When you’re planning a trip to Wilmington, Carolina Beach, or Kure Beach with your favorite canine companion, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure. Here, visiting the beach is a highlight of a stay for many guests. Knowing the best places to go to enjoy time on the sand with your four-legged friend will make your trip even better! Below are some of the best dog-friendly beaches in NC to check out while you’re here, and information that’s sure to be helpful along the way.
The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in NC
1. Enjoy a Sunny Day on the Sand at Figure Eight Island Beach
If Wilmington is your destination of choice, make time for you and your dog to enjoy the sand on Figure Eight Island Beach. Located on Beach Road South, this stretch of shoreline extends 4.5 miles and dogs can make the most of the experience alongside their owners as long as they remain leashed. The beach is dog-friendly from May 15 through September 30 each year.
2. Check Out Carolina Beach State Park
For a fun-filled day with your pooch, make your way to Carolina Beach State Park at 1010 State Park Road in Carolina Beach. This dog-friendly destination hosts nature trails to explore and welcoming stretches of waterfront too. There’s no limit to when you can visit as long as your pup remains on a leash. In addition to Carolina Beach State Park, be sure to check out Freeman Park with your pup and the Carolina Beach Pier while you’re in the area.
3. Explore Kure Beach with Your Canine
Kure Beach-bound travelers with a pet in tow will be delighted to find that Kure Beach is a dog-friendly destination as well. Leashed dogs are welcome to enjoy the sand with their owners any time of day between October 1 and March 31. Between April 1 and September 30, pets are only allowed on the sand during off-peak times before 9:00 am and after 5:00 pm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog-Friendly Beaches in NC
1. Does Fort Fisher Beach Allow Dogs?
Yes, dogs are allowed to explore the trails and enjoy the sand at Fort Fisher Beach year-round as long as they remain leashed.
2. Can I take my dog to Carolina Beach NC?
Yes, but certain rules apply. Dogs are allowed on the beach between April 1 and September 30 before 9:00 am and after 5:00 pm. From October 1 through March 31, dogs are allowed on the beach during all hours. In all seasons, dogs must remain leashed at all times.
3. Is Kure Beach dog-friendly?
Yes, but there are seasonal restrictions in place between April 1 and September 30 each year.
4. Are there any pet shops in the area?
Yes! If you’re spending time in Wilmington, there’s a Pet Supermarket on Oleander Drive, a Petco on College Road, and an Unleashed at Military Cutoff Road.
5. What are the best pet-friendly restaurants to enjoy?
After a day on the sand, finding a dog-friendly restaurant in the area to enjoy a tasty moment is a must. In Carolina Beach, Hang Ten Grill and Havana’s have outdoor patios where dogs are welcome to enjoy a meal at their owner’s side. In Wilmington, Java Dog Coffee House and The Geroge on the River Walk welcome leashed pets as well. If you’re heading to Kure Beach, check out Beach House Burgers or the Jack Mackerels Island Grill.
Book Your Dog-Friendly Stay On Pleasure Island
When you enjoy a journey to Carolina Beach or Kure Beach with your favorite pet, be sure you have accommodations to match by booking a pet-friendly stay through Victory Beach Vacations. Reach out today to learn more and to get started.