If you live in New Jersey, New York City, or the Philadelphia area, chances are you\u2019ve spent time down the Shore. But have you ever taken your dog? It\u2019s not always easy to figure out which New Jersey beaches welcome pups and which enforce strict \u201cno dogs on the beach\u201d rules.<\/p>\n
For our family\u2014two parents, a long-haired dachshund named Django, and three young kids under seven\u2014the Shore is one of our favorite places to visit without going far. And we always try to bring Django along for the adventure.<\/p>\n
Django has always been happiest near the water, and our kids are the same. Nothing is better than digging in the sand, running along the beach, and splashing in tide pools. Throughout the year, we spend countless weekends exploring different shore points\u2014from walking the Ocean City boardwalk and visiting Cape May\u2019s beaches and historic downtown, to heading north to Spring Lake and Asbury Park.<\/p>\n
Now that it\u2019s fall, we\u2019ve been enjoying even more beach days with the kids and Django. The crowds have thinned, the air is crisp, and most towns have relaxed their dog restrictions.<\/p>\n
Whether you\u2019re planning a cozy off-season getaway or looking ahead to next summer, here\u2019s everything you need to know about dog-friendly New Jersey beaches and their pet policies throughout the year.<\/p>\n
Are Dogs Allowed on New Jersey Beaches?<\/h2>\n
During the busy summer months, most beaches along the Jersey Shore prohibit dogs. But once the off-season arrives\u2014usually from mid-September through mid-May\u2014many towns open their sands to four-legged visitors.<\/p>\n
Below, we\u2019ve outlined dog-friendly policies for major Shore points from north to south, so you can plan your next seaside adventure with confidence.<\/p>\n
Northern NJ Shore Points<\/h2>\nAsbury Park Dog Beach & Boardwalk<\/a><\/h3>\n\n- \nIn season (mid-May\u2013mid-September):<\/strong><\/p>\n
\n- Dogs are not permitted on the Boardwalk.<\/li>\n
- Dogs are permitted on the Asbury Park Dog Beach at 8th Avenue only, and only from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. Dogs must be off the beach by 8:30 a.m.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
- \nOff season:<\/strong> Leashed dogs can enjoy the Boardwalk and the Asbury Park Dog Beach.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Asbury Park\u2019s 8th Avenue Dog Beach is a local favorite year-round and has one of the friendliest beach dog communities in the state.<\/p>\n
Fisherman\u2019s Cove (Manasquan)<\/a><\/h3>\n\n- \nAll year:<\/strong> Dogs are welcome year-round. Leashes required.<\/li>\n
- This small, scenic stretch along the inlet is ideal for peaceful walks and easy parking.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
From the official site:<\/em> \u201cThis 55-acre site, the last undeveloped tract on the Manasquan Inlet, is a great place to fish, walk on the beach, or go sunbathing. Dogs must be on leash at all times while at this park.\u201d<\/p>\nSpring Lake Borough<\/a><\/h3>\n\n- \nIn season (May 15\u2013Sept 30):<\/strong> Dogs are prohibited on the beach except in the fenced area on Pitney Avenue (\u201cDog Beach\u201d), where dogs are permitted from sunrise to 9:00 a.m. and from 6:00 p.m. to sunset and may be unleashed.<\/li>\n
- \nOff season (Oct 1\u2013May 14):<\/strong> Leashed dogs are permitted on Spring Lake Borough beaches.<\/li>\n
- Dogs are not allowed on the Spring Lake boardwalk at any time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Central NJ Shore Points<\/h2>\nIsland Beach State Park (Berkeley Township)<\/a><\/h3>\n\n- \nAll year:<\/strong> Dogs are allowed on non-swimming beaches only and must be leashed (max 6 feet).<\/li>\n
- Dogs are not allowed on the swimming beach (lifeguarded area) during the summer season or on the Spizzle Creek Bird Blind Trail at any time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
This undeveloped barrier island offers miles of quiet coastline and bayside trails\u2014great for leashed walks and nature time.<\/p>\n
Atlantic City<\/a><\/h3>\n\n- \nIn season (Memorial Day\u2013Sept 15):<\/strong> No dogs allowed on the beach, Boardwalk, or in the ocean\u2014whether leashed or off-leash.<\/li>\n
- \nOff season (Sept 16\u2013Memorial Day):<\/strong> Leashed dogs are allowed on beaches.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
For a quiet stroll, head toward the northern end of the Boardwalk near the inlet once summer crowds are gone.<\/p>\n
Brigantine<\/a><\/h3>\nBrigantine North-End Beach<\/h4>\n\n- Leashed dogs permitted year-round.<\/li>\n
- Northernmost, less-developed area stretching toward the wildlife refuge.<\/li>\n
- Often considered the most dog-friendly section\u2014locals call it the \u201cNorth End.\u201d<\/li>\n
- Leashes required at all times (not an off-leash zone).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Public Beaches (15th Street North to the southwestern tip)<\/h4>\n\n- \nSept 16\u2013May 14:<\/strong> Leashed dogs allowed.<\/li>\n
- \nMay 15\u2013Sept 15:<\/strong> Dogs not permitted.<\/li>\n
- Main recreational, lifeguarded beaches\u2014off-limits in peak season but open in the off-season.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Cooperative Zone (Sandy Lane to Bramble Drive)<\/h4>\n\n- \nMarch 15\u2013Sept 15:<\/strong> Dogs not permitted.<\/li>\n
- Protected habitat area for endangered shorebirds and wildlife; best avoided with dogs even off-season.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Promenade (9th Street North to 15th Street North)<\/h4>\n\n- Dogs not permitted at any time, leashed or off-leash.<\/li>\n
- Pedestrian walkway; always dog-restricted for safety and cleanliness.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Longport Dog Beach (Egg Harbor Township)<\/h3>\n\n- \nAll year:<\/strong> One of the few off-leash beaches in the state. Dogs may run under reliable voice control.<\/li>\n
- No amenities\u2014bring water, towels, and waste bags.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Southern NJ Shore Points<\/h2>\nOcean City<\/a><\/h3>\n\n- \nBoardwalk:<\/strong> Leashed dogs allowed Oct 1\u2013Apr 30.<\/li>\n
- \nBeach:<\/strong> No dogs May 1\u2013Sept 30. Additionally, no dogs at any time from March 15\u2013Sept 30 on the stretch between the Ocean City\u2013Longport Bridge and the terminal groin (rock jetty near Seaview Road). Leashed dogs are allowed outside these dates and areas.<\/li>\n
- \nDog Park:<\/strong> 45th Street & Haven Avenue; open year-round with separate areas for small and large dogs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Ocean City is one of the most family- and pet-friendly NJ beach towns\u2014always double-check the city\u2019s pet policies before your trip.<\/p>\n
Wildwood<\/a><\/h3>\nWildwood Dog Park & Beach<\/h4>\n\n- Leashed dogs welcome on the beach; the adjacent enclosed park offers off-leash play with agility equipment and shaded seating.<\/li>\n
- Located between Glenwood and Maple Avenues.<\/li>\n
- Open daily from dawn to dusk.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Wildwood & Wildwood Crest Beaches<\/h4>\n\n- Dogs allowed from October through May.<\/li>\n
- Leashes required at all times; owners must clean up after dogs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
North Wildwood Beach (2nd Ave to 26th Ave)<\/h4>\n\n- Dogs permitted year-round, except when lifeguards are on duty (9:30 a.m.\u20135:30 p.m.).<\/li>\n
- Dogs not allowed on the Inlet portion of the North Wildwood beach.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Wildwood Boardwalk<\/h4>\n\n- Dogs are not allowed at any time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Driving to the Wildwood dog beach? Look for the 25-foot red fire hydrant sculpture at the entrance\u2014you can\u2019t miss it.<\/p>\n
Cape May<\/a><\/h3>\nCape May City<\/h4>\n\n- Dogs are permitted on the promenade and beach from Sept 15\u2013May 15<\/strong> (winter months).<\/li>\n
- Dogs must be leashed at all times and accompanied by their owner.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area<\/h4>\n\n- Allows dogs from Sept 1\u2013Apr 30<\/strong>.<\/li>\n
- Owned by the State of New Jersey; open 5:00 a.m.\u20139:00 p.m.<\/li>\n
- Dogs are not permitted outside the listed dates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Cape May Point (Borough)<\/h4>\n\n- Dogs permitted Nov 1\u2013Mar 14<\/strong>.<\/li>\n
- Dogs prohibited Mar 15\u2013Oct 31<\/strong> (per borough code).<\/li>\n
- Leash required at all times; maximum leash length 6 feet; handler must be over age 12.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Lower Township (Delaware Bay side)<\/h4>\n\n- Leashed animals permitted any time of day during the off-season.<\/li>\n
- \nIn season (Memorial Day\u2013Labor Day):<\/strong> Animals prohibited between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.<\/li>\n
- Leash required off your own property; clean-up is mandatory.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Cape May Point State Park & Cape May Migratory Bird Refuge<\/h4>\n\n- Dogs are prohibited to protect vulnerable chicks of federally threatened species (Piping Plovers and Least Terns).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Travel tip:<\/strong> Visiting Cape May with your dog in peak summer? Consider the Cape May Dog Park (705 Lafayette Street), which is open daily and offers shaded seating and water stations.<\/p>\nTips for a Safe & Happy Beach Day<\/h2>\n\n- Always bring fresh water and a collapsible bowl\u2014saltwater isn\u2019t safe for dogs to drink.<\/li>\n
- Protect paws from hot sand in summer or icy conditions in winter.<\/li>\n
- Keep your dog leashed unless you\u2019re in a designated off-leash area.<\/li>\n
- Avoid dunes and protected bird nesting zones\u2014fines can be steep.<\/li>\n
- Rinse off after beach play to prevent skin irritation from sand and salt.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Gear Up for Adventure with DJANGO<\/h2>\n
Before you hit the coast, make sure your dog\u2019s gear can handle sand, salt, and splash.<\/p>\n
The Tahoe No Pull Dog Harness<\/a> is crafted from quick-dry neoprene\u2014perfect for seaside walks and wet adventures\u2014while the Adventure Dog Harness<\/a> is a small-dog favorite designed for all-day comfort and beach adventures.<\/p>\n
- \n
- \nIn season (mid-May\u2013mid-September):<\/strong><\/p>\n
- \n
- Dogs are not permitted on the Boardwalk.<\/li>\n
- Dogs are permitted on the Asbury Park Dog Beach at 8th Avenue only, and only from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. Dogs must be off the beach by 8:30 a.m.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
- \nOff season:<\/strong> Leashed dogs can enjoy the Boardwalk and the Asbury Park Dog Beach.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Asbury Park\u2019s 8th Avenue Dog Beach is a local favorite year-round and has one of the friendliest beach dog communities in the state.<\/p>\n
Fisherman\u2019s Cove (Manasquan)<\/a><\/h3>\n
- \n
- \nAll year:<\/strong> Dogs are welcome year-round. Leashes required.<\/li>\n
- This small, scenic stretch along the inlet is ideal for peaceful walks and easy parking.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
From the official site:<\/em> \u201cThis 55-acre site, the last undeveloped tract on the Manasquan Inlet, is a great place to fish, walk on the beach, or go sunbathing. Dogs must be on leash at all times while at this park.\u201d<\/p>\n
Spring Lake Borough<\/a><\/h3>\n
- \n
- \nIn season (May 15\u2013Sept 30):<\/strong> Dogs are prohibited on the beach except in the fenced area on Pitney Avenue (\u201cDog Beach\u201d), where dogs are permitted from sunrise to 9:00 a.m. and from 6:00 p.m. to sunset and may be unleashed.<\/li>\n
- \nOff season (Oct 1\u2013May 14):<\/strong> Leashed dogs are permitted on Spring Lake Borough beaches.<\/li>\n
- Dogs are not allowed on the Spring Lake boardwalk at any time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Central NJ Shore Points<\/h2>\n
Island Beach State Park (Berkeley Township)<\/a><\/h3>\n
- \n
- \nAll year:<\/strong> Dogs are allowed on non-swimming beaches only and must be leashed (max 6 feet).<\/li>\n
- Dogs are not allowed on the swimming beach (lifeguarded area) during the summer season or on the Spizzle Creek Bird Blind Trail at any time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
This undeveloped barrier island offers miles of quiet coastline and bayside trails\u2014great for leashed walks and nature time.<\/p>\n
Atlantic City<\/a><\/h3>\n
- \n
- \nIn season (Memorial Day\u2013Sept 15):<\/strong> No dogs allowed on the beach, Boardwalk, or in the ocean\u2014whether leashed or off-leash.<\/li>\n
- \nOff season (Sept 16\u2013Memorial Day):<\/strong> Leashed dogs are allowed on beaches.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
For a quiet stroll, head toward the northern end of the Boardwalk near the inlet once summer crowds are gone.<\/p>\n
Brigantine<\/a><\/h3>\n
Brigantine North-End Beach<\/h4>\n
- \n
- Leashed dogs permitted year-round.<\/li>\n
- Northernmost, less-developed area stretching toward the wildlife refuge.<\/li>\n
- Often considered the most dog-friendly section\u2014locals call it the \u201cNorth End.\u201d<\/li>\n
- Leashes required at all times (not an off-leash zone).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Public Beaches (15th Street North to the southwestern tip)<\/h4>\n
- \n
- \nSept 16\u2013May 14:<\/strong> Leashed dogs allowed.<\/li>\n
- \nMay 15\u2013Sept 15:<\/strong> Dogs not permitted.<\/li>\n
- Main recreational, lifeguarded beaches\u2014off-limits in peak season but open in the off-season.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Cooperative Zone (Sandy Lane to Bramble Drive)<\/h4>\n
- \n
- \nMarch 15\u2013Sept 15:<\/strong> Dogs not permitted.<\/li>\n
- Protected habitat area for endangered shorebirds and wildlife; best avoided with dogs even off-season.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Promenade (9th Street North to 15th Street North)<\/h4>\n
- \n
- Dogs not permitted at any time, leashed or off-leash.<\/li>\n
- Pedestrian walkway; always dog-restricted for safety and cleanliness.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Longport Dog Beach (Egg Harbor Township)<\/h3>\n
- \n
- \nAll year:<\/strong> One of the few off-leash beaches in the state. Dogs may run under reliable voice control.<\/li>\n
- No amenities\u2014bring water, towels, and waste bags.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Southern NJ Shore Points<\/h2>\n
Ocean City<\/a><\/h3>\n
- \n
- \nBoardwalk:<\/strong> Leashed dogs allowed Oct 1\u2013Apr 30.<\/li>\n
- \nBeach:<\/strong> No dogs May 1\u2013Sept 30. Additionally, no dogs at any time from March 15\u2013Sept 30 on the stretch between the Ocean City\u2013Longport Bridge and the terminal groin (rock jetty near Seaview Road). Leashed dogs are allowed outside these dates and areas.<\/li>\n
- \nDog Park:<\/strong> 45th Street & Haven Avenue; open year-round with separate areas for small and large dogs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Ocean City is one of the most family- and pet-friendly NJ beach towns\u2014always double-check the city\u2019s pet policies before your trip.<\/p>\n
Wildwood<\/a><\/h3>\n
Wildwood Dog Park & Beach<\/h4>\n
- \n
- Leashed dogs welcome on the beach; the adjacent enclosed park offers off-leash play with agility equipment and shaded seating.<\/li>\n
- Located between Glenwood and Maple Avenues.<\/li>\n
- Open daily from dawn to dusk.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Wildwood & Wildwood Crest Beaches<\/h4>\n
- \n
- Dogs allowed from October through May.<\/li>\n
- Leashes required at all times; owners must clean up after dogs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
North Wildwood Beach (2nd Ave to 26th Ave)<\/h4>\n
- \n
- Dogs permitted year-round, except when lifeguards are on duty (9:30 a.m.\u20135:30 p.m.).<\/li>\n
- Dogs not allowed on the Inlet portion of the North Wildwood beach.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Wildwood Boardwalk<\/h4>\n
- \n
- Dogs are not allowed at any time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Driving to the Wildwood dog beach? Look for the 25-foot red fire hydrant sculpture at the entrance\u2014you can\u2019t miss it.<\/p>\n
Cape May<\/a><\/h3>\n
Cape May City<\/h4>\n
- \n
- Dogs are permitted on the promenade and beach from Sept 15\u2013May 15<\/strong> (winter months).<\/li>\n
- Dogs must be leashed at all times and accompanied by their owner.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area<\/h4>\n
- \n
- Allows dogs from Sept 1\u2013Apr 30<\/strong>.<\/li>\n
- Owned by the State of New Jersey; open 5:00 a.m.\u20139:00 p.m.<\/li>\n
- Dogs are not permitted outside the listed dates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Cape May Point (Borough)<\/h4>\n
- \n
- Dogs permitted Nov 1\u2013Mar 14<\/strong>.<\/li>\n
- Dogs prohibited Mar 15\u2013Oct 31<\/strong> (per borough code).<\/li>\n
- Leash required at all times; maximum leash length 6 feet; handler must be over age 12.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Lower Township (Delaware Bay side)<\/h4>\n
- \n
- Leashed animals permitted any time of day during the off-season.<\/li>\n
- \nIn season (Memorial Day\u2013Labor Day):<\/strong> Animals prohibited between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.<\/li>\n
- Leash required off your own property; clean-up is mandatory.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Cape May Point State Park & Cape May Migratory Bird Refuge<\/h4>\n
- \n
- Dogs are prohibited to protect vulnerable chicks of federally threatened species (Piping Plovers and Least Terns).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Travel tip:<\/strong> Visiting Cape May with your dog in peak summer? Consider the Cape May Dog Park (705 Lafayette Street), which is open daily and offers shaded seating and water stations.<\/p>\n
Tips for a Safe & Happy Beach Day<\/h2>\n
- \n
- Always bring fresh water and a collapsible bowl\u2014saltwater isn\u2019t safe for dogs to drink.<\/li>\n
- Protect paws from hot sand in summer or icy conditions in winter.<\/li>\n
- Keep your dog leashed unless you\u2019re in a designated off-leash area.<\/li>\n
- Avoid dunes and protected bird nesting zones\u2014fines can be steep.<\/li>\n
- Rinse off after beach play to prevent skin irritation from sand and salt.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Gear Up for Adventure with DJANGO<\/h2>\n
Before you hit the coast, make sure your dog\u2019s gear can handle sand, salt, and splash.<\/p>\n
The Tahoe No Pull Dog Harness<\/a> is crafted from quick-dry neoprene\u2014perfect for seaside walks and wet adventures\u2014while the Adventure Dog Harness<\/a> is a small-dog favorite designed for all-day comfort and beach adventures.<\/p>\n
- Leash required off your own property; clean-up is mandatory.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Dogs prohibited Mar 15\u2013Oct 31<\/strong> (per borough code).<\/li>\n
- Dogs must be leashed at all times and accompanied by their owner.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Dogs are permitted on the promenade and beach from Sept 15\u2013May 15<\/strong> (winter months).<\/li>\n
- Dogs are not allowed at any time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- \nBeach:<\/strong> No dogs May 1\u2013Sept 30. Additionally, no dogs at any time from March 15\u2013Sept 30 on the stretch between the Ocean City\u2013Longport Bridge and the terminal groin (rock jetty near Seaview Road). Leashed dogs are allowed outside these dates and areas.<\/li>\n
- No amenities\u2014bring water, towels, and waste bags.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- \nAll year:<\/strong> One of the few off-leash beaches in the state. Dogs may run under reliable voice control.<\/li>\n
- Protected habitat area for endangered shorebirds and wildlife; best avoided with dogs even off-season.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- \nMay 15\u2013Sept 15:<\/strong> Dogs not permitted.<\/li>\n
- \nSept 16\u2013May 14:<\/strong> Leashed dogs allowed.<\/li>\n
- \nOff season (Sept 16\u2013Memorial Day):<\/strong> Leashed dogs are allowed on beaches.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Dogs are not allowed on the swimming beach (lifeguarded area) during the summer season or on the Spizzle Creek Bird Blind Trail at any time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- \nOff season (Oct 1\u2013May 14):<\/strong> Leashed dogs are permitted on Spring Lake Borough beaches.<\/li>\n
- This small, scenic stretch along the inlet is ideal for peaceful walks and easy parking.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- \nAll year:<\/strong> Dogs are welcome year-round. Leashes required.<\/li>\n
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