America’s Top 15 Beaches Where Dogs Can Splash and Play

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For dog owners who love the beach, finding the perfect spot where your dog can enjoy the water and play around is a dream come true. Across the United States, stunning beaches welcome dogs with open arms, offering expansive sands to roam and cool waters to explore. These 15 beaches not only provide a refreshing escape for pets but also ensure they can enjoy the sun alongside their human companions.

Carmel Beach, California

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Golden sands and azure waters make Carmel Beach a paradise for humans and their pets. This scenic stretch along the California coast allows dogs to roam free, chasing waves and digging in the sand. The beach’s beauty is matched only by its dog-friendly atmosphere, with locals and tourists bringing their pups to enjoy the ocean breeze. After a fun day, you and your pet can explore the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for its quaint shops and pet-friendly restaurants.

Fort Funston, San Francisco, California

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This beach features steep, sandy cliffs and wide-open spaces ideal for energetic pups to run and play. Trails wind through the area, giving views of the Pacific Ocean. The strong winds make it a good spot for hang gliding, adding excitement to your beach day. Remember to keep an eye on the tides, as the beach can become narrow during high tide.

Dog Beach, San Diego, California

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As an off-leash beach, it gives dogs the freedom to swim, surf, and socialize. The gentle waves and soft sand create an excellent environment for water-loving pups. Local dog owners often gather here, forming a tight-knit community. Ocean Beach, which is in the neighborhood, offers plenty of pet-friendly cafes and shops, making it easy to spend a whole day out with your four-legged friend.

Jekyll Island, Georgia

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Dogs can explore a hauntingly beautiful landscape of weathered trees and driftwood at Jekyll Island’s Driftwood Beach. The beach’s otherworldly appearance provides countless photo opportunities for you and your pup. While dogs must be leashed, the long stretch of sand allows for extended walks and beach combing. There are dog-friendly trails and picnic areas on this beach.

Montrose Dog Beach, Chicago, Illinois

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Who says great dog beaches are only found on the coasts? Montrose Dog Beach in Chicago proves lakefront fun isn’t just for humans. This fenced-in area along Lake Michigan allows city dogs to cool off and play in the water. The beach features a dog wash station, making cleanup a breeze. When your pup needs a break from the sand, the Montrose Harbor area presents grassy fields and walking paths.

Provincetown, Massachusetts

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The entire shoreline of Provincetown is dog-friendly. Your dog can accompany you on the ferry from Boston, adding to the adventure. The town’s beaches range from calm bay waters to wilder Atlantic shores, suiting dogs of all swimming abilities. As locals call it, P-town is known for its welcoming atmosphere, with many restaurants and shops happy to accommodate four-legged visitors.

Huntington Dog Beach, California

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With a 1.5-mile stretch of sand dedicated to off-leash dog play, this beach provides waste bags and water fountains for convenience. Various dog-centric events, including surfing competitions for pups, are held here throughout the year. The consistent waves make it a great spot for dogs who love to bodysurf or play in the shallows.

Bald Head Island, North Carolina

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Accessible only by ferry, Bald Head Island delivers a unique beach experience for dogs and their owners. Since no cars are allowed on the island, you’ll transport your pup to 14 miles of dog-friendly beaches by a golf cart. From the maritime forests to the broad beaches, the island’s varied ecosystems have many environments for your dog to explore.

Willard Beach, South Portland, Maine

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Presenting a classic New England beach experience for dogs and their owners, this beach allows dogs to run free during off-season months. The beach’s small cove has calmer waters, ideal for dogs learning to swim. Its proximity to downtown South Portland ensures you’re never far from pet-friendly amenities and inviting cafes where you can warm up after a cold swim.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

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Leashed dogs are welcome year-round at Cannon Beach, home to the iconic Haystack Rock. At low tide, the expansive sand provides a perfect play area for lively dogs. Tidepools provide interesting discoveries for curious dogs, though avoiding disturbing the sensitive ecosystems is important. With many pet-friendly hotels and restaurants, Cannon Beach is a haven for dog lovers.

Key West Dog Beach, Florida

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Though small, Key West Dog Beach packs a lot of fun into its sandy shores. This little slice of paradise allows dogs to splash in the crystal-clear waters. The beach’s intimate setting fosters a community feel among regular visitors. After beach time, stroll down Duval Street, where many shops and outdoor cafes welcome well-behaved dogs.

Kiptopeke State Park, Virginia

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Kiptopeke State Park on Virginia’s Eastern Shore presents a serene beach experience for dogs and their owners. Although pups must remain leashed, the park’s quiet atmosphere and gentle waves make for a relaxing day out. Known for its distinctive breakwater of concrete ships, the park offers tranquil swimming areas. Nature trails through the park provide additional opportunities for exploration.

Topsail Beach, North Carolina

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Welcoming leashed dogs all year, Topsail Beach also has off-leash hours in the off-season. Amidst its laid-back atmosphere, this barrier island invites you to take long, leisurely walks with your pet. Shell collecting is widespread, and your dog might help uncover some treasures. The beach provides a gradual entry into the ocean, ensuring safe swimming conditions for dogs of every size.

Magnuson Park Off-Leash Area, Seattle, Washington

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While not an ocean beach, the off-leash area at Magnuson Park deserves a mention for its unique offering. This park features Seattle’s only off-leash dog beach along Lake Washington. The fenced area includes open fields and beach access, giving dogs a variety of terrains to enjoy. Its freshwater setting is gentler on dogs’ skin and eyes than saltwater beaches.

Longport Dog Beach, New Jersey

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Longport Dog Beach stands out as one of the few off-leash dog beaches in New Jersey. Located at the southern tip of Longport, this beach allows dogs to run and swim to their heart’s content. The area’s strong community of dog owners helps keep the beach clean and safe for all. Stunning views of the Ocean City skyline add to the beach’s appeal, creating a picturesque setting for your day out.

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