Dog-Friendly Beaches Nearby
When you think of the perfect day at the beach, it likely includes soaking up the sun, playing in the waves, and spending quality time with your furry best friend. Fortunately, there are many dog-friendly beaches located nearby that allow you to enjoy the sand and surf with your pup by your side. In this article, we will explore the top dog-friendly beaches in your area, highlighting their amenities and regulations to help you plan the perfect beach day with your pooch.
First on the list is the Huntington Dog Beach, located in Orange County, California. This beach is known for being one of the most popular destinations for dog lovers in the area and is open year-round. The beach is spacious and clean and offers plenty of room for your dog to run, play and socialize with other furry friends. Additionally, there are public restrooms, showers, and water fountains available for both dogs and their owners.

Another popular dog-friendly beach in California is the Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach. This beach is unique in that it is the only off-leash dog beach in Los Angeles County, and it’s open every day of the year. It has a great location, situated right next to Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier, and offers ample parking for visitors. The beach also provides doggie waste bags, which makes cleaning up after your pup super convenient.
If you live near Florida, the Smyrna Dunes Park is definitely worth checking out. This park has over two miles of beach and it’s open every day from sunrise to sunset. Dogs are welcome to explore the park on a leash, but they are also allowed to run free in the designated dog park area. The park has plenty of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. During the summer months, there are even lifeguards on duty to ensure the safety of all beachgoers.
For those living in Virginia, Bay Creek Beach is a great option for taking your furry friend for a swim. This beach is located on the Chesapeake Bay and has a large sandy area that is perfect for playing fetch with your dog. It’s also a great spot for bird watching, with plenty of seagulls, ospreys, and pelicans visible along the shoreline. Visitors should note that dogs are required to be on a leash no longer than 8 feet, and are allowed to swim only in designated areas.
Lastly, for those who live in Washington, the Double Bluff Beach is a great choice for a dog-friendly beach day. This beach has plenty of space to let your dog run free and explore, but it also provides a designated on-leash area for dogs that prefer a little bit more structure. There are restrooms and showers available for visitors, and the park is open from dawn to dusk. Visitors should note that this beach has some restrictions in place, including no camping, fires, or alcohol allowed on the premises.
When visiting a dog-friendly beach, it’s important to follow some basic guidelines to ensure the safety of your pet and other beachgoers. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
– Always keep your dog on a leash, unless they are in a designated off-leash area.
– Bring plenty of water for your dog, as well as a bowl for them to drink from.
– Bring a doggie waste bag and promptly clean up after your pet.
– Keep your dog under control at all times, and be aware of their behavior around other people and dogs.
– Check the beach’s regulations before you go, so you know what is and isn’t allowed.
In conclusion, there are plenty of dog-friendly beaches located nearby that allow you to enjoy the sun, surf, and sand with your furry friend. Whether you’re looking for a beach with off-leash areas, or a more structured on-leash environment, there’s a beach out there that fits your needs. Just remember to follow the guidelines set forth by the beach and always keep an eye on your pet to ensure a safe and enjoyable day at the beach.