Dog-Friendly Wells, Maine
From leashed beach walks to pet-welcoming cottages and patio dining, Wells is one of southern Maine’s easiest coastal getaways with a dog.
Wells, ME
Best beach access
Leashed dogs are allowed year-round, with summer access limited to evenings and early mornings.
Another popular sandy option with seasonal time restrictions for leashed dogs.
Best stay options
Reliable chain stay with a straightforward pet fee and easy access to Route 1.
Locally run pet-friendly cottages and motel rooms close to the beach.
Dog-friendly rooms with no size limit and quick access to Wells and Ogunquit beaches.
Good to know
Maine allows dogs in designated outdoor dining areas when the restaurant chooses to permit them.
Wells Reserve is scenic, but dogs are restricted and only allowed on select trails, so check rules before you go.
Dog-Friendly Hotels in Wells
Hampton Inn & Suites Wells-Ogunquit
A dependable base near Route 1 with free breakfast, indoor pool access, and easy drives to Wells Beach and Ogunquit.
900 Post Road, Wells, ME 04090
Visit WebsiteThe Beaches Guest Rooms and Cottages
A casual Wells stay popular with dog owners thanks to flexible size rules and proximity to the beach.
773 Post Rd, Wells, ME 04090
Visit WebsiteDrakes Island Resort
A classic southern Maine resort with pet-friendly cottages, motel rooms, and a grassy relief area on site.
2073 Post Rd, Wells, ME 04090
Visit WebsiteHaven By the Sea
A smaller Wells option for travelers who only need one pet-friendly room and want a quieter stay.
59 Church St, Wells, ME 04090
Visit WebsiteSun Outdoors Wells Beach
Best for RV and camping travelers who want a resort-style setup near Wells and Ogunquit.
1000 Post Rd, Wells, ME 04090
Visit WebsiteDog-Friendly Restaurants in Wells
Merriland Farm Café
A standout brunch-and-lunch stop with a shaded patio overlooking the farm, making it one of Wells’ nicest dog-friendly dining settings.
557 Coles Hill Rd, Wells, ME 04090
Visit WebsiteMike's Clam Shack
A classic Wells seafood stop where dogs can join you on the seasonal covered patio while you order from the walk-up window.
1150 Post Rd, Wells, ME 04090
Visit WebsiteRollover Cafe
A beach-area breakfast and lunch favorite with outdoor seating and house-made dog treats for visiting pups.
6 Mile Rd, Wells, ME 04090
Visit WebsiteCongdon's After Dark
A lively summer food truck park with lots of outdoor seating, making it one of the easiest group dining options with a dog.
1090 Post Rd, Wells, ME 04090
Visit WebsiteBrewed Awakenings
A casual coffee-and-bagel stop with outdoor seating that works well for a quick dog-friendly breakfast.
1835 Post Rd, Wells, ME 04090
Visit WebsiteDog-Friendly Activities & Parks in Wells
Wells Beach
The town’s best-known dog-friendly beach for leashed walks, especially in shoulder season and during summer’s allowed hours.
Mile Rd & Atlantic Ave, Wells, ME 04090
Visit WebsiteDrake's Island
A quieter beach option in Wells with similar seasonal dog-hour rules and plenty of room for a leashed shoreline stroll.
Drakes Island Rd, Wells, ME 04090
Visit WebsiteWells Harbor Community Park
A convenient harborfront green space for a casual leashed walk, picnic break, or sunset stop near the water.
362 Harbor Rd, Wells, ME 04090
Visit WebsiteWild Bevy Distilling
A relaxed local stop where dogs can join you inside or on the patio while you enjoy botanical drinks and occasional food trucks.
75 Sanford Rd, Wells, ME 04090
Visit WebsiteWells Reserve at Laudholm
One of Wells’ most scenic places for coastal views and trails, but dog access is limited, so it works best only if you follow the reserve’s specific pet rules.
342 Laudholm Farm Rd, Wells, ME 04090
Visit WebsiteA Dog-Friendly Weekend in Wells
This easy two-day plan keeps driving short and works around Wells’ beach rules and patio-friendly spots.
Day 1: Beach day and casual seafood
Check into your hotel, then grab coffee or breakfast at Brewed Awakenings or Rollover Cafe if you want outdoor seating with your dog.
Head to Wells Beach for a leashed walk, then spend time around Wells Harbor Community Park for a lower-key harbor stroll.
Time your beach return for the dog-allowed evening window in summer, then have dinner on the patio at Mike's Clam Shack or explore the outdoor tables at Congdon's After Dark.
Day 2: Farm brunch and scenic exploring
Start with brunch at Merriland Farm Café and request patio seating so your dog can relax beside you.
If your dog is comfortable with limited-trail rules, visit Wells Reserve at Laudholm and stick only to dog-permitted areas; otherwise choose Drake's Island for another leashed beach walk.
Wrap up with a relaxed stop at Wild Bevy Distilling before heading out of town or staying one more night.
Nearby Dog-Friendly Destinations
Ogunquit
5 milesA neighboring coastal town with walkable streets, patios, and easy access to Marginal Way-area scenery.
Kennebunkport
10 milesA polished seaside getaway with dog-friendly shopping areas, harbor views, and nearby beaches.
York
18 milesGreat for scenic drives, beach time, and dog-friendly hiking around Mount Agamenticus.
Portsmouth
24 milesA compact small city with walkable downtown blocks, patios, and plenty of overnight options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on Wells Beach?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Wells Beach, but they must be leashed. Seasonal time restrictions apply in summer, when dogs are typically limited to evening and early-morning hours.
Does Wells have an off-leash dog park?
Wells is better known for leashed beach access than fenced off-leash parks. Most visitors rely on beach walks, harbor strolls, and pet-friendly lodging rather than a dedicated dog park.
Can dogs go to restaurants in Wells, Maine?
Yes, many Wells restaurants allow dogs in outdoor seating areas. Maine permits dogs in designated outdoor dining spaces when the restaurant chooses to allow them, but dogs are not generally allowed inside food-service areas unless they are service animals.
What are the best dog-friendly places to stay in Wells?
Popular options include Hampton Inn & Suites Wells-Ogunquit, Drakes Island Resort, and The Beaches Guest Rooms and Cottages. Pet fees and room restrictions vary, so confirm the current policy before booking.
Is Wells Reserve dog friendly?
Only partially. Dogs are restricted at Wells Reserve and are allowed only on select trails, so it is important to review the reserve’s current rules before visiting.
Keep Exploring Coastal New England With Your Dog
Browse more city guides for pet-friendly beaches, patios, and weekend escapes.
Browse More City Guides