Fall in Love with a Dog Friendly Beach

With reduced foot traffic and cooler temps, autumn makes an ideal time for you and your pup to hit the beach, particularly those that welcome canines with open arms post Labor Day. As an added bonus, you an usually find discounted off-season rates at nearby accommodations. Check out these beautiful dog friendly beaches, and prepare for a tail-wagging good time.

New England Beauty

Leaf peepers can enjoy a side trip to one of Maine's most beautiful shores. Check out dog friendly Acadia National Park, and then head to picturesque Bar Harbor for a walk along the shore.

Eastbound Beaches

New York's Fire Island National Seashore welcomes dogs to its ocean beaches between Labor Day and March 15th, while New Jersey's Cape May State Park opens its beaches to dogs between September 16th and April 14th, including areas in front of the lighthouse and museum.

Maryland's Downs Park is just one of the dog friendly Chesapeake Bay parks that allow dogs off leash to frolic in a special section. At Virginia Beach, stroll the boardwalk and public beaches with your pup any time between Labor Day and Memorial Day.

California Dreaming

In addition to 1.5 miles of sandy beach ideal for swimming, shelling, and surfing, Malibu's Leo Carillo State Beach has a specific dog friendly area. The city of Carmel-by-the-Sea allows dogs during all seasons on its public beach, while Sonoma County's wine country welcomes dogs on the Pebble Beach Sea Ranch public trails. The Golden Gate National Recreation Area has a wealth of year-round dog friendly beaches, including beaches in Marin, San Francisco, and San Manteo counties.

Prepare for your beach getaway by updating your pet's veterinary records on the water-resistant LINK AKC Smart Collar's app and packing a sturdy leash, dog treats, and plenty of fresh water, towels, and dog pick-up bags. Leave only pawprints behind and take away memories with pictures to share with us using hashtag #linkakcadventures.