The EastCoaster

By: Brianna McAleer 

Are your pups doing the zoomies in the house and ready to get outside and play? Perhaps you have older dogs that just want to relax and enjoy the fresh air. Whatever type of character your dog might be, take them to these parks and beaches! We have compiled various dog-friendly parks and beaches in Long Island, NY that are sure to create a splendid morning/afternoon/evening for yourself and the pups. 

1. Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve (Lloyd Harbor) 

Photo Credit: Taron Schofield

Caumsett State Historic Park is located on Long Island’s north shore in Lloyd Harbor. If you’re looking for both a park and beach environment to bring your dog, this state park has it all. Caumsett is a dog-friendly state park where you can enjoy the various elements of nature. Some of which include exploring hiking trails with your dog, taking a walk to the beach, and chilling out on the lawns.

2. Gardiner County Park (Bay Shore) 

Photo Credit: BringFido 

Gardiner County Park is a 231-acre public park on the Great South Bay. This park offers many on-leash trails you can take your dog through toward the beach. A huge plus at this park is that there are doggy water fountains spread throughout the area. The area is also equipped with a dog agility park and a dog-run. The trails can get muddy after rain, but if you’re into being one with nature, go for it! 

3. Robinson Duck Farm Dog Park (Brookhaven) 

Photo Credit: LIdog

Located on Montauk highway in Brookhaven Hamlet, this 2.6 acre park is surrounded by a 4ft wooden fence with turkey wire. This park is split into two areas for the bigger dogs and smaller dogs. Both areas contain plenty of room for your dogs to run and play. The large dog side is equipped with an obstacle course. When visiting, make sure to bring water for your dogs.

4. Cold Spring Harbor State Park (Cold Spring Harbor) 

Photo Credit: bvacc.com 

Another north shore park worth the visit is Cold Spring Harbor State Park. This park is a much more hilly location. So if you and your dog are looking for some exercise, this is the place to go. Around the park is a one mile hiking trail. This trail includes some steep hills, large stunning oak trees, and various bushes on Mountain Laurel. Typically, this park is one where keeping your dog on a leash is most ideal since there are more trails than dog-runs. If interested, look into the trees and you might spot some Great Horned Owls and Red-Tailed Hawks! 

5. Port Jefferson Dog Beach (Port Jefferson) 

Photo Credit: Jennifer Sloat 

This small harbor-side beach is a great location to bring your pup for some fresh air and time to swim. There are areas where owners can walk their pups. Going at low tide is much recommended since there will be more beach for your dogs to run and play at. If interested, you can take a walk through the beautiful village of Port Jefferson as well. 

6. Centerport Beach (Centerport) 

Photo Credit: Wag!

Located right next to the town of Huntington, Centerport Beach has plenty of room for your dogs to roam the sand, play, and swim in the water. The sunset views and cleanliness of this beach will be a great experience for all who attend. A plus to this beach is that it does not get overcrowded during the spring and summer months. During the summer months, Residents of this beach can purchase a seasonal beach pass for $40 while visitors can purchase a daily pass for $35. However, during the off-season, you can bring your pup here for free. There are also nature trails that you can check out right around the corner from the beach! If you visit the nature trails, make sure to keep your dog on-leash. 

7. Springs Dog Park (East Hampton)

Photo Credit: Durell Godfrey

With 20+ pet-friendly acres, you can bring your dog to explore the vast open green spaces and 3 major trails. If you are looking for a place where your pups can run open and free, Springs Dog Park is the place to go! The park includes 6ft livestock fencing, double and single gate entries, and is an off-leash park. Enjoy the open green areas.

8. Southampton Village Dog Park (Southampton) 

Photo Credit: Southampton Village Dog Park 

Located in the village of Southampton on the south fork of Long Island, Southampton Village Dog park has plenty of grassy areas for your pup to run free and play. The park includes a double gate entry and separate enclosed areas on one-acre. The dog run is fully fenced in and includes climbing boulders, benches, shaded areas, and water fountains. 

9. Shadmoor State Park (Montauk) 

Photo Credit: Expedia 

At the end of Long Island is the beautiful Shadmoor State Park in Montauk. The dog area of this park is called Ditch Plains Beach. It contains over 2,000 ft of beach and is surrounded by bluffs along the shore. Up on the bluffs, you can travel along the hiking trails or sit on the beach for some relaxing time with your dog. In order to access this area of the beach, you can either hike through Shadmoor State Park or park your car in an area off Ditch Plains Road. Take in the beauty of the water, sand, and nature! 

10. Main Beach (East Hampton) 

Photo Credit: Hampton Sun 

Last, but not least, is Main Beach in East Hampton. Main Beach is located off of Ocean Avenue. Dogs are welcome at any time on-leash during the off season. During the summer months, dogs are only allowed at Main Beach before 9am or after 6pm. Take your dog for a swim, play a game of fetch, or relax and watch the sunrise in the morning. 

We hope you enjoyed this list of dog-friendly beaches and parks! Get outside and enjoy!

For more info on Long Island dog-friendly parks and beaches, click here!