The Jersey Shore has long been a favorite destination for summer fun — and with a little planning, it can be just as enjoyable for your four-legged friends. While many boardwalks restrict dogs and beach access varies by town and season, there are still plenty of ways to bring your pup along for the adventure.
Whether it’s strolling along designated dog-friendly beaches, dining at outdoor pet-friendly restaurants or visiting parks near the shore, options abound for families who don’t want to leave their furry members behind. With some preparation and an understanding of local regulations, pet owners can create unforgettable memories at the Shore together.
A bark above the rest
North of Absecon Island, a doggie paradise awaits: Yappy Hour at the Wonder Bar in Asbury Park. Kiddie pools, tennis balls and a fenced-in play space for dogs of all breeds make this venue perfect for pooches and owners alike. Drinks are flowing, and the $10 cover charge goes toward local animal shelters and rescue centers.
Yappy Hour begs (or barks) the question: Why aren’t South Jersey Shore towns more dog friendly?
The current climate
Statewide, all ocean beaches — except three — ban off-leash dogs during the high season. Off-leash dog-friendly beaches include Asbury Park, Beach Haven and the North Wildwood dog park.
Bay beaches tend to be more relaxed. Famously, Malibu Beach (also known as Dog Beach) between Longport and Ocean City welcomes dogs to play off-leash and swim in the waves.
Dog laws by beach town
Atlantic City: No dogs on the beach or boardwalk between Memorial Day and Sept. 15. During the off-season, dogs must be leashed at all times.
Ventnor: Dogs are allowed on the beach below the high tide line from 7 to 9 p.m. between May 15 and Sept. 30. From Oct. 1 to May 14, leashed dogs are permitted on the beach below the high tide line at all times.
Margate: Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach between 6 and 8 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. In the off-season, leashed dogs are permitted on all beaches.
Longport: Dogs are permitted on the beach between 6:30 and 8:30 a.m. from May 1 through Sept. 30. Leashed dogs are welcome at all times during the off-season.
Brigantine: Dogs can enjoy the North End bay beach from May 30 through Sept. 30. Off-season access is allowed on all beaches with leashes required year-round.
Ocean City: No dogs are allowed on the beach or boardwalk between May 1 and Sept. 30. Leashed dogs are permitted on the beach outside of the Longport Bridge-to-Seaspray Road area and from 18th to 34th streets. The boardwalk is off-limits year-round.
Sea Isle City: No dogs on the beach from May 2 to Sept. 29. In the off-season, leashed dogs are welcome.
Wildwood: From June 1 to Sept. 30, dogs are only allowed in the dog park at Glenwood Avenue. Dogs are banned from the boardwalk year-round, but can enjoy the beach during the off-season. Leashes are optional in the dog park but required elsewhere.
Dog-friendly restaurants
The Rusty Nail, Cape May
Beach seating, picnic tables and a dedicated dog menu make this a favorite. Staff offer water bowls and remember your pup’s name!
Maynard’s Cafe, Margate
Located near Dog Beach, this outdoor dining spot is known for its welcoming staff and occasional unseasoned chicken or eggs for your pup.
Vagabond Kitchen & Tap House, Atlantic City
Enjoy food and drinks on a spacious patio with your pup. Ample parking and pet-friendly vibes make this a popular choice.
Freddy J’s Bar & Kitchen, Mays Landing
This hidden gem offers plenty of outdoor seating and a relaxed, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Yianni’s Cafe, Ocean City
This Greek-inspired bistro welcomes dogs on the patio and often provides water bowls and treats.
For more suggestions, visit bringfido.com for reviews of dog-friendly locales at the Shore.
Celebrating dogs in the shoulder season
Ocean City’s Doo Dah Parade, with its joyful procession of basset hounds, highlights the happiness dogs bring to our lives. Events like this — and fall favorites like Dog Day and the Howl-O-Ween Parade — are celebrations of our pets, but summer restrictions often leave dog owners with few options.
Designating dog-friendly areas or hours during peak season would welcome responsible pet owners while balancing the needs of all beachgoers. Let’s build on the spirit of these events to make the Shore more inclusive for every member of the family — two-legged and four-legged alike.
Call to action
The Jersey Shore is one of the most beloved vacation destinations on the East Coast, drawing families, couples and individuals to its sun-soaked beaches and vibrant boardwalks. But for dog owners, planning a trip can be challenging due to seasonal bans and limited access.
Shore towns and local businesses have an opportunity to embrace pet-friendly tourism. Across the country, destinations like Asheville, North Carolina and Bar Harbor, Maine, have successfully welcomed dogs by offering off-leash beaches, outdoor dining spaces and pet-friendly accommodations.
By creating more inclusive spaces and services for dog owners, the Jersey Shore can enhance its appeal, strengthen local economies and ensure every family member gets to join in the fun. Let’s give our dogs their day in the sun.
Sarah Fertsch is a journalist, proposal writer and poet. You can find her chasing dogs across the beach and trying new recipes.
