25 Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in the U.S.

Luckily, across our great nation, there’s an array of dog-friendly beaches waiting to give you and your four-legged friend the perfect day out. From the shimmering coasts of California to the sunny sands of Florida, these pooch-perfect paradises are making waves as the 25 best dog-friendly beaches in the U.S.

1. Carmel Beach: Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Looking for a pawsome beach to enjoy with your pooch? Check out Carmel Beach in the super-cute town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Right in the heart of the Cali coast, it’s got sun, surf, and, most importantly, a mega dog-friendly vibe. It’s seriously one of the best spots in the whole U.S. for dogs to have a ball.

Canine companions can romp around the off leash dog beach off-leash, sniff out new friends, and even splash in the surf. And when you decide to take a leisurely stroll along Scenic Road (and trust us, the views are totally Instagram-worthy), just remember to leash up your pup. You’ll be taking in the killer coastline, picturesque cypress trees, and even get a peek at the famous Pebble Beach Golf Links. And don’t sweat the small stuff—every off leash beach access point has “Mutt Mitts” (aka poop bags) for easy clean-up.

And, Carmel isn’t just a day trip kind of place. We’ve discovered over 25 pet-friendly hotels that treat dogs like the V.I.P.s they are, with “Yappy hour,” room service for pups, fancy turn-down services, and special wash areas for post-beach cleanup? Yes, please!

Location: Ocean Avenue & Scenic Road, Carmel, CA

2. Cisco Beach: Nantucket, Massachusetts

Get ready for another one of our favorite and most dog friendly beaches ever — Cisco Beach on the sunny south side of Nantucket. This sandy paradise is totally a hot spot for pets and their people. Expect to find smooth sands, epic surf, surfers catching waves, and a generally fun, youthful vibe. Lifeguards are on duty in the peak season, but there aren’t any facilities, so don’t forget to pack a picnic for you and your pup. And remember, leashes and licenses are the rule here.

To get to the island, Hy-Line Cruises will whisk you and your buddy off to Nantucket. For the best dog-cation ever, check into the Woof Cottages, part of The Cottages at Nantucket Boat Basin. They’ve got everything a dog could dream of—comfy pet beds and bowls, a treat-filled welcome bag, and even a personalized pet tag. And you might event get to meet Bailey, the hotel’s pet concierge. How cool is that?

Location: 1 Dirt Road, Nantucket, MA

3. Ocean Beach Dog Beach: San Diego, California

Ocean Beach Dog Beach, or  “O.B. Dog Beach” as it’s known, is nationally famous, pet friendly beach and one of the first official leash-free beaches in the United States. On any given day, dogs run freely in the ocean, surfers surf the Dog Beach Break, and people and dogs co-exist peacefully, soaking up the sun and surf.

Location: Ocean Beach Bike Path, Ocean Beach, CA

For more dog friendly beaches in San Diego, click here.

4. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach in Oregon is seriously one of the best spots for a dog-friendly vacay. It’s so dog-friendly, you’d be hard-pressed to find places where your furry BFF isn’t welcome. In this pet friendly destination, dogs can have a blast on the beach as long as they’re within your sight and respond to voice command.

When it’s time to crash, two pet-friendly beachfront spots in Cannon Beach come highly recommended for you and your canine companions: the Hallmark Resort and Surfsand Resort.

Read more about canine-friendly Cannon Beach, Oregon here.

5. Long Beach, Washington

The beautiful, 21-mile Long Beach Peninsula consists of six small communities, Ilwaco, Long Beach, Nahcotta, Ocean Park, Oysterville, and Seaview, with each town having its own charm.

Stretch your legs and unclip the leash at Long Beach, a canine’s coastal paradise. Boasting an extraordinary expanse, the beach stretches over 20 glorious miles of sand. It’s one of the longest drivable beaches in the world, offering seemingly endless opportunities for games of fetch and joy-filled gallops along the surf.

Peppered with driftwood and the occasional sea creature, your dog’s curiosity will be piqued at every turn. The beach’s flat, firm sand makes it an ideal spot for leisurely walks, energetic runs, or simply lounging under the Pacific Northwest sun. From sunrise strolls to sunset frolics, each moment on this extensive beach promises to be a delightful adventure for your four-legged friend.

Read more about Long Beach, Washington here.

6. Huntington Dog Beach: Huntington Beach, California

This year-round, dog-friendly slice of heaven is nestled along Southern California’s Pacific Coast Highway. Just a short 40-mile hop south from Los Angeles, this hotspot has got everything you need for a pawsome day out: picnic area with tables, restrooms, and handy doggie waste bags. Just remember to keep Fido on a leash until you’re sure how he’ll react to the sandy shores, crashing waves, and new doggie pals.

Thinking of sticking around? Score some fabulous ocean view accommodations at the Paséa Hotel & Spa, just a quick 2-mile trip from Huntington Dog Beach. Here, your pup can roam free in the massive 1,100-square-foot Paw-séa Dog Park.

If you’re feeling extra, snag the “Very Important Pet Package” for treats like a souvenir collar, leash, and toy. Got a pooch with a palate? Check out the doggie menu from Tanner’s and Tanner’s Treehouse—they’ve got tempting dishes like Puppy Parfaits, Rover’s Oats, and Spot’s Scramble.

Location: 100 Goldenwest Street, Huntington Beach, CA

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7. Brohard Beach: Venice, Florida

This special spot in Sarasota County, Florida, is the only beach where humans and their canine companions can let loose together on the sandy shores and in the ocean waves.

Paw Park is geared up with a fenced-in area that leads straight to the doggie-designated beach. Plus, it’s decked out with amenities like picnic tables, benches, showers, and even water fountains for the pups. Dogs are free to romp around the off leash beach off-leash, just as long as they’re under voice control.

Location: 1850 S. Harbor Drive, Venice, FL

8. Island Beach State Park: Seaside Park, New Jersey

Pack up the pup treats and beach toys, we’re headed to Island Beach State Park in Seaside Park, New Jersey! This natural gem along the Jersey Shore is an untouched paradise, boasting a 10-mile stretch of white sandy beach nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay. It’s one of the last undeveloped barrier beaches on the North Atlantic and east coast, making it a pupper’s dream come true.

Location: 2401 Central Ave., Seaside Park, NJ

9. Fort De Soto Park: St. Petersburg, Florida

Beach-loving pooches rejoice! This pup paradise boasts several dog-friendly beaches near St. Petersburg and Clearwater Beach, and they’re just brimming with canine-centered goodies. Our favorite? Fort De Soto Park, a glorious spread across five mini islands right at Tampa Bay’s doorstep.

Here at Fort De Soto, your fluffy friend can sniff, trot, and wag everywhere in the park on a leash, except the main beaches. But don’t fret, they have their own sandy kingdom at Paw Playground’s designated dog beach. Here they can unleash their inner canine, sprint, and splish-splash to their heart’s content! Paw Playground even has separate fenced-in zones for small and large dogs, plus showers and doggie drinking fountains.

Location: 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde, FL

10. Seabrook, Washington

Perched on a cliff above the Pacific Ocean, the town of Seabrook is one of Washington’s most popular year-round beach destinations. Without a doubt, dogs and their owners love Seabrook. The pet-friendly oasis features shopping, restaurants and bars, a dog park, 18 parklets, a spa, hundreds of acres of mountain bike and hiking trails, a central amphitheater, sports and pickleball courts, an indoor pool, and miles and miles of wide-open beach. Community gathering spaces and firepits abound with plenty of room for families, four legged friends, and dogs to enjoy.

Read more about Seabrook, Washington here.

11. Olympic National Park, Washington

Nestled on the picturesque northern coastline of the Olympic Peninsula, Olympic National Park offers a dog-friendly destination filled with rugged beauty and boundless fresh air. Here, you and your furry sidekick can explore certain breathtaking beaches and marked scenic hiking trails. After a fun-filled day, unwind at the park’s picnic areas or make camp at one of the many pet-friendly campgrounds.

We recommend staying at the canine-friendly Kalaloch Lodge, located within the park boundaries near the town of Forks. This lodge, perched alongside a dog-friendly beach, offers pet-accommodating cabins with awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean, Kalaloch Creek, or the surrounding forest.

Location: 3002 Mount Angeles Road, Port Angeles, WA

12. Fort Funston: San Francisco

Located on the southwestern coast of San Francisco, Fort Funston offers a pet-friendly haven with stunning views. At this scenic locale, dogs can freely roam off-leash (as long as they are under voice command), making it a perfect playground for your furry friend. Here, you can leisurely stroll along the windswept beaches set beneath towering, 200-foot sandy bluffs, as your dog enjoys the sand and surf.

Location: Fort Funston Road, San Francisco, CA

Find more great places to walk your dog in San Francisco here.

13. Dog Beach at Pier Park: Panama City Beach, Florida

East Coasters, head to the Gulf Coast of Florida this fall for a vacation with your furry friend and be sure to visit Dog Beach at Pier Park. This pet-friendly area spans 400 feet along the beautiful coastline of Panama City Beach. About a mile away, you’ll find Frank Brown Dog Park, a fantastic spot for your dog to socialize, explore, and run free.

The park features three fenced-in playgrounds, one of which boasts a stunning lakeside view. It also provides more than 2 miles of pet-friendly trails and greenways, perfect for both humans and canines to enjoy some exercise.

For accommodations, consider staying at the Hampton Inn & Suites Panama City-Beachfront, which warmly welcomes pets. Alternatively, if you’re planning for a longer stay, you can reserve an oceanfront condominium at Treasure Island, offering breathtaking views.

Location: 16201 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, FL

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14. Coligny Beach Park: Hilton Head, South Carolina

Coligny Beach Park in Hilton Head, South Carolina, isa dog lover’s paradise nestled in the heart of Hilton Head, South Carolina. This charming beach park offers a unique experience for both you and your furry friend. With its pristine sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, Coligny Beach Park provides the perfect setting for your dog to run, play, and make new friends.

For dog-friendly accommodations in Hilton Head, consider the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa.

Location: 1 Coligny Circle, Hilton Head, SC 29928

15. Coronado Beach Dog Park, Coronado, California

Coronado’s Dog Beach offers leash-free romps year-round and is set directly across from Sunset Park on Ocean Boulevard, bordering Coronado’s North Island U.S. Naval Station. Keep your pup safely on leash as you cross the road and then follow the pathway along the sand to the shore. For scenery, it doesn’t get much better — to the right is the Point Loma headland, to the left is the iconic Hotel del Coronado and all around are dogs having the time of their life!

Location: 100 Ocean Boulevard, Coronado, CA

For more dog friendly beaches in Southern California, click here.

16. Jekyll Island, Georgia

A five-hour drive from Atlanta (but, totally worth it), Jekyll Island is one of Georgia’s beautiful Golden Isles, a group of four barrier islands located along the southern coast of the state. The island boasts 10 miles of pristine beaches that are open to four-legged friends throughout the year, with a few stipulations.

Dogs should be kept on a leash no longer than 16 feet at all times, and visitors are asked to avoid the dunes. Additionally, there are specific guidelines to follow at the South Dunes and St. Andrews picnic areas.

One of the must-visit spots on the island is Driftwood Beach, perfect for a tranquil morning walk with your pooch.

For accommodations, the dog-friendly and unique Jekyll Island Club Resort would be my first choice.

For more places to take your dog swimming near Atlanta, click here.

For more places to sit, stay and play with your pooch, check out CityDog Atlanta.

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17. Pismo Beach: Oceano, California

Situated between San Francisco and Los Angeles, along California’s central coast, Pismo Beach is a quintessential California beach town. The 60-acre Pismo State Beach and Pier offer a promenade area where you can leisurely stroll along the white sand beaches, with your furry friend on a leash.

For more incredible ocean views, make your way to Dinosaur Caves Park. This 11-acre park is perched atop a bluff, offering an elevated perspective of the beautiful coastal scenery. Be sure to cruise into San Luis Obispo, where you will find you find a plethora of pooch-friendly places to sit, stay and play.

Location: 555 Pier Ave., Oceano, CA 93445

18. South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island is a barrier island situated between the Gulf of Mexico and Laguna Madre Bay at the southernmost part of Texas. It is famously known as the lone tropical island in Texas and offers 34 miles of beautiful sandy beaches, sparkling emerald waters, and more than 300 sunny days annually — as a girl from Seattle, that’s amazing!

Consider the pet-friendly cabanas or condos at the Isla Grand Beach Resort.

Location: 100 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX

For more places to sit, stay and play in Texas, visit CityDog Austin, Dallas and Houston.

19. Staircase Beach: Malibu, California

Staircase Beach, located in the northern area of Leo Carrillo State Park in western Malibu, is a peaceful and less crowded beach spot that is perfect for a calm stroll with your leashed pet. While it is popular among surfers, the beach doesn’t have many facilities, but Malibu offers more outdoor activities that are pet-friendly. You can go on dog friendly hiking trails at Solstice Canyon or explore the extensive trails at Charmlee Wilderness Park, which spans over eight miles.

When it comes to dog-friendly hotels in Malibu, Hotel June is worth considering. This stylish midcentury bungalow provides amenities like hammocks, Linus bikes, surfboards, and complimentary on-site parking. A portion of the pet fee you pay goes to the Best Friends Animal Society. Your dog will also be treated with treats, water, food bowls, and a comfortable bed. Then, visit our #BestFriends page featuring adoptable pets from the Best Friends Animal Society in Los Angeles.

Location: 40000 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA

For more places to sit, stay and play with your pooch, visit CityDog Los Angeles.

Doggone Deal: Shop your favorite brands at Chewy and get 35% off your first autoship order!

20. Its Beach: Santa Cruz, California

Located just steps away from the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Its Beach offers a unique and unforgettable experience for both you and your furry companion. This expansive sandy beach is one of the few beaches in the area that welcomes dogs off-leash, allowing them to freely explore and frolic in the waves.

With its breathtaking ocean views and picturesque surroundings, Its Beach provides the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll or an energetic game of fetch. Whether your pup loves to swim, dig in the sand, or simply soak up the sun, Its Beach offers endless opportunities for adventure and bonding.

If you plan to spend the night, consider Chaminade Resort & Spa, conveniently situated a mere five miles away from Its Beach. This exquisite resort goes above and beyond to cater to both you and your furry companion.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at their renowned restaurant, The View, where a specially curated pooch menu is available, ensuring you and your dog can savor a delicious meal together while taking in the breathtaking views of Monterey Bay.

Location: 701 W. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA

21. Camp Hero State Park: Montauk, New York

Camp Hero State Park is an ideal destination for a fun day out with your dog on the east coast, thanks to its picturesque trails, pet friendly beaches and rough coastline. You and your dog can enjoy exploring the varied landscapes, ranging from thick forests to sandy beaches.

The park even has a special beach area designated for dogs, where they can frolic in the waves and socialize with other pups. This park is a haven for dog enthusiasts and a great way to strengthen your bond with your best bud, while surrounded by the stunning natural scenery of Montauk.

If you plan to stay for the weekend, we recommend Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, located directly on the beach as well as approximately eight miles from Montauk Point Lighthouse.

Location: 1898 Montauk Highway, Montauk, NY

For more places to sit, stay and play with your pooch, visit CityDog NYC.

22. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

This coastal destination boasts an impressive 60 miles of coastline where your dog can run, play, and splash in the waves. The best part? If you visit after Labor Day (until May 1), dogs are welcome on the beach at any time. Not only that, but they can also join you on the Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade during the offseason when it’s less crowded (which is always our preference).

Myrtle Beach also features three local Barc Parcs, specially designed off-leash areas where your pooch can romp, socialize with other dogs, and stay hydrated at the convenient drinking fountains. Among these parks, Barc Parc South stands out with its expansive 14-acre space, complete with a scenic pond.

Location: 422 Chester St., Myrtle Beach, SC

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23. Kiva Beach: South Lake Tahoe, California

Kiva Beach in South Lake Tahoe, California, is a great place to hang out with your hound on a hot summer day. This less-crowded beach allows your pooch to swim freely off-leash, offering some of the best and deepest swimming spots at the lake for both dogs and their human companions.

For accommodations, consider staying at the pet-friendly lakeside resort, The Landing Resort & Spa, where you can relax with Rover while taking in the beautiful views of Lake Tahoe.

Location: Tallac Road, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

24. Hendry’s Beach: Santa Barbara, California

This coastal California city is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning views, and pet-friendly atmosphere. Start your day by taking your pup for a stroll along the scenic Cabrillo Bike Path, where you can enjoy breathtaking ocean views and feel the cool breeze on your faces. Afterward, head to Douglas Family Preserve, a dog-friendly park with plenty of open space for your pooch to run and play.

If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, visit the Santa Barbara Public Market, where you can shop for local goodies and even find pet-friendly stores. And when hunger strikes, don’t worry, there are plenty of dog-friendly restaurants in Santa Barbara. Grab a bite to eat at The Brewhouse, where your pup can join you on the outdoor patio. And if you’re up for an adventure, take a trip to Arroyo Burro Beach Park, also known as Hendry’s Beach, where dogs are welcome to play off-leash.

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25. Dewey Beach: Dewey, Delaware

Dewey Beach, situated in the lively seaside town of Dewey, Delaware, is a fantastic place to visit with your furry friend in the offseason (after Labor Day and before May 1), when dogs can visit the beach at any time and be off leash. Beyond the beach, there is also the Junction and Breakwater Trail, a converted rail-trail, offering a scenic coastal path that’s perfect for walking or biking with your pup.

When it’s time to refuel, stop by one of the many dog-friendly eateries in Dewey Beach, such as Woody’s Dewey Beach Bar & Grill, where you can enjoy a delicious meal while Rover relaxes by your side on the outdoor patio.

Location: Clayton Street, Dewey Beach, DE

Conclusion

So there you have it, dog lovers, the 25 Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in the US. From the sandy shores of California to the pristine coastlines of Florida and beyond, these dog-friendly beaches offer the ultimate paradise for both you and your pooch.