Dog-Friendly Dewey Beach: Your Guide to a Pup-Loving Beach Getaway

Bring Your Best Friend: The Ultimate Dog-Friendly Dewey Beach Guide

If you’re the kind of traveler who wouldn’t dream of hitting the beach without your four-legged sidekick, you’re in for a tail-wagging treat. Dewey Beach isn’t just people-friendly—it’s dog heaven. With sandy paws, puppy patios, and pet-loving locals around every corner, this tiny beach town packs a whole lot of bark-friendly fun. From sunrise sprints to post-dinner strolls, I’ve sniffed out the best spots so you and your pup can soak up every salty moment. Let’s Dig In.

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Pinterest

_Disclaimer

_{^{This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here}}

Quick Start: What Makes Dewey Beach Dog-Friendly?

Let’s break it down for you:

• Dogs allowed on the beach during the summer before 9:30 AM and after 5:30 PM
• Off-leash time is a dream during these hours
• Many restaurants and cafes have pup-friendly patios
• Local events and businesses cater specifically to dog lovers
• No judgment zone: Sandy paws and wet noses are part of the culture here

Whether you’re here for a weekend or a day trip, your pup won’t just be welcome—they’ll be spoiled.

Sunrise Zoomies and Sandy Snouts

The early bird gets the best beach. At sunrise, the beach belongs to the dogs. Locals are out with coffee in one hand and leashes in the other. Off-leash time means pure joy as pups race across the sand, chase the tide, and greet their morning crew.

Pro Tip: Keep a towel in the car. Wet, sandy dogs are the price of joy.

Brunch With a Side of Belly Rubs

After a beach workout, both of you will be hungry. Nalu Surf Bar & Grill hits all the right notes. Their outdoor patio is dog-approved with water bowls and shady spots. And the breakfast burrito? Chef’s kiss. Bonus: fellow diners are likely to offer your pup a scratch or two.

If you’re feeling fancy, Woody’s also welcomes dogs outside. Grab a table, order their legendary crab cake sandwich, and let your pup chill at your feet while enjoying the seaside breeze.

Photo Tip: A wide-angle shot of your breakfast and your dog lounging beside you. Caption: Brunch goals: coffee for me, ear scratches for him ☕️ #PupPatioPerfection

Midday Adventures: Paddle, Play, or People-Watch

Looking for a post-brunch adventure? Try a kayak rental from Delmarva Board Sports. Yes, you can bring your pup! They offer life vests for dogs, and many small breeds love chilling up front while you paddle through the peaceful bay.

Not into water sports? Walk part of the  Rehoboth Bay Loop or chill in the sand dunes at the southern end of the beach. The vibe is quiet, the views are gorgeous, and you might spot dolphins while your dog digs a masterpiece.

Photo Tip: Pup in a kayak, ears up, eyes on the horizon. Caption: First mate on board and loving the view 🌊 #AdventureDogDewey

Pup Treats & Souvenirs

Yes, Dewey has spots for you to spoil your dog a little (or a lot). Check out Salty Paws in nearby Rehoboth, an ice cream bar just for dogs. Choose a base (peanut butter or vanilla), add bacon bits or biscuit crumbles, and let your pup go wild.

Need gear? Take a drive to Rehoboth Beach and stop at Concord Pet Foods and Supplies, which sells dog-friendly beach gear: collapsible bowls, leashes, toys, and even sunglasses for the gram.

Golden Hour Walks and Sunset Snacks

Before dinner, head back to the beach for the second round of dog-friendly hours. The light is golden, the breeze is cooler, and your dog probably needs a round-two zoomie session.

Grab takeout from Gary’s Dewey Beach Grill or Arena’s Deli, then find a quiet dune to sit and eat while your dog snoozes or sniffs.

Where to Stay: Dog-Friendly Lodging in Dewey

Planning to stay overnight? Hyatt Place Dewey Beach is right on the bay and loves pups. They offer pet-friendly rooms and are just steps from both beach and restaurants.

Looking for something more low-key? Try a beach house rental through Airbnb with a fenced yard and porch views.

Pro Tip: Book early—dog-friendly spots go fast, especially in peak season.

Plan the Perfect Pup-Loving Getaway

Dewey Beach proves that travel is better with your best friend by your side. From leash-free beach time to doggy ice cream bars and sunset walks, it’s the kind of trip your pup will dream about (probably while twitching in their sleep).

Ready to hit the road? Pack the treats, load the leash, and set your GPS for dog-friendly Dewey.

Have a favorite Dewey pup-spot I should add to my next post? Drop it in the comments or tag me in your beach dog selfies!

This blog is dedicated in loving memory of my sister’s dog, Oliver, who has passed. Though I currently live in an apartment where I can’t have pets, I grew up with a gentle Border Collie and deeply miss the companionship of a dog. Writing this brought back so many cherished memories and reminded me just how special our four-legged friends truly are.

If you loved this, be sure to check out the Fenwick Island Travel Guide: Peaceful Coastal Adventures Off the Beaten Path—perfect for those seeking a quieter, scenic retreat.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!

–Beth