Beaches in Connecticut That Allow Dogs

The beach is a summertime destination, for both humans and their dogs. The Connecticut coastline offers a number of dog-friendly beaches. At these New England locations, Connecticut residents and tourists can enjoy the sun and waves at the beach with their canine friends.

  1. Jennings Dog Beach

    • Jennings Dog Beach in Fairfield is dedicated to providing a beach for the entire family, including families beloved dogs. Dogs are allowed on the 27-acre beach from October 1 to March 31. At this off-leash beach, dogs can run around freely, chase a ball, wrestle with their owner and swim in the salty ocean water. Jennings Dog Beach encourages responsible dog guardianship and relies on owners to keep a watchful eye over their furry friends. While the area remains open with a great deal of wide space, dogs are not permitted on the pavilions, boardwalks or playgrounds.

    Penfield Beach

    • Grab your pooper scooper and a plastic bag, and head to Penfield Beach in Fairfield. From Labor Day to April 30, dogs are free to run around the 3.5-acre beach. This beach is free and open to the public. The picnic tables and charcoal grills scattered throughout the beach allow you to barbecue a feast while you puppy enjoys the beach. Just make sure to pick up after your favorite canine's messes.

    Amtrak Beach

    • If you are OK with keeping Fido on a leash, check out Amtrak beach. This dog-friendly beach is located in Niantic. Let your dog join you for a nice stroll along the water at this mixed rock and sand beach. While dogs are welcome to roam the beach with their owners, they are not permitted to walk on the boardwalk.

    Compo Beach Off Leash Dog Area

    • From October 1 to March 31, Compo Beach is a dog-friendly beach in Westport. The Compo Beach Off Leash Dog Area is dedicated to letting dogs run about without being tethered to a leash, although owners must supervise their dog's play. As for the rest of the beach, dogs are allowed in most areas, including parking lots, grass areas, and roadways, as long as they are kept on a leash. Dogs are not permitted, however, on the pavilion, boardwalks, volleyball courts or playground.