An entire family – including dogs – enjoying a day on the beach is the best.
It has long been said that dogs are man’s best friend, but now more than ever, people consider them just another member of the family. In a 2019 survey by SpotOn Virtual Smart Fence, 98% of respondents considered their pets family members. Consequently, many people now want to take their pets with them on vacation, including to beach vacations around the country. Our list of 10 best dog-friendly beaches in America is the perfect guide if you’re planning a beach getaway with your dog.
Huntington Beach, California
In addition to being one of America’s best surf beaches, Huntington Beach is also a great place for your dog. You are welcome to bring your pet to Surf City USA on the sand between Seapoint Avenue and 21st Street. Two nearby lots offer street parking for $2.00 per hour, and the beach is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Many dog events are held at the beach, including the Surf City Surf Dog competition.
Wildwood Dog Beach, New Jersey
Located in the town of Wildwood, this doggie beachside paradise has all the things a pup needs for a fun day at the shore. It includes a fully fenced-in sandy park as well as the opportunity to jump into the ocean. The beach requires dogs to be leashed, but leashes in the park are optional.) There are plenty of poop bags available, so you don’t have to worry about leaving the beach dirty.
Jupiter Dog Beach, Florida
It stretches for about 2.5 miles and is a great place for pups who love a good run or a long walk. Jupiter Dog Beach is located in Jupiter and has been welcoming dogs since 1989. The public is welcome to let dogs off-leash on the beach, but officials request that they remain leashed from the parking lot to the beach and that only well-behaved, obedient dogs be let off-leash.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Your four-legged best friend is welcome at Cannon Beach, located in northwest Oregon, a perfect place for a daylong adventure. As long as dogs are on a leash or under voice command control by their owners, they are permitted on the beach. Just make sure they don’t chase after any stray puffins that may have wandered off of Haystack Rock.
Montrose Dog Beach, Chicago
Located in Chicago, Montrose Dog Beach is a great place for Midwest dogs as well. Dogs are allowed to be off-leash for most of the day until 11 p.m. There is even a wash-off area where owners can wash their dogs before leaving. It is always looking for donations to continue providing free poop bags and other amenities to the beach area.
Willard Beach, Maine
Located in Portland, Willard Beach is another fantastic beach to visit with your best friend. Dogs and their owners are allowed to walk on the beach from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. between May 1-September 30 (on leash). It is also possible for dogs to roam throughout the day during the fall and winter months. Please do not let your dog chase wildlife or stay on the sand dunes.
Warren G. Magnuson Park, Washington
It offers an astounding 8.6 acres of completely fenced off-leash space for dogs to run and play without their owners having to worry that they’ll run too far. Dogs and owners will enjoy visiting the Warren G. Magnuson Park off-leash area. Along Lake Washington’s freshwater shoreline, dog owners and owners will also have access to water.
Emerald Isle, North Carolina
12 miles of coastal bliss await you on Emerald Isle. With its soft, white-sand beaches and light shimmering green waters, this destination is ideal for pets as well. Dogs are allowed on the beach as long as they are leashed with their owners. Take your dog for a walk along the shoreline to the pier.
Port Jefferson Public Beach and Dog Park, New York
You can take your dog to Port Jefferson in Long Island for some fun in the sun too. It’s 90 minutes east of New York City. Dogs reign supreme at Port Jefferson, and their owners are on hand to play with them. You’ll have more room to play if you come at a low tide, but it’s quite narrow.
Block Island, Rhode Island
In the Ocean State, dogs and their owners will find Block Island, a beach mecca 12 miles off the shore. The island is small for sure, but it’s packed with dog-friendly spots like Ballard’s Beach (to the left of the ferry terminal), Andy’s Way, Crescent Beach, and Mohegan Bluffs. Getting to and from the island by ferry is easy with dogs, since you can bring your dog along.
