Dogs Allowed Back on Multiple US, UK Beaches with Restrictions

Several coastal areas in the U.S. and the U.K. have recently updated their beach policies to allow dogs on the sand after seasonal restrictions ended. In Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, and Surfside Beach, dogs are now permitted on beaches during the day, though veterinarians recommend walking pets in cooler hours until the sand fully cools. Similarly, dogs and bicycles are allowed at all times on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, with leash and clean-up requirements in place, and seasonal restrictions will resume in May 2026. Sunset Beach, North Carolina, has also lifted its pet ban following Labor Day, while Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach maintain restrictions until October. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, permits leashed dogs on its beaches from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except near Fish Haul Creek to protect endangered shorebirds. In the U.K., Cornwall Council has lifted dog bans on 35 council-owned beaches starting August 31, although some beaches with wildlife protections still enforce year-round restrictions, and owners are reminded to clean up after their pets.