Pet-Friendly Shore
Your four-legged friend deserves a beach vacation too. Find dog beaches, pet-friendly stays, and more.
Dog Beaches
Find pet-friendly beaches
🏨Pet-Friendly Stays
Hotels that welcome pets
Pet-Friendly Dining
Outdoor patios welcome dogs
Dog Parks
Off-leash play areas
Dog-Friendly Beaches
Island Beach State Park
Berkeley Township
Dogs allowed on leash in designated areas year-round
One of the best options for dogs. Bring water!
Sandy Hook
Gateway National Recreation Area
Dogs on leash on most beaches Sept 15 - March 15
Great off-season option. Check beach closures.
Brigantine Beach
Brigantine
Dogs allowed on beach September through May
Quiet beach town near Atlantic City.
Strathmere
Upper Township
Dogs allowed year-round on beach
Small, dog-friendly beach community.
Wildwood (off-season)
Wildwood
Dogs allowed on beach September through May
Wide beaches great for running!
Cape May (off-season)
Cape May
Dogs on beach before 10am and after 6pm in summer; all day off-season
Beautiful for dog walks.
Where to Stay
Hotels
- • La Quinta Inn & Suites - Atlantic City, Toms River
- • Red Roof Inn - multiple locations
- • Days Inn - various shore towns
- • Many Asbury Park boutique hotels
💡 Always call ahead to confirm pet policies and fees.
Vacation Rentals
- • VRBO and Airbnb often have pet-friendly options
- • Many beach house rentals allow pets
- • Filter by "pet-friendly" when searching
💡 Rentals may charge pet deposits or cleaning fees.
Campgrounds
- • Ocean View Resort Campground
- • Seashore Campsites (Cape May)
- • Various state park campgrounds
💡 Great budget option for pet owners.
Beach Safety Tips for Dogs
Bring plenty of water
Sand and heat can dehydrate dogs quickly
Watch for hot sand
Sand can burn paw pads on hot days. Test it with your hand.
Rinse after beach
Salt water can irritate skin. Rinse your dog after swimming.
Bring poop bags
Always clean up after your pet. It's the law!
Check for jellyfish
Dogs can be stung too. Avoid washed-up jellyfish.
Consider a life vest
Ocean currents can be strong. Dog life vests add safety.
🎒 Packing Checklist for Dogs
The shore requires extra gear for dogs. Forget one thing and your beach day could be ruined. Here's everything you need.
Beach Essentials
Collapsible water bowl
Dogs can't drink salt water. Bring fresh water and a bowl they'll actually use.
Fresh water (1 gallon minimum)
More than you think. Sand and sun dehydrate dogs fast. Bring extra.
Beach umbrella or tent
Dogs overheat quickly. They need shade to cool down.
Dog-specific sunscreen
Pink noses and ears burn. Use pet-safe SPF on exposed areas.
Cooling mat or wet towel
Lay down in shade for them to cool their belly.
Long leash (20-30 ft)
Gives freedom to explore while staying in control. Required at most beaches.
Safety Gear
Dog life vest
Ocean currents are strong. Even strong swimmers need help. Bright colors help you spot them.
First aid kit
Include: tweezers (for splinters), styptic powder (for nail breaks), antiseptic wipes, gauze.
Paw protectors/booties
Hot sand burns pads. Shells cut. Booties solve both. Train them to wear before trip.
Reflective collar/tag
If they get loose, visibility matters. GPS collar if you're serious.
Cleanup & Care
Poop bags (extra)
It's the law and it's courtesy. Bring more than you think you need.
Towels (2-3)
One for drying, one for sitting, one for the car. Sand gets everywhere.
Rinse jug or portable shower
Salt water irritates skin. Quick rinse before getting in the car.
Brush
Sand mats in fur. Brush out before it becomes a problem.
Comfort Items
Their regular food + treats
Don't change diet on vacation. Bring their usual food to avoid stomach issues.
Familiar toy or blanket
Helps anxious dogs relax in new environment.
Crate or bed for accommodation
Some rentals require crating. Familiar sleeping spot helps them settle.
🏖️ Perfect Beach Day Guide
A successful beach day with your dog requires planning. Here's how to make it great for both of you.
Before You Leave
Check beach rules
Confirm dogs are allowed. Hours and leash requirements vary by beach and season.
Check weather
Above 85°F? Consider skipping or going early morning only. Dogs overheat fast.
Exercise them first
A tired dog is calmer. Walk before loading up—they'll be less anxious in the car.
Feed lightly
Heavy meal + activity + heat = stomach trouble. Light breakfast, regular dinner after.
Arrival (First 30 Minutes)
Test the sand temperature
Press back of your hand for 7 seconds. If it burns you, it burns them.
Set up shade first
Before they run around, establish a cool home base they can return to.
Offer water immediately
Car ride + excitement = thirsty dog. Hydrate before play.
Leash walk the perimeter
Let them sniff and survey. Reduces anxiety and teaches them the boundaries.
During Beach Time
Enforce rest breaks
Every 20-30 minutes, bring them to shade. They won't stop themselves.
Watch for overheating
Heavy panting, drooling, wobbly legs = emergency. Cool down immediately.
Control water intake
Some dogs drink ocean water. Stop them—it causes vomiting and diarrhea.
Monitor other dogs
Not all dogs are friendly. Keep distance from unfamiliar dogs.
Before Leaving
Thorough rinse
Salt water in fur causes itching and irritation. Rinse completely, including belly and paws.
Check ears
Water in ears causes infections. Dry thoroughly with towel.
Paw inspection
Look for cuts, stuck shells, sand burns. Address before they worsen.
Final water and rest
Cool down in shade with fresh water before the car ride home.
⚠️ Warning Signs to Watch
Excessive panting
Overheating. Move to shade immediately, apply cool (not cold) water.
Drooling heavily
Heat stroke warning. Get them cool and to a vet if it doesn't improve.
Refusing to walk
Paws may be burned. Carry them to cooler surface immediately.
Vomiting/diarrhea
Salt water ingestion or heat stress. Hydrate with fresh water, rest, vet if severe.
🐕 Dog-Friendly Activities Beyond the Beach
The shore offers more than beaches for dogs. Here are dog-friendly activities beyond the sand.
Nature Trail Walks
Island Beach State Park, Sandy Hook, and Cape May Point have excellent dog-friendly trails with shade.
Tips:
- • Bring tick prevention
- • Keep on designated trails
- • Bring water—trails are often dry
Best Towns:
Outdoor Restaurant Patios
Many shore restaurants have dog-friendly outdoor seating. Asbury Park, Red Bank, and Cape May are especially welcoming.
Tips:
- • Call ahead to confirm
- • Bring a mat for them to lie on
- • Order them a water bowl
Best Towns:
Kayaking/SUP
Many bay-side rental places allow dogs on kayaks and paddleboards. Calmer water than ocean.
Tips:
- • Life vest required
- • Practice in calm water first
- • Short trips until they're comfortable
Best Towns:
Sunset Walks on Jetties
Jetties are cooler than sand and offer great photo ops. Many allow leashed dogs.
Tips:
- • Watch for fishing hooks
- • Slippery rocks—keep leash short
- • Stunning sunset photos
Best Towns:
Historic Town Walking Tours
Victorian Cape May, Asbury Park murals, and Spring Lake's mansions are all walkable with dogs.
Tips:
- • Sidewalks are cooler than sand
- • Many shops have water bowls out
- • Great for elderly or heat-sensitive dogs
Best Towns:
🗓️ Best Time to Visit with Your Dog
When you visit matters a lot for dog owners. Here's the honest breakdown of each season.
Summer (June-August)
Pros
- + Everything open
- + Vacation vibes
- + Warm water for swimming
Cons
- - Most beaches ban dogs
- - Extreme heat dangerous
- - Crowded everywhere
- - Hot sand burns paws
Tip: If you must visit in summer: early morning beach trips (before 8am), stick to bay beaches, always have AC access.
Best for: Experienced dog owners with heat-tolerant breeds only.
Fall (September-October)
Pros
- + Most beaches allow dogs
- + Perfect temperatures
- + Smaller crowds
- + Many patios still open
Cons
- - Some businesses close after Labor Day
- - Water getting cold
- - Earlier sunsets
Tip: This is peak dog-at-the-shore season. September especially—summer amenities, off-season dog rules.
Best for: All dogs. The best time to bring your pet to the shore.
Winter (November-March)
Pros
- + Dogs allowed everywhere
- + No crowds
- + Cool temps for active dogs
- + Empty beaches for running
Cons
- - Many restaurants/hotels closed
- - Cold water (no swimming)
- - Shorter days
- - Some areas feel deserted
Tip: Great for active dogs who love to run. Check that your accommodation is open and pet-friendly.
Best for: Dogs who love cold weather and owners who don't need beach amenities.
Spring (April-May)
Pros
- + Dogs allowed on most beaches
- + Warming temps
- + Fewer crowds than summer
- + Nature in bloom
Cons
- - Rainy periods
- - Water still cold
- - Some seasonal businesses not yet open
Tip: May is ideal—warm enough for comfort, beaches still dog-friendly, wildflowers in bloom.
Best for: Most dogs. Good balance of access and weather.
🚨 Emergency Guide
Know what to do before something goes wrong. Shore emergencies require quick action.
Heat Stroke
Signs:
Heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, staggering, collapse
Immediate action:
Move to shade/AC immediately. Apply cool (not cold) water to belly, paws, ears. Offer small sips of water.
See a vet if:
If symptoms don't improve in 10-15 minutes, or if dog loses consciousness. This can be fatal.
Salt Water Ingestion
Signs:
Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, lethargy, seizures (severe)
Immediate action:
Offer fresh water immediately. Small amounts frequently. Rest in shade.
See a vet if:
If vomiting/diarrhea continues more than an hour, or any neurological signs (stumbling, seizures).
Paw Burns
Signs:
Limping, refusing to walk, licking paws, visible blisters or redness
Immediate action:
Move to cool surface. Run cool water over paws. Apply pet-safe aloe or burn cream.
See a vet if:
If blisters are severe, skin is peeling, or dog won't put weight on paw.
Jellyfish Sting
Signs:
Sudden yelping, pawing at face/body, swelling, drooling
Immediate action:
Don't rub—spreads stingers. Rinse with salt water (not fresh). Remove visible tentacles with tweezers.
See a vet if:
If swelling is severe, difficulty breathing, or signs of allergic reaction.
Lost Dog on Beach
Signs:
Dog is missing
Immediate action:
Alert lifeguards immediately. Post to local Facebook groups. Call local animal control. Don't leave the area.
See a vet if:
N/A—but have vet records handy to prove ownership when found.
24/7 Emergency Veterinarians
Red Bank Veterinary Hospital
Tinton Falls
732-747-3636
24/7 emergency, Northern Shore
Oradell Animal Hospital
Paramus
201-262-0010
24/7 emergency, backup option
Garden State Veterinary Specialists
Tinton Falls
732-922-0011
Specialists, Central Shore
Atlantic Coast Veterinary
Monroe Township
609-259-1177
Southern Shore area
Pet Services
Veterinarians
Emergency vets available in Toms River, Atlantic City area, and Cape May County
Pet Stores
PetSmart and Petco in most major shore areas. Local pet shops in many towns.
Groomers
Many local groomers throughout the shore area.
Dog Walkers
Rover and local services available for hire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Jersey Shore beaches allow dogs?
Most beaches allow dogs in off-season (September-May). In summer, try Island Beach State Park, Sandy Hook, and Brigantine. Some towns have designated dog beach areas or early morning hours.
Are there any dog-friendly hotels at the Jersey Shore?
Yes! Many hotels accept pets, especially chains like La Quinta and Red Roof. Vacation rentals often allow pets. Always confirm pet policies and fees before booking.
Can I bring my dog to Jersey Shore boardwalks?
Most boardwalks allow leashed dogs in the off-season and early mornings. Summer restrictions vary by town. Wildwood allows dogs on the boardwalk except during peak hours.
Are there dog parks at the Jersey Shore?
Yes! Many shore towns have dog parks including Asbury Park, Ocean City (off-season beach areas), and various inland parks. Check local town websites for locations.
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Plan Your Pet-Friendly Trip
Check out our dog beach guide for more details.
Dog Beaches Guide