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Dogs are warmly welcomed at Inn by the Sea
Inn by the Sea, Crescent Beach, Cape Elizabeth, Maine

Inn by the Sea Recognized as a Top Pet-Friendly Hotel in the US

Date

Sep 19th, 2025

Location

Maine

Article Summary

Inn by the Sea, located in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, has been recognized in USA TODAY's 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards as a top pet-friendly hotel. The award highlights the property's dedication to providing a luxurious experience for both human and canine guests. With no extra fee for pets and a host of special amenities, Inn by the Sea offers a truly welcoming environment where four-legged friends are treated like family.

 

The Ultimate Pet-Friendly New England Escape

For many travelers, a vacation isn't complete without their four-legged family members. The New England Inns & Resorts Association is proud to celebrate one of its members, Inn by the Sea, for its well-deserved recognition in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Pet-Friendly Hotels. This accolade is a testament to the Inn’s long-standing commitment to providing a welcoming, luxurious, and truly pet-inclusive experience on the coast of Maine.

Located in scenic Cape Elizabeth, just 15 minutes from the vibrant city of Portland, Inn by the Sea is a sanctuary for both people and their pets. The Inn has been welcoming dogs and their owners with over-the-top pampering for over 20 years, operating on the belief that a great vacation should be shared with every member of the family. 

Over-the-Top Amenities for Your Furry Friend

Inn by the Sea goes above and beyond as a pet-friendly hotel to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay for its furry guests. Upon arrival, dogs receive a warm welcome. They are provided with complimentary accommodations, water bowls, and cozy blankets, The pampering continues with beach towels and signature dog treats delivered at turndown. Gourmet pet menus are also available for in-room dining with advanced reservations. Pets are also welcome to accompany their owners in the lounge area, allowing for shared moments of relaxation.

Beyond the room, the Inn provides a comprehensive list of nearby walking trails and pet-friendly beaches to help guests explore the beautiful Maine coastline. In a unique and heartwarming initiative, the Inn also partners with the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland to foster shelter dogs at the resort. Guests are encouraged to walk and play with the foster pups, and many have even found and adopted their new best friend during their stay. The Inn’s staff walk, feed, and care for the dogs, fostering about 45 dogs each year, and to date, 154 dogs have been adopted into loving homes. Staff love the program and often get to reconnect with adopted pups who return with their new families to vacation at the Inn.

A Luxurious Coastal Retreat for All

While the pet amenities are a standout, Inn by the Sea offers an equally luxurious experience for its human guests. The property sits on a beautiful mile of sandy beach with private access and stunning ocean views. Guests can indulge in treatments at the on-site spa, relax by the outdoor pool, or enjoy a wide range of activities, including nightly bonfires with s'mores and complimentary bicycle rentals. The award-winning Sea Glass restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The Inn is also committed to eco-conscious practices, using solar heating and biofuel, and has achieved Silver LEED certification.

Inn by the Sea is more than just a hotel; it's a destination where the entire family can experience the best of New England coastal charm and hospitality.