North Carolina has some of the most stunning beaches in the country. It could be just as much fun to take your favorite pooch with you there. If your dog loves running around water or swimming and just simply laying out under sunshiny skies, the Outer Banks is the place to be. It offers a variety for pet-friendly coastal adventures - from oceanside strolls to maritime forest trails.
What makes these seaside havens so popular with dogs? Let's take a look.
Kitty Hawk
Kitty Hawk is a place where dog owners can rest easy. Your pet is more than welcomed to romp in the Atlantic's refreshing waters and then take a nice nap while you hide under an umbrella on this vast coast year round. The Friday before Memorial Day till the day after Labor Day, dogs must be leashed (not exceeding 6 feet) between 10:00 a.m to 6:00 p.m. At other times during the year, dogs can be on a retractable leash up to 12 feet. Also, a current rabies tag must be displayed on all tourist and local dogs when on the beach. Violation of these rules may attract a maximum fine of $50. Although leashes are a requirement, your pet will still have plenty of places to stretch its legs and fully appreciate the unforgettable atmosphere on this maritime strand.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
A veritable jewel of the Outer Banks, the Cape Hatteras National Seashore comprises well over 70 miles of protected shoreline. Leashed pooches are welcome here. Wind-swept dunes and cool refreshing offshore winds can all be enjoyed without ever leaving your four-legged friend behind. Pets are allowed on the beach provided they are on a leash not extending more than 6 feet. Also, they are not allowed on designated swim beaches or in designated buildings. Cleaning up after your pet is also mandatory here like other beaches on the Outer Banks.
Corolla
The beach here is a unique sanctuary for people and dogs situated on the northern end of the Outer Banks. This island infamously abounds in beauty where wild Spanish Mustangs run around. The endless stretch provides ample room for games like fetch, and your pet can also enjoy splashing around the gentle waves that hit the shores. Dogs must be on a leash at all times, however, there are no length requirements.
Nags Head
Nags Head is a pet wonderland. From the dune trails of Jockey's Ridge State Park to the Nags Head Beach there are many kilometres of golden sands that your canine pal can saunter along all day long. Dogs are allowed on the beach all year-round as long as they are on a leash extending not more than 10 feet. Also, owners are required to keep the beach clean as any violation might attract a criminal/civil penalty.
Southern Shores
Dogs are allowed on Southern Shores before 9 a.m and after 6 p.m from May 15-September 15. Leash not extending more than 10 feet is allowed, and the pet owners are required to remove the feces in accordance with section 4-27. Apart from this, service animals are also permitted on the beach all year-round.
Kill Devil Hills
Pets are not permitted on the beach between Memorial Day and Labor Day each year between 9:00 a.m and 6:00 p.m. Also, keeping the pets on leash all the time is mandatory.
As you make plans for your upcoming 'canine-friendly' beach vacation to North Carolina, there are several important things to keep in mind. When it comes to other beach-goers and their pets always use common sense - Keep your dog on a leash at all times. Always observe seasonal or location specific rules, as some beaches might limit on street parking and others have time zones when dogs aren't allowed on the beach.
Abiding by local laws makes you a responsible pet owner, meaning both you and your four-legged friend can safely enjoy the pleasures of North Carolina's best dog-friendly beaches. So smear on some sunscreen, scoop together your dog's favorite beach toys and go create those unforgettable coastal memories.