Dog walking in Emerald Isle

Hammocks Beach State Park

Hammocks Beach State Park is located in Swansboro, about 15 miles from Emerald Isle, and is home to Bear Island. Dogs are welcome on Bear Island but are not allowed on the ferry. No worries, though! There are plenty of canoes and kayaks you can rent to ensure Fido gets to see all the park has to offer. Your pup will have a blast exploring the paddle trails and investigating the sights and smells of the marshes and oceanic forests. If you want to extend your stay, there are primitive campgrounds and picnic areas conveniently located in the park. While you are here, check out the Ice House Waterfront Restaurant for a delicious meal with a classy atmosphere. This restaurant pairs dog-friendly seaside dining with a sophisticated menu, offering customers elegant entrees such as pecan-crusted grouper with pesto.

Fort Macon State Park

Fort Macon State Park may be a 25-minute drive from Emerald Isle, but it is definitely worth the trip. Fort Macon was the site of an important Union victory during the Civil War and provided coastal protection from pirates as well. The restored fort is available for tours and frequently holds cannon fire displays. A 3.2-mile nature trail connects the fort to the swimming beach. If this isn’t enough to keep you and Fido busy, give surf fishing or kayaking a try! Please remember that pups are not allowed in the water at the swimming area. The park is a very popular attraction, so visitors are advised to arrive early because parking fills up quickly!

Atlantic Beach

During the summer, tourists flock to Atlantic Beach by the thousands. Visitors come from all over to experience the breathtaking shoreline and unrivaled views of the Bogue Sound. Leashed pets are welcome at Atlantic Beach, but owners are asked clean up after them and fill in any holes their pet may have dug. If you have time, sniff out The Hoop Pole Creek Trail, a nature trail that zigzags through 31 acres of scenic maritime forests and marshes. The markings on the trees along the path indicate that it’s home to an endangered Red-Cockaded Woodpecker nest. Feeling hungry? Check out The Crab Claw! This is a dog-friendly oceanfront restaurant that serves up Caribbean-style seafood dishes daily. If you don’t care for seafood, there are several other delicious dog-friendly eateries in the area.

Morehead City

Jaycee Park in Morehead City makes the perfect place for a seaside stroll with your pup. It’s home to large populations of sea turtles and dolphins, so there’s no telling what you and Fido might see on your walk! This marina is handicap-accessible and hosts many public events and festivals. If you are looking for a dog-friendly place with fresh local food, paw on over to Circa 81 Tapas and Cocktaileria. You and your fur-iend can enjoy small plates of their sweet and savory creations, such as truffle honey pork belly served with smoked gouda grits.