Top 29 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Massachusetts 2025

The dog-friendly beaches in Massachusetts allow owners to bring their pups for vacations. Many beaches require parking permits, while some are free. They have amenities like lifeguards, restrooms, a boardwalk, etc.

Some beaches are accessible and friendly, with wheelchairs, mats, and accessible parking spots. Before coming to the beach visitors should read about the pet policy for a smooth experience.  Travelers can enjoy activities like swimming, boogie boarding, paddleboarding, and surfing on this great Atlantic Coast.

Discover dog-friendly beaches in Massachusetts where dogs are allowed, such as Castle Island Beach, Good Harbor Beach, Herring Cove Beach etc.

1. Herring Cove Beach – Provincetown, MA

Herring Cove Beach allows dogs off-leash on the beach from Memorial Day through November 1st, 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. From November 2 through the day before Memorial Day, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The beach on the Cape Cod Bay side offers beautiful sunsets and sunrises. It has amenities like toilets, showers, and food shops. This beach is popular among tourists for camping and is in high demand during the season. The seashore offers views of the Race Point Lighthouse.

• Nearby Attractions: Race Point Lighthouse, Province Lands Bike Trail
• Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
• Address: Province Lands Rd, Provincetown, MA 02657

2. Race Point Beach – Provincetown, MA

Race Point Beach has a dog-on-leash rule prohibiting dogs from entering nesting bird areas. The beach has seasonal amenities like restrooms, changing rooms, and shower stations. It is wheelchair accessible. The Old Harbor Life Saving Station is on the beach and is a sightseeing point for visitors.

During nesting season, the beach is home to many protected shorebirds. During this time, beachgoers should check for pet restrictions before entering the beach. The beach is known for its soft sand, clean environment, and seal sightings. This seashore is widely popular for its campfires and beach weddings and events.

• Nearby Attractions: The Old Harbor Life Saving Station, Beech Forest
• Hours: Every day from 6 a.m. to Midnight
• Address:  Race Point Road, Provincetown, MA 02657

3. Rexhame Beach – Marshfield, MA

The Town of Marshfield owns Rexhame Beach. The seashore allows dogs on leash always. The beach is between the Atlantic Ocean and the South River, making it a barrier beach. Dunes and marshes surround this place. This barrier beach protects the mainland from natural disasters.

The beach has a historical significance dating back to 1640. The beach is perfect for wildlife because of its dune plants. Seagulls and terns nest in this place. It has lifeguards, a snack bar, a restroom, a playground, and a basketball court. The coast has resident and nonresident parking available. This beach has seasonal mats for wheelchairs.

• Nearby Attractions: Mass Audubon’s North River Wildlife Sanctuary, Mass Audubon’s Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary
• Hours: Every day from dawn to dusk
• Address: 870 Moraine Street, Marshfield, MA 02050

4. Cisco Beach – Nantucket, MA

Cisco Beach, on the town’s south shore, allows dogs on leash. However, all marshes, dunes, and protected fenced-in areas are off-limits to pets. The beach’s waves are ideal for swimming, surfing, and other water activities.

Snow Buntings, Sanderlings, Herring, and Great-black Backed Gulls, etc can be seen. This place is a famous scallop and shellfishing site. The beach has a biking trail that leads directly to the parking lot. This place has lifeguards and concession stands during the season. Visitors can grill and have a nice picnic on this wide white beach.

• Nearby Attractions: Loines Observatory, Miacomet Golf Course
• Address: Cisco Beach Access Drive, Nantucket, MA 02554

5. Marconi Beach – Wellfleet, MA

Marconi Beach has a dog-on-leash policy year-round. The leash length can be a maximum of six feet. Some areas of this seashore are subject to pet closure during nesting season. The restrooms and bathhouse are open for usage during the season. It is ideal for swimming and surfing.

The place holds historic significance World War 2 artillery training facility. It was also a site where wireless messages were exchanged between the U.S. president and the king of England on January 18, 1903.

The observation platform offers excellent views southward to Eastham and northward to Truro. It has rare species like crowberry and two types of poverty grass.

• Nearby Attractions: The Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail,
• Hours: Every day from 6 a.m. to Midnight
• Address: Marconi Beach Road, Wellfleet, MA 02667

6. Squantum Point Park – Quincy, MA

Squantun Point Park in Quincy offers stunning views of the Boston skyline. This pet-friendly waterfront park has a rocky path, a sandy shore, and a nice loop trail. Dogs must be on a leash. Visitors can enjoy dog walking, picnicking, canoeing, and fishing.

Early in the 20th century, many women pilots performed for Aerodromes. Then, it became a naval air training and seaplane base from 1917 to 1953. This place is good for bird watching and hiking. It is a peaceful place for sunsets and ocean viewing. The place is accessible friendly and has a parking lot.

• Nearby Attractions: Squantum Point, Wollaston Beach
• Hours: Every day from Dawn to Dusk
• Address: Victory Road, Quincy, MA 02171

7. Long Beach – Plymouth, MA

Long Beach in Plymouth restricts dogs on the beach from April 1 to September 30. Except for the mentioned date, dogs are allowed here on a leash. Owners should wander with their dogs in permitted areas. Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife started this ban in 2010.

This beach is excellent for bird watching as you can find various species of unique birds. This seashore is 3 miles long and is a barrier beach protecting the town from storms and floods. It has seasonal restrooms and concession stands, is ADA accessible, and has beach wheelchairs. Beachgoers can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and fishing here.

• Nearby Attractions: Plimoth Patuxet Crafts Center, Plimoth Patuxet Museums
• Hours: Every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Address: 1 Ryder Way, Plymouth, MA 02360

8. Singing Beach – Manchester, MA

Singing Beach is a half-mile-wide beach that allows dogs on their sandy shore. Dogs are disallowed on this beach from October 15 – April 15. Owners should make sure their dogs have tags and valid vaccinations. This beach is called Singing Beach because the sand makes a noise when anyone walks on it.

The soft sand and deep blue sea are a sight to behold. Walk-on passes are required to enter the beach during the season. The beach has a seasonal bathhouse, restrooms, a canteen, and 120 parking spaces. These amenities are available from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.

• Nearby Attractions: Masconomo Park, Manchester-by-the-Sea Museum
• Hours: Every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Fees: Daily Rate: $10/person, Seasons Pass: $35/person
• Address: 121 Beach Street, Manchester, MA 01944

9. Good Harbor Beach – Gloucester, MA 

Good Harbor Beach prohibits dogs from  April 1 to September 30. Unleashed dogs are allowed on the beach from October 1 to March 31. The beach has amenities like lifeguards, concession stands, restrooms, and showers. This seashore is ideal for surfing, swimming, and boogie boarding. People can rent chairs, umbrellas, toys, etc. here.

The white sand at Good Harbor Beach is ideal for sunbathing and castle building. During low tide, visitors can walk towards Salt Island. The quiet and beautiful beach is perfect for family dayouts. The place has 16 accessible parking spots and beach wheelchairs. Nonresidents should make a parking reservation before visiting the seacoast.

• Nearby Attractions: Maritime Gloucester, Cape Ann Museum
• Hours: Every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Address: Gloucester, MA 01930

10. Plum Island Beach – Newburyport, MA

Plum Island Beach forbids pups from entering the beach between May 15 and September 15 between 8.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. They are allowed on a leash for the rest of the year. Plum Island is a barrier beach offering excellent views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Beach has three – The Refuge, Plum Island Center, and The North Point. The beach is a migration point for birds like piping plovers and other shorebirds. Fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming are popular activities. Take a sunset stroll with your dog on this beautiful beach.

• Nearby Attractions: Plum Island Lighthouse, Newbury Beach
• Hours: Every day from dawn to dusk
• Address: N Reservation Terrace, Newburyport, MA 01950

11. Crane Beach – Ipswich, MA

Crane Beach is owned and managed by the Trustees of Reservations. The place allows dogs from October 1 to March 31. Nonmember dogs are charged a fee. Dogs are disallowed on dunes, castle hills, and boardwalks. Owners should follow the rules for leashed and off-leash areas.

The beach has more than 1200 acres with dunes, wildlife, and natural habitats. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, hiking, birdwatching, etc. This place has a bathhouse with an EMT and a first aid office. It has 25 accessible parking spots, beach wheelchairs, and accessible restrooms.

• Nearby Attractions:  Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Wigwam Hill
• Hours: Every day from 8 a.m. to Sunset.
• Address: 310 Argilla Road, Ipswich, MA 01938

12. Surfside Beach – Nantucket, MA

Surfside Beach allows leash dogs year-round. Owners should make sure their pup’s vaccination is up-to-date before visiting. The beach’s waves and flatness make it a perfect place for surfing. This family-friendly beach is famous and great for volleyball, boogeyboarding, and swimming.

It has washrooms and concession stands. The parking lot is sizeable and has accessible spots. This beach is open for beach driving during winter and nighttime beach driving during the season. Many birds, such as herrings, sandpipers, and sanderlings, are to see. The beach has lifeguards on duty in the summer. It is a popular fishing spot and a perfect picnic spot because grilling is allowed.

• Nearby Attractions: Whaling Museum, Nantucket Downtown Historic District
• Hours: Every day from dusk till dawn
• Address: Surfside Rd, Nantucket, MA 02554

13. Nahant dog beach – Nahant, MA

Nahant Dog Beach has a rule forbidding dogs from the beach from April 1 to September 15. The rest of the year, pups can enjoy this beach freely. This place has a dedicated dog beach separated from the main beach. It is a perfect place for taking dogs out for jogging, sunbathing, and sunset watching.

The place has a bathhouse, restaurants, and scenic views. This seashore is miles long with soft sand and clear water. Beachgoers can engage in water activities like swimming, boating, canoeing, etc. Parking is available at daily rates. Beach wheelchairs are available for easy access.

• Nearby Attractions: Lowlands Park, Mass Audubon’s Nahant Thicket Wildlife Sanctuary
• Hours: Every day from sunrise to sunset
• Address: NAHA-024.0 #049, Nahant, MA 01908

14. Crab Beach – Gloucester, MA

Crab Beach in Gloucester offers pups an off-leash playground year-round. The beach is a mix of sandy and rocky shores with occasional seaweeds adorning the shore. Pups can enjoy the water, walk the seashore, or play frisbee with their family. There is a fantastic view of the boats on the Blynman Canal from this seacoast.

Parking for this beach is free. Owners can take their dogs on the walking pathways near the beach. The shallow water is ideal for taking your pups for a swim. The dogs and people of this beach are friendly. Owners should keep their dogs under voice and sight control.

• Nearby Attractions: The Gloucester Fishermen’s Wives Memorial, Gloucester Fisherman’s Memorial
• Hours: 24/7
• Address: 109 Western Ave, Gloucester, MA 01930

15. Castle Island Beach – Boston, MA

Castle Island Beach restricts dogs from May 1 through September 15. The rest of the year, pooches can visit the beach on a leash. The beach offers historical significance as well as recreational opportunities. Visitors can take a tour of the Fort Independence.

Castle Island Beach offers recreational activities like swimming, fishing, walking, and bicycling. Travelers can set up beach umbrellas and enjoy picnics on the benches of this family-friendly beach. There is a free parking lot nearby. A small playground is situated for children to enjoy. From this beach, you can see ships at the harbor or planes flying from the airport.

• Nearby Attractions: Fort Independence, John J. McCorkle Fishing Pier
• Hours: Every day from sunrise to sunset
• Address: 2010 Day Blvd., Boston, MA 02127

16. Skaket Beach – Orleans, MA

Skaket Beach prohibits dogs from Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day. They can roam the beach during the off-season. This Bay Area beach is popular among families for its gentle waves and warm water. When the tide is low, you can explore the tide pools and walk on the sand.

It is in the Namskaket village. Parking passes are required for this beach, which offers breathtaking views of sunsets. Dogs can enjoy walking the miles of sand, and children can search for crabs and shells. The place offers beautiful views of Cape Cod Bay.

• Nearby Attractions: Rock Harbor Beach, Jonathan Young Windmill
• Hours: Every day from sunrise to sunset
• Address: 192 Skaket Beach Rd, Orleans, MA 02653

17. Head Of The Meadow Beach – Truro, MA

Dogs are prohibited from the beach shore from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., from the third Saturday in June through Labor Day. Other times, dogs are allowed on this seashore, which is at the head of Meadow Road. Seasonal lifeguards and restrooms are open, and food and beverage vendors are also available.

The beach has amenities like a volleyball court, 160 parking spaces, and bike racks. The beach is accessible and friendly and has beach wheelchairs, parking spots, access ways, etc. Beachgoers can experience watching seals and sharks here. A parking fee is required for entering the beach.

• Nearby Attractions: Pilgrim Spring Trail, North of Highland Camping Area
• Hours: Every day from sunrise to sunset
• Address: Truro, MA 02657

18. Dane Street Beach – Beverly, MA

Dane Street Beach in Lyons Park is a dog-friendly destination. Canines are disallowed from Memorial Day to Labor Day from 7.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. The beach offers beautiful views of the Beverly Harbor and Salem waterfront. It features seven acres of combined grass fields and sandy shores. The beach is exceptional for taking strolls, bird watching, wildlife viewing, etc.

This beach is in a waterfront park with amenities like a playground, volleyball court, picnic area, etc. The beach has accessible parking spots and ramps for use. Lifeguards are on duty during the season. It has free parking and street parking available.

• Nearby Attractions: Beverly Common, David S. Lynch Memorial Park
• Hours: Every day from sunrise to sunset
• Address: 93 Lothrop Street, Beverly, MA 01915

19. Duxbury Beach – Duxbury, MA

Duxbury Beach requires a dog walking permit for $10 (residents) and $25(nonresidents). Permits need to be issued from the Town Clerk’s Office. They must be on a leash and are allowed from 8 a.m. to Sunset. They must have valid vaccination and wear the Dog walking permit tag on their collar.

This 6-mile beach offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. It starts from Marshifield and extends to the Plymouth villages of Gurnet Point and Saquish. The beach has amenities like a snack bar, restroom, paid parking lots, etc. Swimming, paddleboarding, sunbathing, and watching sunsets are all popular activities.

• Nearby Attractions: Mass Audubon’s Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary, Alden House Historic Site
• Hours: Every day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Address: 260 Gurnet Rd, Marshfield, MA 02332

20. Maguire Landing / Lecount Hollow Beach – Wellfleet, MA

Maguire Land at Lecount Hollow Beach allows pets on restraints. An owner or handler must accompany them. In the summer, pets are forbidden from entering the lifeguard portion between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

The beach requires passes for both residents and tourists. You can enjoy swimming and surfing in this vast blue ocean. It is best for families with children and pets. This place is accessible via the Cape Cod Rail Trail.

• Nearby Attractions: Marconi Wireless Station, White Cedar Swamp Trail
• Hours: Every day from dusk till dawn.
• Address: 500 Lecount Hollow Road, Wellfleet, MA 02667

21. Cahoon Hollow Beach – Wellfleet, MA

Cahoon Hollow Beach allows well-behaved dogs on leashes. They can roam the rest of the beach except the lifeguard station area from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in summer. The beach is known for its unique beauty and serenity. Beachcomber restaurant is a great attraction of this place.

The beach has amenities like limited parking and restrooms. Beachgoers can enjoy swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and jogging on this beach. However, there is a steep hike to get to and from the sand.

• Nearby Attractions: Frying Pan Gallery Wellfleet, Long Pond Swimming Beach
• Hours: Every day from sunrise to sunset
• Address: 1140 Cahoon Hollow Road, Wellfleet, MA 02667

22. Salisbury Beach State Reservation – Salisbury, MA

Salisbury Beach State Reservation is a 521-acre state-owned campground with a riverside and oceanfront. Domesticated animals are allowed year-round near the campground and river. They are disallowed from the beach from April 1st to September 15. Pets can visit the beach on leash the rest of the year.

Tourers can enjoy camping, boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and canoeing here. This large campground stretches 3.8 miles along the Atlantic Ocean. It has 484 campsites with water and electrical hookups. Facilities include grilling, pavilion, playground, boardwalk, and picnic areas. The reservation also has beach wheelchairs and mats.

• Nearby Attractions: Salisbury Beach Carousel, Salisbury Beach Boardwalk
• Hours: Every day from sunrise to sunset
• Address: State Reservation Road, Salisbury, MA 01952

23. Craigville Beach – Barnstable, MA

Craigville Beach prohibits dogs from May 15-September 15. Other times, pups are allowed on a leash. This place is also known as Centerville.

Beachgoers can enjoy swimming, surfing, and walking. The beach’s low wave is ideal for families with small children.

Lifeguards are available during the summer season. The parking lot has space for 450 cars and has accessible spots. The beach gets crowded during the season, but otherwise is quiet and peaceful. It has showers, surf chairs, volleyball nets, etc. Parking permits are needed for both residents and non-residents.  

• Nearby Attractions: Veterans Memorial Park, Cape Cod Maritime Museum
• Hours: Every day from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Address: 997 Craigville Beach Road, Centerville, MA 02632

24. Sandy Neck Beach – Barnstable, MA

Sandy Neck Beach is a barrier beach with 4700 acres of marshes, dunes, and maritime forests. There are specific place restrictions on this beach. Dogs are prohibited from the Bodfish Beach from May 15 through September 15. They are allowed on the ORV beach and on a leash for the remainder of the area.

This seacoast is full of recreational opportunities, including beach driving and camping. A permit is required for ORV driving. This stunning seacoast is great for a day out and has great hikes and sightseeing opportunities. You can participate in activities like beach combing, swimming, paddle boarding, etc. Fishing, shellfishing, and boating need permission before doing.

• Nearby Attractions: Benjamin Nye Homestead & Museum, Old Sandwich Game Farm Wildlife Management Area
• Hours: May 1 – October 31 – 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. November 1 – April 30 – the parking lot closes at 9 p.m.
• Address: 425 Sandy Neck Road, W. Barnstable, MA 02668

25. Duck Harbor – WellFleet, MA

Duck Harbor dogs must be on a leash from May 1 to October 1. They are allowed off-leash remaining times. This secluded beach needs a bit of hard work to reach. There is driftwood, and the water is calm. It is located on the bay side of Wellfleet. This seashore is surrounded by dunes, rocks, and grainy sands.

The beach is good for fishing, birdwatching, sunbathing, and sunset watching. This seacoast is appreciated for beachcombing and family picnics.

• Nearby Attractions: Atwood-Higgins House Complex, Great Island Trail
• Hours: Every day from sunset to sunrise
• Address: Wellfleet, MA 02667

26. White Crest – Wellfleet, MA

White Crest has seasonal dog prohibition. From 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the summer, they are forbidden from entering the lifeguard portion. They can roam on a leash on the permitted parts of the beach.

The beach has soft sand and amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors need to climb up and down a dune to reach the beach. It is well-maintained and family-friendly. The sunsets are marvelous on this east-facing beach.

• Nearby Attractions: Wellfleet Historical Society & Museum, Frying Pan Gallery Wellfleet
• Hours: Every day from sunset to sunrise
• Address: 520 Ocean View Drive, Wellfleet, MA 02667

27. Newcomb Hollow – Wellfleet, MA

Newcomb Hollow allows pups on a leash year-round. However, there is a restriction on designated lifeguard areas from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during summer. The beach is ideal for swimming, surfing, and walking. Take your canines out to the grainy sand.

Visitors can set up tents, umbrellas, and chairs to enjoy the breeze and flutter of the sea. Seals can be spotted from this Atlantic Ocean. This is a very picturesque beach with tall dunes. Swimmers can enjoy boogie-boarding.

• Nearby Attractions: Uncle Tim’s Bridge, Pamet Cranberry Bog Trail
• Hours: Every day from sunrise to sunset
• Address: 1175 Gross Hill Rd, Wellfleet, MA 02667

28. Corn Hill Beach – Truro, MA

Corn Hill Beach prohibits pets from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. starting on the third Saturday in June through Labor Day. They can also put up restrictions for nesting shorebird areas. The beach has amenities like portable toilets, bike racks, etc.

A parking sticker is required in season. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer. It is handicap accessible with wheelchairs and parking. Surfing, swimming, and watching sunsets are great beach activities.

• Nearby Attractions: Great Hollow Beach, Reel Deal Fishing Charters
• Hours: Every day from sunrise to sunset
• Address: Corn Hill Rd, Truro, MA 02666

29. Nauset Dog Beach Orleans, Massachusetts

Nauset Dog Beach Orleans, Massachusetts, offers a haven for dog lovers seeking the perfect escape with four-legged companions. The beach’s welcoming policy for leashed dogs ensures you can enjoy a day of coastal serenity without leaving your furry friend behind.

In fact, recent surveys show that over 40% of U.S. households own dogs, underscoring the growing demand for dog-friendly destinations like Nauset Beach. Here, visitors are treated to a blend of stunning ocean views, soft sands ideal for playful paws, and the opportunity to bond with other pet enthusiasts.

Whether strolling the shoreline, tossing a frisbee, or simply soaking in the sunset, this beach embodies the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure.

• Nearby Attractions: Nauset Light Beach, Marconi-rca Wireless Museum
• Hours: Every day from sunrise to sunset. (Dogs are prohibited from April 1st through Labor Day)
• Address: 250 Beach Rd, Orleans, MA 02653

Conclusion

Dog owners can enjoy great summers in Massachusetts with their pups because of their pet rules. Beachgoers can enjoy plenty of space for dog walking, sunbathing, and picnics with their pups. These beaches are all dog-friendly and welcoming to families. 

Dog Articles:

• Dog-Friendly Beaches in Washington
• Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in South Carolina
• Best Dog-friendly Beaches in North Carolina
• Dog-Friendly Beaches in Malibu, California
• Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in California
• Best Dog-friendly Beaches in Delaware
• Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Florida
• Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Alabama
• Dog Friendly Beaches in New Jersey
• Ocean City Dog Rules, Maryland
• Dog Friendly Beaches in Oahu, Hawaii
• Dog Friendly Beaches in Texas
• Dog-Friendly Beaches in Connecticut
• Dog Friendly Beaches in Wisconsin
• Dog Friendly Beaches in New York
• Dog-Friendly Beaches in Mississippi
• Dog-Friendly Beaches In Virginia
• Dog-Friendly Beaches in Maine
• Dog-Friendly Beaches in Georgia
• Dog-friendly Beaches in New Hampshire