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Dog Beaches & Dog Friendly Beaches in the U.S.
Please help keep these beaches dog friendly:
* Never leave your dog unattended.
* Always keep your dog on a leash or under voice control.
* Always clean up after your dog.
Dog Beaches of the Eastern Seaboard
Dauphin Island
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the public beach year round. The public beach near the Red School House and the old fishing pier is the largest area on Dauphin Island set aside for dogs and their owners to romp and play on the sand and in the surf. There are at least a couple of miles of beach there, and with Sand Island now connected to Dauphin Island, there is another three miles of undeveloped beach jutting out into the Gulf on that barrier island. Though dogs are allowed at Dauphin Island's primary public beach and at the Dauphin Island Campground, dogs are not allowed at the West End Beach Park on the Island's extreme west end.
Fort Morgan
Dogs on a leash are allowed on beaches in the city of Fort Morgan, but are not permitted on Alabama state beaches or Fort Morgan State Historic Site property.
Buckskin Mountain State Park, Colorado River, Parker
Buckskin Mountain State Park is located on Arizona Highway 95, about 12 miles north of Parker. The River Island unit is one mile north of Buckskin Mountain State Park. Dogs are allowed in the water but must be kept north of the boat ramp.
Dogs on California State Beaches
NORTHERN COAST
Caspar: Caspar Beach
Located in Mendocino County approximately 4 miles north of the town of Mendocino across from the Casper Beach RV Park. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
Crescent City: Beachfront Park
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach and in the park located on Front St.
Crescent City: Crescent Beach
Undeveloped beach 3-4 miles south of Crescent City on Hwy I. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Crescent City Area: Gold Bluffs Beach, Prairie Creek State Park
50 miles north of Eureka and 25 miles south of Crescent City on Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway off of Highway 101. Dogs on a leash are allowed on designated areas of Gold Bluffs Beach.
Fort Bragg: MacKerricher State Park
Located three miles north of Fort Bragg on Highway 1, near the town of Cleone. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach but are not permitted on park trails.
Fort Bragg: Noyo Beach Off-Leash Dog Area
Dogs are allowed off-leash on the beach year round.
Humboldt County Parks Guidelines to Activities
Where permitted, dogs must be on a leash no greater than 10 feet in the parking and camping areas and within 100' of these areas. Permitted to be unleashed, if under complete control by owner, on the waveslope only at Clam Beach, Table Bluff, and Centerville all year and on the entire beach from October 1 through February 28. Permitted to be unleashed if under complete control by owner, on the beach at Big Lagoon, Moonstone, Luffenholtz and Mad River County Parks. Permitted only in vehicle in Freshwater County Park. Not permitted in Tooby Park.
Dogs must be on leash March 1 to September 30 at Clam Beach, Table Bluff, and Centerville County Parks, except on the waveslope, where they can be unleashed if kept under complete control of the owner. Dogs are not allowed to chase or harass plovers.
Irish Beach/Manchester: Manchester State Park
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
Mendocino: Big River Beach
Big River Beach is on the south side of Mendocino. It is accessible by vehicle from Highway 1, or by trails down the bluffs. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
Mendocino: Van Damme State Park
Located three miles south of Mendocino on Highway 1. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Samoa: Samoa Dunes Recreation Area
300-acre sand dune park located just west of Eureka on Humboldt Bay. Dogs are allowed off-leash if they are under voice control.
Trinidad: Moonstone Beach
Dogs are allowed off-leash if they are under voice control.
Westport: Westport-Union Landing State Beach
Located 19 miles north of Fort Bragg on Highway 1 and 2 miles north of Westport. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
SONOMA COAST
Bodega Bay: Doran Regional Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Gualala: Gualala Point Regional Park
6 miles north of Jenner and one mile south of Gualala on Highway 1. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Jenner area: Stillwater Cove Regional Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Russsian River District Dog Guidelines
The following are designated areas where dogs are permitted on beaches adjacent to bodies of water in State Park Systems or portions of units: Marshall Gulch, Carmet Beach, Schoolhouse Beach, Portuguese Beach, Duncan's Cove, Wright's Beach, Furlong Gulch, Shell Beach, Blind Beach, Russian Gulch.
Sonoma Coast State Beach
The Beach, actually a series of beaches separated by rock bluffs and headlands, extends 17 miles from Bodega Head to Vista Trail located 4 miles north of Jenner. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the following beaches: Marshall Gulch, Carmet Beach, Furlong Gulch, Blind Beach, Schoolhouse Beach, Portuguese Beach, Duncan's Cove, Wright's Beach, Shell Beach. Dogs are not permitted on Salmon Creek Beach and Bodega Dunes Beach, both protected areas for the snowy plover.
SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA
Bolinas: Agate Beach Park
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
Dillon Beach
45 min. - 1 hr. north of San Francisco in the Bay Area. Dogs are allowed off-leash on the beach if they are under voice control.
Half Moon Bay
Dogs on a leash are allowed on Surfer's Beach and on Poplar Beach at the west end of Poplar St.
Half Moon Bay Area: Montara State Beach
Located 8 miles north of Half Moon Bay on Highway One. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Half Moon Bay Area/Pescadero: Bean Hollow State Beach
Located 17.5 miles south of Half Moon Bay and 3 miles south of Pescadero on Highway One. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Marin County Parks Rules & Regulations: Dogs in Parks
Dogs on a leash are permitted in certain signed areas of McInnis Park. Please obey all regulatory signs. Dogs are not permitted at Stafford Lake, McNear's Beach or Paradise Beach Parks.
Marin Headlands: Rodeo Beach, Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Dogs are allowed off-leash under voice control from the shoreline to the crest of the dunes.
Muir Beach, Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Dogs are allowed off-leash if they are under voice control.
Ocean Beach, Golden Gate Recreation Area
The beach runs parallel to the Great Highway (north of Fort Funston). There are several access points including Sloat Blvd., Fulton Street or Lincoln Way. This beach has a mix of off-leash and leash required areas. Dogs must be on leash on Ocean Beach between Sloat Blvd and Stairwell No. 21 (roughly at Fulton). North of Fulton to the Cliff House and South of Sloat for several miles are still okay for off-leash dogs, however parts of these areas may be impassible at high tide. The GGNRA stricly enforces the on-leash area between Sloat and Fulton.
Pacifica: Esplanade Beach
Dogs are allowed off-leash on an area of the beach. Entrance via stairs at the end of Esplanade, north of Manor Dr.
Point Reyes: Point Reyes National Seashore
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the following beaches: Kehoe Beach, Limantour Beach, and Point Reyes/Great Beach.
Richmond: Point Isabel Regional Shoreline
Dogs are allowed off-leash.
San Francisco: Baker Beach, Golden Gate Recreation Area
Dogs are allowed off-leash at the north end of the beach.
San Francisco: Crissy Field, Golden Gate Recreation Area
Dogs are allowed off-leash on the beach.
San Francisco: Fort Funston/Burton Beach, Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Off-leash recreation is allowed at Fort Funston.
Fort Funston Dog Walkers Association
Stinson Beach: Upton Beach
Dogs not allowed on the National Park section of Stinson Beach. Dogs on a leash are allowed on Upton Beach, owned by the County of Marin, which is located north of the land administered by the National Park Service.
Tomales Bay: Chicken Ranch Beach
Chicken Ranch Beach is a small beach where ThirdValley Creek enters Tomales Bay. The park is tucked away from the main road and is located along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, approximately two miles north of Inverness. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
LAKE TAHOE
Lake Tahoe
While your dog is not allowed on any swimming beaches, there are still plenty of places for both of you to enjoy the water. Dogs are allowed at the Tallac Historic Site in South Lake Tahoe, North Beach at Zephyr Cove Resort, Coon Street Beach in Kings Beach, Ski Beach in Incline Village (from October to April only), and Echo Lakes. Also, the lakes and streams in Desolation Wilderness are another good option.
North Lake Tahoe
Due to water quality issues dogs are not permitted on the beaches. The only dog beach located within the North Tahoe PUD is to the left of the Coon Street Boat Ramp as you are looking at the Lake.
Lake Tahoe: Pet Friendly Beaches and Swimming Areas
Skunk Harbor
The trailhead for this hike is located 2 miles north of the Highway 50/28 junction. Look for a green gate on the west (lake) side of the road. Watch out for parking in the turnout: the sheriff's department will ticket you mercilessly even if you obey the "fire access - keep clear" sign. Follow this road down to a fork at about 1 mile. The left fork will continue to Prey Meadows while the right fork continues on to Skunk Harbor on the Lake's shore. Great secluded cove with sandy beach that dogs love! And a good 3 mile roundtrip hike for you. Thank you, Eric!
CENTRAL COAST
Aptos: Rio Del Mar State Beach
Dogs on leash are allowed on the beach.
Avila Beach: Avila Beach & Old Port Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach before 10 a.m and after 5 p.m.
Big Sur: Pfeiffer Beach
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach. Day use only, no overnight camping.
Capitola: New Brighton State Beach
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Carmel: Carmel River State Beach
Located on Highway 1 in Carmel, one mile south of Ocean Avenue. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Carmel: Garrapata State Beach
Located on Highway 1, 6.7 miles south of Rio Road in Carmel. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Carmel-by-the-Sea: City Beach
Located at the end of Ocean Avenue. Dogs allowed off-leash on Carmel City Beach.
Cayucos: Cayucos State Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the state beach from the south end of Studio Drive in Cayucos to Cayucos Pier.
La Selva Beach: Manresa State Beach
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Monterey: Monterey State Beach
Located at the Seaside exit off Highway 218, west of Highway 1. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on Monterey State Beach from Wharf # 2 to Seaside State Beach.
Oceano/Pismo Beach area: Oceano Dunes
State Vehicular Recreation Area
5.5 miles of beach open for vehicle use and the sand dunes available for off highway motor vehicle recreation. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
Pacific Grove: Asilomar State Beach
Located on the Monterey Peninsula in the city of Pacific Grove. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Pismo Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach. Dogs are not permitted on the Pismo Pier.
Pismo Beach: Pismo State Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beaches of Pismo State Beach with the exception of Pismo Dunes Natural Preserve.
San Luis Obispo Coast State Parks: Dogs Allowed on Beaches
San Simeon Coastal Access
Dogs on leash are allowed on the beach. Coastal access is just north of the Best Western hotel.
Santa Cruz: Lighthouse Field State Beach, Its Beach
Dogs are allowed off-leash on Its Beach from sunrise to 10 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to sunset. Dogs are not permitted on Its Beach between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Santa Cruz: Mitchell's Cove Beach
Located at West Cliff Drive between Almar and Woodward. Dogs are allowed off-leash on Mitchell's Cove Beach from sunrise and 10 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to sunset. Dogs must be on-leash during other hours. While off-leash dogs must be under voice control.
Santa Cruz: Seabright State Beach
East Cliff Dr. at Seabright Avenue, south of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Santa Cruz Area: Seacliff State Beach
State Park Drive exit from Highway 1 in the neighborhood of Aptos. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Santa Cruz: Twin Lakes State Beach
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Watsonville: Palm State Beach
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
SANTA BARBARA & VENTURA COUNTIES
Goleta: Goleta Beach County Park
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
Oxnard City Beaches
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the city beaches all day.
Oxnard: Hollywood Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on Hollywood Beach before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
Santa Barbara: Arroyo Burro County Beach, aka Hendry's Beach
Currently the one beach that is legal for off leash use in the City of Santa Barbara is the beach that runs below the Douglas Family Preserve--it begins east of the slough at Arroyo Burro (Hendry's) Beach, and stretches almost to the steps at Mesa Lane. From the parking lot at Arroyo Burro, walk to the beach, turn left, and cross the slough to the off-leash legal area.
Santa Barbara: Rincon Park and Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
Summerland: Summerland Beach
Dog are allowed off-leash on Summerland Beach.
Ventura: Seaside Wilderness Park, Harbor Cove, Marina Park Beach, Promenade Park
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beaches.
LOS ANGELES COUNTY
Long Beach: The Dog Zone
Los Angeles County's only off-leash dog beach, the Dog Zone is located in the Belmont Shore area of Long Beach. Only 1 dog per human is permitted.
Malibu: Leo Carillo State Park & Beach
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed in one marked area north of lifeguard tower 3. As you enter the park you drive under a bridge and follow the road north of tower 3 to the second parking lot. Dogs are allowed ON LEASH anywhere north of tower 3. Dogs at Leo Carillo State Park
Malibu: Thornhill Broome Beach, Point Mugu State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed at Thornhill Broome Beach in Point Mugu State Park.
Santa Monica
Unleash the Beach is a grass-roots community organization which now encompasses Santa Monica Dog Owners Group. The mission is to establish an off-leash dog zone on the beach.
ORANGE COUNTY
Huntington Beach: Huntington Dog Beach
37 miles south of Los Angeles and 89 miles north of San Diego. Dogs allowed off-leash.
Laguna Beach City Beaches
From June 1 through Sept. 16, leashed dogs are allowed on the beach only before 8 a.m. and after 6 p.m. From Sept. 17 through May 31, leashed dogs are allowed on city beaches at all times.
Newport Beach/Corona del Mar: Little Corona Beach
Dogs on a leash are only allowed on the beach before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. year round. Dogs are never permitted off-leash.
SAN DIEGO COUNTY
Del Mar North Beach "Dog Beach"
Nine months of the year, dogs are allowed along the entire two plus mile stretch of beach. North Beach is located north of 29th Street and stretches nearly one half mile to our border with Solana Beach.
North Beach area (29th Street to Solana Beach border):
Dogs must be leashed June 15th through Labor Day From Sept. 15th through June 15th.
Dogs are allowed off-leash and under voice control of owner from the day after Labor Day through June 14th.
Main Beach area (northern end of Powerhouse Park to 29th Street):
Dogs not allowed June 15th through Labor Day.
Dogs allowed on a leash from the day after Labor Day through June 14th.
South Beach area (Powerhouse Park south to Torrey Pines border at 6th Street):
Dogs must be leashed year-round.
Imperial Beach City Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
San Diego/Coronado: Coronado Dog Beach
Located in Coronado at 100 Ocean Blvd. (North Beach) at the most northern end of the beach next to the Naval Air Station. Dogs allowed off-leash year round.
San Diego: Fiesta Island, Mission Bay
This island in Mission Bay Park allows dogs anywhere outside the fenced areas. In general, dogs are allowed on beaches after 6 p.m. from April 1st to October 31st or after 4:00 p.m. from November 1st to March 31st. Legally licensed dogs are allowed on the beach, and on sidewalks and park areas near the beach, during the night and early morning hours until 9 a.m., but they must be leashed.
San Diego: North Pacific Beach
Garnet Avenue and the Crystal Pier, north to Loring Street. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
San Diego: Ocean Beach Dog Beach
Located in the community of Ocean Beach, just south of the Mission Bay channel entrance. Dogs are permitted on the north end of the beach (Dog Beach ) at all hours without a leash.
Fairfield: Jennings Beach
Dogs are allowed on Fairfield beaches from October 1st through March 31st. However, as of August, 2008, they will have to be on a leash on all beaches except for Jennings Beach.
Westport: Compo Beach
From Oct. 1st through April dogs are allowed on the beach in designated areas at Compo.
Bethany Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Oct. 1 to May 14.
Delaware Seashore State Parks
Cape Henlopen State Park, Lewes
Delaware Seashore State Park, Rehoboth Beach
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed in Delaware State Parks, but from May 1 to September 30 are not permitted on lifeguard swimming and sunbathing beaches, surfboarding and sailboarding beaches and in shorebird nesting areas.
Dewey Beach
Dogs are allowed on the beach year round, but during the summer season are only permitted on the beach before 9:30 a.m. and after 5:30 p.m.
Fenwick Island Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Oct. 1 through April 30.
Lewes
During the summer dogs on a leash are allowed on the beaches only before 8 a.m. and after 6:30 p.m. any day between May 1st and September 30th. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach any time from Oct. 1st through April 30th.
Rehoboth Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach and boardwalk only during the off-season, from Nov. 1 to March 31.
South Bethany
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Oct. 16 through May 14.
ATLANTIC COAST
Flagler: Flagler City Beach
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach, except between N. 10th and S. 10th streets.
Fort Lauderdale: Canine Beach
Sunrise Blvd. at A1A. Dogs must be on a leash when not in the water and are only allowed Fridays through Sundays from 3-7 p.m. during the winter and 5-9 p.m. in summer. A permit is required to use Canine Beach.
Hollywood: Dog Beach of Hollywood
Dogs are allowed off-leash on the beach between Pershing and Custer Streets. The Hollywood Dog Beach is available Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. year round.
Jacksonville Beach
Dogs are allowed on the beach only before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. Pets must be on a leash and must have a current rabies tag.
Jupiter
Dogs are allowed on non-guarded county beaches from Jupiter to Juno Beach year round. Dogs must be kept on a leash or in voice command at all times.
Key Biscayne: Virginia Key Beach - South
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach south of Rickenbacker Causeway, east of Biscayne Bay.
Neptune Beach
Dogs on a leash no longer than 10 feet are allowed on the beach from 5 p.m. to 9 a.m. year round, but are not permitted from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. year round.
New Smyrna Beach: Smyrna Dunes Park at Ponce Inlet
Smyrna Dunes Park, at the northern tip of the island, has beaches both on the Atlantic and Ponce Inlet. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the inlet-side.
Satellite Beach: Samsons Island
Samsons Island, owned by the City of Satellite Beach, Florida, is located within the City's boundaries on a 52-acre island in the Banana River. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the island.
St. Augustine: Fort Matanzas National Monument
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are welcome on the beach and the trails.
PANHANDLE
Gulf County Public Beaches: Cape San Blas, Indian Pass, Port St. Joe
Dogs on a leash are allowed on public beaches in Gulf County, but are not permitted on the beach within St. Joseph Peninsula State Park.
Panama City Beach: Doggie Beach, City-Owned Beach
Dogs are allowed on a 400-foot piece of the shore west of the City Pier also known as the Dan Russell Pier. Dogs must be on a leash and are permitted on the beach from sunrise to sunset each day. Dog owners must have proof their pets' vaccinations are current and the dogs must have proper ID tags. Owners must clean up after their dogs, and food in bowls is prohibited. No more than three dogs per person are allowed on the beach at any time.
St. George Island Public Beaches
Dogs on a leash are allowed on public beaches on St. George Island, but are not permitted on the beach within St. George Island State Park.
Walton County Beaches
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beaches only with a Dog On the Beach Permit. Dog owner must be either a property owner in Walton County, or a permanent, year-round resident of Walton County. The beach dog tag allows you to walk your dog ON A LEASH, on Walton County beaches between the following hours: Standard Time 3 p.m - 9 a.m; Daylight Savings Time 6 p.m. - 8 a.m. State owned beach access areas in Walton County prohibit pets on the beach!
GULF COAST
Bradenton Beach: Palma Sola Causeway AKA "Dog Beach"
Dogs are not permitted on any of the Island’s beaches, however dogs on leashes are permitted at the Palma Sola Causeway east of the Anna Maria Island Bridge on Manatee Avenue. Thank you, Cheryl!
Bonita Springs: Dog Beach
Dog Beach is located on County Road 865 between Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Beach in Lee County. Dogs are allowed off-leash.
Clearwater area/Dunedin: Honeymoon Island State Park "Pet Beach"
The Pet Beach is located on the southern tip of the Island. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on this portion of the beach.
Dunedin: St Clair Beach and Esplanade
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach before 8 a.m. and after 8 p.m. with access via end of Beach Street and the steps between the Surf Lifesaving Club and the end of the sea wall at the northern end of the Esplanade. Dogs are prohibited from all of the beach from the Salt Water Pool to the nearest piles on the beach to the north.
Sanibel Island: Algiers Beach/Gulfside City Park
Dogs on a leash are allowed on Algiers Beach.
Sanibel Island: Bowman's Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on Bowman's Beach.
Sanibel Island: Lighthouse Park Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on Lighthouse Park Beach.
Sanibel Island: Tarpon Bay Road Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on Tarpon Bay Road Beach.
St. Petersburg area: Fort De Soto Park Paw Playground
Located at the southern end of the Pinellas Bayway off Anderson Road. Dogs are allowed off-leash.
Tampa: Davis Islands Dog Park
Dogs are allowed off-leash within the fenced area of the beach, but must be on a leash when outside the fenced area or in the parking lot enroute to or from the park.
Venice: Paw Park and South Brohard Beach
Brohard Paw Park, located on South Harbor Dr., includes a fenced in area where dogs can run leash-free during daylight hours and access to a beach where dogs are allowed off-leash.
FLORIDA KEYS
Key West: Dog Beach
Dogs are allowed on this tiny stretch of beach (about 30 feet wide) located next to Louie's Backyard at Vernon and Waddell.
Little Duck Key: Veteran's Memorial Park
Located at Mile Marker 40 on Highway 1. Dogs are allowed on a leash.
Jekyll Island
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beaches year round.
St. Simons Island
Before Memorial Day and after Labor Day dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach north of First Street and west of Mallory Street. From Memorial Day through Labor Day dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
Hawaii Beaches Where Dogs Are Allowed and Banned
Oahu: Dog Friendly Beaches
Dogs on a leash are allowed on many Oahu beaches.
Chicago: Belmont Harbor Dog Beach
Dogs are allowed off-leash in the fenced beach area north of Belmont Harbor, located off Lake Shore Drive just south of Recreation Drive. This is not an official beach but a strip of sand on the west side of Belmont Harbor.
Chicago: The Susan Kimmelman Off-Leash Dog Beach (Montrose Beach)
The dog beach is a fenced-off area located on the northwest corner of Montrose Beach (the point closest to the city). Dogs are allowed off-leash on the beach but must remain leashed when going to and from the car, or anywhere outside the off-leash area. Everyone who uses the beach is required to have a DFA tag to prove that their dog is vaccinated and in good health.
Evanston: Dog Beach
Evanston's Dog Beach is located just north of the Church Street launch facility, where Church St. meets the lake. The dog beach is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., May through October, weather permitting. Admission is restricted to dogs with a "dog beach season token".
Highland Park: Moraine Park Dog Beach
A portion of the Moraine Beach is designated as a fenced, off-leash exercise beach for dogs, Apr. 1 through Oct. 31. A permit is required.
Lake Bluff: Sunrise Park & Beach
Dogs are allowed on the north end of Sunrise Beach. In the summer a permit is required to use the beach.
Wilmette: Gillson Park Dog Beach
The Dog Beach in Gillson Park is located at the south end of the park, south of the pier near the Wilmette Harbor. To use the Dog Beach owners must purchase a tag for their dog—fees are $25 for residents and $150 for non-residents. The Gillson Park Dog Beach has specific hours.
Porter, Lake Michigan: Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are permitted year round at Mount Baldy Beach, Central Beach, Lakeview Beach, and Kemil Beach. Dogs are not permitted at Porter Beach or West Beach.
Bar Harbor: Hadley Point Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
Biddeford
Dogs are allowed on Biddeford area beaches before 9 a.m. and after 8 p.m. For more details call Biddeford Parks & Recreation at (207) 283-0841.
Kennebunk: Gooch's Beach, Middle Beach, Mother's Beach
From June 15th until the day after Labor Day dogs are allowed on the beach before 9 a.m and after 5 p.m. At other times of the year, there are no restrictions other than leash and clean-up.
Kennebunkport: Arundel Beach aka Colony Beach
Dogs are allowed on Kennebunkport beaches before 8 a.m. and after 6 p.m. This restriction applies between June 15 and September 15. At other times of the year, only leash and clean-up rules apply.
Kennebunkport: Goose Rocks Beach
No dogs are allowed on the beach between 8 a.m and 6 p.m from June 15 to September 15. Leash laws and "pooper scooper" laws are always in effect.
Kittery: Seapoint Beach. Fort Foster Beach, Crescent Beach
From June 15 to September 10 dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
Old Orchard Beach City Beach
From approximately Memorial Day to Labor Day, dogs are allowed on the beach before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m. During the rest of the year dogs are allowed on the beach at any time. Dogs don't have to be on a leash if they are under voice control.
Portland: East End Beach
Dogs are allowed on the beach from the day after Labor Day to the day before Memorial Day, but are not permitted during the summer months.
Portland: Willard Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach from October 1 through April 30. From May 1 through September 30 dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only between the hours of 6 a.m and 9 a.m.
Scarborough
From June 15 to September 15:
Sunrise to 9 a.m. - Dogs are allowed on the beach off-leash and under voice control.
5 p.m. to sunrise - Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. - Dogs are not permitted on the beach.
From September 16 to June 14:
Dogs are allowed on the beach off-leash and under voice control.
Sears Island
Sears Island is located off the coast of Searsport in Waldo County, Maine at the top of Penobscot Bay. Dogs are allowed on the beach.
Wells Beach
From April 1 through June 15 dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach. Please keep dogs away from Piping Plover nests. From June 16 through September 15 dogs are not allowed on the beach from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Dogs are allowed on the beach from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Dogs must be on a leash and under charge of a responsible person.
York: York Harbor Beach, Long Sands Beach, Short Sands Beach
From around Memorial Day to Labor Day, dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach before 8 a.m. and after 6 p.m. During the rest of the year dogs are allowed on the beach during park hours.
Annapolis: Quiet Waters Dog Park and Dog Beach
Dogs are allowed off-leash on the beach and within fenced areas, but must be on a leash at all times outside the fenced areas.
Assateague Island National Seashore
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed in the Maryland portion of the National Seashore, but are not permitted in the backcountry, on nature trails, on the lifeguard-protected beach, the State Park and north of the State Park to the Ocean City Inlet, at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and the entire Virginia portion of Assateague Island.
Lexington Park: Elm's Beach Park
Located on the Chesapeake Bay. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
Lusby: Flag Ponds Nature Park
Located on the Chesapeake Bay. Dogs on a leash are allowed in the park which includes a sandy beach.
Ocean City beaches
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Oct. 1 to April 30.
Pasadena: Downs Park Dog Beach
Dogs are allowed off-leash.
Stevensville: Matapeake Park
Dogs on a leash are allowed in the park. Visitors may take their dogs swimming at Matapeake Beach as long as the pet is under voice command control.
BOSTON AREA & NORTH SHORE
Boston: Carson Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach but only during the off-season.
Gloucester
Dogs are allowed on the beaches only in the off-season, before May 1 and after September 15th.
Ipswich: Crane Beach
Dog walking is permitted October 1 to March 31. Dogs must be on leash at all times and walk only on beachfront below the high tide line.
Manchester: Singing Beach
Dogs are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Oct. 1 through April 30th.
Swampscott
Dogs are allowed on public beaches only between October 1 and May 20. Dogs must be accompanied by the owner/keeper at all times. Dogs must be leashed to and from the high water mark. From the high water mark to the water's edge dogs may be off the leash, but under direct control and supervision of the owner/keeper.
CAPE COD
Barnstable
Sandy Neck, a coastal barrier beach, is approximately six miles long, varying in width from 200 yards to one half mile. There is a public beach, an off-road beach, and trails. Dogs are allowed on Sandy Neck hiking trails and the ORV beach throughout the year, as long as they remain on a leash. Dogs are allowed on all Barnstable public beaches only during the off-season, from September 16th through May 15th. Dogs are not allowed past the Gatehouse between May 15 and September 15 unless they are contained within a permitted vehicle that is traveling to the Off Road Vehicle beach. Horseback riding is permitted on the front beach (up to trail 2) which is 1.5 miles from the entrance of the beach. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, horses are allowed on the beach from Monday (noon) until Friday (noon). No weekend riding is permitted.
Brewster
Dogs are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from November 1st through June 1st.
Cape Cod National Seashore
Dogs on a leash are allowed year round on Cape Code National Seashore beaches except as follows: During the summer, pets are not permitted on lifeguard-protected beaches. Passing through to unprotected areas of the beach is permitted; During shorebird nesting periods, pets are not permitted
in posted locations. Passing through these areas is prohibited. Pets are not permitted on designated nature trails, certain bike trails, and fresh water ponds within Cape Cod National Seashore (beaches and water ), May 15 through October 15.
Chatham
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Sept. 16 through March 31.
Dennis
Dogs are allowed on the beaches only during the off-season, from after Labor Day up to Memorial Day. Chapin Beach will remain closed to all ORV use and closed to dogs including no dogs on leashes until further notice.
Eastham
No dogs allowed on any of the town beaches at any time from June 15th through Labor Day, except at Dyer Prince Road Beach where they are allowed before 9 a.m and after 4 p.m.
Falmouth
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beaches only during the off-season, from Oct. 1 through April 30th.
Harwich
Dogs are allowed at Red River Beach in the Parking Lot only Memorial Day through Labor Day. After Labor Day and before Memorial Day dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
Orleans: Nauset Beach
From a point South of Nauset Beach parking lot to trail one, dogs are prohibited from May 15 to Labor Day. From a point South of trail one to the Chatham lnlet, all dogs must be on a leash of not more than 30 feet at all times, unless below the high tide mark, from May 15 through Labor Day. Dogs are prohibited from areas closed to vehicle or human traffic for Piping Plover protection.
Provincetown: Town Beaches
From Memorial Day to Nov. 1st dogs are allowed off-leash on the beach from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m and from 6 p.m to 6 a.m. From Nov. 2nd to Memorial Day dogs are allowed off-leash on the beach from 6 a.m to 9 p.m. Dogs MUST be restrained on Town owned beaches at all other times. All Dogs must be licensed and have a current rabies vaccination.
Sandwich
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from October through March.
Wellfleet
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. during the summer season on the following beaches: Duck Harbor, Maguire Landing, White Crest Beach, Newcomb Hollow Beach and Cahoon Hollow Beach. During the off-season, from after Labor Day to the end of June, dogs are allowed on these beaches all day. No domesticated animals shall be allowed on the following Town Beaches and Landings: Powers Landing, Indian Neck Beach, Burton Baker Beach, Mayo Beach, and the Terminus of Chequessett Neck Road. No dogs are allowed to be left in any parked vehicles in any beach parking lot or in any beach area or on Nauset Road during the summer season.
DUXBURY
Duxbury
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach from 8 a.m. till sunset year round, but from April 1st thru September 15th are not permitted on the front beach, known as the Resident Beach, and on the back beach north of the Powder Point Bridge. A dog permit, obtained at the Duxbury Town Hall, is required.
MARTHA'S VINEYARD
Martha's Vineyard: Eastville Point Beach, Joseph Sylvia State Beach, Norton Point Beach.
January 1-March 31: No restrictions.
April 1-May 14: Dogs are allowed on beaches but are prohibited within 100 yards of posted nesting habitat.
May 15-August 30: Dogs are allowed on beaches but are prohibited within 100 yards of posted nesting habitat; dogs are prohibited on all beaches between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
September 1-September 15: Dogs are prohibited on all beaches between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
September 16-December 31: No restrictions.
Martha's Vineyard Chamber of Commerce
NANTUCKET ISLAND
Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Sept. 16 through March 31st.
Nantucket Island
During the summer, dogs on a leash are allowed on beaches with lifeguards before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. During the winter and on beaches where no lifeguards are present dogs on a leash are allowed all day. Dogs are welcome on most ferries and on shuttle buses to and from the beach.
PLYMOUTH AREA
Marshfield: Rexhame Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach year round. Thank you, Lisa Reich!
Plymouth
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach year round.
Empire: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are generally permitted within the Lakeshore except in certain limited areas designated as "no-pet" areas. These areas can be identified by a "No Pets" sign and by referencing the map. A small percentage of the park has been closed to pets for the protection of wildlife and to ensure the enjoyment of all park visitors.
Grand Haven City Beach
Dogs are allowed on the City beach beach at all times, except during the period that the designated swim buoys are in place. During the time the swim buoys are in place, dogs will be permitted on the beach south of the swim area.
Manistee: Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area, Huron-Manistee National Forest
Nordhouse Dunes is a National Wilderness Area within the Manistee National Forest. It is the only congressionally designed wilderness area located along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Michigan's lower peninsula. No dogs allowed on the swimming beach. Dogs are allowed on the rest of the beach in designated areas only.
Munising area, Upper Peninsula: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on Miners Beach.
Muskegon: Norman F. Kruse Park
A dog beach where dogs are allowed off-leash is located along the northern part of the park.
Ottawa County
Dogs on a leash are allowed on county beaches only during the off-season, from Oct. 2nd through April 30th.
Saugatuck: Pier Cove Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
South Haven, near Coloma: Hagar Park
Hagar Park on Lake Michigan is about 15 miles south of South Haven. This is a secluded beach on a sandy stretch of Lake Michigan. Dogs are allowed on the beach and in the water, and the rules clearly state that they must remain on leashes at all times.
Stevensville: Grand Mere State Park
Dogs on a leash are allowed within the beach and swimming area.
Duluth, Lake Superior: Park Point Beach
Dogs allowed on the beach.
Lake Tahoe: Skunk Harbor
On the east shore (Nevada 28), a 1.6-mile hike down a fire road leads to a shoreline of sandy beach where dogs are allowed.
Rye
Dogs are allowed on Town beaches before 8:00 a.m. and after 6:00 p.m. from the Saturday before Memorial Day to the first day of October each year. The exception to this is the area between Wallis Sands State Park and Odiorne State Park where dogs and people are allowed except when the beach is closed between the hours of 12 midnight and 6:00 am.
Seabrook
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Sept. 15 to June 1.
Avalon
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Oct. 1 to March 1. Dogs are not permitted on the beach, boardwalk or dunes anytime between March 1st and September 30th.
Brigantine Beach
From October 1st to May 29th, dogs are allowed on the beach provided they are on a leash, not longer than 6 ft. Dog feces must be removed. Dogs are allowed on the North-End Beach any time, the same rules apply.
Cape May: Cape May Point State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from October to April.
Cape May: Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from September 1st to April 30th.
Long Beach Island: Barnegat Light Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Oct. 2nd through April 30th.
Long Beach Island: Brant Beach, Long Beach Township
Long Beach Township's Dog Park is located on the north side of Bay View Park across from the Long Beach Twp. Municipal Bldg. at 6805 Long Beach Blvd. in Brant Beach. Dune fencing has been installed so the dogs can go from the beach into the water.
Manasquan: Fisherman's Cove
Dogs on a leash are allowed at this park.
Mantoloking
Dogs on a leash are allowed on beaches between May 15 and October 1 only between sunrise and 8 a.m. and from 6 p.m. to sunset, but are not permitted at any time between May 15th and October 1st on the Lyman Street beach and access way or in or upon the area known as North Lagoon (adjacent to Bergen Avenue). From October 2nd to May 14th dogs are allowed on beaches and access ways unleashed, but only when under the direct and immediate control of a responsible person.
Sea Girt
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Oct. 1 through April 30. Dogs are not permitted on the boardwalk.
Seaside Park: Island Beach State Park
Island Beach State Park is a narrow barrier island stretching for 10 miles between the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the non-recreational beaches year round. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, dogs are prohibited from the two bathing areas of the beach, which are clearly marked.
Ship Bottom
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from October 1 through April 30.
Ocean City
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from October 1 through April 30. Dogs are not allowed at any time of the year on the Boardwalk or any platform or ramp associated.
Stone Harbor
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Oct. 1 through May 31.
Ventnor City
From October 1st through May 15th, dogs may be walked on a leash only on the areas of beach washed by the high tideline. Dogs are not allowed on the beach from May 15 through September 30th.
Atlantic Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Oct. 1 through March 31. Dogs are not permitted on the Boardwalk at any time.
Brooklyn: Prospect Park Dog Beach
East Islip, Long Island: Heckscher State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach, access in undeveloped areas only. Dogs are not permitted in camping, bathing and picnic areas, in buildings or on walkways.
Fire Island: Fire Island National Seashore
During the summer dogs on a leash not longer than 6 feet are permitted in limited portions of the bayside beaches at the Fire Island Lighthouse, Sailors Haven, Talisman/Barrett Beach, and Watch Hill and on approximately 200 feet of ocean beach just east of the Watch Hill lifeguarded beach (area subject to change as protected birds nest or protected plant species sprout). Dogs are not permitted at any time on lifeguarded beaches (Watch Hill, Sailors Haven, Barrett Beach).
Fire Island: Village of Ocean Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Sept. 16 through May 14.
Montauk, Long Island: Camp Hero State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed in the park year round.
Montauk, Long Island: Hither Hills State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed in the park, access in certain areas of the park only: north of Montauk Parkway, East of Napeague Harbor and west of overlook parking. Dogs are not permitted in the camping, bathing and picnic areas, in buildings or on walkways.
Montauk, Long Island: Montauk Point State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach, access in certain parks only. Dogs are not permitted in the camping, bathing and picnic areas, in buildings or on walkways.
Montauk, Long Island: Shadmoor State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed in the park year round.
New York
From October 1 until May 1 dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the sand and boardwalk at Rockaway Beach, Coney Island & Brighton Beach, Manhattan Beach, Midland Beach.
Southampton, Long Island: Town Access Road Beaches (Unprotected Waterfronts)
Dogs are allowed on Ocean and Bay Beach Areas within 150 feet of an Access Road regulated as "Parking-by-Permit Only" area at all times except between July 1st through Labor Day when they are allowed only before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
Southampton, Long Island: Town Owned Beaches
Dogs are allowed on all town owned beaches only between October 1st and April 1st.
West Bay Shore: Gardiner County Park
This huge park has wooded trails, a pond and access to the Great South Bay. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
ATLANTIC BEACH
Town of Atlantic Beach
From Easter through Labor Day, dogs on a leash are allowed on the Circle and beach areas between the hours of 5:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.
CAROLINA BEACH
Town of Carolina Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Nov. 1 to Feb. 28.
EMERALD ISLE
Emerald Isle
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach year round.
HOLDEN BEACH
Town of Holden Beach
From May 20 to September 10, dogs on a leash are only allowed on the beach before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. daily.
KURE BEACH
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach, but are not allowed in bathhouses, changing areas, rinsing stations, swimming areas, restrooms, visitor centers, rental boats or group campsites.
Town of Kure Beach
Dogs are only permitted on the beach strand of Kure Beach from October 1 through March 31. Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
OAK ISLAND
Town of Oak Island
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach year round.
OCEAN ISLE BEACH
Town of Ocean Isle Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach. However, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, dogs are not allowed on beach strand from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. No dogs allowed at any time in Public Access/Parking Areas. Pooper Scooper Ordinance in effect.
ONSLOW BEACH, MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE
Onslow Beach
Onslow Beach is a 12 km stretch of undeveloped beach at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in Onslow County, North Carolina. No dogs allowed on patrolled beaches. Dogs on a leash are allowed on Onslow Beach south of the Staff NCO Pavilion.
OUTER BANKS
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a 72-mile stretch of the Outer Banks from Nags Head to Ocracoke Island. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beaches in established off-road vehicle use areas, but are not permitted on designated swimming beaches or in buildings.
Cape Lookout National Seashore
The seashore is a 56 mile long section of the Outer Banks running from Ocracoke Inlet on the northeast to Beaufort Inlet on the southeast. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beaches and may be allowed on some public ferries (check with ferry operators).
Town of Corolla
Dogs are allowed on the beach with a year round leash law. Your pet must be on a leash at all times. Pet owners/handlers are responsible for removal of pet waste.
Town of Duck
Duck has been named a dog-friendly beach town. Dogs are allowed on the beaches year round. Dogs may run freely on the town's beaches while under the control of the owner.
Town of Kill Devil Hills
Between May 15 and September 15 of each year, dogs are not permitted on the public beach between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. unless being used to aid a handicapped person. At all other times, dogs are permitted on the public beaches as long as they are on a leash and under the control of owner or handler.
Town of Kitty Hawk
Dogs are permitted on public beaches. From the Friday before Memorial Day until the day after Labor Day between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. dogs must be on a leash not exceeding 6 feet. At all other times during the year, dogs must be restrained on a leash retractable to 12 feet. Dogs may be taken off the leash only if they will not disturb other people on the beach. Unleashed dogs must be controlled by the handler, who must remain within 30 feet of the dog at all times. A leash must be with owner/handler at all times.
Town of Nags Head
Dogs on a leash no longer than 10 feet are allowed on the beach year round.
Ocracoke Island
Ocracoke Beach named by Dr. Beach the No. 1 beach in America for 2007. Dogs are allowed on the beach year-round if they are restrained on a 6 ft. leash. Pets are prohibited on designated swimming beaches. You must take a ferry to get to Ocracoke Island. All ferries to Ocracoke are pet friendly.
Town of Southern Shores
Dogs are not allowed on the beach from May 15th to September 15th. There is a year round leash law. From September 16th until May 15th dogs are allowed on the beach but must be on a leash at all times.
SUNSET BEACH
Town of Sunset Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach. However, from Memorial Day through Labor Day, dogs are not allowed on the beach from 8 a.m. till 6 p.m.
TOPSAIL ISLAND
Town of North Topsail Beach
Dogs must be on a leash and under the control of the owner at all times. While being walked or exercised off the premises or property of the owner or custodian, the dog must be restrained by a leash no longer than twenty-five (25) feet in length (retractable). Dogs can be taken off leash when they are fetching and running in the water, but dog owners must have complete control over the animal at all times.
Town of Surf City
Dogs on a leash no longer than 10 feet are allowed on the beach year round.
Town of Topsail Beach
Dogs are allowed on the beach, but they must be on a leash from May 15th through September 30th. At other times the dog must be under voice command of a responsible person, but does not have to be on a leash.These regulations apply to the entire town including the beach.
WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH
Town of Wrightsville Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Oct. 1st to April 1st.
Cortland: Mosquito Lake State Park
Cooperation Station Dog Park is a 5 acre off-leash dog park, surrounded by a split wood and mesh fence. It includes a swim area for dogs.
Geneva: Geneva State Park
No dogs allowed on the swimming beach. Dogs on a leash are allowed in the water outside of the designated swimming beach.
Kelleys Island State Park Beach
Kelleys Island is located in the western basin of Lake Erie, about four miles north of Marblehead and twelve miles from Sandusky. Kelleys Island is in Erie County. Dogs on a leash are allowed in beach areas. Dogs are not permitted at the swimming beach, but can use the "long-beach" section of the park. A ferry ride is required to get the island, leashed dogs are allowed on the Kelley's Island Ferry.
Port Clinton: Catawba Island State Park
Dogs on a leash are allowed in the park.
Wellston: Lake Alma State Park
Llocated just outside of the Hocking Hills in Vinton County. Dogs on a leash are allowed throughout the park. A recently created "Dog Beach" allows dogs to be off leash, and swim in the designated area.
Oregon State Parks and Beaches
Dogs are allowed on the beaches. Beaches that are within the boundaries of an Oregon state park must have all pets on a leash not more than six feet long and kept under physical control at all times. If you are on a beach outside of the boundaries of an Oregon state park, Ocean Shore rules apply. Ocean Shore OAR 736-21-0070 states "the owner of any dog, cat, or other animal brought into or kept in the ocean shore recreation area shall be responsible for the animal's behavior and physical control while in the ocean shore recreation area." Leashes are not specifically required, but physical control must be maintained. Where beaches have been designated Western Snowy Plover nesting sites or wildlife habitat areas, all beach pedestrians must stay on the wet sand and all pets must remain on a six foot leash and kept under physical control. Pet control in wildlife habitat areas apply to both Oregon State Park and Ocean Shore areas. Designated areas are well signed to warn beach visitors of wildlife habitat areas.
BANDON
Bullards Beach State Park
2 miles north of Bandon. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
BROOKINGS
Harris Beach State Park
North side of Brookings. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feets are allowed on the beach.
McVay Rock State Recreation Site
Highway 101 south of Brookings. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
4 miles north of Brookings. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
CANNON BEACH
Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site
3 miles south of Cannon Beach. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
City of Cannon Beach
Dogs are allowed on the beach, as long as they are on a leash or under voice control of the owner.
Ecola State Park
2 miles north of Cannon Beach. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Hug Point State Recreation Site
5 miles south of Cannon Beach. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
COOS BAY
Sunset Bay State Park
12 miles southwest of Coos Bay. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
DEPOE BAY
Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area
2 miles north of Depoe Bay. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
FLORENCE
Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park
14 miles north of Florence. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint
13 miles north of Florence. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
GOLD BEACH
Pistol River State Scenic Viewpoint
11 miles south of Gold Beach. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
LINCOLN CITY
D River State Recreation Site
US 101, Lincoln City. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Roads End State Recreation Site
1 miles north of Lincoln City. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
MANZANITA
Nehalem Bay State Park
3 miles south of Manzanita Junction. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Oswald West State Park
10 mile south of Cannon Beach. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
SAUVIE ISLAND
Sauvie Island
Located approximately 10 miles west-northwest of Portland. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
Erie: Presque Isle State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed only on unguarded beaches.
Block Island
Dogs on a leash are allowed year round on Block Island's public beaches. Dogs are allowed to go unleashed on all beaches except on Crescent Beach: the area on the eastern side of Block Island from the breakwater at the Surf Hotel to the northern boundary of Mansion Beach from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00p.m. from June 1 to October 1. You may bring your leashed dog on the Block Island Ferry, free of charge. Note: The High Speed Ferry is dog friendly, but only allows dogs on their outdoor decks. Block Island Guide to Beaches
Charlestown: East Beach State Beach
Dogs on a leash are only allowed on the beach during the off-season, from Oct. 1 through March 31.
Town of Middletown
From May 1 through September 30th, dogs are permitted on town beaches, but only between the hours of 5:00 a.m. and 7:45 a.m., provided they are on a leash. From October 2nd through the April 30th, dogs are permitted on town beaches, provided they are leashed.
Narragansett: Salty Brine State Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Oct. 1 till April 1.
Newport: Easton's Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Oct. 1 through Memorial Day.
South Kingston: East Matunuck State Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Oct. 1 till April 1.
Westerly: Misquamicut State Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Oct. 1 till April 1.
Edisto Beach
Dogs are allowed on Edisto Beach, but must be on a leash on the sandy beach from May 1 through October 31. Otherwise, dogs must be within verbal command of owner, on a leash, or in a secure area within the town limits.
Edisto Island: Edisto Beach State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach. State law requires that dogs be on a leash year round.
Folly Beach
Year round leash law in effect on the beach. Dogs are very welcome on Folly Beach but must be kept on a leash at all times. From May 1st through September 30th, dogs are not allowed on the beach between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Hilton Head Island
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. April 1 through Thursday before Memorial Day and between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Tuesday after Labor Day through September 30th. Dogs must be on a leash or under positive voice control at all other times. Dogs are not permitted on the beach between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Hunting Island: Hunting Island State Park
A secluded barrier island located near Beaufort. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach and on the trails, but are not allowed in the cabins or the cabin areas.
Isle of Palms
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach year round.
Kiawah Island
From March 16 to Oct. 31, dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach between the areas of Beachwalker County Park and the Beach Club. Dogs are not allowed east of the Beach Club & west of Beachwalker Park. From November 1 to March 15, dogs can be unleashed for the entirety of the beach so long as the animal is under voice control.
Myrtle Beach
From May 15 to September 15, dogs are allowed on the beach only before 9:00 a.m. and after 5:00 p.m. Between September 15 and May 15, dogs are allowed on the beach at any time of day. At all times when dogs are allowed on the beach, they must be on a leash that's seven feet or shorter.
Myrtle Beach Area/Murrells Inlet: Huntington Beach State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach.
Seabrook Island
A designated area is established beginning approximately 300 yards east of a line extending from the Community Center boardwalk to the Atlantic Ocean and continuing for approximately 550 yards. Within
the Designated area from May 1 until October 31, dogs are allowed off leads below the apparent high water mark prior to 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m. provided they remain under voice control. From November 1 until April 30, dogs will be allowed off leads below the apparent high water mark at all times provided they remain under voice control. In all other beach areas outside of the Designated Area from May 1 until October 31, all dogs must be on leads. From November 1 until April 30, dogs on leads will be allowed between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. and off lead prior to 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
Sullivan's Island
From April 1st to Oct. 31st dogs are allowed on the beach off-leash from 5 a.m to 10 a.m. and on a leash from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. Dogs are not allowed on the beach from 10 a.m to 6 p.m. From Nov. 1st to March 31st dogs are allowed on the beach off-leash from 5 a.m to 12 noon and on a leash from 12 noon to 5 a.m. All dogs must have a valid Sullivan’s Island license – residents and visitors.
Surfside Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach only during the off-season, from Sept. 16 through May 14.
CORPUS CHRISTI
Corpus Christi
Dogs on a leash are allowed on Corpus Christi Beach
Padre Island National Seashore
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are permitted throughout the park, except for the Malaquite Visitor Center's deck and in the picnic shelter area on the beach directly in front of the Visitor Center. Dogs must be on a leash at all times in the park.
GALVESTON
Galveston Island State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach, but are not allowed in designated swimming areas or in any Texas State Park building.
Stewart Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
PORT ARANSAS
Mustang Island State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the beach, but are not allowed in designated swimming areas or in any Texas State Park building.
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND
South Padre Island Beaches
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beaches.
SURFSIDE BEACH
Surfside Beach
Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach year round. Horses are not allowed on the beach from May 15 through Sept. 15. They are allowed on the weekdays from April 1 through May 15 and Sept. 15 through Oct. 31. They are then allowed every day on the beach from Nov. 1 through Mar. 31.
Norfolk: Willoughby Spit
Willoughby Spit is located in the Ocean View community of Norfolk Virginia. During the period of April 15 thru September 30 of each year, dogs on a leash are allowed on public beaches only before 9 a.m. and after 7 p.m.
Virginia Beach: First Landing State Park
Dogs on a leash are allowed on unguarded portions of the beach with documentary evidence of rabies vaccination (required in Virginia Beach).
Virginia Beach Public Beaches
Dogs are allowed on the beach before Memorial Day and after Labor Day. dogs are allowed on the beach. From the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend dogs are restricted to the north end of Virginia Beach above 42nd Street and the south end of Virginia Beach in the Sandbridge area before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
Pets in Washington State Parks
Pets are allowed in most state parks, but must be under physical control at all times on a leash no longer than eight feet long. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Bainbridge Island: Fay Bainbridge State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Blaine: Birch Bay State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Copalis Beach: Griffiths-Priday Ocean State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Des Moines: Saltwater State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Edmonds: Marina Beach Off-Leash Dog Area
Located south of Marina Beach at 498 Admiral Way. Dogs are allowed off-leash.
Everett: Howarth Park
Dogs are allowed off-leash on the beach area north of the railroad pass.
Federal Way: Dash Point State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Grayland: Grayland Beach State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Ilwaco: Cape Disappointment State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Long Beach Peninsula
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed in State Parks: Cape Disappointment, Fort Columbia, Loomis Lake, Pacific Pines, Leadbetter Point. There is an 8-foot leash law in Pacific County and also within Long Beach City limits. Leash laws are not typically enforced on the beach, provided dogs are controlled and well-behaved.
Lopez Island: Spencer Spit State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Ocean Park: Pacific Pines State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Ocean Shores: Damon Point State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Ocean Shores: Ocean City State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Pacific Beach: Pacific Beach State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Port Angeles: Kalaloch Area Beaches, Olympic National Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are only allowed on Rialto Beach one-half mile north to Ellen Creek, all Kalaloch beaches (from Ruby Beach south to South Beach), and Peabody Creek Trail. Pets are not allowed on park trails or any other beaches.
Port Townsend: North Beach Park
Access to shoreline of Juan de Fuca Strait and Fort Worden State Park. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach.
San Juan Island: South Beach, San Juan Island National Historical Park
An off-leash area is located at South Beach, east of the main parking area below the tide line. Pets must be leashed at all times in the park and are not allowed in park buildings.
Seattle: Warren G. Magnuson Park
Dogs are allowed off-leash in Seattle's biggest fully-fenced back yard for canines at the park. The doggie off-leash area is the only one inside city limits with water access -- Lake Washington's freshwater shoreline.
Westport: Westport Light State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Whidbey Island: Double Bluff Beach
Dogs allowed off-leash in an area west of the developed area. Dogs must be leashed as they cross an area close to the parking lot.
Whidbey Island: Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve
Dogs on a leash are welcome in the Reserve's beaches, trails and most public parks. There is an off-leash dog park located in the Reserve.
Whidbey Island: Fort Ebey State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Whidbey Island: Joseph Whidbey State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the beach. Pets are not permitted on designated swimming beaches.
Dodgeville: Governor Dodge State Park
Dogs are not allowed on the beaches, but there is a pet swim area next to each swimming beach. There are also designated pet picnic areas close to each beach where pets are permitted.
Sheboygan, Lake Michigan: Kohler-Andrae State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed only on one designated dog beach north of the park nature center. Pets are not allowed on the bathing beaches, picnic areas, playgrounds, buildings, or nature trails.
Stoughton: Lake Kegonsa State Park
Dogs are not allowed at the beach, but there is a pet beach (swim) area. Dogs must be on leash no longer than 8 feet unless they are in the water.
Sturgeon Bay, Lake Michigan: Whitefish Dunes State Park
Dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are restricted to the area of the beach south of the third beach access. To reach this area, walk your leashed animal from the parking area down the red trail and then onto the beach.Pets at Whitefish Dunes
Two Rivers, Lake Michigan: Point Beach State Forest
Point Beach provides an area south of the lighthouse where dogs on a leash no longer than 8 feet are allowed on the Lake Michigan Shoreline.
Waunakee, Lake Mendota: Governor Nelson State Park
Dogs are not allowed on the beach, but there is a pet swim area located off the Morningside Trail. Pets must be on leash no longer than 8 feet unless they are in the water. Pets are allowed in all areas of the park except buildings, picnic areas, beach areas, and areas posted as pet free.
Please let us know of dog friendly beaches in your area.