Hendrick's Head Beach - Southport, ME
Hendrick’s Head Beach: Dog-Friendly Beach and Trails in Southport, Maine
Hendrick’s Head Beach is a charming, dog-friendly destination in Southport, Maine, popular among pet owners looking for a serene spot to let their pups play and explore. This small cove beach features pebbly sand, tidal pools, large climbable rocks, and stunning views of the nearby Hendricks Head Light (note: the lighthouse is private and not accessible). Locals consider it more of a dog beach than a people beach, making it a perfect location for a morning stroll, swim, or just some outdoor relaxation with your canine companions.
Beyond the beach, there are easy, scenic hiking trails such as the field loop and shoreline paths, ideal for dog-friendly hiking and nature walks. While amenities are basic—there are about 10-20 parking spots and shaded areas—visitors should note that there are no public restrooms or water fountains. The area stays quiet in the off-season but can get busier during summer weekends, and while dogs can freely play, the space is not fenced. Families will also find a playground and picnic tables nearby for additional enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, dogs are allowed to play and explore off-leash, but the area is not fenced, so supervision is important.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is no fenced area for dogs at this park.
- Are there water fountains or bowls for dogs? No, water fountains are not available, so please bring your own water for your pets.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, there are shaded areas and some covered picnic tables.
- Are poop bags or waste stations provided? There is no mention of provided poop bags or waste stations, so it is best to bring your own.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are benches and shaded picnic tables available.
- Are restrooms available for owners? No, there are no public restrooms on-site.
- Where is the best place to park? There is limited on-site parking near the beach (about 10-20 spaces); arrive early, especially on busy days.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, there is a playground, picnic tables, and ball fields close to the beach.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are several pet-friendly trails and loops for dog walking and hiking.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? Yes, dogs can swim in the cove at the beach.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The park tends to get busier during summer weekends due to its popularity and limited parking.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, visitors enjoy the area in all seasons, with peace and quiet in the off-season.
Reviews
This is such a small quiet little cove that I am obsessed with to take my dogs to play. I find this more to be a dog beach than a people beach in my opinion and I love that! My puppies deserve a fun place too 🤍
This place is hard to rate. If I were a parent of small children I would have given it a higher rating because the water is placid and the cove is small enough to see kids at all times, but large enough that people aren’t on top of each other. There were many dogs and dog lovers. The water was cold in late August. There were no waves, so this isn’t where you’re going to come if you want crashing waves. Minimal parking. Very local and a comfortable place to spend the morning getting sun and watching the water and families enjoying themselves. No bathroom.
Bought breakfast at the Southport Store and took it to the beach. What an amazing place to start the day! Start your day this way if you can
This was a cute little beach. I wouldn’t want to spend a day here. But it was a nice place to stop by and see the coast and nearby lighthouse. The beach is rocky and small.
Nice Maine beach. Go at low tide to enjoy a few tidal pools and the large rock in the middle to climb for a beautiful view. Most of the sand is little pebbles…there is some really soft sand by the rock wall. There is parking right by the beach and we went on a Saturday morning in July and there was plenty of place!