Carolina Beach
The allure of white sand and sparkling blue water is a quest for many who aspire to live by the sea. Every summer, millions flock to the beach, and if they can bring along their fur-baby friends - that's a bonus. Carolina Beach has a heart for our doggy pals and lets them splash in the waves - with a few restrictions. All pups must be on a leash and can go with their owners from April the 1st to the 30th of September before 9 am and after 5 pm, giving plenty of time for leisurely walks or swimming.
The fun really starts in the off-season from October to April, when the beach becomes a virtual woofer haven. Dog owners are delighted to let their pups off-leash all day so they can mix and mingle with other friendly pooches and have a ball in or out of the water. Local rules insist every pet-parent has control over their dog and the ability to call them on command. It’s courteous to supervise your pet-pal and ensure they play nice with all woofers on the beach. You’ll need to bring your own doggy bags and keep this shoreline clean.
 Carolina Beach is an expansive piece of sandy turf flanked by grassy sand dunes and a "no-dogs" boardwalk and business area. Restaurants and boutique stores offer tourists a browsing bonanza where they can dine with the beach in view or acquire vacation souvenirs to take back home.
A wooden walkway leads you onto the beach where umbrellas and sunbathers dot the sandy shore. The Atlantic sea offers surfing and paddle boarding while a metal pier makes the perfect fishing spot. Restrooms and showers are on the boardwalk to the back of the beach. Even in the off-season, the sun can be hot, so pack an umbrella or shade tent for your favorite pooch. Dogs with light fur and skin could need sun-block plus plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated.
When the beach is packed, lifeguards are watching the waves from 10 am to 4.45 pm weekdays and until 6.45 pm at the weekends. Parking meters are in full force throughout the season from April to September by the boardwalk. Carolina Beach is a dream escape destination for both people and their dogs.
