What’s better than a day at the beach? A day at the beach with your dog! Whether you’re looking for an action-packed getaway or a quiet stretch of sand where you and your pup can relax, the U.S. has plenty of dog-friendly beaches waiting for you. From coast to coast, these beaches offer wide-open spaces, dog-friendly amenities, and endless opportunities for your dog to splash, play, and soak up the sun. Ready to plan the perfect beach day with your best friend? Here are the top 10 beaches in the United States that both you and your dog will love.
1. Huntington Dog Beach – Huntington Beach, California
Why It’s Perfect for Dogs
Known as “Surf City USA,” Huntington Dog Beach is the ultimate playground for dogs and their humans. This mile-long stretch of beach welcomes off-leash dogs, meaning your pup can run wild and free, chasing waves and digging in the sand. The vibe is laid-back, and you’ll often find locals and their furry companions enjoying the ocean breeze.
Dog-Friendly Perks
- Designated dog beach with no leash required
- Plenty of space to run and play
- Nearby dog-friendly restaurants and cafes
Things to Do Nearby
After a day at the beach, you can head to Pacific City for a bite to eat at one of the many dog-friendly patios. Or, take a stroll down Main Street for a dog-friendly shopping experience.
2. Fort De Soto Park – St. Petersburg, Florida
Why Fort De Soto is a Dog Paradise
Fort De Soto Park is a dog lover’s dream, featuring not one, but two dedicated dog beaches. With shallow waters perfect for swimming, your dog will love splashing around in the warm Florida sun. The park also includes a fenced-in off-leash dog park where your pup can socialize and make new friends.
Dog-Friendly Amenities
- Two off-leash dog beaches
- Fenced-in dog park with water stations
- Shaded picnic areas for cooling off
Explore Beyond the Beach
After some beach fun, explore the Fort De Soto Historic Fort and Nature Trails. Both offer scenic walks where leashed dogs are welcome, giving you and your pup more ways to enjoy the park.
3. Cannon Beach – Cannon Beach, Oregon
A Scenic Escape for You and Your Pup
Cannon Beach is famous for its stunning natural beauty, especially the towering Haystack Rock that rises out of the sea. This beach allows dogs off-leash as long as they are under voice control, making it a great spot for adventurous pups who love to explore. The cool ocean breeze and misty surroundings provide a tranquil vibe perfect for relaxing beach days.
Dog-Friendly Highlights
- Off-leash freedom with voice control
- Stunning views of Haystack Rock and coastal cliffs
- Dog-friendly cafes and art galleries in town
Make a Day of It
When you’re done at the beach, take a scenic drive along Oregon’s Highway 101 and stop at dog-friendly coastal viewpoints. Or, explore the local shops and grab a bite at one of the many dog-friendly patios in Cannon Beach.
4. Jekyll Island Beach – Jekyll Island, Georgia
Why Jekyll Island is a Must-Visit for Dog Owners
Jekyll Island Beach offers miles of dog-friendly shoreline, with gentle waves and soft sand, making it perfect for a leisurely beach day with your dog. Dogs are allowed on most parts of the beach, as long as they’re leashed. The island’s quiet, natural beauty makes it a peaceful escape for both you and your furry friend.
Dog-Friendly Features
- Leashed dogs welcome on most of the beach
- Shallow, calm waters ideal for swimming
- Plenty of shaded areas and walking paths
Explore More of Jekyll Island
Take your dog on a scenic walk through Driftwood Beach, known for its unique landscape of twisted, weathered trees. You can also explore the Jekyll Island Historic District for a charming mix of history and nature.
5. Montrose Dog Beach – Chicago, Illinois
Why It’s the Best Beach for City Dogs
Montrose Dog Beach, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, is Chicago’s first legal off-leash beach. This urban oasis offers a large sandy area where dogs can run off-leash and swim in the lake, all within sight of Chicago’s iconic skyline. It’s the perfect spot for city dogs to enjoy a little taste of nature.
Perks for Your Pup
- Fenced-in, off-leash beach area
- Freshwater swimming in Lake Michigan
- Dog washing stations available nearby
After the Beach
If you and your pup still have energy to burn, head over to Montrose Dog Park for some off-leash fun. Or, visit one of the many dog-friendly patios in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood.
6. Coronado Dog Beach – Coronado, California
West Coast Fun for Your Dog
Located just across the bay from San Diego, Coronado Dog Beach is a wide, sandy beach where dogs are free to run off-leash. The calm waves and laid-back atmosphere make it a great spot for dogs who enjoy splashing in the water without too much intensity. Plus, the views of the Hotel del Coronado are an iconic bonus!
Dog-Friendly Amenities
- Off-leash beach access
- Calm waters perfect for swimming
- Close to dog-friendly restaurants and parks
Post-Beach Fun
After a fun day in the sun, grab a bite at one of the dog-friendly patios in Coronado Village, or take a walk through the beautiful Centennial Park.
7. Padre Island National Seashore – Corpus Christi, Texas
A Wild Adventure for Dogs and Their Humans
Padre Island National Seashore is a sprawling, undeveloped beach on the Gulf Coast of Texas. With 60 miles of sandy shoreline, this beach is perfect for dogs who love adventure and wide-open spaces. Dogs are allowed on the entire beach as long as they’re on a leash, giving you and your pup plenty of room to explore.
What Makes It Great for Dogs
- 60 miles of dog-friendly beach
- Scenic, natural surroundings with few crowds
- Shallow waters ideal for a splash or swim
Beyond the Beach
Padre Island is a great spot for camping, so consider spending a night under the stars with your dog. The Malaquite Visitor Center offers information on pet-friendly areas and nature tours.
8. Kitsap Memorial State Park – Poulsbo, Washington
A Tranquil Beach for Dogs Who Love Nature
Located on the Hood Canal, Kitsap Memorial State Park offers a serene, scenic beach where leashed dogs are welcome. The beach itself is small, but the nearby forested trails and picnic areas make this a perfect destination for a peaceful day trip with your dog.
Why Your Dog Will Love It
- Leashed dogs welcome on the beach and trails
- Quiet, peaceful surroundings with lots of nature to explore
- Dog-friendly hiking paths nearby
More to Explore
After a relaxing beach day, take a walk through the nearby Heritage Park Forest, or visit Poulsbo’s downtown for dog-friendly shops and cafes.
9. First Landing State Park – Virginia Beach, Virginia
The Perfect Beach for History Buffs and Dog Lovers
First Landing State Park is not only a beautiful beach, but it’s also the site where English colonists first landed in 1607. Dogs are welcome on the beach year-round, as long as they’re on a leash, making it a great spot for a history-filled beach day with your pup.
Dog-Friendly Features
- Leashed dogs welcome year-round
- Calm waters and plenty of room to roam
- Scenic walking trails through maritime forest
Beyond the Beach
Take a hike with your dog along the park’s Cape Henry Trail, or visit the First Landing Museum (dogs aren’t allowed inside, but it’s worth a quick visit for history buffs).
10. Carmel Beach – Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
A Luxurious Beach for You and Your Pup
Carmel Beach is known for its dog-friendly policies and stunning coastal views. Here, dogs can roam off-leash, exploring the soft white sand and gentle waves. The nearby town of Carmel-by-the-Sea is also extremely dog-friendly, with many restaurants and shops catering to pets.
Perks for Pups at Carmel Beach
- Off-leash access for dogs
- Beautiful ocean views and soft sand
- Close to dog-friendly parks and restaurants
Explore Carmel-by-the-Sea
After a fun day at the beach, take a stroll through Carmel’s downtown, where dogs are welcome in many shops, galleries, and outdoor dining areas.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer beach vacation, these top 10 dog-friendly beaches in the U.S. offer the perfect combination of sun, sand, and fun for you and your furry companion. From off-leash freedom in California to scenic walks along Florida’s Gulf Coast, these beaches are all about giving your dog the best beach day ever.
Next time you’re packing your beach bag, don’t forget to bring your dog along for the adventure. With so many dog-friendly destinations to choose from, the hardest part will be deciding which beach to hit first!
I’m Philippe Perrenoud, a passionate adventurer with dogs and an advocate for experiences that strengthen the bond between humans and their four-legged companions. My mission is to share practical tips so you and your dog can explore the world safely and joyfully. Together, we can turn every journey into an unforgettable memory!
