When spending time in Sandy Hook it’s essential to take your pup to the best dog beaches around. Though there aren’t a ton of options in the area, we’ve found a wonderful option that you and your dog will have fun exploring.
Gateway National Park (26 Hudson Rd, Highlands, NJ 07732) is a beautiful, scenic place to bring your four-legged friend. Just don’t plan on bringing them to the oceanside beaches at Sandy Hook Unit from March 15 through Labor Day – that’s piping plover season. These small, sparrow-sized shorebirds find a safe haven at this park during that time, so it’s important to keep pups and other animals away. Never fear, you can take your pet to Plum Island and Horseshoe Cover throughout the entire year, so long as you keep them on-leash.
There are also plenty of trails that you and your leashed dog can explore together, just make sure to keep them in permitted areas – and avoid the delicate natural habitats. This place is huge! The Park is a hotspot for swimming, bird-watching, boating, hiking, and camping, and is a gorgeous place to take your family. The beach is clean, not too crowded, and the perfect place to unwind.
Don’t forget to bring water for your pet, and to pick up and pack out any dog poop. You won’t find any amenities around, so you’re going to need to take anything you need with you – including some way to make shade on hot days. Heads up, this park is a wild, wonderful place which means you may run into wildlife and, ahem, the occasional tick. Make sure to thoroughly check your pup after your adventures (and yourself too!).
Not enough time to exercise your dog properly while you’re in the Sandy Hook area? Not to worry, we have many trained, enthusiastic local dog walkers available at your fingertips. They’ll be happy to take your pet for a stroll and give you peace of mind while you enjoy your vacation.