Dog beach · Highlands, NJ

Dogs at Sandy Hook

Can I bring my dog, and where on the sand?
Limited access

Only off-season on the ocean side, dogs are banned from oceanside beaches March 15 through September 15, but bay-side beaches allow them year-round.

Leashed dogs (6-ft max) allowed on oceanside beaches September 15 - March 15; leashed dogs allowed year-round on bay-side beaches at Plum Island and Horseshoe Cove.

Where dogs can go

Leashed dogs (6-ft max) allowed on oceanside beaches September 15 - March 15; leashed dogs allowed year-round on bay-side beaches at Plum Island and Horseshoe Cove.

Where or when dogs are not allowed

Oceanside beaches closed to dogs March 15 - September 15 to protect nesting piping plovers.

Leash and beach rules

Managed by the National Park Service as part of Gateway National Recreation Area; dogs not allowed at campgrounds.

Service animals

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.

Official source
Highlands, NJ
View the official beach rules →
Last verified 2026-07-09

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Sandy Hook?

Only off-season on the ocean side, dogs are banned from oceanside beaches March 15 through September 15, but bay-side beaches allow them year-round. Leashed dogs (6-ft max) allowed on oceanside beaches September 15 - March 15; leashed dogs allowed year-round on bay-side beaches at Plum Island and Horseshoe Cove.

What is the dog rule at Sandy Hook?

Managed by the National Park Service as part of Gateway National Recreation Area; dogs not allowed at campgrounds.

When are dogs not allowed at Sandy Hook?

Oceanside beaches closed to dogs March 15 - September 15 to protect nesting piping plovers.

Are service animals allowed at Sandy Hook?

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.