3 Dog-Friendly Texas Beaches That Put Out the Welcome Mat for Pooches

Yes, Texas has lots of great coastline, but we also have fantastic inland Texas swimming holes, and both could go a great distance with dog lovers if they roll out the red carpet for pooches. That’s just what these three beaches have in common because we all know that a dog who gets to strut its stuff on the beach is a happy canine! With plenty of places for dogs to frolic, swim, and run around to their heart’s content, dog lovers tend to like these destinations, where their furry friends won’t feel left out of the family fun. Here are three dog-friendly Texas beaches worth adding to your itinerary.

1. East Beach, Galveston

Photo: Pexels

Galveston is known for allowing leashed dogs on all public beaches, year-round! But, East Beach is also considered somewhat of a hotspot for its live concerts and festivals – making pet owners happy as well! With that, there are also many complementing amenities like umbrella and chair rentals, showers, restrooms, and concessions. Alcohol is also permitted on East Beach, which means you can set up a chair, sip some cool cocktails, and never worry that Rover is missing out on this prime relaxation opportunity. If you need another reason to visit this locale, one of its main attractions on an annual basis is the American Institute of Architects Sandcastle Competition held in the first week of June when thousands come out to see the remarkably detailed sand structures that result.

2. Matagorda Island Wildlife Management Area, Matagorda Island

Photo: Maxpixel

This 56,000-acre (plus) undeveloped barrier island welcomes dogs on a leash, and at more than 38 miles in length, it offers phenomenal hiking, fishing, camping, and biking opportunities. Camping on the beach is allowed, and the island supports the sport of bird watching (which your dog might similarly enjoy) with a number of migratory birds in the area. Another great highlight is the island’s lighthouse which was built in 1852 and remains for viewing on the north end.

3. Bonnie Wenk Dog Park, McKinney

Photo: Facebook/We Are Collin County

Although technically not a beach, this inland Texas, two-acre off-leash dog park also features a five-acre pond. In close proximity to Dallas, the Bonnie Wenk Dog Park in McKinney has separate areas for small and large dogs, a splash pad for them to get their paws wet, and a shaded pavilion to keep owners and their pets out of the hot Texas sun. It also features hiking and biking trails such as the .43 mile pond loop and the .44 mile dog park loop. Park hours run from dawn to 11 p.m. – making the most of our daytime hours to share with pets!