As the mercury rises and summer reaches its peak, there's no better way to enjoy the warmth than with your dog by your side. Our area offers a plethora of dog-friendly spots where you and your four-legged friend can beat the heat, play, dine, and explore. From beaches to community dog parks and nature preserves, here’s a guide to making the most of the “dog days” of summer in this beautiful coastal area.
Our coastline is a paradise for dog owners looking to enjoy the summer sun with their furry friends. With an array of dog-friendly beaches, parks, restaurants, and trails, you and your pet can explore and relax together. Just be mindful of the few areas where dogs are not permitted, and you’ll have a great time soaking up the best of summer in this beautiful coastal region.
Dog-Friendly Beaches
- Cape Henlopen State Park: Located in Lewes, this state park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and their pets. Dogs are allowed on non-recreational beaches year-round and on all beaches during the off-season. During summer, they must be leashed and are restricted from certain swimming areas.
- Delaware Seashore State Park: Situated between Dewey Beach and Bethany Beach, this park offers stunning views and dog-friendly beaches where your pet can frolic in the surf. Dogs must be leashed and are allowed on the beaches north of the Inlet and south of the Towers Road. Many of the bayside beaches also are open to dogs.
- Fenwick Island State Park: This quieter beach is perfect for a peaceful day out. Dogs are welcome on the beach during the season, but only the northern (left) part of the park.
- Assateague Island National Seashore and Assateague State Park: Just a short drive from Ocean City, Assateague Island offers a unique beach experience with wild ponies and beautiful natural landscapes. Dogs are allowed in the Maryland section of the National Seashore year-round but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Assateague State Park allows dogs in the day-use areas, nature trails, and camping loops during the off-season, from October 1 to April 30.
Community Dog Parks
- Lewes Unleashed Dog Park: This dedicated dog park in Lewes is a fantastic place for your pet to run and play off-leash. It features separate areas for small and large dogs, agility equipment, and plenty of shade for those hot summer days.
- Rehoboth Beach Dog Park: Located within the city, this park offers a safe, fenced area for dogs to socialize and exercise. With ample space and seating for pet owners, it’s a great spot for both dogs and their humans to unwind.
- Millsboro Dog Park: Located just past the Town Hall Center, Millsboro Dog Park in offers a great fenced-in area for your dog to run and play. There are separate areas for large and small dogs, as well as umbrella-shaded picnic tables, a water fountain for humans and pups, and some free parking on site or at the Town Hall.
- Ocean City Dog Playground: Located at 94th Street in Ocean City, this dog park offers separate areas for small and large dogs. It’s a perfect spot for your pet to run off-leash and enjoy some social time with other dogs.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants
Many restaurants with outdoor patios/decks will welcome your leashed pets. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Big Chill Beach Club: Situated in Bethany Beach, this casual eatery offers stunning ocean views and a pet-friendly patio. Enjoy a meal with your furry friend while taking in the coastal scenery.
- Crooked Hammock Brewery: Located in Lewes, this brewery is not only known for its craft beers but also its welcoming atmosphere for dogs. The outdoor area includes dog-friendly seating, making it a perfect spot to relax with your pet.
- Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats: In Rehoboth Beach, this popular spot welcomes dogs on their outdoor patio. Enjoy delicious food and unique brews with your canine companion by your side.
- Macky’s Bayside Bar & Grill: Located in Ocean City, this waterfront restaurant is dog-friendly and offers a pet menu. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy a meal with your dog while overlooking the bay.
Nature Preserves and Trails
- Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge: This expansive refuge in Milton offers scenic trails where leashed dogs are welcome. Explore diverse habitats, from wetlands to forests, and enjoy birdwatching with your pet.
- Junction and Breakwater Trail: Running between Lewes and Rehoboth Beach, this scenic trail is perfect for a long walk or bike ride with your dog. The flat, shaded path provides a pleasant escape from the summer sun.
- Assawoman Wildlife Area: Located near Frankford, this wildlife area is a gem for nature lovers and their dogs. The area offers a variety of habitats, including woodlands, marshes, and tidal creeks. Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful hike or a day of birdwatching.
- James Farm Ecological Preserve: Situated near Ocean View, this preserve is a wonderful place to explore with your dog. Leashed pets are welcome on the trails that wind through forests, meadows, and along the shoreline. The diverse habitats provide a serene setting for a leisurely walk or an afternoon picnic.
- Northside Park: Located in Ocean City, this 58-acre park offers walking paths, a large pond, and plenty of open space for leashed dogs. It’s a great place for a relaxing walk or a picnic with your pet.
Places Where Dogs Are Not Allowed
While DE and MD coastal area offers many dog-friendly spots, there are also areas where pets are restricted. Dogs are not allowed on the main swimming beaches or boardwalks of Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach and Ocean City during the summer season. Additionally, dogs are generally prohibited from wildlife refuges’ sensitive areas, such as bird nesting sites, to protect the local fauna. Prior to setting out with your pet, be sure to check out each area for their pet guidelines and rules, these may change by the season.
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