Sandy Hook Multi-Use Path

Dogs on a leash all year

Paved path up the Sandy Hook peninsula. Leashed dogs all year; the ocean-side beaches next to it close to dogs from March 15 to September 15.

Source: National Park Service, Gateway: Pets. Checked October 28, 2026.

Follow the signs at the trailhead: parks can close areas to dogs for wildlife.

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Gateway National Recreation Area (Sandy Hook): the rule in full

No pets on the Sandy Hook ocean-side beaches from March 15 to September 15. Pets are allowed all year on the bay-side beaches at Plum Island and Horseshoe Cove, and on multi-use paths, sidewalks and paved roads outside closed areas. Pets must always be leashed.

Nearby beaches

• Sandy Hook ocean beachesNo dogs from March 15 to September 15. Dogs on a leash the rest of the time
• Asbury Park Dog BeachNo dogs 9am to 6pm, from May 16 to September 14. Off-leash dogs allowed midnight to 9am and 6pm to midnight, from May 16 to September 14. Off-leash dogs allowed from September 15 to May 15. No dogs the rest of the time
• Sea Girt BeachDogs on a leash from October 1 to March 14. No dogs the rest of the time
• Point Pleasant BeachDogs on a leash from October 1 to April 30. No dogs midnight to 8am and 3pm to midnight, from October 1 to April 30. No dogs the rest of the time
• Island Beach State ParkDogs on a leash all year