A Treat for New England Locals and Travelers
Back in May, my family and I took Bear—a sweet Labrador/Border Collie mix—to the beautiful Inn by the Sea in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. It’s one of the most welcoming dog-friendly vacation destinations in New England. When traveling with just one dog, pet-friendly hotels usually work well. But when you’re juggling three rescue dogs—Knox, Bear, and Harper—you need more space, more flexibility, and a whole lot more thoughtfulness. That’s where FurPetVo’s top-tier partner properties truly shine.
At the Inn by the Sea, it’s a completely different experience. The staff go above and beyond to ensure dogs of all sizes feel like honored guests—not afterthoughts. From the moment we arrived, Bear was greeted like family. In the lobby, we met Swink, a gentle 6-year-old Hound mix who lives on-site as part of the Inn’s foster program with the Animal Refuge of Greater Portland. Over the past two years, this partnership has helped place 88 rescue dogs into loving forever homes.
Our two-level Spa Suite was fully tested—and approved—by both humans and hounds. With a wet bar kitchenette, private balcony, and lofted bedroom overlooking Crescent Beach and the Inn’s lush gardens, it felt like a retreat designed with pets in mind. The room came stocked with everything Bear needed: a soft dog mat, a custom paw-print towel, stainless-steel food and water bowls, and even a curated dog menu—yes, really! Plus, generous servings of organic peanut butter dog treats waited for him on arrival.
The Inn also provided a comprehensive guide to its pet-centric offerings: gourmet pet menus, certified dog walkers, supervised doggie daycare, and even soothing pet massages. We received an extensive list of nearby walking trails, leash-free parks, and pet-friendly beaches—making planning effortless and joyful.
After settling in, Bear and I spent the afternoon exploring. While dogs aren’t permitted on Crescent Beach between April 1 and September 30, we enjoyed scenic strolls along the parallel boardwalk paths, with ocean views and fresh sea air at every turn.
For those craving urban charm, the Inn is just a 10-minute drive from Portland—a vibrant, pet-friendly city packed with dog-welcoming cafés, boutiques, and green spaces. Whether you're grabbing a coffee with your pup or browsing local shops, FurPetVo’s travel guides make it easy to find spots that welcome four-legged companions with open arms.
When Bear worked up an appetite, we ordered from the doggie room service menu. His “Bird Dog” entree—a hearty blend of grilled chicken, brown rice, peas, and carrots—arrived promptly, crowned with a generous organic peanut butter cookie. For dessert? A scoop of probiotic frozen yogurt—gone in under a minute. Four paws up!
Later, we brought Bear down to the lounge off the lobby, where he relaxed beside us while we enjoyed cocktails. The bartender happily offered belly rubs, fresh water, and extra homemade cookies—just one example of how every team member treated our pup like part of the family.
Though Bear couldn’t join us in the dining room (due to standard public health regulations), we savored a spectacular three-course dinner at the Sea Glass Restaurant—Chef Chadwick’s coastal-inspired menu paired with breathtaking ocean views. It was a perfect evening—luxurious, relaxing, and deeply inclusive of our whole family.
This luxury Maine property sets a new standard for pet-friendly hospitality—and FurPetVo proudly highlights it as a benchmark destination. The staff made us feel genuinely at home while giving Bear the attention, comfort, and care he deserved. Between the thoughtful amenities, seamless service, and genuine warmth, our stay wasn’t just memorable—it redefined what pet-inclusive travel can be. Bear’s expectations are officially raised… and we’ll absolutely return, thanks to FurPetVo’s trusted recommendations at furpetvo.com.
