We love to visit the beach with friends and family and have fun, don’t we? Well, our four-legged friends also love spending time there, and as pet owners, we naturally want to take them along with us so they can play in the sand, too.
Beaches are the perfect spot for your dog; there’s plenty of room for them to get some exercise in, and be a great place to play fetch. And that’s not forgetting that dogs love to splash around in the water. Sounds fun, right?
But unfortunately, not every beach is suitable for pets, so choosing one where your furry friend is welcome is something that’s important to consider, whether you’re planning a day trip or a vacation.
After comparing dozens of options, we have rounded up 8 of the best dog-friendly beaches in the US to help you choose a suitable option for your furry friend. You’ll also learn some top tips on making the most of a beach day with the dog.
So, without further ado, let’s look at the US’ best dog-friendly beaches:
Why We’re Recommending These Dog-Friendly Beaches…
While making this list, we have compared many beaches and considered every little detail to sniff out the best options for you. Your furry friend’s safety and experience were our top priorities while shortlisting beaches; the ones we have chosen are ideal for you to visit.
Everyone wants a memorable trip, so we also prioritized fun activities. Near many of these beaches, dog parks and grassy areas are available where you can have a meal with your pets. You can also go fishing or boating, visit breweries/stores/villages, and do many other fun activities on your trip to these beaches.
We understand that not everyone visits nearby beaches and many people get in from different cities, so dog-friendly hotels and restaurants were also on our priority list. Dog-friendly hotels, vacation rentals, and restaurants are available near all these beaches, so you can easily plan a stay.
We have also considered other important factors, such as parking, special events, area, water fountains for dogs, and more. The options we have picked do well in most of these areas and offer a good experience to visitors.
Now that you know how we have made this list, let’s jump into the review section and see which beaches suit you best.
Revealed: The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in the US
- Huntington Dog Beach, CA
- Jupiter Dog Beach, FL
- Double Bluff Beach, WA
- Rosie’s Dog Beach, CA
- Wildwood Dog Beach, NJ
- Cannon Beach, OR
- Block Island Beaches, RI
- Port Jefferson Public Beach, NY
Huntington Dog Beach, CA
Stretching for about one and a half miles along the Pacific Ocean’s shoreline, Huntington Dog Beach welcomes visitors from all over the country. It’s considered doggy-heaven and hosts many special events for dogs.
According to the rules, your dog should be leashed, which should be no longer than 6 feet long. However, most visitors can get their dogs off-leash, and it’s known as an off-leash beach among locals.
The only off-leash dogs that are potentially dangerous and pose a threat to other dogs/visitors get removed from the park by the authorities.
The beach is always clean, and the authorities take every required step to ensure a good experience for visitors. Visitors can get doggy waste bags for easy cleanup, and you should use them to keep the place clean for others.
You can visit the beach every day between 5 AM to 10 PM. If you are planning to visit on weekends, it would be better to get there before 10 AM to avoid parking issues. Your dog will likely give this beach a five-star rating.
Highlights
- Many restaurants can be found nearby
You will find several restaurants nearby, and many of them are dog-friendly. Some of them welcome dogs with a bowl of fresh water and have dedicated dog menus.
- There’s plenty of room for dogs to play
The beach has plenty of room for dogs to run, play, and have fun. You can play fetch with your dog or introduce them to other visitors and pets. If your dog is born to run, it’s an ideal option for you.
- You’ll find a full calendar of special events
The Huntington Dog Beach hosts many pet-centric family-friendly events that are fun to be a part of. The beach offers a friendly and communal vibe.
Dog weddings, surfing competitions, the annual corgi beach day, and several other events attract many visitors and their pets throughout the year.
- There are plenty of pet-friendly facilities
You can find picnic tables in grassy areas, public restrooms, paid parking lot, and drinking fountains for visitors and dogs. It’s an ideal place to visit with your family and pets.
Important information
| Location | 100 Goldenwest St, Huntington Beach, CA 92648, USA |
| Visiting Hours | 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM everyday |
| Website | Huntington Dog Beach |
Jupiter Dog Beach, FL
Located near West Palm Beach (less than 14 miles away), Jupiter Dog Beach is a 2.5-mile stretch of sand where your furry friend will have a lot of space to run around and play.
You can visit anytime between sunrise and sunset, and your dog should be on a leash when you walk from your car to the beach. However, it’s an off-leash beach, and your dog can explore the vast area freely.
It’s a popular spot and one of the greatest beaches in the US, so you will likely come across many other visitors and dogs. You should ensure that your dog is happy to interact with other dogs and humans to keep the experience good for other visitors.
Many dog-friendly restaurants and hotels are available nearby, and you can plan a stay with your family and pets. Also, parking is not an issue; most people easily find a spot, even on weekends.
Highlights
- There are some rules in place for taking dogs on the beach
There are some dog-friendly beach area rules that visitors need to follow. Only well-behaved, non-aggressive, and obedient dogs that respond to the owner’s voice commands should be brought to the beach.
Visitors should also supervise their dogs at all times and ensure that they don’t bother other visitors who don’t want to interact with dogs.
- You’ll find lots of spots to explore by the beach
You will have many things to explore near the beach, including dog parks. You can also enjoy kayak tours and do much more in the nearby areas.
- Go volunteer at a monthly beach cleanup
You can get doggy waste bags at every crossover in the dog-friendly area from Friends of Jupiter Beach, a local non-profit group. The group also holds monthly beach cleanups to keep the area clean for visitors, and volunteers can also join to help.
Important information
| Location | Jupiter Off-Leash Dog Beach, 48 Ocean Blvd, Jupiter, FL 33477, United States |
| Visiting Hours | Sunrise to sunset every day |
| Website | Jupiter Dog Beach |
Double Bluff Beach, WA
Known for offering stunning views, Double Bluff Beach is one of the best dog-friendly beaches in the US. You and your dog will love the view of Admiralty Inlet, the surrounding mountains, and the busy ship lanes.
The parking facility is good, but the area is small and can get packed on weekends, especially during summer. However, you are unlikely to face any issues if you visit early in the morning.
It’s an off-leash dog beach, but you must keep the dogs leashed from the parking lot to the off-leash area. Also, aggressive dogs aren’t allowed off-leash, which is good, as it ensures a safe environment for visitors and pets.
Only a few well-known dog-friendly restaurants are available nearby, but the ones available are worth visiting. Several dog-friendly hotels are also available, many of which don’t apply a pet fee and allow big dogs. A brewery and distillery are also available nearby, and dogs are welcome there.
Highlights
- Access to a convenient drinking fountain
A drinking fountain is also available, so it will be easy to keep your furry friend hydrated out there. It’s a dog-height fountain, which is an added benefit. A shower station is also available there.
- A grassy area with picnic benches
Your dog will likely have a great time on the beach, and you can also relax and have fun. There is a grassy area with picnic tables and benches. You can pack a meal and take it along if you don’t want to eat in a restaurant.
Important information
| Location | 6378 Double Bluff Rd, Freeland, WA 98249, USA |
| Visiting Hours | 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM every day |
| Website | Double Bluff Beach |
Rosie’s Dog Beach, CA
Rosie’s Dog Beach isn’t a dedicated dog beach, and the area isn’t fenced, but dogs are allowed there. Your dog can be off-leash inside the dog beach area and have fun in the water or feel the sand under its paws. But the dogs must be on a leash outside the dog area.
Visitors can bring only one dog per person, and their dogs must be vaccinated. There is metered parking, and you can easily find a spot. Trash cans and restrooms are also available in the area.
You can visit the place anytime between 6 AM to 8 PM every day, so you and your pet will have plenty of time to explore the beach and nearby areas. The view becomes even more eye-catching in the evening and early morning.
There are many good nearby places to visit, and you can plan a night or weekend stay in the available dog-friendly hotels. Fortunately, many options are available in different price ranges. If you aren’t planning to stay, you can visit the nearby restaurants and enjoy special meals with your dog.
Highlights
- Plenty of places to explore nearby
You and your pup can visit the nearby dog-friendly shoreline village. You can also visit a lighthouse to enjoy the views of the beach. Several dog parks are also available nearby, and your dog will love spending time there.
- An amazingly clean beach
The beach is clean, and visitors are encouraged to keep it clean. You should always bring clean-up bags and not throw away things on the beach.
Important information
| Location | 5000 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803, USA |
| Visiting Hours | 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM every day |
| Website | Rosie’s Dog Beach |
Wildwood Dog Beach, NJ
Wildwood Dog Beach, located in Wildwood city, is the perfect beach to visit with your family, including dogs. There is a fully-fenced sandy area waiting for your dog.
Currently, it’s a free attraction, and you can visit anytime between sunrise and sunset; however, swimming is recommended in the presence of a lifeguard.
Dogs can explore every part of the beach if they are leashed. There is also an off-leash area where your pet can run and play with other dogs without restrictions.
Only friendly dogs are allowed in the park; if your dog is aggressive or doesn’t like interacting with other dogs, it’s not the right beach for you. Also, visitors cannot carry food or treats inside the park.
Visitors must pick up after dogs; you can easily get poop bags. You can also find drinking water in the dog park to hydrate yourself and your pet.
Highlights
- Spots for both large and small dogs
The authorities encourage visitors to respect the park’s large and small dog sections. Dedicated sections for different dog sizes make the experience safe and good for both visitors and pets. You should also follow the rules when you visit the place.
- Many pet-friendly hotels/vacation rentals nearby
You will have dozens of nearby pet-friendly hotels/vacation rentals to choose from, many of which are located less than a 1-mile distance. Also, many don’t charge an additional pet fee, which is an added benefit.
Moreover, you will find many dog-friendly restaurants in the area, so you won’t have to carry food when visiting the beach.
Important information
| Location | 3000 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ, United States, New Jersey |
| Visiting Hours | Sunrise to sunset every day |
| Website (Facebook Page) | Wildwood Dog Beach |
Cannon Beach, OR
Cannon Beach, without a doubt, is one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in the US. The stunning coastline views attract many visitors throughout the year, and dogs are also welcome at the beach.
Your four-legged friend must be on a leash or under voice control at the beach, but you will have to keep the leash on when walking from the parking area to the beach.
The parking facility is up to the mark, and public restrooms are also available near the parking areas. You can easily plan a stay in the city with dozens of dog-friendly hotels, vacation rentals, and restaurants.
You will have miles of sandy oceanfront to explore with your dog, so it would be better to visit early in the morning. Many locals come for sunrise walks at the beach with their pets, and you can also enjoy the beautiful view in the morning.
It will be wise to bring clean-up bags for your dog. You will be required to pick up after the dogs and keep the beach clean.
Highlights
- Home to a yearly dog show
If you are fond of dog-friendly events, you should visit the beach in October. A unique dog show is organized here every year, and you can enjoy it. However, it’s also a good beach to visit during other times of the year.
- The perfect place for wildlife watchers
It’s a perfect beach for wildlife watchers, as you can see the Tufted Puffins that nest there. The place is also home to several types of birds. You will need to ensure that your dog doesn’t chase off any stray puffins.
Important information
| Location | Ecola Ct, Tolovana Park, OR 97145, USA |
| Visiting Hours | Sunrise to sunset every day |
| Website | Cannon Beach |
Block Island Beaches, RI
As a dog owner, you will be happy to know that all Block Island beaches welcome dogs. You and your dog will have plenty of options to choose from, including Andy’s Way, Mansion Beach, Ballard’s Beach, Scotch Beach, and more.
Visitors can enjoy many dog-friendly activities in Block Island and nearby areas. For instance, you can go on a fishing or sunset tour with your dog. Gardens, picnic tables, and walking trails are also available nearby where dogs are allowed, but they must be leashed.
Since there are many things to explore, planning a weekend trip and staying there for a few days would be wise.
Highlights
- Dogs are permitted on the ferry
Dogs are allowed on all the ferries, which is good for dog owners, as they can easily get to the island.
- Pet-friendly bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals
You can find pet-friendly bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals in Block Island, so you will have options in different budget ranges. Some dog-friendly restaurants are also within a 1-mile distance from Block Island.
Important information
| Location | 7 Corn Neck Rd, New Shoreham, RI 02807, USA |
| Visiting Hours | May vary from beach to beach |
| Website | N/A |
Port Jefferson Public Beach, NY
Port Jefferson Public Beach is the perfect place for you to stretch your legs and relax. Your dog is also welcome there to dip its paws in the water.
There is plenty of room for your dog to run, play, socialize, and have fun. You will likely encounter many wagging tails at the beach, so you should ensure your dog doesn’t mind company.
The beach is always clean, and the view is also eye-catching. A paid public parking lot is also available, but getting in early on weekends is better, as the place tends to fill up quickly. It will also give you more time to play at the beach and visit the nearby stores and places.
There are only a few well-known pet-friendly vacation rentals within the 1-mile distance, but they are worth booking. Pet-friendly restaurants and cafes are also available nearby, so there is no need to carry your lunch.
Highlights
- Nearby dog-friendly parks and stores
You can visit a dog-friendly park with your pet and spend some quality time together. There is a well-known pet-friendly store and brewery within a 1-mile distance, so you will have several places to explore.
- More than 2 miles of shoreline
At Port Jefferson, you will explore more than 2 miles of beautiful shoreline. If your dog loves to run, it’s the ideal place for you to visit.
Important information
| Location | Village Beach Rd, Port Jefferson, NY 11777, USA |
| Visiting Hours | Sunrise to sunset everyday |
| Website | N/A |
So, these are the best dog-friendly beaches in the US that we have found. They all are worth visiting and can offer a good experience to your dog.
All of them offer a beautiful view and many appealing nearby places/stores/parks to visit. But some may suit you more than others, depending on your location and personal preferences.
The following section will discuss some important things you should consider when visiting a beach with your dog.
Important Things to Consider When Taking Your Dog to the Beach
Make sure your dog is well-behaved.
You should know that you and your dog won’t be alone at the beach. There will likely be many other people and pets, and they all will be there to enjoy. If your dog is aggressive, others may not appreciate your presence.
Dogs can easily get distracted when other animals are around, so you should ensure that your pet follows your commands and doesn’t disturb others.
A beach shouldn’t be the first place you visit with your dog. It should know it’s not the only dog that exists on the planet, and you should help him interact with other pets. You should take it for a walk regularly and train it well.
Your dog’s safety should be your top priority.
You should be concerned about your dog’s safety, especially on your first trip together. Dogs often get anxious in unfamiliar environments. They may also get carried away, as there’s plenty of space to explore at a beach.
You should, at all costs, not let your dog eat sand and prevent them from drinking a lot of salt water. You should not let them eat anything they aren’t supposed to eat. Moreover, you should speak to a lifeguard and be aware of the water conditions, as rough waves can be dangerous for dogs.
You should also protect your dogs from sea animals that often come near the shore, such as jellyfish, crabs, and stingrays. You will also have to protect them from other pets on the beach if they are aggressive.
Heatstroke is another issue that you will need to protect your dog from. You will have to provide shade to your dog and give it plenty of chances to rest. You can also limit your time in the sun and visit the beach early in the morning or late in the day. Water brakes are also a must.
Bring plenty of water.
You should bring plenty of fresh water for yourself and your furry friend, as you can’t rely on salt water. Dogs can easily dehydrate on the beach, especially in the summer. You should offer them fresh water from time to time.
You should also bring enough food for your dog, especially if you plan to stay there longer. Bringing a few treats along can be a good idea if you are visiting the beach only for an hour or two.
Use pet-safe sunscreen.
Do you use sunscreen when going to a beach? Well, your furry friend can also suffer from sunburn! Buying pet-safe sunscreen and applying it to your dog’s nose, ears, and other required areas can be a good idea.
Check and follow the rules carefully.
Some beaches and swimming areas have very strict rules, and you should always read and follow them carefully to maintain a good environment for everyone.
Depending on the rules, your dog may be allowed off-leash in some areas on the beach. But dogs need to be on a leash in some areas, such as the parking lot.
At some beaches, there may also be a size limit for dogs. It’s better to check such rules before visiting the beach.
Make sure your dog is vaccinated.
Your dog isn’t supposed to be out there at a beach if it isn’t vaccinated. Dogs can easily catch an infection or disease when they aren’t vaccinated, which won’t be good for their long-term health. Other pets on the beach may be vaccinated, but the other animals and birds present there won’t be and can spread infections.
Look for dog-friendly hotels if you are planning to stay overnight.
If you are driving to a distant beach and planning to stay overnight, you should look for dog-friendly hotels before leaving. Fortunately, such hotels are available in most cities, but booking a room when planning your trip is important, as availability can be an issue.
Dog-friendly restaurants are also available in many cities, and you can enjoy special meals with your pet there. Most of them have special menus for dogs and many welcome pets with a bowl of fresh water. If you aren’t planning to stay overnight and have packed your meals, there is no need to look for such details.
Don’t forget to visit nearby places and enjoy dog-friendly activities.
Your dog will love playing in the sand and getting its paws wet in the water, but your options aren’t limited to the beach.
In most cases, you can find many other dog-friendly activities to enjoy near a dog-friendly beach. You can go fishing, be on ferries, visit nearby villages, go shopping, and do much more in the nearby areas. The right activities can turn a normal visit to the beach into something you will cherish for the rest of your life.
So, these are some important things you should consider when visiting a beach with your dog. It’s your responsibility to ensure a safe environment for your pet and other visitors at the beach.
Things Your Dog Should Know Before a Beach Outing
Bringing an untrained dog to the beach can be an issue for you and other visitors. Your dog should learn to follow the basic voice commands before going to a beach. On many beaches, dogs are allowed off-leash and have a large area for running and playing. They are free to run but should come back when called.
Non-obedient dogs can start eating from someone else’s food basket or eat a dead fish/bird at the beach. If your dog doesn’t obey voice commands, you shouldn’t remove the leash or take it to a beach to avoid issues.
Conclusion
We hope you liked this article and we were able to help you find a suitable beach according to your needs. There are many dog-friendly beaches in the US, but the ones we have mentioned stand out in the crowd.
There is a lot of fun stuff you can do with your dog at a beach. You can play fetch on the beach or in the water. You can also go swimming together or go for a walk and explore the shore together. Moreover, you can go boating together and enjoy the ride.
Whether swimming or playing in the sand, your dog will likely love the experience. But you should keep your dog safe near the sea and follow the tips we have shared in this article. If you consider the things we have mentioned, you are unlikely to face any issues.
So what are you waiting for? Pick a suitable beach and plan a trip with your four-legged friend.
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