10 Great Dog-Friendly Beaches in New Jersey (2026 Update)

Heading to the beach with friends is always a good time, but as a dog owner, you likely want to include your furry buddy in your beach excursions—at least every once in a while. Fortunately, there are several beaches located in the Garden State that happen to be dog-friendly, so you can spend a fun day on the sand and in the ocean with your canine friend. Here are 10 great New Jersey dog-friendly beach spots to consider.

The 10 Great Dog-Friendly Beaches in New Jersey

1. Longport Dog Beach

• No amenities besides portable toilets
• This beach is part of the Malibu Beach Wildlife Management program
• You must take garbage and used poop bags away with you
• The beach area is small during high tide
• Enjoy views of Great Egg Harbor Bay

2. Beach Haven Doggy Bay

• Dogs are not permitted on the beach during the summer months
• Dogs are welcome on the bay beach at Taylor Avenue only
• Dogs must be leashed at all times
• The beach is typically clean and safe for small dogs
• Surfers can be spotted entertaining those on the beach

3. Wildwood Dog Park and Beach

• Dogs must be leashed on the beach area
• Waste bags and drinking water are available onsite
• Fenced play areas are available for large and small dog breeds
• Dogs must be up to date on their vaccinations before entering the park
• The park has play and agility equipment for the dogs to enjoy

4. Bradley Cove

• This beach is located at the end of the Boardwalk
• Visiting dogs must be licensed and always supervised
• The beach can get crowded during the morning hours
• Must bring your own water and waste bags
• Great place for beginning dog swimmers

5. Higbee Beach

• Enjoy hiking, swimming, bird watching, and plum picking here
• Some people enjoy sunbathing nude at the park
• The dunes are as high as 35 feet in some areas of the beach
• Explore hundreds of acres of woodland
• Seek out the freshwater marsh

6. Asbury Park Dog Beach

• Dogs must be leashed unless in the designated dog beach area
• Use the Deal Lake Drive beach entrance
• Dogs are allowed on the beach between 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 a.m. from May 16 to September 15
• The beach is usually always busy during the summer months
• A few nearby restaurants offer dog menus

7. Gateway National Recreation Area

•  Multiple beach areas open during off-season
• No dogs from March 15 through September 15 on ocean-side beaches at Sandy Hook Unit
• Nearby trails for walking with your dog
• Parking is $20 in the summer season from Memorial Day to Labor Day

8. Spring Lake Borough Beach

• Dogs must be on leash unless in the fenced area off Pitney Avenue
• Dogs are never allowed on the boardwalk
• Enjoy 2 miles of sand to run and play on
• Watch surfers and kayakers as you walk with your dog
• Bring your waste bags and water

9. Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area

• The beach is backed by an impressive 55-acre park
• Fishing is popular here, so watch out for fishing lines
• Plenty of room on the beach to picnic and play in the water
• Enjoy an old-town feel during your visit
• No amenities available

10. Corson’s Inlet State Park

• This place is home to local and migratory wildlife
• Dogs must be leashed at all times
• No swimming allowed
• Explore undeveloped trails and dunes near the shoreline
• Shade can be hard to find

Conclusion

There is no shortage of outdoor fun when spending time with your dog in New Jersey. Whether you want to just hang out at the beach, go hiking, or watch your canine play around with their peers, all the dog-friendly beaches on this list have something exciting to offer.

Featured Image Credit: martine552, Pixabay