Memorial weekend marks the beginning of a new season—beach-going season! What better way to kick off the unofficial start to summer than to grab your water-loving canine and head to some of the best dog-friendly beaches in the US?
Here are ten dog-friendly beach suggestions courtesy of America’s Best online:
- Fort DeSoto Beach, FL – Voted 2005’s “Best Beach in America,” this dog-friendly beach is the perfect beach for dogs and people.
- Huntington Dog Beach, CA – This popular California beach is so loved by canines, it may occasionally flaunt more dogs than people!
- St. George Island, FL – Located near the renowned historic towns of the Florida Gulf, there is lots of activity for both dog and owner (dogs allowed on-leash only, and not allowed at St. George Island State Park).
- Carmel City Beach, CA – Only a short walk to Carmel hotels and restaurants, there are plenty of pet friendly beaches close by to choose from.
- Cape San Blas, FL – Peaceful and underdeveloped, you can sometimes walk a mile or two during the off-season without seeing another dog—or person.
- Hunting Island, SC – Doggie heaven. At low tide, the beach appears to be a mile wide, sporting tidal pools and remote stretches of beach (dogs allowed on-leash only through trails and beaches).
- Fort Funston State Park, CA – In this popular San Francisco dog walking location, you’ll see scores of dripping wet dogs, romping across the sand alongside the ocean stretch.
- Pistol River State Scenic Viewpoint, OR – This windsurfers’ paradise will suit your wet-nosed companion just fine (some areas require leashes or voice control; check signs before entering).
- Ft. Fisher State Recreation Area, NC – Just outside of Wilmington, NC, this beach allows dogs in most all of its areas (dogs allowed on-leash in all areas except swimming areas).
- Jekyll Island, GA – The Caribbean-style beaches are loved by beach goers everywhere; the fact canines are welcome is just a bonus (dogs required to be on-leash).
Have we missed any great beaches? Help other pack members and their dogs find the best beaches. Share your favorite dog-friendly beaches here.
5 comments
Comments feed for this article
July 7, 2009 at 12:00 am
Beat the Summertime Heat: Canine Water Activities » i Love Dogs
[...] Cruise for cute pups at a nearby Dog Beach! [...]
May 30, 2009 at 1:49 am
Kelley Eling
Stinson Beach in Marin County, CA — the private part anyway — is a dog’s paradise. Watch out for landmines though! Seems that most people don’t pick up after their dogs, or even bury it. And some don’t bury it deep enough.
June 1, 2009 at 4:46 pm
ruffwear
A great reminder of dog beach etiquette! Unfortunately, disregard for park rules often leads to the closure of dog-friendly areas. Here’s a few more tips for keeping our dog-friendly beaches clean and happy:
- Always keep your dog leashed when there is a leash law
– Always clean up after your dog by using a poop bag or pooper scooper
– Do not let your dog visit with other beach-goers or dogs, unless welcomed
– If using an official off-leash area, your dog needs to be well-behaved and must listen to your verbal commands.
- In an off-leash area, always pay attention to your dog.
May 26, 2009 at 4:10 pm
niki
It’s not the ocean, but we love Sunset Beach at Elk Lake near Bend, Oregon.
Just follow the Elk Lake Loop forest service road to Sunset View on the East side of the lake.
Dogs are supposed to be on leash here, but if you hike south around the point, you will have it to yourself. Have fun!
May 24, 2009 at 5:25 pm
susan
I love Dog Beach in Del Mar, California. Lots of room to run and play in the ocean! To get there, take the Via de la Valle exit off the 5 freeway and head west. Then turn left onto Hwy 1 and then look to your right after you pass the bluff. Good times!