10 of America's best dog-friendly beaches
Calling all dog-lovers out there: Contrary to popular belief, you can bring your best buddy along with you on your next beach vacation.
Although not every beach permits dogs to accompany owners, you will find a few exceptions across America that offer rolling surf, stunning views and acres of soft, sandy beaches to run and roam.
More on perks for your pet:
From off-leash options to doggie showers, plan to make one of these top dog-friendly beaches your next vacation destination:
Jekyll Island, Georgia
Bring your pooch with you to Jekyll Island, located just off the coast of Georgia, which allows leashed dogs everywhere, except for the south beaches to protect the migratory bird and sea turtle populations. You can also find many high-end hotels and resorts that allow dogs onsite.
Bald Head Island, North Carolina
Located off the coast of North Carolina, Bald Head Island allows leashed dogs to accompany owners on the beaches from sunrise to sunset, and then they are free to frolic without a leash after sunset with supervision.
Fort Myers Beach, Florida
If you visit the secluded Dog Beach in Lee County, you can let your dog run leash-free all day. This dog-friendly locale also provides pups with doggie shower stations.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
At Cannon Beach in Oregon, one of the most picturesque beaches in the country, you can let your dog roam leash free, as long as you follow "ocean shore" rules - supervising and keeping your dog under control the whole time.
Port Jefferson Beach and Dog Park, New York
When visiting New York, let your dog run it out at Port Jefferson Beach and Dog Park, where canines can canoodle leash free.
Sundling Park, Michigan
Don't miss out on bringing your dog with you on your Lake Michigan vacation. Dogs are allowed on-leash at Sundling Park, which features stunning grassy dunes and sandy beaches.
New Smyrna Beach, Florida
Travel just north of the New Smyrna Beach peninsula and you'll hit Smyrna Dunes Park, a 73-acre beach that allows leashed dogs to tag along with their owners.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
If you're planning a trip to Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, bring your dog along for the ride. Dogs are allowed on-leash before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m. during peak season, and any time from Labor Day until the end of April.
Willard Beach, Maine
Located just 5 miles from Portland, Maine, Willard Beach lets dogs run off-leash from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., and again from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. during peak season, and any time during the offseason.
Montauk Beach, New York
Visit Montauk Beach with your dog on-leash during the peak season from May 15th through September, and off-leash any time during the offseason as long as you keep him/her under control.
Remember to keep your furry friend safe on the beach:
When deciding to bring your canine companion along with you on vacation, it's important to follow a few rules to ensure the comfort and safety of your dog and other beach goers.
Keep these pet safety tips in mind on your next trip:
- Bring a bowl You don't want your dog to become dehydrated or start sipping something that could hurt him. Make sure to bring along a bowl that you can fill with fresh water for your dog.
- Dogs can get overheated, just like humans, so bringing a beach umbrella can provide your pooch with sun protection and an area of shade to cool off.
- Nobody wants to step in dog poop at the beach. If you're bringing your dog along, make sure to clean up after him as much as possible.
- Not every dog automatically knows how to swim properly. Before an unfortunate incident occurs, make sure you test out your dog's swimming ability before allowing him to dive into the ocean.
