Cape Cod isn’t just a dream destination for us, it’s a paradise for pups too! With miles of sandy shoreline, salty breezes, and laid-back New England vibes, the Cape offers some of the best dog-friendly beaches you can find. Whether your best friend loves chasing waves, strolling along dunes, or just digging to their heart’s content, here’s your guide to the best dog-friendly beaches across Cape Cod.
🏖 Race Point Beach (Provincetown)
Description:
Located at the very tip of Cape Cod, Race Point Beach is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore and is a stunning spot known for its wide sandy stretches and iconic dunes. Dogs are welcome on leash year-round, with some seasonal restrictions to protect nesting birds.
Know Before You Go:
Access: Easy to reach via Race Point Rd in Provincetown; wide parking lots close to the sand.
Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset.
Amenities: Restrooms, seasonal lifeguards, walking trails nearby.
Parking & Fees: $25 vehicle daily fee in season (June–September).
Rules: Dogs must be on a 6-foot leash and are restricted from some signed areas to protect wildlife.
Why pet owners love it:
- Huge beach with plenty of room to roam.
- Gorgeous sunsets over the Atlantic.
- Often see seals swimming offshore.
🌊 Herring Cove Beach (Provincetown)
Description:
Just around the corner from Race Point, Herring Cove offers slightly calmer waters, making it a favorite for wading and for pups who like gentler surf. It's also less breezy, tucked along Cape Cod Bay.
Know Before You Go:
Access: Off Province Lands Rd, plenty of parking close to the sand.
Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk.
Amenities: Restrooms, snack bar, showers (in season).
Parking & Fees: $25 daily fee (June–September).
Rules: Dogs must be on leash; watch for posted signs during shorebird nesting season.
Why pet owners love it:
- Calmer water for shy swimmers.
- Perfect for long shoreline walks.
- Great mix of beach and grassy dunes.
🐾 Cahoon Hollow Beach (Wellfleet)
Description:
Known for its dramatic cliffs and lively summer scene, Cahoon Hollow is popular with locals and visitors alike. Dogs are allowed on leash when not posted for nesting birds.
Know Before You Go:
Access: Off Cahoon Hollow Rd with parking atop steep dunes (be ready for the climb).
Hours: Open sunrise to sunset.
Amenities: The famous Beachcomber bar/restaurant at the top, portable restrooms.
Parking & Fees: Around $30 daily in high season.
Rules: Dogs on leash, and must be kept out of marked protected areas.
Why pet owners love it:
- Stunning views from the dune top.
- Dogs can explore tide pools at low tide.
- Grab a drink or snack from the Beachcomber afterward.
🌴 Head of the Meadow Beach (Truro)
Description:
A quieter option, Head of the Meadow is also part of the National Seashore and offers long flat beaches ideal for walking with your dog. Less crowded than Provincetown spots.
Know Before You Go:
Access: Located off Head of the Meadow Rd, small parking lot fills up early.
Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk.
Amenities: Restrooms, trails nearby.
Parking & Fees: $25 daily in season.
Rules: Dogs on leash; some areas closed seasonally for nesting birds.
Why pet owners love it:
- Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds.
- Expansive sands perfect for a calm stroll.
- Sometimes see old shipwrecks poking out at low tide.
✨ Ready to Plan Your Cape Cod Adventure?
Whether it’s chasing salty waves in Provincetown, discovering tide pools in Wellfleet, or strolling Truro’s peaceful shores, Cape Cod is full of paw-friendly adventures waiting for you and your dog.
For more pet-friendly travel ideas and hidden gems, explore the Whisker Bark blog. And if your pup needs a comfy new harness, travel bed, or just a cute collar for beach pics, come fetch something special at Whisker Bark. Happy tails and sandy paws await! 🐾
