As Summer Ends, More New Jersey Beaches Become Dog Friendly

ASBURY PARK, NJ – Many of New Jersey’s beaches have expanded their dog-friendly policies for the off-season, allowing pet owners greater flexibility to enjoy the shore with their four-legged friends.

Asbury Park’s 8th Avenue Dog Beach, for example, permits dogs to roam freely on the beach—except the boardwalk—during off-peak months. During the summer, however, dogs are restricted to early morning hours. Similarly, Barnegat Light Beach and Beach Haven Doggy Bay allow dogs on a leash from October 1 to April 15 and September 16 to May 14, respectively.

The trend is seen in beaches throughout the state. Belmar and Bradley Beach open their sandy stretches to leashed dogs from October 1 to April 30. Brigantine North End Beach takes it a step further, allowing dogs year-round, although they must be on a leash.

Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area and Gateway National Recreation Area—Sandy Hook, both permit dogs year-round, albeit with leash restrictions. Harvey Cedars and Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area have similar off-season policies.

Island Beach State Park allows dogs on a six-foot leash year-round on specific sections of the beach, and Long Beach Island Beaches permit leashed dogs from October 1 to April 30. Longport Dog Beach in Egg Harbor Township stands out as an off-leash beach all year, with no entry fee.

Local ordinances can change, so dog owners are advised to verify the rules before visiting any beach. Nevertheless, the growing number of beaches embracing off-season, dog-friendly policies illustrates a welcoming shift for pet owners seeking coastal getaways.

Here are New Jersey’s dog friendly beaches. Please be sure to check the municipality’s website for updated current information and rules:

1. Asbury Park – 8th Avenue Dog Beach
2. Barnegat Light Beach
3. Beach Haven Doggy Bay
4. Belmar Beaches
5. Bradley Beach
6. Brigantine North End Beach
7. Fisherman’s Cover Conservation Area
8. Gateway National Recreation Area – Sandy Hook
9. Harvey Cedars
10. Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area
11. Island Beach State Park
12. Long Beach Island Beaches
13. Longport Dog Beach
14. Mantoloking Beaches
15. North Wildwood Dog Park & Beach
16. Ocean City Beach
17. Sea Isle City Beach
18. Stone Harbor Beach
19. Sunset Beach
20. Ventor City Beaches