Introduction
New Jersey is home to some of the most iconic and beloved boardwalks in the United States, stretching across the Jersey Shore from Sandy Hook to Cape May. Boardwalks like the Atlantic City Boardwalk, Ocean City Boardwalk, Asbury Park Boardwalk, and Wildwood Boardwalk attract millions of visitors each year who come to stroll along the wooden promenades, play games, ride thrill rides, and enjoy beachside food and entertainment. Many visitors also like to bring their dogs with them to the boardwalk to take part in the fun.
However, not all New Jersey boardwalks allow dogs due to concerns about safety, sanitation, and comfort of other guests. Rules and regulations vary between towns along the Jersey Shore. While some boardwalks welcome dogs, others prohibit pets entirely or have restrictions on when and where dogs are allowed. This leads many dog owners to ask: which New Jersey boardwalks allow dogs?
Background on NJ Boardwalks
New Jersey’s boardwalks have a rich history dating back to the late 1800s. Atlantic City opened the first boardwalk in New Jersey in 1870, with the goal of keeping sand out of hotel lobbies (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_boardwalks_in_the_United_States). Over time, boardwalks became popular tourist attractions, offering food, games, rides, and entertainment.
Some of the most famous NJ boardwalks include:
- Atlantic City Boardwalk – Opened in 1870, the 4 mile long boardwalk is home to casinos, shops, restaurants and amusements (https://www.mcall.com/2015/06/13/new-jersey-boardwalks-walking-historic-planks/)
- Asbury Park Boardwalk – A vibrant boardwalk with shops, dining and live music venues (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_boardwalks_in_the_United_States)
- Ocean City Boardwalk – A family-friendly boardwalk with mini golf courses and snack shops (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_boardwalks_in_the_United_States)
NJ boardwalks showcase the beach culture and shore towns that make the Jersey Shore a classic summer destination.
Benefits of Allowing Dogs
There are many benefits to allowing dogs on boardwalks and other public spaces. According to research from the CPC, dogs provide companionship and can help reduce stress and loneliness for their owners. Walking a dog provides exercise for both the dog and the owner, promoting physical and mental health. Tourism revenue can also increase when boardwalks become dog-friendly, as dog owners may choose their vacation destinations based on places they can bring their pets.
Studies from the National Institute of Health also indicate benefits such as improved employee productivity and satisfaction when dogs are allowed in workplaces. The presence of dogs creates a more positive social environment. Dog owners have the opportunity to bond with their pets and coworkers during breaks. With proper policies and supervision, the benefits of dogs being in public spaces can outweigh concerns.
Concerns About Allowing Dogs
While many people enjoy having their dogs accompany them everywhere, there are some valid concerns about allowing dogs in public spaces like boardwalks.
Safety is a major concern. Though most dogs are well-behaved, there is always a risk that a dog could act aggressively and bite or knock someone over, especially in crowded areas (Source). Young children who may approach an unfamiliar dog are especially vulnerable.
Allowing dogs also raises concerns about cleanliness. Dog waste, if not properly cleaned up after, could create unsanitary conditions. Dog hair and dander may also trigger allergic reactions in some people (Source).
Furthermore, some people are generally uncomfortable around dogs due to fear or cultural and religious reasons. Allowing dogs could prevent these individuals from enjoying public spaces (Source).
While dog owners may wish to bring their pets everywhere, municipalities must weigh the benefits against potential risks and objections when setting rules for public areas like boardwalks.
NJ Boardwalk Rules and Regulations
New Jersey’s boardwalk ordinances regarding dogs tend to be more restrictive than beach rules. In general, dogs are prohibited from being on the boards at any time of the year (https://943thepoint.com/dogs-boardwalk-poll/).
Most beach town ordinances do not allow pets on the boards during the peak summer season between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Dogs are also not permitted in stores or restaurants along the boardwalk. Outside of summer, the rules tend to vary by town and are not always strictly enforced (https://www.new-jersey-leisure-guide.com/questiona-and-answers-about-beaches-in-new-jersey.html).
Some towns, like Asbury Park, prohibit dogs on the boardwalk at all times. Others, like Avalon, allow leashed dogs on the boards after 6pm off-season. The rules can change year-to-year, so it’s important to check the ordinances for each specific town.
There are concerns about dogs on crowded boardwalks jumping on people, getting into food, and leaving messes behind. However, many argue dogs should be allowed in off-peak times for owners to enjoy walking along the ocean.
Boardwalks That Allow Dogs
Some New Jersey boardwalks do allow dogs at certain times or in designated areas. According to 943thepoint.com, Asbury Park, Ocean City, and Wildwood are examples of boardwalks that allow dogs during the off-season when the beaches are less crowded.
In Asbury Park, dogs are allowed on the boardwalk and beach from October 1st through April 30th. Dogs must be leashed and owners are required to clean up after them. This provides dog owners the opportunity to enjoy walks along the iconic Asbury Park boardwalk during the cooler months.
Ocean City also permits dogs on the boardwalk in the off-season between October 1st and May 1st. Dogs must be leashed and licensed. Again, this gives residents and visitors the chance to stroll on the popular Ocean City boardwalk with their furry companions before the busy summer tourists arrive.
Wildwood is another dog-friendly boardwalk in the off-season. From October 1st through May 1st each year, leashed dogs are allowed on the Wildwood boardwalk. Dog owners must clean up after their pets. The Wildwood boardwalk offers great views for ocean-loving pups during the off-season.
Boardwalks That Prohibit Dogs
Several popular NJ boardwalks do not allow dogs at all or have significant restrictions. According to the Pet Friendly Jersey Shore Beaches website, dogs are never permitted on the boardwalks in Atlantic City, Seaside Heights, or Point Pleasant, even if they are in a carrier [1].
Atlantic City has one of the most famous boardwalks in New Jersey, with casinos, shops, restaurants and amusement rides along its four-mile length. Dogs are prohibited on the entire boardwalk at all times. The city does have a dog beach located at Michigan Avenue and the Atlantic City Boardwalk, but it is over a mile from the main boardwalk area so dogs cannot walk from the beach onto the boardwalk [2].
Similarly, the popular boardwalk in Seaside Heights bans dogs entirely. This crowded boardwalk is filled with food stands, arcades and amusement rides. Police strictly enforce the no-dog policy and will ask owners to remove their dogs immediately according to the local ordinance [1].
The Point Pleasant boardwalk is over a mile long and also prohibits dogs. However, the town does allow leashed dogs at River Avenue Beach north of the popular Jenkinson’s Boardwalk area from September 15 to May 15 each year [3]. This gives dogs some access to the beach in the off-season if not the main boardwalk.
Best Practices
When bringing your dog to the beach, it’s important to follow some best practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable time for everyone.
Visit the beach during off-peak hours when it’s less crowded. Early mornings or evenings on weekdays tend to have fewer people and dogs, allowing your dog more space to play freely. Avoid busy weekends if possible.
Keep your dog on a leash while walking to and from the beach area. Dogs should only be off leash in designated areas. Maintaining control via a leash prevents issues with other beachgoers and their pets.
Always clean up after your dog thoroughly. Bring extra bags to pick up and dispose of any waste. No one wants to step in it! Properly disposing of waste keeps the beach clean for everyone.
Bring fresh water for your dog to drink and stay hydrated. The ocean saltwater can make them thirsty. Consider bringing a collapsible bowl too.
Check local laws before visiting. Many beaches have rules about where dogs are allowed, if they must remain leashed, and when dogs are prohibited due to high traffic seasons.
Alternatives to Boardwalks for Dogs
For dog owners looking to enjoy the Jersey Shore with their pets, there are several great alternatives to boardwalks that allow dogs, such as beaches and parks specifically designed for dogs.
New Jersey has several dog-friendly beaches that allow dogs during certain hours or seasons. Some of the most popular options include Island Beach State Park, Wildwood Dog Park & Beach, Longport Dog Beach, and Asbury Park Dog Beach. These spacious beaches provide plenty of room for dogs to play and swim in the ocean. Some beaches may require dogs to be leashed.
In addition to beaches, New Jersey also has designated dog parks where pets can run off-leash and socialize with other dogs. There are both public and private dog parks located throughout the state. Some notable dog parks include Barnegat Bark Park, Red Bank Dog Park, and Cranford Dog Park. These fenced-in areas often feature amenities like benches, shade, water stations, and waste bags.
Dog beaches and parks allow pet owners to enjoy the outdoors with their furry friends. They provide open space to exercise, play, and swim while avoiding the restrictions imposed on boardwalks. With various options across New Jersey, dogs don’t have to miss out on summer fun near the shore.
Conclusion
New Jersey’s boardwalks are a unique and iconic part of the state’s coastal culture. While some popular boardwalks like Atlantic City prohibit dogs, dog owners still have options to enjoy walks with their furry friends along the Jersey Shore. Towns like Ocean City, Asbury Park, and Wildwood Crest offer designated dog-friendly sections or schedules. With proper precautions like leashes, cleaning up after pets, avoiding peak crowds, and following local ordinances, dogs can safely experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the boardwalk. For beachgoers that prefer a dog-free experience, the majority of New Jersey’s boardwalks do have restrictions in place. By understanding the rules and options available, dog owners can find the right fit that lets them savor shore memories with the whole family.