Looking for a beach day where your pup can tag along for the fun? I’ve sniffed out some of the best dog-friendly beaches in the USA, and they’re perfect for couples who want to soak up the sun with their four-legged best friend right there beside them. Trust me, nothing beats watching your dog zoom across the sand as you sip coffee and take in the waves.

Dog-Loving Highlights I’ve Enjoyed:

  • Run wild on the wide, scenic sands of Cannon Beach, Oregon—my pup loved darting around Haystack Rock while we watched the waves roll in.
  • Play in the surf at Fort De Soto Dog Beach in Florida—calm waters, friendly dogs, and shaded picnic spots made this one of our favorite sunny-day stops.
  • Explore the trails and shoreline at Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach, California—I love the vibe here. It’s relaxed, leash-optional, and perfect for active dogs (and their humans).
  • Relax leash-free at Montrose Dog Beach in Chicago—my dog went straight for the water while we kicked back and enjoyed skyline views behind us. City and sea in one spot.
  • Swim and socialize on Cape Cod’s off-season dog beaches in Massachusetts—just be sure to check local permit rules. I’ve spent misty mornings here with hot coffee and a damp, happy dog at my feet.

Beaches That Allow Dogs in the USA:

Huntington Dog Beach - CA

Courtesy of InfiniteSumLTD - Fotolia.com

Huntington Dog Beach - CA - Let dogs run freely and enjoy playful beach vibes.                                     

Jennings Dog Beach - CT

Courtesy of haydnd - Fotolia.com

Jennings Dog Beach - CT - Swim with your pup and enjoy a peaceful beach day.                                     

Jupiter Dog Beach - FL

Courtesy of Katherine - Fotolia.com

Jupiter Dog Beach - FL - Walk along sandy shores and let dogs splash in the waves.                                     

Jekyll Island - GA

Courtesy of Flat Nine Photo - Fotolia.com

Jekyll Island - GA - Explore scenic trails and enjoy dog-friendly beaches.                                     

Montrose Dog Beach - IL

Courtesy of akoaco - Fotolia.com

Montrose Dog Beach - IL - Let dogs socialize and enjoy off-leash beach fun.                                     

Assateague Island - MD

Courtesy of Mary Swift - Fotolia.com

Assateague Island - MD - Explore sandy shores and watch wild horses roam freely.                                     

Kennebunk Beaches - ME

Courtesy of Kristina - Fotolia.com

Kennebunk Beaches - ME - Walk along scenic coastal trails and enjoy pet-friendly beaches.                                     

Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area - MI

Courtesy of Ian - Fotolia.com

Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area - MI - Hike through sand dunes and explore dog-friendly wilderness.                                     

Galveston - TX

Courtesy of BJ Ray - Fotolia.com

Galveston - TX - Let dogs enjoy sandy shores and explore vibrant coastal scenes.                                     

Double Bluff Beach - WA

Courtesy of cynoclub - Fotolia.com

Double Bluff Beach - WA - Walk along wide sandy shores and enjoy off-leash beach adventures.                                     

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)