A beach vacation isn't the same without sandy paws. We’ve highlighted a few of our favorite dog friendly beaches around the NC coast.
1. Topsail Beach
Of course we love Topsail Beach for many reasons, one being that the town is lenient when it comes to allowing dogs on the beach. Dogs are allowed on Topsail Beach year round! They must be on a leash from May 15-September 30 but are welcome to run and play off leash the remainder of the year as long as they are under their owners voice command. If you decide to explore other parts of the island with your pup, be mindful that the rules and regulations vary per town.
2. Surf City
In Surf City, dogs are allowed on the beach year round but must be on a leash. Check out the Surf City Bark Park for a fun place to let your dog run around and socialize with other vacationing pups. Or, take them with you to the many dog friendly restaurants and bars around the area. Check out Sears Landing, Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar, or SurfDog Bites & Brews.
3. Wrightsville Beach
If you’re visiting Wrightsville Beach, a great place to take your dog is to walk the 2.5 mile loop around the center of the island. There are doggy water fountains available throughout the trail so all dogs stay hydrated on the warmer days. Complementary pick-up bags are offered as well. Several stretches of the trail cross over scenic sections of the waterway and marshes. Hopping off the island to explore Wilmington? There are ample dog parks close by. Check out Ogden, Long Leaf, or Empie Park. Dogs are allowed on the beach from October 1 to March 31 and must be on a leash at all times.
4. Carolina Beach
Located only 17 minutes south of Wrightsville Beach is Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. Freeman Park is located on the north end of Carolina Beach and is a great place to let your pup run free year-round. Dogs are free to run off leash from October 1 to March 31. Carolina Beach State Park welcomes leashed dogs year round.
5. Oak Island
Leashed pups can enjoy the beautiful beaches of Oak Island year-round, and off leash from October 15 to March 15. Check out Middleton Park in Oak Island for a fun place to let your dog run around and meet new friends.
Book a dog friendly vacation rental: https://www.landmarkrentals.com/amenity/dog-friendly#q=sm_nid%24rc_core_term_location%24name%3A%22Dog%20Friendly%22
Learn about our pet policies: https://www.landmarkrentals.com/pet-policies