Top 11 'Paws-on-the-Planks' Coastal Boardwalks to Explore for City Dogs Seeking a Seaside Stroll
There's a special kind of magic that happens when the city pavement gives way to weathered wooden planks, and the drone of traffic is replaced by the rhythmic crash of waves. For our city-dwelling canine companions, this transition is nothing short of paradise. They trade fire hydrants for salty air, crowded sidewalks for expansive ocean views, and the familiar cityscape for the tantalizing smells of the sea. It’s a sensory explosion that invigorates the spirit and tires out even the most energetic pup.
But finding the perfect coastal boardwalk that welcomes four-legged friends can be a challenge. Many iconic seaside spots have strict "no paws allowed" policies, leaving well-behaved dogs and their hopeful owners out in the cold. That's why we've done the digging for you, sniffing out the best, most welcoming, and utterly beautiful coastal boardwalks where your dog can join you for that much-needed seaside stroll.
This isn't just about a walk; it's about creating memories. It's about feeling the sea spray on your face and seeing the pure joy in your dog's eyes as they trot happily by your side, tail wagging in time with the ocean breeze. So grab the leash, a travel bowl, and get ready to explore our top 11 'paws-on-the-planks' destinations designed for the ultimate dog-friendly day out.
1. Asbury Park Boardwalk, New Jersey, USA
Asbury Park isn't just a legendary music hub; it's a haven for dogs, especially during the off-season. The boardwalk itself is a vibrant mix of historic architecture, quirky shops, and incredible murals that provide a fantastic backdrop for your walk. The wide, spacious planks are perfect for a leisurely pace, allowing your pup to take in all the new sounds and smells of the Jersey Shore.
The real magic of Asbury Park for dog owners is its incredibly welcoming attitude. From September 15th to May 15th, leashed dogs are welcome to strut their stuff right on the boardwalk and even play on the beach. During the summer, you can still enjoy the northern end of the beach at the Asbury Park Dog Beach, a dedicated spot where dogs can run off-leash and splash in the waves before 8:30 a.m. and after 6:00 p.m.
Pro Tip: Don't miss the Wonder Bar, a famous venue right off the boardwalk with a massive outdoor, fenced-in "Yappy Hour" area. It's the perfect spot to grab a drink while your dog socializes safely with other beach-loving pups. Just be sure to bring fresh water, as the salty air can be dehydrating.
2. Santa Cruz Wharf, California, USA
While many California piers have strict no-dog rules, the Santa Cruz Wharf stands out as a wonderfully dog-friendly destination. Stretching half a mile out into the Monterey Bay, this historic wooden wharf offers a unique walking experience. Instead of just looking at the ocean, you're walking right over it, with the sound of barking sea lions on the lower decks providing a constant, amusing soundtrack for your stroll.
Your leashed dog will love the journey, surrounded by the sights of fishing boats, the smell of fresh seafood from the wharf-side restaurants, and the calls of seabirds overhead. It’s a full sensory experience that is far more exciting than a typical neighborhood walk. Many of the shops are dog-friendly, with water bowls often left outside for thirsty patrons.
Pro Tip: The wharf can get busy, especially on sunny weekends. For a more relaxed experience, aim for a weekday morning. Afterward, head to nearby West Cliff Drive, a beautiful and paved coastal path that offers stunning views and is extremely popular with local dog walkers.
3. Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, South Carolina, USA
Myrtle Beach is a classic American vacation spot, and its 1.2-mile boardwalk is the heart of the action. Lined with arcades, gift shops, and eateries, it's a bustling and exciting environment. The good news is that your furry friend can join in the fun, albeit with a few rules to keep in mind.
Dogs are welcome on the main stretch of the boardwalk from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. from May 1st through Labor Day. This is perfect for an early morning sunrise walk before the heat and the crowds set in. During the off-season (the day after Labor Day through April 30th), the rules relax, and your leashed dog can accompany you at any time. This makes the fall and spring ideal seasons for a dog-friendly seaside stroll.
Pro Tip: The wooden planks can get scorching hot under the South Carolina sun. Always test the surface with the back of your hand. If it's too hot for you to hold for five seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Plan your summer walks for the earliest part of the morning.
4. Brighton Promenade, England, UK
The iconic, carnival-like Brighton Palace Pier may be off-limits to pups, but the real star of the show for dog owners is the magnificent promenade that runs for miles alongside it. This wide, flat, and paved coastal path is a dog-walking paradise, offering incredible views of the English Channel, the chalky cliffs, and the pier itself.
Stretching from Hove Lawns all the way past the marina, you can walk for as long or as short as you like. The pebble beach has designated dog-friendly sections year-round, allowing for some off-leash fun and a quick dip in the sea. The promenade is dotted with dog-friendly cafes and kiosks, making it easy to stop for a coffee and a puppuccino.
Pro Tip: For a truly classic experience, walk west towards the colorful beach huts of Hove. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity and is generally a bit quieter than the bustling area directly in front of the pier. Check local signage for the most up-to-date information on dog-friendly beach zones, as they can change seasonally.
5. Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, California, USA
While not a traditional boardwalk, the network of piers and waterfront promenades at San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf offers one of the most exciting urban coastal walks a dog could ask for. The area is a symphony of stimulating smells, from salt water and creosote-soaked planks to sourdough bread and fresh crab.
Leashed dogs are welcome along the main walkways of Jefferson Street and the exterior areas of PIER 39. The highlight for your pup (and you!) will undoubtedly be the sea lion viewing areas. Your dog will be mesmerized by the sights and sounds of hundreds of sea lions barking, lounging, and splashing just a few feet away. It's a unique wildlife encounter right in the heart of the city.
Pro Tip: The area is a major tourist hub, so it can be overwhelmingly crowded. Try to visit on a weekday or early in the morning. Keep a short, firm leash to navigate the crowds safely. Afterward, you can continue your walk along the San Francisco Bay Trail for more spectacular views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.
6. Revere Beach Reservation, Massachusetts, USA
As America's first public beach, Revere Beach has a rich history and a beautifully restored 3-mile crescent-shaped promenade. This wide, paved walkway is perfect for a long, leisurely stroll with your canine companion, offering sweeping views of the Atlantic. It’s a fantastic spot for city dogs from Boston and the surrounding areas to stretch their legs and breathe in the fresh sea air.
The best time for a doggy day out at Revere is during the off-season, from October through April. During these months, leashed dogs are welcome on both the promenade and the sandy beach, giving them plenty of room to roam and play. The flat terrain makes it an easy and accessible walk for dogs of all ages and energy levels.
Pro Tip: In the summer, even though dogs aren't allowed on the sand, the promenade is still a great place for a leashed walk, especially in the evening when a cool sea breeze rolls in. The famous Kelly's Roast Beef has a walk-up window, so you can grab a classic sandwich without having to leave your pup behind.
7. White Rock Promenade, British Columbia, Canada
Just a short drive from Vancouver, the charming seaside city of White Rock boasts a stunning 2.5-kilometer-long promenade that is a dream for dog walkers. The paved path runs parallel to the beach and the railway, offering beautiful views of Semiahmoo Bay and the distant San Juan Islands.
While the famous White Rock Pier itself is off-limits to dogs, the promenade is where the real action is. It's a social hub for local dog owners, meaning your pup will have plenty of opportunities for friendly greetings. The path is wide and well-maintained, with numerous benches along the way to stop, rest, and soak in the incredible scenery.
Pro Tip: The promenade connects East Beach and West Beach. Start at one end and walk to the other for a great 5k round-trip adventure. Many of the restaurants along Marine Drive have dog-friendly patios, so you can enjoy a post-walk meal with your best friend by your side.
8. Busselton Foreshore, Western Australia, Australia
Home to the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere, Busselton is a must-visit. While dogs are not permitted on the 1.8km-long jetty structure itself, the surrounding foreshore area is a slice of dog-friendly heaven. A beautiful, wide, and flat path meanders along the stunning turquoise waters of Geographe Bay, perfect for paws of all sizes.
The Busselton Foreshore is more than just a path; it's a destination. There are grassy areas for a good roll-around, shady trees for a mid-walk nap, and a designated dog-friendly beach right next to the jetty precinct. Your dog can have a fantastic time splashing in the calm, clear water while you admire the view of the historic jetty stretching out into the ocean.
Pro Tip: The area features several dog-friendly cafes with outdoor seating. It’s the perfect place to start your day with a coffee before embarking on your coastal walk. Remember to bring plenty of water, as the Western Australian sun can be intense.
9. Scheveningen Boardwalk, The Netherlands
For a European twist, the boardwalk at Scheveningen, the coastal district of The Hague, is exceptionally welcoming to dogs. This vast, modern boardwalk is separated into a lower and upper level, providing ample space to walk, run, and enjoy the views of the North Sea and the iconic Scheveningen Pier.
The Dutch have a very dog-friendly culture, and you’ll see it on full display here. From October 1st to May 15th, dogs are allowed to run off-leash on the entire beach, making it one of the best coastal experiences a dog could ask for. Even in the summer, designated dog beaches are available. The boardwalk itself is lined with numerous "strandpaviljoens" (beach clubs), many of which happily welcome dogs with a bowl of water.
Pro Tip: Rent a "bakfiets" (a Dutch cargo bike with a large box on the front) from a local shop. It's a fun and unique way to explore the coastline with your dog riding comfortably up front.
10. Changi Point Coastal Walk, Singapore
I was recently chatting with Goh Ling Yong about unique dog-walking spots that blend nature with city life, and Singapore's Changi Point Coastal Walk came up as a must-see. This hidden gem offers a tranquil escape and is a testament to how well urban planning and nature can coexist. The walk is a series of interconnected boardwalks that hug the coastline, taking you over the water and through lush greenery.
The walk is divided into sections, with the Sunset Walk and Kelong Walk being particularly stunning. Your leashed dog will love the wooden planks under their paws as they peer down into the clear water below. It’s a relatively quiet and peaceful walk compared to other parks in Singapore, offering a serene environment to bond with your pet while enjoying views of the Strait of Johor.
Pro Tip: The entire loop is about 2.2km, making it a manageable walk for most dogs. Go in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense tropical heat. Afterward, you can visit the nearby Changi Village for a drink at one of the many pet-friendly alfresco cafes.
11. Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, Florida, USA
Often hailed as one of America's best beach boardwalks, the Hollywood Beach "Broadwalk" in Florida is a fantastic destination. This 2.5-mile-long, extra-wide paved promenade is perfect for a coastal adventure. One side is lined with the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, and the other features charming cafes, boutiques, and hotels.
What makes Hollywood so special is its dedicated dog beach. Located between Pershing and Custer streets, this designated area allows your furry friend to frolic in the sand and surf. While dogs are not permitted on the main stretch of the Broadwalk itself, you can easily walk them on the leash on the adjacent street-side walkway to get to the dog beach. It's a fantastic compromise that allows for both a structured walk and some glorious off-leash fun.
Pro Tip: The dog beach has specific hours (it's typically open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from morning until early evening), and there's a small fee for a day pass. It's well worth it for a safe and clean environment for your dog to play.
There you have it—a world tour of some of the most spectacular and welcoming coastal boardwalks for you and your city dog. Getting out of the urban grind and onto the planks is more than just exercise; it's a reset button for both of you. The sea has a way of washing away stress and reminding us of the simple joys in life, a lesson our dogs teach us every day.
Now we want to hear from you! Have you visited any of these 'paws-on-the-planks' paradises? Do you have a favorite local spot that didn't make our list? Share your stories and recommendations in the comments below—let's build the ultimate resource for dog lovers seeking a seaside stroll.
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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