Delaware is one of the smallest states in America, but it boasts some of the most gorgeous beaches perfect for a summer day out with your furry friend. If you are a dog owner or planning a visit to Delaware with your furry companion, it’s important to note that not all beaches are dog-friendly. However, we’ve taken the time to research and locate the top 12 dog-friendly beaches in Delaware for you and your pooch to enjoy!
1. Beach Plum Island
Located in Lewes, Beach Plum Island is a nature reserve and a vast sandy beach that runs for miles. The beach offers a serene environment for you and your furry friend to enjoy, with plenty of wildlife and beachcombing. The northern tip of this beach is where dogs are permitted off-leash between October 15 and May 15.
2. Bethany Beach
Bethany Beach has a one-mile-long and 150-feet-wide sandy beach that is pet-friendly from October 1st to May 14th. Dogs must be kept on a leash while on the beach, and they are not allowed to dig holes. This beach is perfect for a leisurely walk, and dog owners can also access the 12-foot-wide boardwalk.
3. Broadkill Beach
Broadkill Beach is a quiet and secluded pet-friendly beach located in Milton. The beach has beautiful sand dunes, and pets can be allowed off-leash if they obey voice commands. The beach is pet-friendly all year round, and dogs can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the area. Note, it is essential to practice clean up and leave no traces of your visit behind.
4. Cape Henlopen State Park
Cape Henlopen State Park offers a unique experience for you and your furry companion. The beach is six miles long, and dogs are allowed on the boardwalk. During the summer season (May 1 to September 30), dogs are not permitted on the beach, and when on the boardwalk, they must be on a leash no longer than six feet. The sand dunes in the state park are protected by law.
5. Delaware Seashore State Park
Delaware Seashore State Park features 20 miles of bay shoreline and six miles of ocean, making it perfect for a summer day out. Dogs are not allowed on beaches with lifeguards from May 1 to September 30, but they are allowed on all other beaches during that period. During the winter months (October 1 to April 30), dogs are permitted on all beaches. Visitors can expect to see salt marsh habitat and nesting grounds for terrapins and birds. If you’re a bird watcher, hiker or biker, you’ll enjoy the seven miles of trails.
6. Dewey Beach
Dewey Beach is located in Sussex County and is a dog-friendly beach, but with a catch. Dogs are allowed on the beach with a Dewey Beach dog license. During the summer season (May 15 to September 15), dogs are only allowed on the beach before 9:30 a.m. and after 5:30 p.m. However, during the off-season, dogs are allowed on the beach at any time of the day. Dewey Beach even hosts the Greyhounds Reach the Beach event annually.
7. Fenwick Island State Park Beach
Fenwick Island State Park Beach is located in Fenwick Island and is one of the few state parks in Delaware with pet-friendly access. Dogs are allowed on the beach from October 1 to April 30 and must always be on a leash with a length of six feet or less. Visitors to the park can enjoy the three miles of sandy beach, and sand dunes protected by law.
8. Lewes Beach
Lewes Beach is a dog-friendly beach located in Sussex County. It’s open to dogs from October 1 to April 30, all day long. During the summer season (May 1 to September 30), dogs can access the beach before 8 a.m. and after 6:30 p.m. The beach is known for its quiet community, and visitors can enjoy the long dock and parking, paddling, bathrooms, and concessions.
9. Primehook Beach
Primehook Beach is a pet-friendly beach located in Milton, and it’s a national wildlife refuge for migratory birds. Dogs are allowed on the beach while on a leash all year round. It’s known as a secret beach and is usually quieter than most pet-friendly beaches. No lifeguards are available, but visitors can spot ospreys, herons, and foxes.
10. Rehoboth Beach
Rehoboth Beach is a one-mile-long beach located in Rehoboth Beach, featuring a boardwalk with restaurants, eclectic shops, and amusements. Visitors can access the boardwalk year-round and attend events and festivals. Dogs are allowed on the beach from October 1 to April 30 and must be on a leash at all times.
11. South Bethany Beach
South Bethany Beach is a small pet-friendly resort town located in Sussex County. The beach features a one-mile-long stretch of sandy beach, and pets are allowed on a leash from October 16 to May 14. Visitors to the park can also partake in the five miles of canals for canoeing, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
12. Woodland Beach
Last but not least is Woodland Beach, located in Smyrna. This beach is often quieter than other beaches, and dogs are allowed to visit anytime, but they must be leashed. The beach often gets busy in the summer period but offers a long fishing pier for the perfect fishing experience. Visitors can also visit the Woodland Beach Wildlife Area.
Conclusion
Delaware is known for its peaceful and pet-friendly beach environments, and with multiple dog-friendly beaches, it is the perfect vacation spot for you and your furry companion. Before you visit any of these beaches, always check the rules and regulations to avoid hefty fines. Keep in mind; it’s essential to practice good hygiene and clean up after your dog. Make the most out of your visit by bringing enough supplies for both you and your furry friend, including water for hydration. Get ready to enjoy the beautiful beaches in Delaware with your furry companion!
