11 Dog Friendly Beaches in New Jersey in 2026

New Jersey may be known for industry, but it's also full of amazing beaches, and many of them are happy to let your furry friend play in the water...as long as you follow the safety rules, of course. Here are 10 of the best dog-friendly beaches in New Jersey.

The 11 Dog Friendly Beaches in New Jersey

1. Island Beach State Park

• 10-mile stretch of pristine beach
• Located at the tip of Barnegat peninsula
• Dogs are allowed on the beaches here, but they can't run off-leash
• The beach is clean and there are plenty of areas to explore

2. Sandy Hook Beach – Middletown Township

• This beach is ideal for small dogs
• Plenty of shallow water, so your pup can paddle around safely
• You can bring your pup to the beach all year round
• Leash laws must be strictly followed and may be enforced by park officials

3. Barnegat Light State Park – Long Beach Island

• This park is located on Long Beach Island
• Several miles of sandy beaches that allow dogs
• No dogs on the jetty or nature trails
• Enjoy the sun on the beaches here
• The beach is wide and sandy, perfect for sunbathing or playing fetch.

4. Cape May City Beach – Cape May City

• The shore here is wide and sandy, perfect for playing fetch
• This beach is great for dogs and their owners alike
• Right in town and easily accessible
• Plenty of pet-friendly restaurants nearby if you want to grab a bite after your beach day
• The beach is clean and close to town

5. Wildwood Dog Beach – Wildwood Crest

• This is a great spot for adventurous dogs and their owners
• It's designated just for dogs, like a dog park on water
• You can bring your pup off leash here and let them play in the waves
• The Wildwood Dog Beach is located just south of Wildwood
• This beach does require that all visitors pick up after their pets

6. Brigantine Beach – Brigantine

• Brigantine is a great spot for a beach day, and your pup is more than welcome to join you
• The beach here is wide and clean, with plenty of areas to explore
• Dogs are allowed on the beaches here but must remain leashed at all times
• It’s also a great spot for sunbathing or swimming if your pup likes the water

7. Avalon Beach – Avalon

• This beach is great for small and large dogs alike
• The shore here is wide and sandy, perfect for playing fetch or just running around
• Dogs are allowed on the beaches here but must remain leashed at all times
• Plenty of pet-friendly restaurants nearby if you want to grab a bite after your beach day.
• Enjoy stunning views of the ocean and beautiful sunsets here.
• Leash laws must be strictly followed and may be enforced by park officials.

8. Malibu Dog Beach – Wildwood

• This beach allows your pup to run free while also providing plenty of space to keep them safe.
• Be sure to pick up after your pet as you go!
• Enjoy stunning views of the ocean and beautiful sunsets here
• There are also plenty of pet-friendly restaurants nearby that you can visit after a day at the beach
• Leash laws must be strictly followed, even when off-leash areas are available
• Expect to see lots of other dogs

9. Sunset Beach – Lower Township

• Located in Lower Township
• Offers an expansive view of the ocean
• This beach is great for long walks and exploring the shore
• Picnic areas and restrooms available
• Some off-leash hours available

10. Asbury Park Beach – Asbury Park

• This beach is great for long walks and exploring the shore
• Plenty of nearby restaurants and shops to explore
• There is a designated dog beach area where dogs can be off-leash and must remain under control
• Be aware that there are restrictions and guidelines which must be followed at all times.
• Leash laws must be strictly followed, even when off-leash areas are available.
• Swimming is allowed but not encouraged

11. Point Pleasant Beach – Point Pleasant

• Point Pleasant Beach is a great spot for taking your pup on an adventure
• Dogs are not allowed off-leash, but they can join you while you explore the shore
• This beach also offers plenty of restaurants and shops to check out after a day at the beach
• Make sure to only stay on public beaches; nearby beach space may be privately owned

Conclusion

These beaches in New Jersey are great places to bring your pup for some fun in the sun! Just make sure you follow all local regulations and clean up after yourself and your dog so that everyone can enjoy these amazing dog-friendly beaches. Have fun!

• See also: Dog-Friendly Beaches in Delaware You Can Visit Today!

Featured Image Credit: Amy Lutz, Shutterstock