Top 10 Dog-Friendly Beaches Across America
Here's a snapshot of some of the best spots to let your dog run free and enjoy the waves:
Beach Name Location Dog-Friendly Features Things to Consider Rosie's Dog Beach Long Beach, California Designated off-leash area, calm waters, dog-washing stations. Can get crowded, parking can be challenging, limited shade. Jupiter Beach Jupiter, Florida 2.5-mile stretch of beach allowing dogs off-leash (under voice control) during specific hours, beautiful clear water. Requires responsible pet ownership, check for seasonal turtle nesting areas, strong currents can sometimes be present. Huntington Dog Beach Huntington Beach, California Designated off-leash area, annual "Surf City Surf Dog" competition, poop bag stations. Popular, so expect crowds, can be noisy, parking fees apply. Montrose Dog Beach Chicago, Illinois Designated off-leash area on Lake Michigan, fenced-in area, stunning city views. Requires a city-issued Dog Friendly Area (DFA) tag, can get windy, lake water can be cold. Cannon Beach Cannon Beach, Oregon Dogs allowed on-leash, iconic Haystack Rock, stunning scenery, plenty of space to roam. Leash law strictly enforced, unpredictable weather, sensitive wildlife areas. Cape San Blas Cape San Blas, Florida Dogs allowed on-leash, pristine white sand, calm Gulf waters, less crowded than other Florida beaches. Limited amenities, bring your own water and shade, remote location. Corolla Beach Outer Banks, North Carolina Dogs allowed off-leash during specific hours (check local regulations), beautiful wild horses, wide-open beaches. Must be mindful of wild horses, hot sand can be tough on paws, check for beach closures due to nesting birds. First Landing State Park Beach Virginia Beach, Virginia Dogs allowed on-leash, Chesapeake Bay access, diverse ecosystems, hiking trails. Leash law enforced, watch out for ticks, bring bug spray. Good Harbor Beach (off-season) Gloucester, Massachusetts Dogs allowed on-leash during the off-season (typically after Labor Day to before Memorial Day), stunning views, tide pools. Seasonal restrictions apply, check dates carefully, colder water temperatures. Del Mar Dog Beach Del Mar, California Designated off-leash area during specific times of the year, beautiful sandy beach, friendly atmosphere. Seasonal restrictions apply, can be crowded, parking can be expensive.
