Dog-Friendly Beaches
The Local Element Lakeshore
Real Estate Agency
Hey there, beach babes and their fur babies! Ready to dive paw-first into the sandy haven of West Michigan’s dog-friendly beaches? Grab your sunglasses, a doggy frisbee, and your pup’s favorite sunscreen. We’re about to spill the beachy beans on where you and your four-legged friend can catch some waves without any worries. Dive into
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Dog-Friendly Beaches near Grand Haven
Grand Haven City Beach
Dogs are allowed along the entire length of the shoreline and must always be on a 6-foot leash. (Please Note Special Hours & Seasonality Below)
Directions – South Harbor Dr, Grand Haven , MI
- Dogs are allowed on a leash before 11 a.m. and after 5 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day.
P. J. Hoffmaster State Park
Dogs must always be on a 6-foot leash
Directions – 9791 Lakeshore Ave, West Olive, MI
Kirk Park & Dog Beach
This off-leash dog beach has limited hours and varied rules depending on the season. (Please Note – Hours Below)
Directions – 9791 Lakeshore Ave, West Olive, MI
- May – September: no dogs allowed from 10 a.m. -6 p.m., dogs are allowed off-leash from 7-10 a.m. & 6-10 p.m.
- October – April: Dogs are allowed on Kirk Park beach off-leash; they must remain leashed on-trail.
Dog-Friendly Beaches near Saugatuck
West Side County Park
Dogs must always be on a 6-foot leash
Directions – 2152 Lakeshore Dr, Fennville, MI
Saugatuck Dunes State Park
Dogs must always be on a 6-foot leash
Directions – 6575 138th Ave, Holland, MI
Dog-Friendly Beaches near South Haven
Van Buren State Park Beach
Dogs must always be on a leash, and not allowed within the swim area that has buoys.
Directions – 23960 Ruggles Rd, South Haven Charter Twp, MI
Pilgrim Haven Natural Area
Dogs must always be on a 6-foot leash
Directions – For GPS purposes, the address is approximately:
77000 block of 18th Ave., South Haven, MI 49090
Dog-Friendly Beaches near St. Joseph
Warren Dunes State Park
Dogs must always be on a 6-foot leash.
Directions – 12032 Red Arrow Hwy, Sawyer, MI
Dog-Friendly Beaches near Ludington
Ludington State Park
Dogs must always be on a leash and are only allowed between the beach house and Big Sable River.
Directions – 8800 M-116, Ludington, MI
Mears State Park
Dogs must always be on a leash, and not allowed within the swim area that has buoys.
Directions – 400 W Lowell St, Pentwater, MI
Cedar Point County Park
Dogs must always be on a leash, and not allowed within the swim area that has buoys.
Directions – 4760 N Lakeshore Dr, Mears, MI
Dog Safety on Lake Michigan
While Lake Michigan offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat, it’s essential to consider your dog’s safety. Most dogs enjoy splashing in the shallow waters, but it’s crucial to monitor them closely. Watch out for strong currents, and be mindful of your dog’s comfort level in the water. If your pup is a strong swimmer and you’re in a designated dog-friendly area, Lake Michigan can be a safe and enjoyable spot for a swim.
If you are unsure of the currents or your dogs strength in the water, a lifejacket is always a great extra safety measure! Learn more about which size jacket to get your dog.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants Along the Lakeshore
Odd Side Ales
- As long as your dog is on a leash and well-behaved, your fur baby can join you for dinner on the patio. However, dogs must sit on opposite sides of the fence.
- Directions – 41 Washington Ave STE 160, Grand Haven, MI
The Deck
- Your doggo can join you at an outdoor table. Enjoy BBQ while they drink a fresh bowl of cold water.
- Directions – 41 Washington Ave STE 160, Grand Haven, MI
Dairy Korner
- This dog friendly ice cream shop has outdoor seating a a bunch of yummy sweet treats options available. You can even order them an ice cream pup cup!
- Be sure to check their hours as they are only open during the summer.
- Directions – 1605 Lakeview Ave, St Joseph, MI
Ludington Bay Brewing Co.
- What’s better than enjoying a cold one with your dog? They have pet-friendly outdoor tables where you enjoy your meal and the company of your dog.
- Directions – 515 S James St, Ludington, MI
Ludington Bay Brewing Co.
- Enjoy the fresh air and good food on a riverboat! Your dog is welcome to sit with you at one of their pet-friendly tables.
- Be sure to check their hours as they are only open during the summer.
- Directions – 515 Williams St #10, South Haven, MI
Local Shopping for Your Dog
Decadent Dogs – 523 Phoenix St, South Haven, MI
Must Love Dogs Boutique – 106 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, MI
Lakeshore Pet Boutique – 10 W Center St, Douglas, MI
Ebby’s Pet Bakery & Boutique – 618 E Savidge St # C, Spring Lake, MI
Wags to Wiskers Pet Supplies – 4815 US-10, Ludington, MI
Fuzzybutz Pet Bakery – 306 State St, St Joseph, MI
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