Dewey Beach

On the eastern seaboard, finding a beautiful off-leash dog beach isn't always an easy thing to do. However, there are still plenty of towns up and down the coast that welcome dogs on the sand with open paws, and Dewey Beach, a small seaside town in Delaware's Sussex County, is one of the best.

Pooches are welcome on the sand at Dewey Beach all year round, but restrictions do apply in the warmer months. From May 15 to September 15, your pooch is only allowed to enjoy the beach before 9:30 AM and after 5:30 PM on leash. During the off season from September 16th to May 14th, dogs can not only enjoy the beach at all times, but can do so off leash, so long as they stay under voice control. 

There's heaps of wide, open sand to explore for some beachcombing, or you and your dog can make a splash in the ocean. Before heading to the beach, you'll need to get a Dewey beach dog license, even if you are just visiting. A 3-day license will cost just $5, while an 8-day license runs $10. You can get a lifetime license if you are a resident or plan to visit often for $35, which can be purchased inside Town Hall. The 3 and 8-day licenses can be purchased at a kiosk in the Town Hall parking lot. 

Most of the streets in town that run perpendicular to the beach have beach access, from Chesapeake Street to Beach Avenue. Parking permits allow you to park in various areas, while the rest use parking meters. Bring all the essentials for a fun and safe day out, including clean-up bags and drinking water to share with your thirsty pup. Pick up after your pup, and always take out all trash when you leave the beach.

Spend a day with your dog by your side in the sun and sand at Dewey Beach!