Cape Cod is not only a fantastic destination for families, but it’s also a paradise for those who love to travel with their furry friends. With its beautiful beaches, scenic trails, and welcoming communities, Cape Cod offers plenty of dog-friendly spots where you and your canine companion can explore, play, and relax together. Whether you’re staying at The Blue Hydrangea or just visiting the area, this guide will help you discover the best dog-friendly parks, beaches, and restaurants on Cape Cod.
Dog-Friendly Beaches on Cape Cod
Cape Cod is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in New England, and many of them welcome dogs. Here are some of the best dog-friendly beaches on the Cape:
Herring Cove Beach (Provincetown)
Herring Cove Beach is one of the most dog-friendly beaches on Cape Cod. Located at the tip of the Cape in Provincetown, this beach allows dogs to be off-leash in the off-season (from September 16 to March 31) and on a leash during the peak summer months. The calm waters and stunning sunsets make it a perfect spot for a relaxing day with your dog.
- Location: Provincetown, MA
- Leash Rules: Off-leash during the off-season; on-leash during summer.
Dog Beach (Provincetown)
Also known as Pilgrim Bark Park Beach, this stretch of sand near MacMillan Pier in Provincetown is specifically designated for dogs. It’s an off-leash beach where dogs can run, swim, and socialize freely. Provincetown is known for being one of the most dog-friendly towns in the U.S., so you’ll find plenty of other dogs and dog lovers here.
- Location: Provincetown, MA
- Leash Rules: Off-leash allowed.
Sandy Neck Beach (Barnstable)
Sandy Neck Beach is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Dogs are allowed on the beach year-round, but they must be on a leash from May 15 to September 15. The beach offers a mix of sandy shores and dunes, providing plenty of space for your dog to explore.
- Location: Barnstable, MA
- Leash Rules: On-leash from May 15 to September 15; off-leash allowed during the off-season.
West Dennis Beach (Dennis)
West Dennis Beach is a beautiful, long stretch of sand that’s perfect for a day out with your dog. While dogs are not allowed on the beach during the peak summer months, they are welcome from Labor Day through Memorial Day. The beach is spacious, with plenty of room for walks and play.
- Location: Dennis, MA
- Leash Rules: Dogs allowed from Labor Day through Memorial Day.
Dog Parks and Walking Trails
If your dog loves to run and socialize with other dogs, Cape Cod has several dog parks and walking trails that are perfect for an outdoor adventure.
Pilgrim Bark Park (Provincetown)
Pilgrim Bark Park is a must-visit for any dog owner in Provincetown. This off-leash dog park is one of the most popular in the area, featuring separate sections for large and small dogs, as well as art installations created by local artists. The park is well-maintained, with plenty of seating for dog owners and shaded areas for dogs to cool off.
- Location: Provincetown, MA
- Features: Off-leash areas, separate sections for small and large dogs, art installations.
Thompson’s Field (Harwich)
Thompson’s Field in Harwich is a large, open space that’s perfect for a leisurely walk or a game of fetch. The park has a mix of wooded trails and open fields, giving your dog plenty of room to run and explore. It’s a popular spot with locals, so your dog will have plenty of opportunities to make new friends.
- Location: Harwich, MA
- Features: Open fields, wooded trails, off-leash areas.
Nickerson State Park (Brewster)
Nickerson State Park offers a variety of trails that are dog-friendly, making it a great spot for hiking with your furry friend. The park has over 1,900 acres of forest, freshwater ponds, and scenic trails. Dogs must be kept on a leash, but the extensive trail system provides plenty of opportunities for exploration.
- Location: Brewster, MA
- Features: Hiking trails, freshwater ponds, forested areas.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants and Cafés
After a day of exploring, you’ll want to relax and enjoy a meal. Fortunately, many restaurants and cafés on Cape Cod welcome dogs at their outdoor seating areas.
The Canteen (Provincetown)
The Canteen is a popular eatery in Provincetown with a dog-friendly outdoor seating area. They serve a variety of fresh, locally sourced dishes, including seafood, salads, and sandwiches. The casual, beachside atmosphere makes it a great spot to enjoy a meal with your dog by your side.
- Location: Provincetown, MA
- Dog-Friendly Seating: Outdoor patio.
The Casual Gourmet (Centerville)
The Casual Gourmet is a café and bakery that offers a dog-friendly outdoor seating area. They serve breakfast, lunch, and delicious baked goods, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal or a coffee break. The outdoor seating area is shaded and comfortable, with water bowls provided for dogs.
- Location: Centerville, MA
- Dog-Friendly Seating: Outdoor seating area.
Chatham Bars Inn Beach House Grill (Chatham)
For a more upscale dining experience, the Chatham Bars Inn Beach House Grill offers dog-friendly seating on their outdoor patio. The restaurant serves a variety of seafood dishes and classic New England fare, all while providing stunning views of the ocean. It’s a perfect spot for a special meal with your dog.
- Location: Chatham, MA
- Dog-Friendly Seating: Outdoor patio.
Lobster Trap (Bourne)
Lobster Trap is a classic Cape Cod seafood restaurant with a dog-friendly outdoor seating area. They offer a wide range of seafood dishes, from lobster rolls to clam chowder, all served in a relaxed, casual setting. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal with your dog after a day of exploring.
- Location: Bourne, MA
- Dog-Friendly Seating: Outdoor seating area.
Plan Your Stay at The Blue Hydrangea
After a day of exploring Cape Cod’s dog-friendly spots, retreat to the comfort of The Blue Hydrangea. This dog-friendly vacation rental in South Dennis offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for both you and your furry friend. With its convenient location, you’ll be just a short drive away from all the best dog-friendly beaches, parks, and restaurants that Cape Cod has to offer.
Ready to experience Cape Cod with your dog? Book your stay at The Blue Hydrangea today and start planning your dog-friendly adventure on the Cape.
