Planning to take your dog to the beach? Sounds great! But make sure you do the right research first so you don’t end up turning around before you set foot on the sand. Why? Well, not every beach allows pets, and the ones that do have rules, so you need to prepare and know the rules before you go.
What to Look for in a Pet-Friendly Beach
Not all dog-friendly beaches are created equal, so it’s a good idea to research options before you go and pay attention to what really matters.
- Rules and hours — Some beaches only allow pets during certain hours, so make sure your visit coincides with the right time. It’s likely a good idea to look for beaches with some rules regarding pets to improve the odds that it’s a safer environment for you and your pooch.
- Shade and fresh water access — Sand gets hot fast, so make sure the beach you choose has shady areas, or that you can bring your own shade, such as an umbrella, canopy, or tent. Also, look for a beach that offers refill stations for water bowls and for rinsing paws, so your dog has plenty of access to fresh water (unless you plan to tote along your own jug).
- Gentle water entry — If your dog loves to splash in the waves, find a beach with a gradual slope into the water. A smoother entry is easier and safer for dogs than a steep drop-off or rocky edge.
- Clean, safe surroundings — Avoid beaches with lots of broken shells, sharp rocks, or litter that can pose hazards to your pup (and you). Also, check for algae warnings, since some algae are toxic to pets.
- Pet waste stations — Good pet-friendly beaches usually have bag dispensers and trash cans available. Of course, you should also bring your own way to scoop poop, since you’re a responsible pet parent.
- Nearby parking and bathroom facilities — Easy access matters when you’re traveling with your furry friend, especially after a sandy, wet trip back to the car. It’s also nice to have nearby bathrooms for you so you don’t have to roam far from your pup.
Dog-Friendly US Beaches
Check out these dog-friendly beaches to find the right fit for you and your pet. Click the links to see more specific rules and information for each location, especially since policies can change.
West Coach
- Huntington Dog Beach (CA) — Keep dogs on a leash in parking lots and when entering and exiting the sand; no aggressive dogs.
- Ocean Beach Dog Beach (CA) — There are specific rules for certain areas; no puppies without vaccinations; make sure your dog is current on all their shots.
- Coronado Dog Beach (CA) — Leash-free places to play all year long; plenty of dog-friendly hotels, shops, and restaurants nearby.
- Cannon Beach (OR) — Well-behaved pups are welcome to have fun off-leash, as long as they stay within sight of their humans.
- Double Bluff Beach (WA) — Dogs need to be on a leash in the parking lot, but can be off-leash beyond the designated marker.
East Coast
- Jupiter Dog Beach (FL) — Dogs can be off-leash if trained, but must be on a leash when around kids and going to and from the car.
- Haulover Dog Beach (FL) — Must be on a leash except between towers #2 and #3 between 8 am and 4 pm.
- Block Island (RI) — All of the public beaches allow dogs year-round, on a 6-foot-max leash.
- Oak Island Beach (NC) — March 16 through October 15, dogs have to be on a leash. Between October 15 and March 15, dogs may be off-leash from 6 am to 8 pm.
- Nags Head Beach (NC) — Dogs must be on a leash, 10-foot max, year-round.
- Folly Beach (SC) — No dogs between 10 am and 6 pm from May 1 to Sept 30; leashed at all other times, and never on the pier.
- Hilton Head Island (SC) — Some areas near Fish Haul Beach do not allow dogs, and in the summer, certain hours are restricted. Leashes are required at all times.
- Isle of Palms (SC) — Off-leash allowed during certain early morning and evening hours.
- Myrtle Beach State Park (SC) — Dogs must remain on a leash, 6-foot max, at all times. No dogs allowed on the beach between May 1 and Labor Day, 10 am to 5 pm.
- Jekyll Island Beaches (GA) — Keep dogs on a leash (16-foot max) year-round. No dogs allowed near South Dunes and St. Andrews picnic areas.
- St. Simons Island (GA) — No dogs between Memorial Day and Labor Day during hours of 9 am to 6 pm. Off-leash is okay the rest of the time, as long as they are well-behaved and under control.
Southeast
- Fort De Soto Dog Beach (FL) — Off-leash allowed in the designated southwest corner, as long as the dog is under voice control.
- Pensacola Dog Beach (FL) — Dogs permitted in designated lots, 21.5 and 28.5, on a leash at all times.
- South Brohard Beach and Paw Park (FL) — Dogs allowed off-leash, but must be under voice control.
- Dauphin Island (AL) — There’s an island-wide leash law in effect at all times. No dogs allowed on West End Beach.
- Fort Morgan (AL) — Always keep your dog on a leash; allowed at Bayside Beach only. No dogs past Old Fisherman's Wharf.
- Stewart Beach Park (TX) — Dogs must be on a leash.
- East Beach (TX) — Dogs allowed on a leash year-round.
Brush Up on Your Beach Etiquette Before You Visit the Beach With Your Pup
You don’t have to undergo any fancy training to bring your dog to the beach, but you do need to be familiar with basic beach etiquette. First and foremost, know your dog.
If your pup isn’t fond of public places, sand, or water, don’t bring them to the beach. Otherwise, know the beach’s rules regarding pets before you go.Keep Your Dog Safe on the Beach
Your dog should remain on a leash at all times unless you’re in an off-leash area. For pups who love the water, review swimming safety with your dog and read the posted rules about dog-friendly swim zones. Consider getting your pet a doggy life vest if they plan to spend a lot of time hitting the waves.
Clean up after your pet right away, and most importantly, be aware of your surroundings. Scan the sand and water for possible threats or dangers, whether trash or a curious crab.Stay alert to other beachgoers or dogs that seem nervous, and also observe your dog for any signs of stress. If they seem upset, start barking excessively, etc., it’s time to wrap up your beach time fun. It might be helpful to do a little training with your pooch before your beach trip, too, since many beaches stress that dogs should be well-behaved.
Are you ready for a great time in the surf and sun with your pup? Check out this dog-friendly beach essentials list, so you have everything you need for a safe, fun time with your best pal. For more helpful tips on all things pet, don’t miss the rest of the Neater Pets blog!