North Carolina is a fantastic vacation destination that is known for being full of southern charm and delicious food. This state truly has it all, from its breathtaking mountains to its beautiful state parks, and don’t forget its gorgeous sandy beaches.
Whether you are living in North Carolina or are stopping by for a visit to the coastline, you may be wondering which beaches are the most pet friendly. After all, what’s better than enjoying some fun in the sun with your four-legged pal? Well, pack your sunscreen and all your beach gear and keep reading to discover the most dog-friendly beaches in the Tar Heel State.
Take your beloved dog on a beach day vacation to Carolina Beach’s dog-friendly Freeman Park just 12 miles from historic Wilmington, NC.
Dogs are allowed off-leash at Freeman Park from October 1st through March 31st but must remain leashed from April 1st to September 30th.
This is one of the only beaches in NC where you can drive your 4×4 vehicle onto it.
Dog owners are required to bring a minimum of two suitable plastic or paper waste containers and dispose of waste in appropriate receptacles. The bags must be shown upon request.
Enjoy the local restaurants, shopping, outdoor recreation, and various attractions that the area has to offer.
Oak Island is an island right off the North Carolina coast about 30 minutes south of Wilmington.
This island is very family-friendly and pet-friendly, and you will find plenty to do.
All of the Oak Island beaches are pet-friendly, which includes Caswell, Yaupon, & Long Beach.
Dogs have beach access all year round if kept on a leash.
Off-leash access on Oak Island’s beaches is permitted from October 15th through March 15th from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the locations marked by beach access signs.
Carolina Beach State Park is located in New Hanover, NC just 12 miles south of Wilmington.
You can get beach access at Carolina Beach State Park or Carolina Beach.
Leashed dogs are permitted on the beach before 9:00 a.m. and after 5:00 p.m. from April 1st through September 30th and are allowed beach access during all hours from October 1st through March 31st.
There are lots of nice campsites and plenty of walking trails to enjoy with your pup.
Remember to obey the leash laws and pick up after your pets or you will be subject to citation.
Fort Fisher State Park in Kure Beach, NC is dog friendly all year round, but they must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
There are pet waste cleanup laws, and the park provides garbage bins for disposal.
Fort Fisher State Park is only 18 miles South of Wilmington and allows 4-wheel drive beach access.
You can enjoy an amazing hike on a trail that has gorgeous views of Zeke’s Island and the Cape Fear River.
Keep your eye out for loggerhead sea turtles nesting on the sandy beach during the warmer months.
Conclusion
There is certainly no shortage of incredible dog-friendly beaches in North Carolina that are just waiting for you and your pooch to visit. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to plan that beach day and hit the road for an unforgettable experience with your dog.
I am a wife, mother, nature enthusiast, animal lover, and business major. I was born and raised in Ohio but now live in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We share our home with a German Shepherd, several snakes, tarantulas, and a couple rescue cats.
My husband and I enjoy traveling the US with our kids and photographing wildlife. My passion is to educate others on the importance of proper animal care, with an emphasis on reptiles and exotics since their care requirements can be much more complex. I am also a huge advocate for bully breeds. I feel most at home in the forest either on horseback or in hiking boots.
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The Top 14 Dog-Friendly Beaches in North Carolina
