
Your dog deserves more than just a backyard playdate. There are many beaches in the US that are designed with pups in mind. They offer leash-free zones, safe swimming areas, and convenient amenities to make every dog’s outing enjoyable. You can find a perfect beach for both you and your over-excited doggie in this list.
Huntington Dog Beach, California

Huntington Dog Beach spans 1.5 miles between Seapoint and 21st Streets in Orange County. It’s famous for hosting the annual Surf City Surf Dog competition. The beach also offers waste bag dispensers and nearby parking. Plus, lifeguards patrol the area, which is safe for dogs who love to explore the waves.
Carmel Beach, California

Dogs are welcome off-leash at this white-sand beach, provided they respond to voice commands. Caramel Beach’s wide, flat shoreline is ideal for running or playing fetch. Nearby, Carmel-by-the-Sea features 15+ dog-friendly restaurants, including Forge in the Forest, which serves a “Canine Cuisine” menu—a perfect Californian outing for your dog!
Montrose Dog Beach, Illinois

Chicago’s Montrose Dog Beach offers 3.8 acres of fenced, off-leash space along Lake Michigan. The area includes shallow water zones for swimming and a sandy stretch for dogs who love digging and lounging. It’s open from sunrise to 9 p.m., which is perfect for both early risers and sunset lovers.
Double Bluff Beach, Washington

Double Bluff Beach on Whidbey Island features two miles of off-leash freedom, with soft sand and shallow tidal flats that are easy on paws. Dogs love chasing crabs here at low tide. You can see the Olympic Mountains as they create a stunning backdrop!
Rosie’s Dog Beach, California

As LA County’s only off-leash dog beach, Rosie’s spans four acres in Long Beach. Beach hours are from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., and parking is available at nearby Granada Avenue for $1 per hour. Moreover, the waste bags, water fountains, and dog showers will make it even more convenient for you.
Jupiter Dog Beach, Florida

Jupiter Dog Beach is a leash-optional, 2.5-mile area located between beach markers 25 and 59. Calm, clear waters make it a favorite for dogs who love swimming. Fortunately, Jupiter is open 24/7! Plus, volunteers from Friends of Jupiter Beach maintain cleanliness by stocking waste bag dispensers.
Arroyo Burro Beach, California

Located in Santa Barbara, Arroyo Burro Beach (Hendry’s Beach) has a designated off-leash zone near its west end. Dog-wash stations and waste bag dispensers help keep things tidy. Also, after playtime, don’t forget to visit the Boathouse restaurant nearby, where your pet can join you on your patio.
Fort De Soto Park, Florida

There’s a dedicated dog beach in “Fort De Soto Park,” St. Petersburg, which is split into zones for large and small breeds. Shallow Gulf waters and soft sand make it ideal for all dogs, even older ones. Additionally, their dog park with agility equipment adds more fun to the visit.
Wildwood Dog Beach, New Jersey

Wildwood Dog Beach is located at Glenwood and the Boardwalk and is marked by a 25-foot-tall red fire hydrant. Fenced sections of this beach allow dogs to run safely. They’ve also got waste stations at the beach. Wildwood is open from 6 a.m. to dusk, so it’s loved by “morning persons” and their pups.
Cannon Beach, Oregon

There’s leash-optional freedom for dogs at Cannon Beach. You get 4 miles of sandy shoreline, which is ideal for running and digging. Dog-friendly drinking fountains are also pretty convenient. Additionally, Haystack Rock is a great tide-pooling spot at this destination, and pet-friendly hotels like Surfsand Resort provide dog beds, bowls, and treats for overnight stays.