Voted #1 most dog-friendly beach in the nation by Pets Radar
The Wildwoods, NJ, welcomes beach-loving, four-legged friends! With many families wanting their dogs to be a part of their vacation, The Wildwoods has rolled out the red carpet for canines with a dedicated dog beach, a dog park, exciting activities, and numerous dog-friendly businesses and accommodations.
Dog-Friendly Beach and Recreational Attractions
While dogs are not allowed on the Wildwoods boardwalk, the beaches in the Wildwoods welcome dogs to splash and play year-round. Dogs have full access to the entire length of the Wildwoods world-famous beaches, from October through May, and there is a very special place designated just for them, where they can freely kick up the sand and frolic in the surf from May through October.
The Wildwoods Dog Park & Beach on Glenwood Avenue and the Boardwalk is the largest dog park in the world, with dog-friendly-designated features and lots of pup perks. Dogs can also enjoy a fun-filled day at the Dog Beach on Glenwood Avenue as well. There are a few rules to follow: All dogs must be licensed and leashed, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their four-legged friends. In 2022, the Wildwoods Dog Park & Beach was named the #1 most dog-friendly beach in the nation by Pets Radar. And in 2016, was named one of the top 10 ‘Best Dog-Friendly Beaches’ in the 10Best Readers’ Choice travel award contest sponsored by USA TODAY. USA TODAY 10Best teamed up with BringFido.com to nominate the 20 most dog-friendly beaches in the nation. The Wildwoods Dog Park & Beach received the 2nd highest number of votes, ranking it #2 overall in the nation.
Tails have been wagging as dogs make their way from Glenwood Avenue across the Boardwalk, and onto the sand. There’s no mistaking they are in the right place, as they are greeted by a 30-foot-tall Fire Hydrant Sculpture at the Dog Park – right at the entrance to the Dog Beach. The Dog Park is completely fenced in so canines can run, stretch their legs, and make new friends! The park is separated into two sections – one for large breed dogs, and the other for small breed dogs. As with the Dog Beach, all dogs entering the Dog Park must be licensed, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their four-legged friends. The block-and-half-long, 190-yard-wide area is open from 6 a.m. until dusk, and this section of the beach is well-equipped with amenities including water stations and free plastic bags.
Additional dog-friendly recreational attractions throughout the Wildwoods include Sunset Lake, the Sea Wall in North Wildwood, and the Wildwoods Bike Path, Byrne Plaza, and many of the Wildwoods outdoor festivals.
Dog-Friendly Businesses and Restaurants
Wondering where to eat with your dog? The Wildwoods offers several dog-friendly restaurants where both you and your furry friend can relax and enjoy a meal. Some popular options include:
- PigDog Beach Bar – This new breed of beach bar is accessible from the beach, Boardwalk, and Raging Waters Water Park. It’s a fun spot for both families and dogs to enjoy barbecue classics, ice-cold beers, and more.
- MudHen Brewing Company – A welcoming spot for dogs of all sizes, MudHen offers a spacious outdoor dining area where you can enjoy their delicious brews and dishes with your dog by your side.
- The Surfing Pig – Grab your furry friend and head over for ‘Yappy Hour’ every Wednesday from 3-6 p.m.! It’s the perfect chance to mix and mingle with fellow dog lovers and make midweek a little more pawsome.
Other dog-friendly dining options include Alumni Grill, North End American Grill, Poppi’s Brick Oven Pizza, and Goodnight Irene’s. Please call ahead to inquire about respective dog policies before dining.
Dog-Friendly Activities and Events
The Wildwoods also hosts a variety of dog-friendly activities and events:
- Dog-Friendly Sightseeing and Boat Tours: If you’re into fishing, crabbing, or whale and dolphin watching, you’ll find several boat charters that allow you to bring your dog on board. Just make sure your pup has an appropriate life jacket for the trip.
- Patriotic Pooch Parade: On July 4th, dogs dressed in patriotic gear join the Independence Day Parade in North Wildwood. Prizes are awarded for the best-dressed pooches.
- Pooch Pool Party at Raging Waters Water Park: Every September, dogs can cool off and take a swim in the waterpark’s pools, paddle around the River Adventure, or play in the Fountain Pool. Complimentary dog treats and water bowls are provided throughout the park.
Many of The Wildwoods’ outdoor festivals and events, like the weekly summer Farmer’s Market at Byrne Plaza, Irish Weekend, and the free summer music series in Wildwood, Wildwood Crest, and North Wildwood, welcome your four-legged friends! For a full list of dog-friendly events and more, check out The Wildwoods Events Calendar.
Dog-Friendly Accommodations in The Wildwoods
When you and your canine are on vacation, it’s often hard to find accommodations to suit the entire family. Below is a list of pet-friendly hotels and motels to enjoy while vacationing in the Wildwoods (plus dozens of vacation rentals as well!)
- Admiral Resort Motel – 7200 Ocean Ave, Wildwood Crest, NJ
- Beach Colony Motel – 500 E. Stockton Rd., Wildwood Crest, NJ
- Brittany Motel – 3710 Atlantic Ave, Wildwood, NJ
- Esplanade Suites – 230 East Taylor Avenue, Wildwood, NJ
- Harimar Cottages – 302 East Juniper Avenue, Wildwood NJ
- Hotel Cabana – 423 E. 23rd Ave., North Wildwood, NJ
- Island Breeze Motel – 411 E. 26th Ave., North Wildwood, NJ
- Jade East Motel – 510 E. 4th Ave., North Wildwood, NJ
- Jolly Roger Motel – 6805 Atlantic Ave, Wildwood Crest, NJ
- Monaco Motel – 4211 Ocean Ave, Wildwood, NJ
- Red Horse on the Lake – 7705 New Jersey Ave., Wildwood Crest
- Rus Mar Motel – 5010 Ocean Ave., Wildwood Crest, NJ
- Sand Box Motel – 5310 Park Blvd., Wildwood, NJ
- Sandy Shores Resort – 2511 Atlantic Ave, North Wildwood, NJ
- Skylark Resort Motel – 3917 Atlantic Ave., Wildwood, NJ
- The Shore House – 1600 Ocean Avenue, North Wildwood, NJ
- Tide Winds Motel – 231 E. Davis Ave., Wildwood, NJ
The Wildwoods are a premier destination for pet-friendly travel, offering plenty of places to stay, eat, and play with your dog. Pack the leash and head down for an unforgettable dog-friendly vacation!
