Orchard Beach Dog Rules: Bronx’s Only Public Beach 2025
Orchard is a popular pet-friendly beach in the Bronx borough spread over 115 acres. There are a few dog rules for people on this famous New York beach. It’s easily accessible via roadways and nature trails. The beach’s laws and policies are easy to implement. This dog-friendly waterfront houses a beautiful boathouse.
Besides being a beach, Orchard is also NYC’s biggest public park. The beach presents recreational opportunities for both adults & kids. There are seating arrangements for people to enjoy a pleasant time. Entry to the beach is free; however, locker and parking charges are paid.
Orchard Beach Dog Rules, NY
- Orchard Beach allows dogs on a leash. The leash can be a maximum of 6 feet.
- Dogs must always show good behavior and manners. They are prohibited from chasing other beach birds and animals.
- Pets must at all times be under the direct control of their owners.
- Pets are prohibited on boardwalks from 20th May till 01st October.
- Owners must pick up and remove their pets’ waste from the beach.
Orchard Dog Beach, New York
Orchard Beach Dog Licensing
Keeping and harboring dogs in NYC requires licensing. All dogs with permanent teeth or above 6 months old must be registered. Even Orchard Beach prohibits entry for unlicensed dogs. The dog’s collar must showcase its license badge at all times. This registration is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
A 5-year license is also available. Licensing requires proof of vaccination against rabies by a certified veterinarian. The vaccination must remain active for at least 10 months. Registration charges depend on the length and dog type. Registration is done either via municipalities or online.
How to reach Orchard Beach, NY
- By Air: The closest airports to Orchard Beach are New York La Guardia (LGA) and New York JFK
- By Subway: Visitors take a subway from Pelham Bay and then a bus to reach Orchard Beach.
- By Bus: Visitors take a Bx29 bus bound for City Island and reach Orchard Beach. Similarly, during summer, they take a Bx12 bus to the beach.
- By Road: Visitors also reach Orchard Beach by car or taxi. From New York, the beach is 28 km away (approximately half an hour)
About Dog-Friendly Orchard Beach – NY
Orchard is a popular artificial beach in the Bronx borough. It lies along Long Island Sound’s western end. This 1.1-mile beach is a part of Pelham Bay Park. The beach promenade and boathouse are a famous recreational spot. There is a central pavilion and a hexagonal promenade. Additionally, picnic areas, playgrounds, volleyball, handball, and basketball courts are available.
The beach is popularly called the “Riviera of New York.” It was built in the 1930s by WPA workers. Visitors can find souvenir carts and specialty stores. Barbecuing is allowed in the South and North picnic areas. Paid parking, ranging between $9 and $15 (approx), is available. The orchard features drinking fountains, park benches, and food carts.
- Parking: Bay Plaza Mall Parking Garage and Orchard Beach Parking Lot
- Nearby Visiting Places: Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum and Bronx Victory Memorial
- Dog-Friendly Restaurants: Barking Dog and An Beal Bocht Cafe
- Dog-Friendly Hotels: Wingate by Wyndham Bronx/Haven Park and Hyatt Place New York/Yonkers
- Dog Boarding: Bronx Barx and Skootee’s Pet Care Service
- Things to do: Fishing, playing golf, hiking, horse riding, kayaking, canoeing, barbecuing, running, jogging, swimming, etc
- Events: Ranger Gardening Club: Soil Basics and Kids Week: Birding for Kids
- Amenities: Wheelchair accessibility, beach mats, concession stands, mobile charging stations, restrooms, spray showers, Wi-Fi hotspots, etc
- Beach Hours: Seven days a week from 10:00 am to 06:00 pm
Orchard Beach, NY Promenade
Orchard is a beautiful, dog-friendly beach in NY. It is the only public beach in the Bronx, attracting many visitors. The beach has a beautiful block promenade shaped like a hexagon. Many beer and food carts are along the walkway, and visitors enjoy a beautiful waterfront while strolling around.
Orchard Beach Rules and Regulations
- Visitors must be respectful of other beachgoers, beach birds, and animals. They must also be courteous and help keep the beach clean.
- Orchard Beach prohibits all kinds of glass bottles and containers.
- Lighting fires, consuming alcohol, and barbecuing are allowed only in designated areas.
- Erecting shelters & tents, solicitation, and smoking are prohibited on Orchard Beach.
- Orchard Beach prohibits unauthorized ATVs, motorized vehicles, scooters, rafting, snorkeling, watercrafting, and other floating devices.
- Rollerblading and bike riding are allowed only from 06:00 am to 09:00 am.
- A prior permit only allows engaging in commercial activities, rallying, and using amplified sound.
Can I swim at Orchard Beach?
Yes, visitors can swim at Orchard Beach when lifeguards are present and on duty.
Is Orchard Beach a man-made beach?
Yes, it is a man-made beach. The seashore was constructed by the City of New York from 1935 to 1937. It starts from Pelham Bay in Pelham Bay Park on the east side of the Bronx.
Can you drink at Orchard Beach?
No, consuming alcoholic drinks on the beach is strictly forbidden.
Is the water clean at Orchard Beach?
Yes, the water is fine and clean at Orchard Beach.
How big is Orchard Beach?
Orchard Beach is a 115-acre and 1.1-mile-long crescent-shaped beach.
Are Dogs Allowed at Orchard Beach?
Dogs are welcome, but must adhere to all beach regulations and laws.
Conclusion
During my visit to Orchard Beach, I loved how dog-friendly and lively it felt! There are a few easy pet rules, but nothing that takes away from the fun. The area’s packed with great spots for food, drinks, shopping, and play. I found plenty of dog-welcoming cafes and nearby stays, plus some fantastic groomers and boarding options. It’s the perfect summer retreat for you and your pup!
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