A beach day is already a win, but a beach day with your dog? That’s next-level happiness. If your furry travel buddy lives for salty breezes, sandy paws, and chasing waves like it’s their full-time job, you’re in the right place.
Across the U.S., there are dog-friendly beaches that don’t just allow dogs- they practically roll out the welcome mat. From laid-back California surf towns to quiet East Coast shores, these are some of the best beach destinations where you and your pup can spend real quality time together (no sad leash-only boardwalk strolls required).
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West Coast Dog-Friendly Beach Escapes
Carmel Beach – Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel Beach is basically dog heaven with an ocean view. This wide, soft-sand beach is famously off-leash, giving pups the freedom to sprint, dig, and splash while you soak up dramatic coastal scenery.
When beach time winds down, Carmel-by-the-Sea keeps the dog-friendly vibes going. Most shops welcome dogs, and many restaurants even offer special menus for four-legged guests. Honestly, your dog may think they’re the one on vacation.
Arroyo Burro Dog Beach (Hendry’s Beach) – Santa Barbara, California
Known locally as Hendry’s Beach, Arroyo Burro is one of the most dog-friendly beaches in Southern California. Dogs can go off-leash in designated areas, swim in the surf, and rinse off afterward at convenient self-serve dog wash stations.
It’s scenic, social, and perfect for dogs who love both water and making new friends.
Pro Tip: Always take your bags to clean up after your dog. Some beaches may have stations with bags, but many don’t. We always use these by Yuchiya because the bags are sturdy, and I like that the holder clips on the leash. Find them onAmazon.
Fiesta Island – San Diego, California
Fiesta Island sits inside Mission Bay and is a favorite for San Diego dog owners and for good reason. Dogs are allowed both on and off-leash, giving your pup tons of freedom to explore sand, shoreline, and shallow bay waters.
Bonus: You can hike to the top of the island for sweeping bay views while your dog happily sniffs every inch of the trail.
Rosie’s Dog Beach -Long Beach, California
Rosie’s Dog Beach isn’t just fun – it’s iconic. As the only off-leash dog beach in LA County, it’s a major win for beach-loving pups. Dogs can run, socialize, and splash freely in the ocean without a leash dragging behind them.
Named after Rosie the Bulldog, one of the beach’s original canine champions, this spot is well-maintained and always buzzing with happy dogs and humans.
Pro Tip: This is a popular beach, so if your dog isn’t good around a lot of other dogs, you may want to pass on this beach.
Cannon Beach – Cannon Beach, Oregon
If sunset walks are your thing, Cannon Beach delivers in a big way. With Haystack Rock towering in the background, this Oregon coast gem offers incredible scenery and dog-friendly beach access.
Dogs can be off-leash under voice control, making it a peaceful but playful place to explore. Cooler temps, wide sand stretches, and stunning sunsets make this a favorite for pups of all sizes.
Cape Disappointment State Park – Ilwaco, Washington
Despite the dramatic name, Cape Disappointment is anything but disappointing – especially for dogs. With 27 miles of dog-friendly beaches (on leash) and seven miles of scenic hiking trails, this is a quieter, more adventurous coastal escape.
Add in historic lighthouses, forested paths, and fewer crowds, and you’ve got the perfect beach-meets-hiking destination for dogs who like variety.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to bring a towel to dry your pup. We like these Microfiber towels, they seem to absorb the water well.
Best Dog-Friendly Beaches on the East Coast
Pensacola Beach Dog Park – Pensacola, Florida
This Gulf Coast favorite offers designated off-leash beach areas at lots 21.5 and 28.5. Calm, clear water makes it ideal for dogs who love swimming without battling waves.
It’s sunny, relaxed, and a fantastic winter beach option if you’re escaping colder climates.
Morris Island – South Carolina
Morris Island is a wild, untouched barrier island near Charleston, accessible only by boat – which keeps it blissfully uncrowded. Dogs under voice control are allowed off-leash, and the beaches stretch on for miles.
At low tide, you can walk all the way to the historic Morris Island Lighthouse. Keep an eye out for dolphins cruising just offshore, they show up more often than you’d think.
Outer Banks – North Carolina
Miles of open shoreline, salty air, and space to roam make the Outer Banks a dog favorite. Most beaches allow dogs year-round (leashed), with some offering off-leash hours during the off-season.
Gentle waves and wide beaches make it ideal for swimming, long walks, and endless games of fetch.
Bald Head Island – North Carolina
Getting to Bald Head Island is half the adventure. You’ll hop on a pet-friendly ferry from Southport for a scenic ride over. Once there, you’ll find 14 miles of pet-friendly beaches, all leashed but wonderfully peaceful.
With no cars (golf carts rule here), this island is quiet, scenic, and perfect for relaxed beach days with your pup.
Pro Tip: Even though your dog needs to be leashed here, you can have them on a retractable leash, so they have a little more freedom. I like the 16 ft. leashes because I have a little more control than some of the longer leashes. Here is our pick from Amazon.
Wildwood Dog Park & Beach – Wildwood, New Jersey
Wildwood didn’t just add dogs -they built a beach for them. The fenced dog beach allows pups to run leash-free, complete with agility obstacles, water fountains, shaded areas, and separate sections for big and small dogs.
A giant red fire hydrant marks the entrance, just in case your dog needs directions.
Bay View Beach – Saco, Maine
Bay View Beach is one of Maine’s rare beaches that allows dogs all day, making it a standout for New England pet travel. The fine white sand and gently sloping shoreline are perfect for dog paddling and easy swims.
It’s calm, charming, and proof that beach time with dogs doesn’t end north of the Mason-Dixon line.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something special about beach days with your dog -wet noses, sandy paws, and that post-adventure exhaustion that hits on the drive home. Whether your pup loves wild waves, quiet shoreline strolls, or social beach romps, these dog-friendly beaches deliver unforgettable memories for both of you. Pack the leash, the towel, and maybe an extra tennis ball, because once your dog discovers their new favorite beach, you’ll be coming back.
We love sharing tips and information we learn along the way to help you plan your next trip with your furry friend. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories.