Want to let your pup enjoy the sand and surf too? In this post, I’ll share the best dog-friendly beaches I discovered in Massachusetts—where sandy paws, salty air, and wagging tails make for unforgettable coastal adventures. These welcoming dog friendly beaches in Massachusetts offer off-leash fun, coastal trails, and year-round spots where dogs can play in the waves!
Highlights:
Unique Dog Friendly Beaches in Massachusetts:
1. Explore Brant Rock beaches with your dog - 1-hour drive south of Boston
Rating: ★★★★★
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Location:
Brant Rock, Marshfield, Massachusetts, USARecommended For:
Beachgoers seeking a lively New England seaside experience, dog owners, and families looking for classic summer fun by the shore.What I Love: ♥
The soft sandy beach, the picturesque esplanade and stone jetty, and the year-round dog-friendly policy that welcomes furry friends on a leash.- Visit Brant Rock, a vibrant village beach known for its narrow yet charming shoreline and high-energy summer vibes.
- Stroll along the Ocean Street esplanade or walk out onto the stone jetty for a breezy view of the Atlantic.
- Relax on the soft sand, but be prepared for cool waters even during peak summer.
- Bring your leashed dog anytime—pets are welcome year-round and cleanup bags are provided at the entrance.
Cost:
Free public access. Street parking and nearby lot availability may vary during busy summer weekends.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall for the liveliest atmosphere. Visit early in the day or on weekdays to beat the crowds.Local tips:
The beach is popular and narrow, so space fills quickly. Bring your own chairs or towel, and be mindful of how close the homes are to the sand. Always clean up after pets to help keep the beach dog-friendly.Distance:
About 35 miles south of Boston—roughly a 1-hour drive, depending on traffic.How to Get to Brant Rock:
Drive via Route 3 and Route 139 to Ocean Street in Marshfield. Limited public transportation options, so driving is most convenient.2. Splash in the water on Carson Beach - 15-minute drive or bus from Boston
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Location:
Carson Beach, South Boston, Massachusetts, USARecommended For:
Urban beachgoers, fitness enthusiasts, and dog owners seeking an accessible city-side coastal escape with wide walking paths and harbor views.What I Love: ♥
The smooth sandy shoreline, the panoramic views of Boston Harbor, and the seasonal off-leash dog access on hard-packed sand.- Visit Carson Beach, a wide and welcoming public beach just minutes from downtown Boston.
- Walk the expansive three-mile South Boston shoreline park stretching from Castle Island to M Street Beach.
- Relax on the soft sand and enjoy sweeping views of the harbor—but brace for the frigid water year-round.
- Bring your dog during the off-season (Labor Day to Memorial Day); leashed pets can enjoy the space and splash along the edge.
Cost:
Free public access. Street parking available along Day Boulevard; may be limited on sunny weekends.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall for the full beach scene; off-season for quieter strolls and dog walks.Local tips:
Dogs are only allowed during the off-season. Facilities are basic, but the beach is clean and scenic. Great for picnics, jogging, or watching boats in the harbor.Distance:
About 4 miles south of downtown Boston—roughly a 15-minute drive or easily accessible by MBTA bus and Red Line.How to Get to Carson Beach:
Drive or take public transportation to 2010 Day Blvd., Boston, MA 02127. Easily reachable via the Red Line to JFK/UMass or bus routes along Columbia Road.3. Visit Castle Island Beach - 15-minute drive or accessible by MBTA from Bosotn
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Location:
Castle Island & Pleasure Bay Beach, South Boston, Massachusetts, USARecommended For:
History buffs, families, sunbathers, and dog walkers looking for a scenic and recreational waterfront destination.What I Love: ♥
The historic Fort Independence, the protected swimming areas of Pleasure Bay, and the white sand beaches with harbor views.- Explore Castle Island, a 22-acre park offering walking paths, sunbathing spots, and the 1634-era Fort Independence.
- Swim in the calm lagoon waters of Pleasure Bay, a favorite for families with children.
- Relax on Day Boulevard's lifeguarded white sand beaches, perfect for a sunny afternoon by the harbor.
- Bring your leashed dog—pets are welcome as long as owners clean up after them.
Cost:
Free public access. Parking lots are available, though they may fill up quickly on weekends.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall for full access to swimming, sunbathing, and open tours of the fort.Local tips:
The loop around Castle Island offers great views and breezes—ideal for walking or jogging. Sullivan’s snack bar near the parking area is a local favorite for burgers and lobster rolls.Distance:
About 4 miles south of downtown Boston—approximately a 15-minute drive or accessible by MBTA.How to Get to Castle Island:
Drive to 2010 William J Day Blvd, Boston, MA 02127, or take the Red Line to Broadway Station and transfer to local bus service.If you are a photographer, don't miss:
4. Enjoy Coast Guard Beach - 2.5-hour drive from Boston
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Location:
Coast Guard Beach, Eastham, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USARecommended For:
Nature lovers, beach hikers, summer swimmers, and dog owners seeking scenic shoreline walks along the Cape Cod National Seashore.What I Love: ♥
The dramatic dune-backed shoreline, the inviting summer surf, and the dog-friendly access outside guarded swim areas.- Visit Coast Guard Beach, one of Cape Cod’s most picturesque beaches and part of the protected National Seashore.
- Swim in the refreshing Atlantic waters—lifeguards are on duty in summer for added safety.
- Hike the scenic paths leading from the beach and enjoy the pristine, undeveloped shoreline.
- Bring your leashed dog—pets are allowed on a 6-foot leash but must stay off lifeguard-patrolled sections during summer months.
Cost:
Entrance fees apply as part of the Cape Cod National Seashore. Shuttle service is available from a nearby parking lot during peak season.Best time to visit:
Summer for swimming and lifeguard coverage; early fall or late spring for quieter walks and dog-friendly access.Local tips:
The surf can be rough—best suited for adults and older kids. Arrive early or use the shuttle in summer. Clean up after pets to maintain access for dog owners.Distance:
About 100 miles southeast of Boston—roughly a 2.5-hour drive depending on traffic.How to Get to Coast Guard Beach:
Drive to Nauset & Doane Roads in Eastham, MA. In summer, park at the Little Creek lot and take the beach shuttle.5. Corn Hill Beach
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Location:
Corn Hill Beach, Truro, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USARecommended For:
Families with small children, peaceful beachgoers, and dog owners seeking calm bay waters and wide stretches of sand.What I Love: ♥
The warm, shallow waters of Cape Cod Bay, the secluded inlet behind the dunes, and the dog-friendly access during off-hours.- Visit Corn Hill Beach for a serene Cape Cod experience with gentle surf and scenic dune-lined shores.
- Swim in the calm, family-friendly bay—perfect for children thanks to its shallow gradient and warm temperatures.
- Watch the boats enter and leave Pamet Harbor while strolling the hard-packed sand.
- Bring your leashed dog before 9am or after 6pm in summer, or anytime in the off-season.
Cost:
A parking permit is required during the summer season. Available from the Truro Beach Office.Best time to visit:
Summer for warm waters and active harbor views; spring and fall for quiet dog-friendly walks and peaceful solitude.Local tips:
Arrive early to secure a spot during high season. Evening visits offer spectacular sunsets and low crowds. Always follow pet hours and leash rules to preserve access.Distance:
About 110 miles southeast of Boston—roughly a 2.5-hour drive depending on seasonal traffic.How to Get to Corn Hill Beach:
Drive to Old Pilgrim Library Bldg., 36 Shore Road, Route 6A, North Truro, MA 02652. Follow local signage to beach access and permit stations.6. Plan a day trip during the off season to Craigville Beach, Cape Cod
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Location:
Craigville Beach, Centerville, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USARecommended For:
Sunbathers, swimmers, kite surfers, and off-season dog owners looking for a wide public beach on Nantucket Sound.What I Love: ♥
The expansive soft sandy shoreline, the vibrant summer energy, and the off-season dog access for long beach walks.- Visit Craigville Beach, a popular public beach near Hyannis with plenty of room for families, students, and solo beachgoers alike.
- Swim in the gentle waves of Nantucket Sound, under the watch of summer lifeguards.
- Try kite surfing or just relax under a rented umbrella from on-site concessions.
- Bring your leashed dog from September 15 to May 15 to enjoy the beach in the quieter off-season.
Cost:
Public beach with paid parking during peak season. Daily and seasonal permits available.Best time to visit:
Summer for full amenities and water sports; off-season for peaceful dog walks and serene beach views.Local tips:
Gets busy in peak months—arrive early for parking. The beach has clean restrooms, outdoor showers, and food stands for a full-day visit.Distance:
About 75 miles southeast of Boston—roughly a 1.5- to 2-hour drive depending on traffic.How to Get to Craigville Beach:
Drive to 997 Craigville Beach Rd, Centerville, MA 02632. Parking available on-site with town beach permit or daily fee.7. Relax on the sand at Crowe’s Pasture Conservation Area and Beach
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Location:
Crowes Pasture Conservation Area & Beach, South Dennis, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USARecommended For:
Nature walkers, solitude seekers, dog owners, and anyone who enjoys wild coastal landscapes and scenic hiking.What I Love: ♥
The serene walk through scrub oak and salt marsh, the wildflower-lined dirt road, and the secluded beach with relaxed vibes for leashed dogs.- Explore Crowes Pasture via a scenic mile-long dirt path through coastal woods and restored meadows.
- Walk past blooming wildflowers and salt marshes, with a good chance to spot local wildlife.
- Relax on the natural, undeveloped beach—best visited a few hours after high tide for more shoreline space.
- Bring your leashed dog—they’ll love the journey as much as the beach, even if they’re just lounging once they arrive.
Cost:
Free public access. Limited parking available near the cemetery entrance off Rte 134.Best time to visit:
Summer and early fall for wildflowers, good weather, and longer days. Time your visit for post-high tide to maximize beach space.Local tips:
There are no amenities—bring water, sun protection, and waste bags for pets. Park at the lot and enjoy the peaceful hike to the shore.Distance:
About 85 miles southeast of Boston—approximately a 2-hour drive depending on traffic conditions.How to Get to Crowes Pasture:
Drive to Route 134 in South Dennis, MA 02641. Park near the cemetery and walk the dirt road through the conservation area to the beach.Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
8. Spend a relaxing weekend off season at Fort Phoenix State Reservation
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Location:
Fort Phoenix State Reservation, Fairhaven, Massachusetts, USARecommended For:
History enthusiasts, families, shell collectors, and off-season dog walkers looking for a scenic harbor-side beach with amenities and historic charm.What I Love: ♥
The well-preserved Revolutionary War fort, the panoramic views of Buzzards Bay, and the seasonal dog-friendly shoreline access.- Visit Fort Phoenix for a blend of historic discovery and seaside fun just outside New Bedford Harbor.
- Swim and sunbathe on the half-mile sandy beach, perfect for families and summer play.
- Explore the scenic fort grounds and enjoy shell collecting along the shoreline.
- Bring your leashed dog between September and April to enjoy the off-season beauty.
Cost:
Free public access. Ample parking available in the lot adjacent to the park.Best time to visit:
Summer for full use of playgrounds, courts, and beach; off-season for quiet walks and dog-friendly visits.Local tips:
Bring a picnic and take advantage of the tennis and basketball courts. Visit at low tide for the best shell-collecting. Dogs must remain on leash and are not allowed during peak summer season.Distance:
About 60 miles south of Boston—approximately a 1.5-hour drive.How to Get to Fort Phoenix:
Drive to Green Street, Fairhaven, MA 02719. Follow signage to the state reservation parking area.9. Leash your dog and stroll on Francis Street Beach
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Location:
Francis Street Beach, Nantucket, Massachusetts, USARecommended For:
Families with young children, downtown visitors, and dog owners looking for a calm harbor beach just steps from Nantucket’s Main Street.What I Love: ♥
The gentle surf and calm harbor waters, the family-friendly features like Jungle Jim and kayak rentals, and the proximity to downtown Nantucket.- Visit Francis Street Beach for easy access to swimming and harbor views just minutes from town.
- Swim or wade in the gentle, kid-friendly waters—ideal for toddlers and cautious swimmers.
- Rent a kayak or enjoy the Jungle Jim play structure with your little ones near the sand.
- Bring your leashed dog and relax, but stay clear of Brant Point due to strong currents.
Cost:
Free public access. Walking distance from most of downtown Nantucket; limited street parking nearby.Best time to visit:
Summer for swimming and family fun; shoulder seasons for peaceful harbor views and dog walks.Local tips:
There’s no lifeguard on duty, so keep a close eye on children. Great for a picnic or a spontaneous dip during downtown shopping or sightseeing.Distance:
Centrally located in downtown Nantucket—just a short walk from Main Street shops and restaurants.How to Get to Francis Street Beach:
Walk or bike to Washington St & Lafayette St, Nantucket, MA 02554. Parking is limited; walking is best from downtown.10. Hike along Hatches Harbor Trails
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Location:
Hatches Harbor Salt Marsh, Provincetown, Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts, USARecommended For:
Hikers, bikers, birdwatchers, photographers, and dog owners looking for expansive trails and scenic wildlife views near the dunes and harbor.What I Love: ♥
The hard-packed sand trails through vast salt marshes, the sweeping views of Race Point Lighthouse, and the dog-friendly paths rich in coastal wildlife.- Explore the network of trails through Hatches Harbor starting from the Province Lands Road parking area.
- Walk or bike along the dike path through dunes and tidal flats toward the beach and lighthouse.
- Watch for right whales from March through May and spot birds, seals, and other wildlife year-round.
- Bring your leashed dog—National Seashore rules require leashes, but the terrain is perfect for long scenic strolls.
Cost:
Free public access. Parking available at the trailhead off Province Lands Road.Best time to visit:
Spring for whale watching, summer for dry trails and lighthouse views, fall for solitude and migrating birds.Local tips:
Check the tide schedule—low tide allows access along the shore to the lighthouse, but at high tide, you'll need to detour over dunes. Bring water and wear sun protection, as shade is minimal.Distance:
About 120 miles from Boston—approximately a 2.5- to 3-hour drive depending on traffic.How to Get to Hatches Harbor:
Take Route 6 to Provincetown. Access the trailhead via Province Lands Road near the airport and look for parking at the designated lot.Plan Your Trip