🐾 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Delaware (2026 Guide)
As a Delaware family photographer — and now a new lab puppy owner — I’ve already started thinking ahead to summer and where we’ll wander along the coast.
If you're also visiting Delaware beaches with your dog, timing and location matter. Regulations change seasonally, so here’s a simplified breakdown to help you plan.
A cute four legged rescue friend needing a refresh for his close-up in Dewey Beach.
Dewey Beach
Summer (Memorial Day–Labor Day)
✔ Dogs allowed before 9:30 AM and after 5:30 PM
Off-Season
✔ Dogs allowed anytime
Important:
• Town of Dewey dog license required
• Dogs must be under control
• Clean up is mandatory
💡 Sunrise sessions in Dewey are often ideal for families including dogs.
A summer morning in Lewes, DE
Lewes
May 1–September 30
✔ Dogs allowed before 8:00 AM and after 6:30 PM
October 1–April 30
✔ Dogs allowed anytime (leashed)
Lewes is one of my favorite spots for Delaware beach family portraits. The bay stays calmer and softer at sunrise. The low tides are perfect for roaming and exploring too.
A lovely family taking fall photos with their curious pup in Dewey Beach.
Rehoboth Beach
May 1–September 30
❌ Dogs not allowed on the beach or boardwalk at any time
October 1–April 30
✔ Dogs allowed (leashed)
For Rehoboth family photography with a dog, we’ll need an off-season date or a nearby alternative.
A newly engaged couple with their fur pup.
Bethany Beach
May 15–September 30
❌ Dogs not permitted on the beach or boardwalk at any time
October 1–May 14
✔ Dogs allowed (leashed)
Bethany is part of Delaware’s “Quiet Resorts,” making fall and spring especially peaceful for dog-friendly beach walks.
A rescue pup needing professional photos on the beach.
Broadkill Beach (Beach Plum Island Preserve)
May 1–September 30
❌ Dogs not permitted
October 1–April 30
✔ Dogs allowed (leashed)
Beach Plum Island has a quiet, untouched feel — but because of the surrounding marsh, flies and biting insects are common. Be prepared so your visit stays enjoyable.
The views of Cape Henlopen beaches from Gordon’s Pond entrance.
Nearby State Parks
Cape Henlopen State Park
May 1–September 30
• Dogs not permitted on guarded swimming beaches
• Dogs allowed on non-guarded beaches and trails (leashed)
Off-Season
✔ Dogs allowed on all beaches (leashed)
Often a strong alternative for summer photography sessions with pets.
Above Delaware Seashore State Park looking down from the Inlet Bridge.
Delaware Seashore State Park
Summer
✔ Dogs allowed on non-guarded beaches only
Off-Season
✔ Dogs allowed everywhere (leashed)
Fenwick Island State Park.
Fenwick Island State Park
Summer
❌ Dogs not allowed on swimming beaches
Off-Season
✔ Dogs allowed (leashed)
State Park Reminder
Pets are allowed in Delaware seashore parks, but state law prohibits them from swimming and sunbathing beaches from May 1–September 30. Look for fishing beaches or drive-on access areas as dog-friendly options. Here is more info from the Delaware State Parks site.
A wonderful family session in OC, MD.
Ocean City, Maryland
May 1–September 30
❌ Dogs not allowed on beach or boardwalk
✔ Dog Park located at 94th street. Application here.
✔ Dogs are welcome at all parks (leashed) in OC, MD.
October 1–April 30
✔ Dogs allowed (leashed)
Helpful Tips for Bringing Your Dog to the Beach
These are the things I personally pay attention to during summer - especially now that we have a puppy of our own.
🌡 Hot Sand
If you can’t hold your hand on the sand for five seconds, it’s too hot for paws. Early mornings are always safer.
🌊 Bay vs. Ocean
Bay beaches like Lewes are calmer and more gradual. Ocean beaches like Dewey and Rehoboth have stronger waves and sudden drop-offs — not every dog loves surf.
🌿 Ticks
Dune and trail areas, especially near Cape Henlopen, can carry ticks. Check ears, paws, and under collars after walks.
🧂 Rinse Off
Salt and sand can irritate skin and paws. A quick fresh-water rinse before heading home helps more than you think.
Local Resources for Dog Owners
✔ Restaurants: Check out BringFido.com for reviews on many dog-friendly restaurants at the beach and in OCMD to enjoy with your furry friend(s)!
✔ Parks: Public dog parks are limited. Lewes Unleashed requires an application and annual fee. Millsboro, Milford and OCMD offer public dog parks about 40 minutes from downtown Rehoboth.
✔ Vet/Emergency Care: Urgent care is available in Rehoboth. Two larger animal hospitals are available: one in Dover and second in Salisbury, MD providing emergency services when weekday clinics are closed. Another option is In-home house calls. Call for appointments.
Dog-Friendly Pet Shops & Boutiques
Delaware Beaches
P.U.P.S. of Lewes – A boutique in historic Lewes with natural treats, toys, collars, leashes, and gifts — leashed pups are welcome inside.
Critter Beach – Highly rated pet supply store in Rehoboth Beach with food, toys, accessories, and more.
Jeri's Pet Pampering – Online-based pet boutique with specialty items (good for local pickup info if you list contact).
Millville’s Pet Shop (near Bethany Beach)
Ocean City Area
Sandy Paws Pet Spa (Ocean City, MD) – Beachside pet store offering grooming essentials.
Paws & Claws, etc. (North Ocean City, MD) – Offers premium organic pet foods and treats with personalized service.
A happy rescue pup needing professional headshots.
Dog Beach Essentials
A few thoughtful items to pack ahead of time if that make beach days safer and more comfortable for your dog.
Bring a floating beach toy for water play (ad):
https://amzn.to/4078DNO
A portable paw cleaner makes rinsing sand off easy before heading to the car (ad):
https://amzn.to/4u6nTIu
Protect paws on hot sand with paw wax (ad):
https://amzn.to/4snNX05
Fresh groom? Consider pet-safe sunscreen for sensitive skin (ad):
https://amzn.to/4aOYGuI
Keep your pup hydrated with a spill-proof portable water bowl (ad):
https://amzn.to/4smzbXw
Relaxing on a drive-on beach? A secure tie-out stake adds safe freedom (ad):
https://amzn.to/4rQrskD
As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
Including Your Dog in Delaware Beach Family Photos
When your dog is part of your family, a little thoughtful planning keeps the experience relaxed and joyful for everyone.
Try to remember to:
Exercise your dog beforehand
Bring water and a towel
Use a simple neutral leash
Bring a second adult if possible
Schedule sunrise in summer