Kennebunkport is a very pet-friendly town. Many shops, restaurants, and lodging establishments actively welcome dogs, putting out water bowls and sometimes even treats. We have five pet-friendly rooms here at the Inn so we have done some homework to suss out places where folks can dine, lounge or play with their pets.
Beaches
Kennebunk Beach is extremely dog friendly. From June 15th until September 15th dogs are allowed on the beach before 9am and after 5pm. Dogs must either be on a leash or the owner must be carrying a leash.
Goose Rocks Beach requires that dogs always be on a leash. Dogs are allowed before 8am and after 6pm. At all other times of the year there are no restrictions at either beach other than leash requirements and clean-up.
Trails
The Bridle Path - Flat dirt path about two miles long that parallels the Mousam River. This is a lovely walk through the woods along the water. Accessible from Sea Road (parking at Sea Road School) and Route 9 (limited parking), Kennebunk.
Kennebunk Land Trust Preserves are open to the public for recreational enjoyment. Properties are marked clearly by signs and trail blazing. Motorized vehicles, fires and camping are not allowed. www.kennebunklandtrust.org.
1. Alewive Woods Preserve, Cole Road, West Kennebunk. Nearly 626 acres, the forested preserve features a 45-acre pond. Access to the pond is via a loop that is 2 1/4 to 2 1/2 miles depending on trail chosen.
2. Clark Preserve, Emmons Road, Kennebunk. The forested 90-acre tract has frontage on the Kennebunk River and a half-mile trail for hiking.
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, 321 Port Road (Route 9), Wells.
The Carson Trail is a one-mile walk with salt marsh and river views. Leashed dogs are allowed. The trail is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Handicapped accessible. A trail map is available online: www.fws.gov/northeast/rachelcarson/aboutus.html.
Kennebunkport Conservation Trust, Gravelly Brook Road, Kennebunkport. A variety of trails are offered in three locations. Trails maps are available online: www.kporttrust.org.
1. Emmons Preserve, Gravelly Brook Road. Mark and Gail Roller Trail, Jeremy’s Trail and Jenne’s Trail feature short interconnnecting walks through woods and fields and along the Batson River. Parking is available.
2. Tyler Preserve, Tyler Brook Road, just off Mills Road and south of Beachwood Road, Kennebunkport. Access is on the paved road to left side of a private drive with parking available for four to six vehicles. The trail is one mile long with scenic, river views including waterfalls. There are benches and picnic areas.
3. Town Forest, Guinea Road, Kennebunkport. Over 1000 acres of pristine wildlife habitat with large ledge outcroppings, vernal pools and rare flora and fauna, the yellow-marked Jim and Agnes Steel Trail is 1 ½ miles long and one-way. Parking is available for four to six cars.
Vaughan Woods State Park, 28 Oldsfields Road (off Route 236), South Berwick. The 250-acre wildlife sanctuary has three miles of walks through old-growth stands of pine and hemlock and along the Salmon Falls River; one trail leads to the 18th century Hamilton House. Trails are steep and uneven in some sections. Resources: parking area, outdoor cooking facilities, picnic tables, restroom. Leashed dogs allowed. Admission fee. A trail map is available online: Maine State Parks.
Mount Agamenticus, Mountain Road, York. At 692 feet, Mt. Agamenticus was once a radar lookout during World War II and later a ski resort called the Big A. It offers spectacular views from the summit where migrating hawks can be spotted and offers a variety of trails from the summit and the base. For hikers with just a short time to spend, there are two loops: from the summit, Witch Hazel to Ring Trail (north/left) to Horse Trail, 0.8 mile, intermediate; from Mountain Road, Ring Trail (east/left) to Witch Hazel to Sweet Fern to Ring Trail (west/left), 1.5 miles. Eight trails range from moderate to difficult. Ring Trail is good for families. Open during daylight hours. Seasonal portable restrooms. Trail maps are available online: www.agamenticus.org.
Restaurants
What better way to enjoy your stay than to go out to eat with your pooch. The following is an unofficial list of local restaurants with pet friendly outdoor seating. We would highly recommend you contact the restaurant to confirm your furry friend is welcome.
Cape Pier Chowder House
207-967-0123
79 Pier Road, Cape Porpoise
Old Vines Wine Bar & Tapas Restaurant
207-967-2310
173 Port Rd, Lower Village Kennebunk
Pedro’s Mexican Restaurant
207-967-5544
181 Port Rd, Lower Village Kennebunk
Ryan’s Corner House Irish Pup & Restaurant
207-967-3564
17 Western Ave., Lower Village Kennebunk
The Colony Hotel
207-967-3331
140 Ocean Ave. Kennebunkport
The Kennebunk Inn
207-985-3351
45 Main Street, Kennebunk
50 Local
207-985-0850
50 Main Street Kennebunk
Shops
Scalawags - Scalawags is a neat shop with some great and unique items for dogs. Check out some of the “Made in Maine” toys for dogs. Mary Beth Kvaka is the owner of Scalawags and could be described as the ambassador of Kennebunkport for dog people. She is a fantastic resource, and can point you in the right direction for more dog friendly Maine places. Check out her website for more information: www.scalawagsonline.com.
Fetch - If you head north out of town for a drive along the waterfront, Portland is a worthwhile destination and FETCH is a can’t miss shop. You'll find the most innovative, well-constructed or just plain fun toys and gear from companies like RC Pet, Ruffwear, Upcountry, Lupine, Bison, Silverfoot, Ella Dish and more. Dive into their bins of dog coats and sweaters in wool and fleece, booties for city walking and mountain hiking. Then try out their lofty, sturdy beds that look great and keep their shape after many washings. Don't forget about their latest addition, a self-serve dog-wash station! www.fetchportland.com.
Planet Dog - The Planet Dog store is a real treat for pet owners. It's a fun place to take the dogs whether you're getting food, toys or visiting the groom shop. Planet Dog makes their own "orbee-tuff" toys which are mint scented as well. These toys are durable, fun and even float! This store also has an incredible selection of high quality food and treats. www.planetdog.com.
