Dog-Friendly Places to Visit Along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway

Is there anything better than a day trip with your pup? Luckily, a few great spots to visit along the Coastal Byway are dog-friendly! Continue reading to find just a few dog friendly places along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway!

Salem Willows Park (Salem)

The Salem Willows Park is a beautiful oceanfront park in Salem, MA. The park contains over 35 acres of green space to explore and play in. The park also has arcades that you can visit and play all your favorite classic games! 

And, if you’re looking to bring your puppy pal with you, Salem Willows is dog-friendly! According to the Salem Willows FAQ page: 

“Dogs are allowed in the park area on leash. Dogs are not allowed on park beaches during the summer season. Well behaved dogs are allowed in the arcades on leash.”

So if you’re looking for an active outdoor adventure and great arcade games with your bestie, Salem Willows Park should be number one on your list.

Halibut Point State Park (Rockport) 

Those looking for a true Scenic Byway sightseeing adventure with their pup should definitely visit the Halibut Point State Park. On a clear day, Halibut Point offers a truly awe-inspiring view stretching from Crane Beach in Ipswich to Mount Agamenticus in Maine and even the Isle of Shoals off the coast of New Hampshire. 

The park is also steeped in local and cultural history. Here, you and your pup can explore the rocky shoreline, discover the 60-foot WWII fire-control tower, and traverse the Babson Farm Quarry. Halibut Point is also the perfect spot for other dog-friendly activities, such as hiking, fishing, bird watching, and picnicking – so bring your pup’s favorite snack!  

Newburyport Brewing Co. (Newburyport)

After a long day exploring the Scenic Byway, there’s nothing like a cold brew. The Newburyport Brewing Company is just the spot for you and your pup to relax and unwind. The brewery has a friendly, fun taproom and outdoor seating available. And, of course, the brewery has a vast selection of local brews for you to choose from, many of them inspired by the coastal area!

Best of all, as you may have guessed, pups are allowed at Newburyport Brewing Co.! However, the website explains that dogs must be leashed at all times.

Essex Coastal Scenic Byway Beaches*

Dogs are permitted on most Scenic Byway beaches at certain times of the year. The typical date range is from October to April/May*, prior to the busy summer seasons. During this time of year, you’re welcome to bring your furry friend to the beach to play amongst the sandy dunes. Be sure to follow all local signage when it comes to keeping your pup leashed and any other regulations.

As always, please remember to be kind and courteous when bringing your dog to public spots and businesses along the Coastal Byway. Be sure to strictly follow local regulations, rules, and restrictions. When in doubt, keep your dog leashed at all times. And, of course, be sure to pick up after your pup.

We hope you discovered a few new spots to bring your furry pal along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway! If you liked this post, check out our other blog posts like, 6 Places To Visit With The Family On The Essex Coastal Scenic Byway.