30 Pet-Friendly Beach Towns That Will Welcome Your Dog

Check out these 30 pet-friendly beach towns that offer fun in the sun with your dog, cat or whatever other furry companions you plan to bring on vacation.

Are you thinking about taking a trip to the beach but don’t want to leave your pet behind? Pet-friendly destinations that cater to canines and even felines are popping up all over the U.S.

The best options for a vacation with your furry friend are towns that have plenty of dog-friendly beaches, activities, leash or off-leash parks, pet-friendly hotels and restaurants that allow your buddy to join you for some outdoor dining. Many dog-friendly towns also have ample doggy daycare centers and grooming facilities available if needed.

Check out these 30 pet-friendly beach towns that offer fun in the sun with your dog, cat or whatever other furry companions you plan to bring along.

Huntington Beach, California

rose_and_the_destroyer / Instagram

Surf City in Huntington has 1.5 miles of off-leash beach area (it’s the only off-leash beach in Orange County) for you and your pup to romp and splash in the waves. Stop by Good Kharma Surf Instruction for doggy surf lessons, then hang out at the Sit Stay Cafe or Simmzy’s for ocean-view dining.

Browse the upscale boutiques in the area that are pet-friendly, and book an overnight stay at the variety of beach cottages, hotels or villas in town that are pup-friendly.

Dunedin, Florida

brinley.and.brooks / Instagram

Dunedin is a doggy oasis with its pet-friendly parks, beach and restaurants. Grab a drink at Skips Bar & Grill with your fur buddy, then check out beautiful Honeymoon Island State Park to access the white-sand beach and nature trail.

Dine with your doggy at the Marina Cafe at Bon Appetit and enjoy the ocean views. Pet owners also love staying overnight at the Downtown Dunedin B&B where furry friends are always welcome.

Provincetown, Massachusetts

snaxxlife / Instagram

This beautiful seaside town is located at the northern tip of Cape Cod and rated one of the top five dog-friendly destinations in the United States. There are lovely shoreline trails and meadows to explore at Herring Cove with your canine and no shortage of pet-friendly places to eat and sleep.

Provincetown is also home to Pilgrim Bark Park, a 1-acre dog park with two sections for large or small dogs and an outdoor art gallery with unique sculptures. You can also take your pet (leashed) on a three- to four-hour cruise on the Dolphin Fleet of Provincetown for some whale watching. Relax in the evening at The Tucker Inn, a hotel that includes a fenced area for outdoor play with your pup.

Duck, North Carolina

mrmurphydoodledog / Instagram

Located off the coast of North Carolina on a string of islands known as the Outer Banks, Duck offers plenty of activities to do with your dog. The two of you can walk the Duck trail, a six-mile path around the town or visit The Waterfront Shops on the boardwalk.

Enjoy a treat at Sweet T’s Coffee, Beer & Wine, or dine at the Soundfront House with your canine companion. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take your pet kayaking with Outerbanks Kayak Adventure or try one of the company’s paddleboarding tours. Either way, you and your pooch are bound to have fun together!

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

indy_pomsky / Instagram

Carmel Beach is a popular spot for dog lovers who want their pals to play off-leash in the sand and sun. The pet-friendly Carmel Plaza is a great place to shop, and The Dog House offers plenty of fun products for spoiling your pooch.

Check out Forge in the Forest for a pup-approved dining menu, and if you prefer upscale lodging, take Fido to The Lodge at Pebble Beach. For less expensive accommodations, try another tourist favorite — actress Doris Day’s Cypress Inn, where special doggy amenities are provided for fun.

Wildwood, New Jersey

doowildwood / Instagram

Although pets are not allowed on the boardwalk, Wildwood has a beautiful dog beach that’s ranked one of the best on the East Coast. Their dog park is leash-free, with fenced-in areas and excellent agility equipment to keep your pet entertained.

After a rigorous game of catch, enjoy some snacks and suds at the Dogtooth Bar & Grill, where leashed pets are allowed on the outdoor patio while you dine. Top off your vacation with an evening at the Wildwoof Beach Bungalow with your furry pal.

Key West, Florida

iShootPhotosLLC / Getty Images

If camping is your thing, Boyd’s Key West Campground is a dream come true for dogs. Spots for tents and RV parking are available all year long, and there are no fees for pets.

With the abundant nature trails, kayaking and paddleboarding you can do with Rover, you will never run out of things to do at this campground!

Virginia Beach, Virginia

virginiabeachdogbehavior / Instagram

The First Landing State Park in Virginia has gorgeous coastal views with 20 miles of shoreline to explore with your on-leash pup. Stroll down the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, then stop by Catch 31 for pet-friendly outdoor seafood dining.

There are plenty of pet-friendly rentals in town, but for a little extra fun, book a cabin on the campgrounds of First Landing State Park and soak up the stunning views.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

ava.goldengirl / Instagram

Cannon is another dog oasis with numerous off-leash beaches and first-class, pet-friendly hotels. The main beach has impressive views of Haystack Rock, but if you prefer something more secluded, take your canine bestie for a walk through Ecola State Park.

The Public Coast Brewing Co. is a casual brewpub where you can grab a beer at an outdoor table and hang with your furry friend or enjoy a bowl of chowder at the many pup-friendly establishments in town. There are also plenty of options for staying the night — try the Wayside Inn or book a stay at any number of dog-friendly Airbnbs in the area.

Golden Isles, Georgia

_georgia_hikes_ / Instagram

If you visit the Golden Isles, you and your pet will have unlimited access to numerous beaches to romp in the surf. Be sure to take Fido to Frederica Park’s Dog Park for more off-leash fun. There are also many on-leash trails to explore and plenty of outdoor dining in town with your fur baby.

Head over to Jekyll Island for a memorable dolphin boat tour with your pooch, or take them on a nighttime trolley ghost tour. You’ll find great pet-friendly accommodations at The Westin on Jekyll Island.

Georgetown, Maine

goldenretrieverfrank / Instagram

For beautiful, oceanfront camping, visit Georgetown’s Sagadahoc Bay Campground, where you can rent a cabin, set up a tent, or bring your RV. It’s a pet-friendly site that offers 1.5 miles of beach to explore and has fun outdoor sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding to share with your doggo.

You can’t beat the incredible, scenic views this park has to offer.

San Diego, California

lirathelagotto / Instagram

San Diego has numerous dog-friendly places to visit. Take your pup for a swim at two off-leash beaches, Del Mar and Coronado, or check out Fiesta Island’s dog park and hiking trails. The Capehart Dog Park is a special favorite among locals.

Hotel Del Coronado has pet-friendly accommodations that include three restaurants for dining with your furry companion. It’s also right near a dog park if your pooch needs to exercise. Looking for more upscale accommodations? Try L’Auberge Del Mar or any of the other 67 dog-friendly hotels in town.

Ashbury, New Jersey

asburypark.nj / Instagram

Ashbury is filled with pup-friendly establishments, which makes it a popular spot among pet owners. Check out the deck at Wonder Bar, where you can enjoy a cocktail during “Yappy Hour” and watch your furry companion mingle with other canines in the fenced-in area or the doggy pool.

You can grab some healthy dog snacks at Lola’s European Cafe, then head over to Thompson Park or Wolf Hill Recreation Center for some off-leash playtime. For something different, treat Rover to a special doggy spa day at the Purr ‘n Pooch Resort if you want to shop or go to the beach with friends.

Long Beach, Washington

xobeerae / Instagram

If you’re a history buff, you’ll enjoy Long Beach, where you can follow Discovery Trail, one of the first trails from Lewis and Clark’s historic coastal exploration. Local attractions include the basalt monolith, a gray whale skeleton, and Clark’s Tree, a 19-foot bronze sculpture. Leashed dogs are welcome to join their owners while they stroll along the boardwalk to see more sculptures and displays.

Long Beach is also an ideal spot for golfers. Check out Peninsula Golf Course, where your pooch (off-leash) can accompany you for a few rounds. After your game, grab a sandwich at The Cove Restaurant that overlooks the course. They even have a special “Doogietizer” menu! When you and your canine companion are tired, book a hotel room or rental house on the beach — several of which are pet-friendly.

Sanibel Island, Florida

adventures_of_panda13 / Instagram

Located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Sanibel Island has beautiful stretches of shoreline for you and Fido to explore. Although leashes are required on most beaches, you’ll find popular spots such as Gulfside Beach, Causeway Islands and Bowman’s Beach to your liking.

Most of the hotels and vacation rentals in the area are also pup-friendly, and the beach town boasts 14 different restaurants that will allow your dog to join you for outdoor dining.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

visithiltonhead / Instagram

If you visit Hilton Head, be sure to take the ferry to Daufuskie Island with your pet and rent a golf cart for a scenic tour of the island. There’s also a great dog park to play catch with your fur buddy at Chaplin Community Park, and then you can go for lunch at the numerous pet-friendly restaurants the town has to offer.

Leashed dogs are allowed on the beaches, but only before 10:00 a.m. or after 5:00 p.m. At night you’ll find plenty of local accommodations that are pup-friendly as well.

Block Island, Rhode Island

eythedogbi / Instagram

Block Island is very dog-friendly, which makes it a popular pet destination for vacationers. There are doggy accommodations all over the island, and you’re allowed to bring leashed pets to the beach (or unleashed on the western beachside).

Take Rover for a ride on the ferry and then enjoy a meal at the National Hotel Tap and Grill, where dogs are always welcome on the outdoor deck.

Edisto Beach, South Carolina

bookersbulldogadventures / Instagram

Edisto Beach State Park is the perfect place to stay if you and your pup enjoy camping. Hike the 4 miles of trails or take a dog-friendly cruise with Botany Bay Ecotours through the Edisto Waterways.

There are loads of outdoor activities at the park and, even better, no fees for dogs!

Dewey Beach, Delaware

aurion.minidoodle / Instagram

There is no shortage of pet-friendly places to stay in Dewey Beach. The town boasts 24 dog-friendly hotels and 19 rental apartments. Walk along the shore with your pup or hike the Junction and Breakwater Trail.

If you’re hungry after all that exercise, grab some grub at Woody’s East Coast Bar & Grill, and enjoy some relaxation time with your furry boo.

Lake Tahoe, California

dogsoflaketahoe / Instagram

Kive Beach is a great place to take your dog — it’s less crowded than most beaches, and your canine bestie can play in the water without a leash. Two other pet-friendly beaches are Patten and Carnelion.

You can dine outdoors with your dog at the Blue Agave, then check into the comfortable accommodations at the Bennett Flat Family Lodge. The hotel has a wood-burning fireplace, a large hot tub, an indoor spa, and an outdoor grill and kitchen area if you feel like dining in.

St. Augustine, Florida

explorestaugustine / Instagram

You will never run out of things to do with your pet in St. Augustine. There are 375 dog-friendly hotels and a wide array of fun tours in which your canine companion is welcome.

Check out Eco Tours “Bone Appetit” food tour or the “Pup Crawl” pub crawl. You can also go on the company’s Dolphin Tour, Sailing Excursion or even the Ghostly Encounter Tour with your pup. Many restaurants in the downtown area are also pet-friendly.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

the.hero.dogs / Instagram

Myrtle Beach is the perfect ocean vacation destination for dog lovers. With more than 60 pet-friendly hotels and 30 rentals, you can take your canine friend just about anywhere in town. The beaches are dog-friendly, too, but the trip wouldn’t be complete without visiting Barc Park South for some off-leash fun.

The city boasts more than 90 restaurants that allow dogs to dine with their owners. There are also numerous doggy daycares and grooming salons if you want some time for vacation activities that do not include pets.

Port Angeles, Washington

doodle_ruby_ / Instagram

There are several pet-friendly places in Washington State, but a favorite spot among vacationers is on the coastline of the northern Olympic Peninsula. Leashed dogs are allowed to walk on the beach and through the scenic forest trails. There are also campgrounds and picnic areas to fully enjoy the outdoors.

If you prefer a hotel, try the Kalaloch Lodge, which offers cozy cabins with ocean or forest views. Accommodations at the cabin include a pampered pet package.

San Francisco, California

mrotisbythebay / Instagram

San Francisco has everything a traveling dog owner needs. The city has no less than 56 pet-friendly hotels, 20 canine-friendly attractions for tourists, a whopping 52 dog parks and several dog-friendly beaches.

Among the most popular beaches are Fort Funston Dog Beach, Baker Beach or Land’s End, with a specific dog area that’s always available for some off-leash fun.

Fairfield, Connecticut

altofairfieldmetroapts / Instagram

Jennings Dog Beach is the only off-leash beach in the Fairfield area, and it’s only open for dogs from Oct.1 to March 31 (like most beaches in Connecticut that allow pets). The Cascades at Lake Mohegan offers a dog-friendly recreation area with several trails surrounding the lake, a waterfall and a creek for nature lovers.

Among the 14 pet-friendly restaurants and watering holes, popular spots include Flipside Burgers and Bar, The Chelsea and Brick+Wood. You’ll also find the perfect place to stay at the Best Western Plus Black Rock Inn, where you’re allowed to bring two pets for the night.

Berlin, Maryland

visitberlinmd / Instagram

If you’re willing to rough it with your pooch, Assateague National Seashore Campground is the place for you! The park is located on the barrier island and is primarily a tent-only, sandy campsite with access to the beach.

However, dogs must be well-behaved and remain leashed at all times on the shore since there are wild ponies in the area — which is truly a sight to see!

Santa Cruz, California

goldenstatepups / Instagram

The beach on the Westside is a top choice for dog owners who enjoy walking miles of soft sand with a gorgeous scenic view. If you’re thirsty after a day in the sun, check out the Santa Cruz Mountain Brewery, where you can sip a cold one on the outdoor patio with your canine companion.

For lodging, check out Mitchell’s Cove Beach House, a dog-friendly vacation home near the boardwalk, some famous surf spots and Downtown Pacific Street, where you can find plenty to do with your pup.

Crystal Coast Beach, North Carolina

_millers_highlife / Instagram

Crystal Coast has 85 miles of shoreline that features ports, towns and islands. There are several dog-friendly beaches, including Emerald Isle, Pineknoll Shores or Atlantic Beach, a great place to stroll along a boardwalk with fantastic ocean views.

Visit Muttigan’s for a cup of coffee (and a treat for your dog!), or grab a cold beer at the Growler Bar, where you can sit outdoors with your furry companion. Relax for the night at the Atlantis, a pet-friendly lodge with a dog-washing station and unique canine products for your pup.

St. Petersburg, Florida

rouxthefoxredlab / Instagram

St. Pete along Florida’s Gulf Coast is an area known for its rich history and numerous pet-friendly sites. Voted one of the top beaches by Tripadvisor for vacationing canine owners, the nearby Fort De Soto Park offers a quarter-mile dedicated space for off-leash dogs and has a 2.5-acre fenced park for extra fun.

The crystal-blue ocean views and unusual wildlife draw visitors to the park for its ample pet-friendly activities such as fishing, boating, birdwatching, canoeing, kayaking, biking, paddleboarding and hiking scenic trails. There are plenty of pet-friendly hotels and restaurants in the area, or if you prefer something closer to nature, check out the dog-friendly picnic areas the park has to offer.

Orcas Island, Oregon

orcasbikes / Instagram

Another ideal vacation spot for pet owners is Orcas Island, a great place to kayak with your dog in the Puget Sound or shop and dine with your buddy at the popular Eastside Village. The nearby Orcas Island Dog Park has beautiful grassy fields and mulched areas that provide water, dog toys and shaded benches for resting or picnicking.

Visit Mike’s Cafe & Wine Bar for a large, outdoor seating area that allows pets to join their owners or you can enjoy local seafood with your dog at Friday’s Crabhouse — it has stunning waterfront views! Spend a night or two at the rustic, dog-friendly oceanfront cabins at West Beach Resort, and enjoy a cozy evening by the beach firepit with your pup.