cold winter days. Open year-round dawn to dusk.
Marginal Way – With its winding course of ocean views, plentiful benches, and nearby downtown Ogunquit, this one-mile path is one of New England’s most beloved scenic coastal walks. Even for dogs. The path runs from Perkin’s Cove (a nice tourist spot with cafes and gift shops) along the coast for a mile, before diving back to the main road. Leashed dogs are allowed September 10 – March 31.
Littlefield Park – A beautiful grassy knoll perfect for picnicking and letting your dog stretch its legs. This wonderful natural setting includes a vast lawn, lots of magnificent trees and park benches for when you and Fido get tired after all the fun and frolic. Dogs allowed from October 2 – May 14.
Additional Locales – In addition to our local faves, there are a number of other opportunities in the surrounding area. Be sure to check out York and Wells for a variety of dog walking spots including the York Beaches and Mt. Agamenticus.