Enjoying Cape Cod's Beaches with Your Dog This Summer

Planning a classic Cape Cod beach day with your dog can be challenging, as many beaches restrict pet access during the summer months.

 

However, several beaches across the Cape welcome dogs under specific conditions, allowing you and your furry friend to enjoy the sun and surf together.

 

Here's a comprehensive guide to dog-friendly beaches on Cape Cod for the summer season.

 

Provincetown

 

Known for its exceptionally dog-friendly atmosphere, Provincetown permits leashed dogs on all public beaches year-round.

 

During the summer, off-leash hours are designated from 6-9 a.m. and 6-9 p.m., providing ample time for your pet to roam freely.

 

Additionally, the Cape Cod National Seashore beaches in Provincetown, such as Herring Cove and Race Point, allow leashed dogs throughout the year, except in lifeguard-protected areas during the summer months.

 

Wellfleet

 

Wellfleet's public beaches are welcoming to dogs, with specific guidelines in place.

 

Leashed dogs are allowed on beaches year-round, but during the summer season (May 15 to October 15), they are restricted from lifeguarded sections between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

 

This means you can enjoy early morning and evening beach outings with your pet.

 

Truro

 

In Truro, Head of the Meadow Beach permits leashed dogs throughout the year.

 

During the summer, dogs are allowed outside the lifeguard-protected areas.

 

It's important to note that while passing through lifeguarded sections to reach other areas is permitted, lingering in these zones with your dog is not allowed.

 

Eastham

 

Coast Guard Beach in Eastham, part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, allows leashed dogs beyond the lifeguard-protected sections.

 

However, certain areas may be seasonally closed to protect nesting shorebirds, so it's advisable to check for any posted restrictions before your visit.

 

Chatham

 

In Chatham, Jackknife Beach permits dogs before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m. from May 1 to September 15.

 

This schedule allows for pleasant walks during the cooler parts of the day.

 

Orleans

 

Orleans offers specific times for dog access at certain locations.

 

Leashed dogs are allowed on the oversand driving trails south of Trail #1 at Nauset Beach.

 

Additionally, at 70 Willie Atwood/Wildflower Lane, dogs are permitted before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m., provided they remain more than 300 feet away from Skaket Public Beach at all times.

 

Barnstable

 

In Barnstable, Sandy Neck Beach allows leashed dogs with certain restrictions.

 

Dogs are not permitted on Bodfish Beach (the public bathing section) from May 15 to September 15.

 

However, they are allowed on the Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Beach and all hiking trails unless marked as closed for shorebird protection.

 

Dogs can enter the beach and trails at all access locations except at specific marked public beach access paths.

 

Important Considerations

 

When bringing your dog to the beach, always adhere to local regulations, including leash laws and designated dog-friendly hours.

 

Be prepared to clean up after your pet and be aware of any temporary closures due to shorebird nesting.

 

By following these guidelines, you and your dog can enjoy the beauty of Cape Cod's beaches together.

 

For the most current information, it's advisable to check with local town offices or beach management before your visit, as regulations can change.

 

Enjoy your beach adventures with your furry friend!