If you’re in and around Maryland, you may be wondering which beaches you can take your dog to.
Well, lucky for you, there’s a whole host of dog-friendly beaches in Maryland!
And while your doggo will of course enjoy a trip with you, it also brings you peace of mind knowing that they’re safe and looked after! It could even save you a few dollars when it comes to kennels.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
- What are the best dog-friendly beaches in Maryland
- Where are they located
- Any interesting or unique features.
Let’s get into it so you can find the best spot (or spots) to take your doggy for a dip!
Matapeake Park Dog Beach
Address: 1112 Romancoke Rd, Stevensville, MD 21666
Located on Kent Island, Matapeake Park Dog Beach is a sheltered little cove at the end of a short walk – perfect for getting geared up for a swim!
The beach is surrounded by pleasant woodlands, and you can even catch sight of Chesapeake Bay Bridge on a clear day.
Parking is available at the Matapeake Clubhouse and in the public beach parking lot. Relax on the soft sand while your dog swims and plays off-leash at this separate dog beach.
It’s advised that you bring your own water for yourself and your pup, as otherwise you may find yourself trekking back and forth between the dog beach and public taps.
Previous guests have also recommended bug spray if you’re wanting to park up near the forested area, and of course, bags to clean up after yourselves as well.
Terrapin Nature Park
Address: 191 Log Canoe Cir, Stevensville, MD 21666
Terrapin Nature Park is a must-visit that features a stunning nature walk to reach the beach. Keep an eye out for local birds and animals, as well as incredible wildflowers in the spring and summer.
The trail consists of a well-maintained walking path and a boardwalk area over the wetlands and tidal areas.
On the shore, you’ll find a wide and clean expanse of sand to explore and gentle waves to splash in, as well as picnic areas and a gazebo.
The beach is fully dog-friendly, with the added bonus of abundant driftwood higher on the shore and lots of nature to explore on the way in.
Parking is available at the nearby Old Love Point Park, and the park has recently been remapped and fitted with GPS units for extra clarity and safety. Dogs do need to be leashed in the park and on the sand!
If you’re not too worn out from your beach trip (or if something goes awry), Island Dog Park – complete with fenced areas and agility equipment– is just a five-minute drive away!
Downs Memorial Park Dog Beach
Address: 8311 John Downs Loop, Pasadena, MD 21122
The lovely Downs Memorial Park Dog Beach is calm and fenced-in, making it the perfect place for pups still working on their doggy paddle. It’s just as great for more experienced swimmers to have a blast!
The beach is also an off-leash spot, so your furry pals can splash around in freedom in the sands and shallows!
And if all that splashing around hasn’t burnt off enough energy, you’ll find dozens of expansive trails to walk or run on within the park – all while admiring the natural beauty of the area.
Parking is available at Fernwood near the Visitors Centre, with a standard day pass costing $6 per vehicle.
Assateague National Seashore
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Address: 7206 National Seashore Ln, Berlin, MD, 18032
Have a swim with your dog, and see some stunning nature on your trip to Assateague National Seashore!
Located on the Maryland side of the island, you’ll find a long stretch of welcoming coastline as well as several permitted walking trails.
There’s a lot of wildlife to look out for during your visit, including waterfowl such as egrets, osprey, and herons, and mammals like sika deer, foxes, raccoons, and dolphins.
If you get lucky, you might even spy Assateague’s most famous residents: the wild ponies! Make sure to keep a safe distance, but these majestic animals are a once-in-a-lifetime sight.
Vehicle passes for 1–7 days will cost you $25, but entering on foot is free of charge.
You should bear in mind that dogs are required to be on a 6 ft. lead within the park and on the beach.
For those after a longer stay, camping with your dog is available in some areas of the island!
The on-island campsites are equipped with restrooms, trash and recycling facilities, drinking water, as well as fire pits for your convenience and enjoyment.
Quiet Waters Park
Address: 600 Quiet Waters Park Rd, Annapolis, MD 21403
There’s loads of fun to be had for dogs and owners alike at Quiet Waters Park.
Spanning 340 acres of sprawling greenery, the park is situated along South River and features fountains, gardens, playgrounds, and even an ice-skating rink!
The dog beach is located towards the east end of the park and is a small but picturesque spot for your four-legged friends to go for a splash. Dogs are welcome to be off-leash if they are reliably recall-trained.
After your furry pal has had enough of splashing around, head to the nearby off-leash fenced dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs.
Here you’ll be able to play fetch and let your doggo tear around until they’ve run out of steam. Or, simply lounge on a shaded bench while Fido makes new friends!
Dogs are also welcome on leashes in the rest of the park, and there are many beautiful short nature trails to explore ranging from half a mile to a mile in length.
You’ll find a parking area right next to the dog parks (and several others around the property), so you can start your walk from anywhere.
Looking for a pick-me-up before you head off? What about an opportunity to wash off some sandy paws before you hit the road? Get both at the Bark ‘n’ Bean, right outside Quiet Waters Park!
This dog-wash spot plus café is an ingenious blended business, sure to make a pleasant end to your park visit.
Elk Neck State Park
Address: 4395 Turkey Point Rd, North East, MD 21901
The incredible Elk Neck State Park is in Cecil County and features a variety of stunning landscapes including stack clay cliffs, dense woodlands, and charming beaches.
There’s truly something for everyone: nature walks, a historic lighthouse, fishing and canoeing, or just a charming picnic and relaxation session on the beach!
For bird lovers, keep an eye out for any of the over 200 species known to frequent the park, including bald eagles, hawks, ospreys, a range of waterfowl, songbirds, and woodpeckers.
Dogs are welcome in the all-access areas of the park, although it is asked that they be leashed.
The North East Beach Area is the most ideal swimming spot, featuring a large expanse of white sand beach, small frothy surf, and many picnic areas.
If you’re looking for an extended stay, pets are welcome at any of the camping loops along Stony Point Road.
Campsites cost around $20 and come with a grill, fire pit, and picnic table, as well as access to restrooms with hot water showers.
For keen fishermen, you can launch your boat from Rough Harbour and harvest some of the abundant fish – or even catch a famed Chesapeake crab! Pets are welcome in this area as well.
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Address: 1525 Flag Ponds Parkway Lusby, MD 20657
Flag Ponds Nature Park is a beautiful wetlands reserve located in Calvert County.
There’s heaps to do here, including nature walks, birdwatching, beachcombing, and swimming.
Visitors with a sharp eye should also be on the lookout for fossils! The area was once home to many menacing ocean-dwelling predators, such as sharks and crocodiles, and their ancient ancestors.
While you don’t need to worry about running into any of them on your trip, fossils and teeth can still be found in the park.
Dogs are welcome in the park on a leash and can bound along the winding forested trails and marshy boardwalks to reach the beach.
The picturesque stretch of sand and coast overlooking Chesapeake Bay is sure to be a hit for both you and your furry companion.
Ocean City Beach
Visiting the vibrant Ocean City with your four-legged friend? Everyone will love the famous expansive Ocean City Beach and bustling boardwalk!
This beach has even been listed among the top ten in America, so be sure to head down and show your pup they deserve nothing but the best!
Owners and dogs can splash together in the shimmering Atlantic from October 1st through to April 30th, before the crowds make it less safe.
If your visit does happen in the peak summer months, don’t fret: you can also take your pal to Ocean City Dog Playground, a fully fenced and pretty big dog park still close to the water.
There are heaps of dog-friendly restaurants in Ocean City to grab a bite after your big day out!
Check out Macky’s right on the beach, a thriving bar and eatery with a special area for dogs that even hosts dog-themed events.
Chow down on some fantastic fresh-caught local seafood, or enjoy a cold beer with your best bud by your side!
Homer Gudelsky Park
Address: 13055 Old Bridge Rd, Ocean City, MD 21842
If you’re near Ocean City, be sure to check out Homer Gudelsky Park, a charming stretch of white sand beach that’s close by and open year-round!
This park is one of the quieter options around, and is a local favorite for fishing, picnicking, and sunbathing. Plus, the long expanse of flat sand is perfect for getting in a run or some fetch.
When you get hungry, why not check out some of the local eateries?
Bad Monkey in West Ocean City is close to Homer Gudelsky Park and features classic American fare such as decadent subs and burgers, hot wings, and seafood, as well as a range of delicious cold beers.
Settle in for a bite with your pup by your side in their sheltered outside seating, complete with ocean views.
For earlier risers, Bad Monkey also features a breakfast range with everything from french toast to healthy omelets and cocktails to cold brew.
Or, pop into One Love Café on the other side of the park, and enjoy a fresh smoothie, vegan delights, and authentic Jamaican cooking!
Parking is available on-site at Homer Gudelsky Park.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, there are so many beach options in Maryland for you to go to with your dog!
Camp in a beautiful state park while enjoying the wind in your hair (or fur), or search for birds and fossils up and down the coast.
Visit Ocean City Boardwalk and beach for delightful city fun, then cool off with a beer or cold drink of your choice with your pup hanging with you!
Make it a day trip, or a whole adventure! There are all lengths of stays available in Maryland, from short walks with a quick splash at the end to week-long excursions with loads of activities packed in.
Remember to check online before you go, as many places have restricted seasons or areas.
Be prepared and know what to bring, where you are allowed to have your dog off-leash, and if there will be a fee involved.
Luckily, in a region with such an abundant love for dogs, there’s sure to be another dog-friendly beach just around the corner even if one spot doesn’t work out for whatever reason!