Leashes keep dogs and beachgoers safe.
While it may seem natural for dogs to be allowed on a beach, the fact is that most U.S. beaches do not allow them, and many that do have strict leash laws and rules of etiquette. If you're a dog owner, you'll be happy to know New Jersey is one of the more dog-friendly beach communities. While in most cases leash laws apply at least for a portion of the year, there are several beaches that will allow your pooch on the sand all year round.
Brigantine Beach
Make sure to clean up after your dog.
From October 1 to May 29, dogs must be on a leash of six feet or less and all feces must be removed. From May 30 to the end of September, dogs are allowed on the North-End beach only and must adhere to the same rules.
Avalon
Leashed dogs are allowed only in the off-season, which is from October 1 to March 1. Dogs are prohibited on the beach, boardwalk and dunes from March 1 to September 30.
Ocean City
Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach from October 1 to May 30 only, but they are not allowed on the boardwalk, platforms or ramps at any time.
Ventnor City
During the off-season, from October 1 to May 15, dogs on a leash are permitted on the beach only in areas washed by the high tide. Dogs are prohibited in all areas from May 15 to September 30.
Island Beach State Park
Island Beach State Park is a barrier island separating Barnegat Bay from the Atlantic Ocean. Dogs on a leash of six feet or less are allowed year-round in all non-recreational areas, with the exception of between Memorial Day and Labor Day, when dogs are prohibited from clearly marked bathing areas.
Mantoloking
During the off-season, from October 2 to May 14, dogs are allowed unleashed access to all beach areas, provided they remain under their owner's supervision. From May 15 to October 1, leashed dogs are allowed on the beach from sunrise to 8 a.m. and from 6 p.m. to sunset.
Long Beach Island
Long Beach Township's Dog Park, located across from the Long Beach Township Municipal building on the north side of Bay View Park, offers dune fencing and unleashed access to the beach and water year-round.
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