Despite the vast majority of skeptics who are curious why a blog would be posted about beaches in the fall/winter, let me tell you friend, now is THE time to take your dog to the beach in the north. Ever thought about sea shell hunting in your hat and scarf? How about going for a morning run while listening to the waves beat down on the cold, sandy surface. What a great date night or morning/afternoon venture. During off-season, many major beaches allow dogs- even leash-free-at this time of year. Make an entire Saturday of the beach – Santa style. No crowds. No extra charges. Take a picnic or grab lunch at a pet-friendly diner. Your dog will surely appreciate the journey, and you’ll feel better about giving your pup a change in scenary. Read up about our Top 10, look at the pics and check out the links!

10. Town of Bethany Beach, DE – Town of Bethany offers pet-friendly beaches from Aug. – May 15^th. With a fresh market and lots of dog parks, you can practically explore the entire beach with your pup! Journey to Town of Bethany, make new memories and discover new places.

9. Down’s Park Dog Beach, MD – The perfect place to be over the winter. Take your dog, off-leash – anytime to Downs Park Dog Beach. Just grab your pet pet carrier or your dog car seats a few dog toys and some dog treats and you’re good to go! With lots of festivities to participate in, including ice skating, Down’s Park will liven up your weekends and vacations, all while being inexpensive.

8. East Beach, R.I. – Located on a beautiful beach spot, East Beach is perfect for taking your dog for a run, sea shell hunting or just basking in the beauty. You and your pet will enjoy and peaceful environment and a decadent view of the ocean.

7. Carson Beach, BA – Find award-winning landscapes, surrounding public amenities, a beautiful view of the harbor all on Carson. The benches and walkways allow for running or strolling with your pet. Enjoy a hot coco at a nearby restaurant and explore the sandy beaches of Boston.

6. Hither Hills State Park, N.Y. – Pack a picnic, your hiking shoes and your favorite cup-o-Joe, as Hither Hills State Park includes nature walks, places to picnic, great surf fish and a beautiful sandy beach to take your pup. You’ll have a blast at an inexpensive cost.

5. Seabrook Beach, N.H. – With flat sandy beaches, rocky nature spots and seagulls, this beach is an ideal peaceful environment. Bring your puppy between Sept. 15 – June 1, or on weekends, to Seabrook. With lots of local events, holiday events and great places to eat, you can make Seabrook a weekend get-away – no worries about calling a sitter for your dog.

4. Ocean City Beach, MD – It’s always a recreational atmosphere in Ocean City! With an amazing boardwalk, city parks and a great public transportation system, all you’ll need is your dog’s favorite leash as you take the train for a weekend with your furry family member. Between Oct-April, dogs are allowed on all beaches, and there’s even a special dog playground.

3. Block Island, R.I., – Called a ‘haven’ for dogs, Block Island is perfect for one or all of your precious furry family members! Because this island supports dog everything, you’ll find a lot of restaurants that allow dogs. Locals on the island claim that “no dog is a stray dog at Block Island.” Bring your entire family for a Sunday Funday.

2. Montauk Point State Park, N.Y.- Holding the oldest lighthouse in New York, Montauk Point is ideal for visiting during Aug-May. Bring your dog and favorite hot drink, because when the waters are calm, you can see all the way to Rhode Island on this sandy point. Take the opportunity to discover nature trails, camping sites or great beach spots to lounge.

1. Brigantine Beach, N.J.- Surf’s up at Brigantine! Enjoy high waves, sandy beaches and all-natural sand dunes. There’s surfing competitions and 4-wheel drive. From October 1st-May 29^th, dogs are allowed on all beaches! As long as they have a dog leash or dog harness, your pet can enjoy the beach and sand. Make it a Saturday!

Oh – and be sure to keep these reasearched beaches a secret. These spots are so enjoyable, you’ll have the entire northern crowded geared up for a beach trip next weekend!