25 Best Dog Beaches to Visit With Your Pup

Family beach days should include the whole family, don't you think? These awesome, dog beaches are the best options for dog owners.

Need to cool off? If you’re feeling the heat, imagine how your dog feels! Dogs don’t sweat like people do, so hot days can be extra miserable for them. To give them a break and treat them to some premium playtime, take them to a dog-friendly beach.

Every beach has its own rules about bringing dogs, so check the details before you visit. Regardless, these 25 dog beaches in the U.S. are some of the best options for dog owners and their beloved companions. Which one is your favorite?

25. Atlantic Beach

Jimmy P. / Yelp

Location: 800 Beach Ave Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

Hours: Open 24/7

Where to stay: One Ocean Resort & Spa

Best season to visit: Spring or late fall

What to Know Before You Visit Atlantic Beach

Amber A. / Yelp

What visitors think: “This was our first time at Atlantic Beach. We were attracted to this beach because it is pet-friendly all day … Not crowded, beautiful white sand and allows dogs!” — Cody P.

Bottom line: The Crystal Coast in North Carolina has several dog-friendly beaches, and Atlantic Beach is one of the best. Dogs are welcome on leash, all year round. Nearby, visit Muttigans, a cafe for people and well-behaved dogs or The Growler where dogs are also welcome inside.

24. Olympic National Park

Michelle H. / Yelp

Location: 3506 Camp Hayden Rd Port Angeles, WA 98363

Hours: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Where to stay: Lake Crescent Lodge

Best season to visit: Early summer

What to Know Before You Visit Olympic National Park

Serena K. / Yelp

What visitors think: “There really is no bad spot here; it’s such a great campground! Our dogs love it here, I think all the ‘happy campers’ are here. We are all so happy for the surrounding beauty and the upkeep is stellar.” — Mark P.

Bottom line: Washington state is all about the great outdoors. The Olympic National Park is like a wilderness playground for outdoor enthusiasts and their pups. Bring your dog to explore rugged beaches and intriguing tidepools, then explore some incredible hiking trails that are totally dog-friendly.

23. Bald Head Island

Rick D. / Yelp

Location: 6 Marina Wynd, Bald Head Island, NC 28461

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Where to stay: Whimsy Cottage by the Sea

Best season to visit: Summer

What to Know Before You Visit Bald Head Island

Monica M. / Yelp

What visitors think: “This is a secluded and quiet place to enjoy the beauty of the beach. The beach area is wide and, in the off-season, not crowded. This is a place to get away from everything. You get to leave your car behind (golf carts provide your transportation) and enjoy life at this slower pace.” — Patricia W.

Bottom line: Bald Head Island isn’t the kind of place you can visit on a whim. It’s only accessible by ferry, but it’s worth going off the beaten path for. It’s quiet and peaceful, mostly due to the fact that there are no cars on the island whatsoever.

The island has 14 miles of pristine, dog-friendly beaches that are open year-round. Dogs are allowed off-leash most of the time, aside from during turtle nesting season. Conservation comes first, and obedient dogs are a must for any off-leashing.

22. Fort De Soto Park

Tina S. / Yelp

Location: 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 33715

Hours: 7 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Where to stay: Coconut Inn

Best season to visit: Spring or late fall

What to Know Before You Visit Fort De Soto Park

Elicia M. / Yelp

What visitors think: “Great park to spend time with your dog. I went there a couple of times; the best thing is that you can enjoy the beach meanwhile your dog is playing with other dogs.” — Marina O.

Bottom line: There are quite a few beaches in Clearwater that are dog-friendly, and Fort De Soto is one of them. Dogs there do have to be kept on a leash, but there’s a Paw Playground that’s open from 7 a.m. until dusk, so they can run around to their hearts’ content.

There’s also a private beach just for dogs. It’s divided into big-dog and small-dog sections for safety, and it comes with fun amenities like dog showers and water fountains that are just the right height for thirsty canines.

21. Double Bluff Beach

Ash N J. / Yelp

Location: 6374 Double Bluff Rd, Freeland, WA 98249

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Where to stay: Inn at Langley

Best season to visit: Summer

What to Know Before You Visit Double Bluff Beach

Latifa S. / Yelp

What visitors think: “Took our doggo and our newborn son here. Our dog loved it and rolled around in the sand. It was a beautiful day. Not many people since it was a Thursday. I would come here all the time if I lived close by!” — Nisha P.

Bottom line: Whidbey Island, a beautiful, small island in Washington’s picturesque Puget Sound, is a wilderness paradise. Double Bluff Beach is one of the island’s best features, with incredible views of the local mountain ranges and downtown Seattle.

The park includes an off-leash dog park on the water, and owners are welcome to collect shells or hunt for clams while they’re visiting. Just come early so you don’t have to hunt for a parking spot.

20. Island Beach State Park

Dog laying on the sand at Island Beach State Park

Sakura R. / Yelp

Location: 23 Shore Rd, Seaside Park, NJ 08752

Hours: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Where to stay: The Grenville Hotel & Restaurant

Best season to visit: Summer and early fall

What to Know Before You Visit Island Beach State Park

Allison H. / Yelp

What visitors think: “Great place to bring the dog! Dog friendly, yet you see zero things that dogs leave behind. Very clean and great place. This beach is less crowded than the main beach. Felt more secluded and spaced out.” — Justin S.

Bottom line: This beach features 10 miles of stunning, white sand and rolling dunes on the Jersey Shore, and much of it is open to dogs. They’re allowed south of the designated swimming area on-leash, and there are seven dog-friendly, seasonal trails to chose from, too. Bring a picnic in case you get hungry!

19. Kiptopeke State Park

Drew R. / Yelp

Location: 3540 Kiptopeke Drive, Cape Charles, VA 23310

Hours: 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Where to stay: Hotel Cape Charles

Best season to visit: Summer

What to Know Before You Visit Kiptopeke State Park

Belle A. / Yelp

What visitors think: “The park has several miles of trails. It’s the eastern shore, so most are relatively flat and not challenging. Maps are easy to find, and there are several overlooks to allow you to view this beautiful park from a new angle. I was able to bring my dog, and he had a great time, too.” — Anne F.

Bottom line: Kiptopeke State Park is located right on the Chesapeake Bay. Leashed dogs are invited to accompany their owners at the south beach to hang out while the two-legged folks swim, fish or go boating.

There are also 6 miles of trails to explore. If you want an even more dog-friendly experience, visit the waterfront Sunset Beach Hotel. There, dogs can play at an off-leash beach and dog park.

18. Montrose Dog Beach

Austen O. / Yelp

Location: 610 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60640

Hours: 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Where to stay: Virgin Hotels Chicago

Best season to visit: Late spring and early fall

What to Know Before You Visit Montrose Dog Beach

Karen G. / Yelp

What visitors think: “We LOVE this beach. First, just the fact that it is a beach is awesome. So many dog parks around here are just made of concrete, and it can be so hard on their paws. Next, it’s HUGE. Even when there are a lot of pups here, it takes a lot to make the beach too crowded.” — Kayla M.

Bottom line: Montrose Dog Beach is by far the best dog beach in Chicago and probably the best one in all of Illinois. Here, off-leash dogs abound. All dogs are required to have DFA tags confirming that they don’t have any contagious diseases, but other than that, visiting is a breeze. The beach even has a dog-washing station!

17. Cannon Beach

Latifa S. / Yelp

Location: Cannon Beach, OR 97110

Hours: Open 24/7

Where to stay: Surfsand Resort

Best season to visit: Summer

What to Know Before You Visit Cannon Beach

Kayla D. / Yelp

What visitors think: “The sky at Cannon Beach was white, overcast and windy (makes for romantic misty foggy looking beach photos). No one was swimming, but lots of people were walking along the edge getting their feet wet. We leashed up and walked our two dogs (small Boston Terrier maniacs). They loved getting their paws wet, too.” — G M.

Bottom line: If there’s one thing you need to know about this beach, it’s that you might never want to leave. Cannon Beach is more than a beach. The iconic Haystack Rock is a favorite tourist destination, and it’s one of the few places along the water that dogs need to be kept on leashes.

That’s only because of the ecologically sensitive tidepools sprinkled around the area. Everywhere else, dogs are welcome to roam free as long as they respond well to verbal commands and don’t run off.

16. Willard Beach

Amy H. / Yelp

Location: 1 Fisherman Ln, South Portland, ME 04106

Hours: 6 a.m. – 9 p.m., but dogs are only allowed at specific times in summer months

Where to stay: Inn at St. John

Best season to visit: Summer or early fall to catch beautiful local foliage

What to Know Before You Visit Willard Beach

Dogs playing in the sand at dog friendly beach

Amy V. / Yelp

What visitors think: “Willard Beach is the closest large-ish beach near Portland. It can get pretty small at high tide, but there’s still room. It’s beautiful in the summer with the moored boats, beautiful in the winter with the snow sprinkled sand. The sand is soft and the beach abounds with happy, playful dogs. Except in the summer when the city gives you two hours in the morning and two hours in the evening to go with anything [that has] more than two legs. Alas, rules are rules. For the doggos, head over to the East End beach for more reasonable open dog hours. Besides that, the scenery is so beautiful.” — Sarah C.

Bottom line: Willard Beach is a 4-acre stretch of coastline in South Portland, and the views there are to die for. Dogs are invited to join their favorite people off-leash during certain hours. While they’re there, make sure to visit the Portland Head Light, which is one of the most famous lighthouses in the country.

15. Jekyll Island

Sunset at Jekyll Island dog friendly beach

L L. / Yelp

Location: Jekyll Island, GA 31527

Hours: Hours vary depending on which beach you visit

Where to stay: Home2 Suites by Hilton Jekyll Island

Best season to visit: Spring

What to Know Before You Visit Jekyll Island

Sharon M. / Yelp

What visitors think: “This island is beautiful! The beaches, live oaks, moss. I absolutely love the Sea Turtle Hospital and Driftwood beach. One of my favorite gems in Georgia!” — Ashley S.

Bottom line: Jekyll Island is the beach gem no one has ever heard about. It’s on the coast of Georgia, and it’s a favorite vacation spot for locals. On the south side of the island, dogs have to stay on leashes because of the endangered turtles and migratory birds that live there. To the north of the South Dunes Picnic Area, however, dogs can run along the shore for miles. Just check the tide forecast first since the water comes in quite a bit at high tide.

14. Surfside Beach

Tripadvisor

Location: Surfside Rd, Nantucket, MA 02554

Hours: 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Where to stay: Greydon House

Best season to visit: Early spring

What to Know Before You Visit Surfside Beach

Insider’s Guide to Nantucket

What visitors think: “Surfside is one of my favorite beaches. It’s great for early morning and evening walks with the dogs and day trips with the family.” — Roy and Mindy

Bottom Line: On Nantucket’s South Shore is Surfside Beach, a sandy spot that’s both dog-friendly and kid-friendly. Dogs are typically kept on leash due to the strong currents and large waves, but they’re welcome to play in the sand along the shore.

During summer, dogs are only allowed on the beach before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m., but the rest of the year they’re welcome any time.

13. Baker Beach

Lou M. / Yelp

Location: 1770 Gibson Rd, San Francisco, CA 94129

Hours: 6 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Where to stay: Hilton San Francisco

Best season to visit: Summer

What to Know Before You Visit Baker Beach

Krystle A. / Yelp

What visitors think: “A lot of people with fur babies, and it was a blast for my dog. You can see the Golden Gate from the beach. Nice place to visit if you are in a beach mood in SF.
Water is nice, not very cold.” — Raj S.

Bottom line: Visitors to San Francisco can’t pass up Baker Beach if they have their dog in tow. It covers a full mile of sand that’s open to pets and their people year-round. South of Lobos Creek, they have to stay on their leashes, but on the north side, they’re allowed off-leash. Did we mention it features gorgeous views of the Golden Gate Bridge? Snapping a picture of your doggo in front of the timeless landmark is a must.

12. Rosie’s Dog Beach

Tim L. / Yelp

Location: 4800 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803

Hours: 6 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Where to stay: Hyatt Regency Long Beach

Best season to visit: All year round

What to Know Before You Visit Rosie’s Dog Beach

Jenni A. / Yelp

What visitors think: “Great beach for the pups! The beach itself is clean and beautiful with boats and city view. Most dogs here were friendly and well-behaved; everyone was nice, too. Parking was relatively easy compared to other beaches in L.A. Restrooms were also available. In general, it’s a pup heaven! Pup had so much fun, and so did we!” — Yolanda S.

Bottom line: Located along Long Beach’s highly trafficked Ocean Boulevard, Rosie’s Dog Beach isn’t just a dog beach. It actually has dedicated dog hours running from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day. During those times, dogs are welcome off-leash. That said, use your best judgment when letting your dog run free. There’s no fenced-in area, so it’s crucial that your furry friend stays by your side for safety.

11. 8th Avenue Dog Beach

Corinne C. / Yelp

Location: 1740-1798 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712

Hours: Open dawn to dusk, but dog regulations vary year round

Where to stay: The Ocean Plaza Hotel

Best season to visit: Early summer

What to Know Before You Visit 8th Avenue Dog Beach

Mark M. / Yelp

What visitors think: “Perfect spot for the fur babies! Dogs of all breeds, ages and sizes were here to roam freely and play. Everyone is friendly and picks up after themselves. We can’t wait to come back.” — Tiffany H.

Bottom line: 8th Avenue Dog Beach, located in Asbury Park, is a sanctuary for pet owners. Dogs are invited to run, splash and play fetch sans leash throughout the park. In summer, dogs are only allowed before 8:30 a.m. and after 6 p.m., but the rest of the year, they’re welcome at all hours.

10. Fort Funston

Wing Y. / Yelp

Location: 206 Fort Funston Rd, San Francisco, CA 94118

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Where to stay: Staypineapple, An Elegant Hotel, Union Square

Best season to visit: Summer

What to Know Before You Visit Fort Funston

Jennifer F. / Yelp

What visitors think: “I had only been to Fort Funston one other time for less than an hour, so when I was looking to plan a beach day with my friend this place came to mind again. Fort Funston is like heaven for dog lovers and owners with well-behaved dogs. It’s like the perfect dog park where you have access to the beach and also walking/hiking trails.” — Regina W.

Bottom line: Bay Area dog beaches are among the best in the country. Fort Funston is especially scenic, with sweeping views of statuesque sandstone bluffs towering over the Pacific. Dogs can explore the miles of trails off-leash as long as they respond to voice commands. The city itself is one of the most dog-friendly areas in the U.S., boasting 28 different off-leash parks.

9. Wildwood Dog Park and Beach

Wildwood Dog Park & Beach / Facebook

Location: 3000 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ 08260

Hours: Open 24/7

Where to stay: The Shore House

Best season to visit: Early summer

What to Know Before You Visit Wildwood Dog Park and Beach

Wildwood Dog Park & Beach / Facebook

What visitors think: “Wonderful to have a beautiful beach and park to bring your dog to — we had two beautiful days this past weekend. Our #IndieDog made lots of new friends and is still exhausted!” — Karin Kane

Bottom line: Very few Jersey Shore beaches are open to dogs, but Wildwood is an exception. If the massive, red fire hydrant wasn’t a hint, the cavorting canines definitely are. Leashed dogs can explore the entire beach, and a fenced-in dog playground allows off-leash play. It includes fun obstacles to try out, too.

Another great part about Wildwood is that there are convenient kiosks that rent out beach umbrellas and chairs, so you don’t have to stress about hauling your own.

8. Coronado Dog Beach

Jessica R. / Yelp

Location: 100 Ocean Blvd, Coronado, CA 92118

Hours: 6 a.m. to dusk

Where to stay: Loews Coronado Bay Resort

Best season to visit: Late spring and early fall

What to Know Before You Visit Coronado Dog Beach

Niko N. / Yelp

What visitors think: “Love this dog beach! Dog Beach area is located in a great clean location (street parking only). There’s a large grass area and small park right beside the beach street. There’s a water station to wash your pup down.” — Nessa E.

Bottom line: Coronado Dog Beach is one of the best dog beaches in California. That’s really saying something because there are a lot. The western section of this beach, which is clearly marked, is totally leash-free all year long. The views from the beach are gorgeous.

The only downside is finding parking and bathrooms. Both are hard to find, and dog owners are cautioned not to let their dogs off-leash until arriving at the beach. On the trek through the city from the parking lot, unleashed dogs may be subject to fines. No thanks!

7. Gulfside City Park

Rachel M. / Yelp

Location: 2001 Algiers Ln, Sanibel, FL 33957

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Where to stay: Sanibel Island Beach Resort

Best season to visit: Late spring or early fall

What to Know Before You Visit Gulfside City Park

Rachel M. / Yelp

What visitors think: “This is where the locals go. We would track every low tide to know when to do the best shelling.” — Ashley S.

Bottom line: Sanibel Island is on the remote side as far as beaches that allow dogs go. If you do find yourself on the island, head towards Gulfside City Park. It’s one of several pet-friendly beaches on the island, but it’s the most beautiful and quiet.

Dozens of native species of birds and sea turtles live there, so dogs do have to stay on leash. Still, they’re welcome to stroll by your side for a meandering, meditative beachcombing expedition.

6. Jupiter Beach

Dog playing in the sand at Jupiter Beach

Jesse C. / Yelp

Location: 2188 Marcinski Rd, Jupiter, FL 33477

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Where to stay: Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa

Best season to visit: Late spring or early fall

What to Know Before You Visit Jupiter Beach

Taylor L. / Yelp

What visitors think: “2.5 miles of dog beach!!!! Best at low tide and sunrise! Marco’s favorite place in Florida! When the water is calm, your pooch can take a swim! High tide does come up pretty high, so check the tables before coming!” — Clare C.

Bottom line: Jupiter Beach is a Florida favorite for pet owners. It encompasses 2 miles of sprawling sand, and dogs are allowed to splash in the water and play in the sand off-leash. With that in mind, owners must maintain control of their pets at all times, and leaving behind doggie doo is a big no-no. Fortunately, there are free doggie bag dispensers in multiple locations along the water. Any leftover presents are cleaned up by monthly volunteers.

One important note: Jellyfish live in the waters off Jupiter Beach, and sea lice can also be problematic. Keep an eye out for jellyfish, and brush up on dog care beach tips just in case your dog runs into one of the tentacled see pancakes.

5. Freeman Park

Christine N. / Yelp

Location: 1818 Canal Dr, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Where to stay: Carolina Beach Inn

Best season to visit: Spring and fall

What to Know Before You Visit Freeman Park

Dog playing in the water at dog friendly beach

Jill W. / Yelp

What visitors think: “Awesome spot for beach camping with dogs. You can either drive your four-wheel-drive vehicle on the sand and stay for the day or order a campsite as well. The campsites need to be done online before coming to the park.” — Christine N.

Bottom line: Freeman Park is one of the only spots on Carolina Beach where dogs are invited to camp and play off-leash. During late spring and summer, dogs do have to stay on their leashes, but well behaved dogs are allowed off-leash from October through March. Before you visit, make sure to pack at least two doggie bags so that you can properly pickup after your pet. Park rangers might ask to see them, so don’t forget.

4. The Original Dog Beach

Husky at the Original Dog Beach in San Diego

Chelsey R. / Yelp

Location: 5156 W Point Loma Blvd, San Diego, CA

Hours: Open 24/7

Where to stay: Hilton San Diego Bayfront

Best season to visit: All year round

What to Know Before You Visit the Original Dog Beach

Sunny S. / Yelp

What visitors think: “Fun spot! Our dog had a blast playing with other dogs, swimming, running and rolling in the sand! Come early or come in the evening. I’d say that after 10 a.m. it’s hard to find parking spots and the beach gets crowded. The bathrooms are by the volleyball courts. Your dog will thank you.” — Heidi M.

Bottom line: It claims to be the “original,” so it’s obviously one of the best dog beaches ever. This San Diego special is located on the north side of Ocean Beach. Dogs are welcome off-leash around the clock. Each summer, it’s one of the hottest spots for dog lovers in Southern California. If your dog gets super wet and sandy (if he doesn’t, is he even a dog?), visit the local dog wash station to rinse him off and treat him to a shampoo and blow-dry.

3. Jennings Dog Beach

Ma R. / Yelp

Location: 880 S Benson Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Where to stay: Delamar Southport

Best season to visit: Late spring or early fall

What to Know Before You Visit Jennings Dog Beach

Taylor V. / Yelp

What visitors think: “Great place to take the dog after Oct. 1, when the beach is ‘dog-friendly.’ Our miniature poodle loves her trips to Jennings Beach.” — Tom D.

Bottom line: Jennings Dog Beach is pretty unique. It’s a 27-acre piece of property that welcomes dogs to romp in the waves or dig a tunnel. With a little help from you, of course.

While you’re there, visit the snack shack or play a round of volleyball. As for parking, it’s free for locals. For tourists, it’s $20 during the week and $50 on weekends.

2. Carmel Beach

A basset hound in the water at Carmel Beach

John H. / Yelp

Location: Ocean Ave & Scenic Rd, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Where to stay: Cypress Inn

Best season to visit: All year

What to Know Before You Visit Carmel Beach

Anthony M. / Yelp

What visitors think: “The Carmel Dog Beach is an off-leash beach. It’s an amazing place for people and dogs. The people are nice, and the dogs are friendly. You can get exercise with your dog for hours. There are shops and restaurants nearby.” — Nancy G.

Bottom line: This iconic stretch of beach located along California’s central coast is known as one of the most dog-friendly beaches in the U.S. Your canine friend can run off-leash and play with other dogs on the beach and in the surf, but he must be under voice command. He’ll need to be on a leash when you hit the Scenic Road, which meanders along the beach and affords spectacular views of the coastline, the town’s famous Cypress trees and Pebble Beach Golf Links.

Many restaurants offer “yappy hours” and come complete with pup-approved cuisine. What’s more, hotels like the Cypress Inn feature VIP treatment with amenities like pet blankets and bowls, doggie pick-up bags and an area to wash off after playing on the beach.

1. Huntington Dog Beach

Dogs playing in the water at Huntington Dog Beach

Angel W. / Yelp

Location: 100 Goldenwest St F, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

Hours: 5 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Where to stay: Kimpton Shorebreak Huntington Beach Resort

Best season to visit: Any season, they’re all beautiful

What to Know Before You Visit Huntington Dog Beach

Anna V. / Yelp

What visitors think: “My husband and I were looking for a beach that we could enjoy along with our puppy Ella. Dog Beach USA was perfect! There were dogs of all shapes and sizes both on- and off-leash. All the dogs that we saw seemed well-behaved. Make sure to bring an umbrella, poop bags and lots of water. However, if you forget poop bags they are provided.” — Cristina D.

Bottom line: There’s a reason Huntington Dog Beach is referred to as “Doggy Disneyland.” It’s one of the happiest places on Earth for pets and their people. Huntington Dog Beach was founded in 1998, and thanks to the beach’s Preservation Society, it’s even better than it used to be.

It stretches across 1.5 miles of the So-Cal coast, and it’s the host of countless annual dog events. Think dog surfing, dog weddings and even Corgi Day!