Old Orchard Beach is Maine’s classic summer beach town: a wide sandy beach, a historic pier, arcades and fried dough, all in one walkable stretch. It is also very busy in July and August. This guide covers the rules that trip people up, especially the dog hours, and how to plan a day here.
Bringing a dog? See our guide to dog-friendly beaches in Maine for the rules beach by beach.
Quick Answers
- Dogs in summer: Not allowed on the beach from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., May 15 to Labor Day.
- Dogs after 5 p.m.: Allowed until dusk on a leash no longer than 12 feet.
- Dogs in the off-season: Allowed during the day after Labor Day until May 15, under voice and sight control.
- Is the beach free? The sand is public. Expect to pay for parking near the pier in summer.
- May 15 to Labor Day, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.: No dogs on the beach.
- May 15 to Labor Day, 5 p.m. until dusk: Dogs must be leashed, with a leash no longer than 12 feet.
- Day after Labor Day to May 15: Dogs may be off leash during the day if they stay under voice and sight control.
- Nesting birds: Keep dogs away from roped-off or posted piping plover areas.
- Waste: Carry a bag and pick up after your dog.
Dog Rules
Old Orchard Beach has some of the strictest summer dog hours on the southern Maine coast, so read these before you bring a dog.
A dog that comes within 10 feet of another person is not considered under voice control unless that person has said it is fine. The town also has a dog park in Memorial Park on First Street. Violating the summer rules can bring a fine, so check the Town of Old Orchard Beach dog page for the latest rules.
Parking
Parking near the beach and pier is limited and fills early on summer weekends. Most visitors use paid lots and metered spaces. Rates change from year to year and the lots are a mix of town and private operators, so check the posted rates before you park, and consider staying within walking distance of the pier so you can leave the car behind.
The Pier and the Beach
The Old Orchard Beach Pier is the center of town, with restaurants, shops and arcades nearby. The beach is wide and flat, so it is easy to walk for a long distance, and it works well for families because everything is close to the sand. Tides change how much room there is, so check a tide chart if you want a long walk at low water.
Plan the Rest of Your Trip
See the Old Orchard Beach guide for lodging, restaurants and things to do. With children, read Old Orchard Beach with kids. Comparing towns? Read Ogunquit versus Old Orchard Beach and Old Orchard Beach versus Wells. More beach guides: Ogunquit Beach, Wells Beach and the best beaches in Maine.
Old Orchard Beach FAQ
Are dogs allowed on Old Orchard Beach?
Yes, but not between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. from May 15 to Labor Day. After 5 p.m. they must be leashed.
Is Old Orchard Beach good for kids?
Yes. The beach is wide and gentle, and the pier area has food and activities close by.
Where is the dog park?
In Memorial Park on First Street.