SA-chew-est ...our the emphasis on the first syllable

In some ways, the "best" spot is at Sachuset Point itself, which is between shoreline access points 2 and 4 on the refuge map that you can get at the headquarters or can download online (can't list the URL here due to TA rules). It's an especially dramatic spot at any time of day with 360 views. If you want to photograph local fishermen casting for stripers and other fish at the Point, late afternoon or early evening are good times to visit there. Non-stop, it's only about a 15-20 minute walk from the headquarters (but there are plenty of nice views along the way!). This is also an active bird migration area. While birds are active at all times of day, near sunrise or sunset are probably "best" times to photograph them. If you want other sunset views, you might continue on the main Ocean View loop trail towards Island Rocks -- it's nice to face the Sakonnet River late in the day with the setting sun behind you. Finally, the Flint Point Trail is also nice, but less dramatic than the Ocean View Trail.

Sorry, no idea. Don't remember seeing any dogs. Look for a website - might be info there.

Its open, check on visitors center hours, sure it would be rough going with all the snow, trails aren't cleared. But some good viewing if you're up to it. Skis or snow shoes???