Paws, Play & Stay!
At our cozy inn, we believe that vacations are better when the whole family comes along—and that includes your pup! We’ve thoughtfully designed Room 7 to be dog-friendly, so your four-legged companion can enjoy a comfortable stay too. Nestled just over the bridge from historic Portsmouth, our inn is the perfect home base for pet lovers looking to explore the Seacoast. Whether you're here for a weekend escape or for a week-long stay, there's no shortage of tail-wagging adventures waiting for you and your dog.
Scenic Walks & Wagging Trails
Start your day with a stroll on one of the area’s beautiful trails. In Kittery, just a short drive away, Fort Foster Park is a gem—leashed dogs are allowed, and the views of Portsmouth Harbor are worth the visit alone. Rogers Park, a town park with marked trails and views over Spruce Creek, has picnic tables and benches with water views, also welcomes leashed dogs.
Across the bridge in Portsmouth, the Urban Forestry Center is a popular dog-friendly spot for a shady walk or a social sniff session. South Mill Pond Off-Leash Dog Area features a fenced-in, double-gated enclosure where dogs of all sizes can play together as well as a surrounding unfenced off-leash area that borders the west end of the pond as well. Nearby Haven Park is also dog friendly and features a paved walkway and benches. For a bit more exercise, the Portsmouth Rail Trail offers an easy, scenic walk that winds through the city, with plenty of dog-friendly water stops along the way. Pierce Island Off Leash Area features 27 acres filled with tidal pools, salt marshes, meadows and rocky cliffs.
Beach Time: Off-Leash Hours
Want to let your pup feel the sand between their toes? You're in luck. While summer beach access can be restricted for dogs, there are windows where off-leash play is welcome. Please note that parking can be tricky as town lots require stickers, and you may need to park nearby on street parking.
Seapoint Beach Trail (Kittery): offers a peaceful oceanfront path where dogs are welcome off-season October 1 to May 14.
Pirates Cove Beach (Rye, NH): Dogs can be on the beach before 9 AM and after 7 PM from the Saturday before Memorial Day to the Saturday after Labor Day, with the exception of Saturday evening where dogs are only allowed after 9:00 PM. During the rest of the year off-leash dogs romp and frolic in and out of the surf at all hours!
Long Sands Beach (York): From October 15 to April 30, dogs can run free; during peak season, visit before 8 AM or after 6 PM.
Shopping for Your Best Friend
Need a new leash, treat, or toy? Local pet stores have you covered:
Canine Cupboard is a boutique bakery and pet supply store right downtown—ideal for spoiling your pup with gourmet, made-in-New-England goodies.
Good Dog Gallery offers canine pedicures and treats for both humans and canines.
Mac and Coppers Pet Supply in Portsmouth offers all the essentials if you're in need of something specific during your stay, including grooming supplies and a spa-like grooming area.
Pup Cups & Treat Stops
Nothing says “vacation” like a treat, and the Seacoast has plenty of spots offering pup cups and dog-friendly snacks:
In Portsmouth, both Annabelle’s and Izzy’s Ice Cream serve up dog-friendly pup cups with a smile—just ask!
Kilwins also offers shaded outdoor spots and loves to host and treat polite pups while their owners relax with a cone or treat.
Dine Together: Dog-Friendly Restaurants
No need to leave your dog behind when hunger strikes—Kittery and Portsmouth both offer fantastic outdoor dining for you and your pup:
In Kittery:
Ore Nell’s BBQ: Delicious, casual eats with a large outdoor patio that's very dog friendly.
Buoy Shack: Great lobster rolls, harbor views, and leashed dogs welcome at outdoor tables.
Lil’s Cafe: Wonderful bakery with breakfast treats and sandwiches, specializes in crullers. Outdoor patio where dogs are welcome.
In Portsmouth:
La Maison Navarre: A pastry shop, bistro and wine bar with outdoor pet-welcoming tables and pup cups
Elephantine: Authentic French pastries and middle-eastern treats for breakfast and lunch.
Street: Global comfort food and a shady terrace perfect for pets.
Portsmouth Gas Light Co: Enjoy a drink and meal—all while your dog lounges under the table. Musicians often play in season.
Most restaurants provide water bowls and are happy to offer a treat or two to their canine guests!
A Doggone Good Stay Awaits
At Water Street Inn, our dog-friendly room offers easy access to green spaces, beaches and walking routes. Water bowls, waste bags, and even a dog bed are included for our canine guests. We’re always happy to suggest the best nearby spots based on the season, your pup’s personality, and how adventurous you’re feeling.
So go ahead—pack the leash, grab the treats, and treat yourself (and your dog) to a New England escape that’s as relaxing as it is fun. After all, tails are meant to wag, and memories are meant to be made together.
We can’t wait to welcome you—and your furry friend—to Kittery.