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Top 5 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Connecticut: 2026 Guide

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rough collie dog barking at the beach

Whether you live in Connecticut or you’re planning a beach vacation here, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of dog-friendly beaches for you and your furry friend to enjoy. Here are the top five beaches in Connecticut where dogs are always welcome.

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Top 5 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Connecticut

1. Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison

🗺️️ Address: 1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT
🕐 Open Times: 8 am to 6:30 pm
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: No
  • Dogs allowed on the beach only between the months of September 30 and April 1
  • Home to ball fields for fun family getaways
  • Two designated dog-friendly areas
  • Bike paths to two-wheeled exploration
  • Two miles of beachfront

2. Compo Beach, Westport

🗺️️ Address: 60 Compo Beach Road, Westport, CT
🕐 Open Times: Sunrise to sunset
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: Yes
  • Designated area for off-leash freedom from October 1st through March 31st
  • Dogs are not permitted on the playground, pavilion or beach walkways
  • Beach has a relaxed atmosphere
  • Encompasses over 43,000 acres
  • 40 miles of shoreline

3. Jennings Dog Beach, Fairfield

🗺️️ Address: 880 S Benson Rd, Fairfield, CT
🕐 Open Times: Daily
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: Yes
  • Beach is open to dogs from October 1 to April 1
  • Boat rentals at the Town Marina
  • 27 miles of coastline
  • Fenced-in areas to keep dogs separated by size
  • Horseback riding permitted

4. Bluff Point State Park, Groton

🗺️️ Address: 55 Depot Rd, Groton, CT
🕐 Open Times: 7 am to 7 pm, October to March
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: No
  • Beach allows dogs from September 2 to March 31
  • Dog-friendly dining nearby
  • Over 800 acres of nature to explore
  • Beautiful bluff overlook
  • Hiking, fishing, trails, and more

5. Burying Hill Beach, Westport

🗺️️ Address: Burying Hill Beach Westport, CT 06880
🕐 Open Times: No opening times specified
💲 Cost: Parking Fee
🐕 Off-Leash: No
  • Dogs are allowed from October 1 to March 31
  • 2.39-acre park to explore with your pet
  • Has picnic tables, grills, and restrooms

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Conclusion

There are a variety of great dog-friendly beaches in Connecticut that you and your pup can enjoy together. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and take in the scenery or an active beach where your dog can run and play, there’s sure to be a perfect match for you.

So pack up the car and hit the road— your furry friend is going to love you for it.

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Featured Image Credit: Adam Serba, Shutterstock

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