Dog-Friendly Beaches in North Carolina

Are you planning a trip to the beach? We’ve got you covered. From pristine beaches situated on barrier islands to sandy shores located close to attractions, North Carolina has it all. You’ll find that the southern state offers the perfect vacation spot for you and your beloved pet. Review our list to discover exactly where and when to enjoy that sun-filled holiday.

Pet-Friendly Year-Round

The sun-kissed beaches in this section allow pets any time of year. Review the list to learn which beaches allow off-leash frolicking and which require a leash at all times.

Outer Banks

• Nags Head Beach: There are a number of beach access points to join this pet-friendly beach. You and your dog will enjoy playing in the miles of sand, as you keep Fido on a leash (not exceeding 10-feet.) The public access points all have dog stations with waste bags. Location: S. Virginia Dare Trail & E. Soundside Rd, Nags Head, NC, 27959 Website: Nags Head Beach
• Jockey’s Ridge State Park, Nag’s Head: Jockey Ridge Beach provides hours of fun in the sun for dogs and their owners. Would you believe dogs are also allowed on the sand dunes? Just be careful of the nasty sand spurs. Before you leave, be sure to walk a few of the lovely trails in the park. Dogs must be kept on a leash. Location: 300 W Carolista Dr, Nags Head, NC, US, 27959 Website: Jockey Ridge State Park
• Duck Beach: Although access is limited to Homeowner group residents and guests, this is a favorite spot for dog owners. As one of the most dog-friendly beaches in the country, Duck town beaches allow pets any time of year, all day long. Dogs can be off-leash as long as they are kept under voice command of their owners. You may want to rent a beach house just to use this beach! Location: Duck Town Park Boardwalk, Duck, NC, US, 27949 Website: Duck Town Beaches
• Kitty Hawk Beach: There are eight beach accesses with parking available to join this seasonally, dog-friendly beach area. Dogs must be kept on a 6-foot leash between the hours of 10 am and 6 pm. between Memorial Day and Labor Day. At other times of the year,  pets must be kept on a leash retractable to 12 feet. They may be taken off the leash if they will not disturb other folks. Location: See website Website: Kitty Hawk Beach
• Cape Hatteras National Seashore: The National Park Services manages miles and miles of beautiful coastline and multiple beaches. Waves, Rodanthe, and Salvo offer a chance to explore a remote portion of the Outer Banks. Frisco Beach, located at the southern end of Hatteras Island, is still fairly remote but has great waves, easy parking, and bathrooms and showers. The town notes that “Frisco beachgoers can walk out into the ocean for 50-100 ft.’ or more, and never lose their footing to steep ocean trenches.” Pets are allowed on a leash no longer than 6ft, year-round on the beaches mentioned, however, they are also prohibited on designated swimming beaches on the National Seashore. Frisco Beach Location: Bathhouse Public parking area and beach access, off Park Road, North of Ramp 49 and near the campground and past the tackle shop, Frisco Beach, NC  Website: Frisco Beach, Cape Hatteras National Seashore

North of Wilmington

• Atlantic Beach: Situated on a barrier island, Atlantic Beach has a number of public access points. This Crystal Coast beach is a favorite with pet owners who return year-after-year. Dogs must be kept on a leash unless the pet and an adult are in the water together. They are also not allowed in lifeguard-protected areas. Location: 108 Ocean Boulevard, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512 Website: Atlantic Beach
• Fort Macon State Park at Atlantic Beach: The Park is located on the eastern coastal strip of Atlantic Beach and boasts one of the state’s most popular parks. It offers wide sandy beaches to walk on and frolic with your dog; however, your pet must be kept on a leash. From June through Labor Day, a bathhouse and refreshment stand are available. Lifeguards are also on duty from 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Stop and visit the fort before you depart. It was built as a coastal defense in response to the War of 1812. Note: The free parking spots fill up quickly. Location: 2303 East Fort Macon Rd., Atlantic Beach, NC 28512 Website: Fort Macon State Park
• Indian Beach/Salter Path/Pine Knoll Shores Beaches: There are six entry points to these dog-friendly beaches, so look for the CAMA Public Beach Access Signs. Indian Beach does not have lifeguards on duty. My friend often visits the Salter Path access point and loves it! Your pet must be kept on a leash. Location: See Map for various access points Website: Indian Beach
• Emerald Isle Beach: Emerald Isle Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a day of sun and surf. Pets must be kept on leash. and most owners, but not all, seem to obey this rule. You’ll pay $10 for parking at the Western Ocean Regional Access on weekends and holidays. This fee is in effect from April through September between the hours of 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Location: Islander Dr, Emerald Isle, NC (near the Islander Hotel & Resort) 28594 Website: Emerald Isle
• Cape Lookout National Seashore: Are you more adventurous? Take a 3-mile ferry ride to Cape Lookout. The National Seashore comprises a 56-mile long section of the Crystal Coast. Dogs must be kept under control on a 6′ leash. Note: There are no amenities on this remote but beautiful island so bring all essentials. Ferries usually operate from April through November, but may choose to operate longer. Contact the Ferry company for pet rules. Ferry From Harker’s Island: 1800 Island Road, Harkers Island, NC 28531 Ferry Website: Island Express Ferry Beach Website: Cape Lookout
• North Topsail Beach: Located at the northern end of Topsail Island, North Topsail Beach is dog-friendly. Your pup must be kept on a leash, however, The beach can be accessed at multiple beach access points. Note that Beach Access #1 #4 have parking and restrooms. Visitors must download the SurfCAST by Otto app to pay for their parking permit. Location: see website Website: North Topsail Beach Access Points
• Surf City: There are 36 beach access points to join the lovely beaches of Surf City, located in the center of Topsail Island. Four of the access points are equipped with showers or restrooms. Your pet is allowed on the beachesbut must be kept on a leash of no more than 10-feet long. Location: see website Website: Surf City Beach Access Points
• Topsail Beach:Topsail Beach has been a real hit with my dog Nina. The beach is located at the southern end of the island is not only lovely but there are plenty of amenities in the area. Pets must be kept on a leash from May 15th to September 30th, but can be off-leash and under voice command at other times. Location: Website: Topsail Beach Access Points

South of Wilmington

• Carolina Beach State Park: This popular, 761-acre coastal park, also boasts a beautiful, small beach. You may also want to walk the swamp trail and learn about the park’s carnivorous plants. Note: Rangers enforce the on-leash law. Location: 1010 State Park Road, Carolina Beach, NC 28428 Website: Carolina Beach State Park
• Fort Fisher State Recreation Area: You’ll be able to run and play with your dog on this very wide beach. Dogs are not allowed in designated swimming areas, but you and your pet can explore the six miles of sandy white beach or the marshes and mudflats. Dogs must be kept on leash. Location: 1000 Loggerhead Road, Kure Beach, NC 28449 Website: Fort Fisher
• Freeman Park, Carolina Beach: The park features a variety of wildlife, dunes, and indigenous seagrasses along with its beautiful beach. Its pet policy varies: dogs must be kept on a leash from April 1 to September 30. Dogs are allowed off-leash from October 1 to March 31, long as they are under voice command and their owner is near. You must carry two plastic or paper waste containers. Location: 1121 N. Lake Park Blvd., Carolina Beach, NC 28428 Website: Freeman Park
• Oak Island Beaches: There are a number of places to access the lovely beaches of Oak Island, including Caswell Beach. The latter is close to the fort/coast guard station. Also nearby, is the Oak Island Lighthouse. Pets on leash are permitted on all Oak Island beaches. You must carry and use plastic bags to scoop up after your dog. Fines are in effect. Location of Caswell Beach: 1100 Caswell Beach Rd, Oak Island, NC, US, 28465 Website for Caswell Beach. Website for other Oak Island beaches.

Pet-Friendly Seasonally

The following beaches welcome pets during certain times of the year. Enjoy playing with your dog on the sandy beaches during these times.

Outer Banks

• Kill Devil Hills: Kill Devil Hills is a favorite with dog owners who visit the popular Outer Banks. Dogs are not allowed on the public beach between the hours of 9 am and 6 pm. between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Pets must always be kept on a leash. Location: Kill Devil Hills Beach, Kill Devil Hills, NC, US, 27948 Website: Kill Devil Hills
• Southern Shores Beach: Limited parking is available at a few beach accesses along the four-mile of oceanfront. Parking here is available only to guests or residents who have decals from rental companies or parking permits from the town. Dogs are allowed on the beach all day during the off-season. During the season, May 15 to September 15, pets are permitted before 9 am and after 6 pm. Dogs must be kept on a leash under ten feet all year-round. Location: 5 Ocean Blvd, Southern Shores, NC, US, 27949 Website: Town of Southern Shores

North of Wilmington

• Hammocks Beach State Park: A day of fun in the sun (hopefully) can be had at this state park about ten miles east of Jacksonville. While dogs aren’t allowed on the ferry to the pristine beaches of Bear Island, they are welcome to join you by canoe or kayak. Outside of the swimming area, dogs are allowed in the water but must remain on their leash at all times, both on land and in water.  Location: 1572 Hammocks Beach Rd, Swansboro, NC, US, 28584 Website: Hammocks Beach State Park
• Wrightsville Beaches: Mainly east but slightly north, lies the popular town of Wrightsville Beach. Dogs on leash are welcome only from October 1 to March 31. Leash laws are enforced. The town has 44 designated beach access points but due to the popularity of the area, parking is very limited. Location: see website. Website with access points and parking

South of Wilmington

• Carolina Beach: Due to its proximity to Wilmington, Carolina Beach is a favorite with locals and visitors, alike. From April 1 through September 30, leashed pets are permitted on the beach before 9 am and after 5 pm. Fom October 1 through March 31, your dog is allowed on the beach all day, provided they are kept on leash. Note: Dogs are not allowed on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk or Boardwalk Business District. Location: 598 S Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC, US, 28428 or anyone of the 44 accesspoints. Website: Carolina Beach
• Kure Beach:While your pet is not permitted on the beach from April 1 through September 30, you can bring Fido from October 1 to March 31. Dogs,however, must be kept on a lead no longer than fifteen feet. Kure Beach has numerous public beach accesses and is conveniently located near Wilmington. Location: See website. Website: Kure Beach Acess Map
• Holden Beach: With white sandy beaches and a few amenities nearby, Holden Beach is the perfect place to spend the day. The town is located on one of the Brunswick Islands and is popular with vacationers. Dogs are not permitted on the beach from May 20th to September 10th, excluding daily between 5:00 p.m. and 9 a.m. Pets must be on a leash at all times. There are various acccess points but parking on the side streets is per ordinance. We parked in access 13 which had a large lot and was just to the left after turning left on Beach Road. Location: see website. Website. Holden Beach Access Points.
• Sunset Beach: You’ll enjoy the sands of Sunset Beach. From the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day, unfortunatley, your pet is not permitted on the beach between 8 am and 6 pm. Fido must be leashed at all times. There are multiple walkways for folks to access the beach strand. ADA accessible walkways are available in three places. Location: See website. Website: Sunset Beach Access Points.
• Ocean Isle Beach:I have to admit, Ocean Isle is one of my favorite places to visit. The beaches are just lovely. You’ll access the beach through various public beach access walkways but parking is allowed only in designated areas. Good news: it’s free! Your pet must be kept on a leash at all times, but dogs are not allowed on the beach strand from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Location: see website Website: Ocean Isle Beach Access Points

Considerations

• Review location closings, announcements, etc before starting out
• Be aware of the area pet regulations
• Always supervise your pet
• Possibly outfit your dog with booties to avoid being burned by hot sand
• Coat your pet’s nose, ears, and any other areas with sunscreen made for dogs
• Bring along plenty of water, a dog bowl, and treats
• Pack plenty of doggie waste bags
• Take along a canine life vest with a handle if you plan to play in the water
• Bring along a doggy first aid kit
• Be aware of your surroundings and reactions from other beach goers to your pet
• Don’t forget the leash!

Are you a lover of old homes? See Old Houses Under 100K. There are many old homes for sale in North Carolina

References

See “website” under each listing

Photo Credits

Cover Photo: Oak Island: Rustler_the_goldendoodle

Lucy at the Outer Banks: Lucy

Outer Banks:Rigby.the.weim