Nahant, Massachusetts is a historical fishing and resort community, known for its rocky beaches and gorgeous New England scenery. Visitors and residents will be interested to learn about Nahant Dog Beach, a seasonally dog-friendly play space for pups.
We’ve researched Nahant Dog Beach and the Nahant area, and have also listened to what others have to say. If you’re considering a trip to the one-square-mile town, read on to learn about what you and your dog can do!
Before you scroll down to this article, “Nahant Dog Beach,” check out: Do Dogs Open Their Eyes Underwater? (2023) and Do Labradoodles Like to Swim? (2023).
Nahant Dog Beach: The Basics
There’s a lot to learn about Nahant and the dog beach there, and you’ll need to be aware of all the rules before you bring your pup to the park. First, and most importantly, you’ll need to note that dogs are only permitted on the beach from September 16 to March 31.
This, of course, has its pros and cons: you won’t be able to cool your pup off during the summer months, but you also won’t face large crowds when the beach is accessible in the winter.
Secondly, it’s critical to note that dogs must remain on a leash at all times. With that having been said, there’s no maximum leash length, so a retractable, longer leash will be just fine. During the cooler fall and winter months, your dog will have plenty of space to run, play, and socialize with other dogs despite the leash law.
The Nahant Dog Beach is actually called Lynn Shore and Nahant Beach Reservation, and the property has all the amenities you’d expect of a public park. There are bathrooms and trails, and you’ll find a playground on the beach where your little ones can run off some energy!
There’s a free shower facility on the property, but it tends to be a little cold in the winter months when dogs are allowed.
Motorized and non-motorized boats are permitted, so feel free to bring yours along. If you’d rather keep your feet on the ground, check out the bike trails, volleyball courts, and tennis facilities at the park.
While Nahant Dog Beach encompasses what you’d expect to find at any other park, it has the benefits of cleanliness and of naturally beautiful New England scenery.
Nahant Dog Beach Details:
- Location: 1 Nahant Road, Nahant, Massachusetts
- Phone Number: 781-595-0063
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset
- Vaccination required: Yes
- Leashes required: Yes
- Breed restrictions: None listed
- Parking: $10 for MA residents, $40 for non-residents
Nahant Dog Beach Reviews
Curious to hear what others are saying about Nahant Dog Beach? Here’s what visitors to the park think about the facilities.
First, most of the park is wheelchair accessible. Keep in mind, however, that there are some paths that are “paved” with pebbles, and this can be tricky to navigate in a wheelchair. Check out the park map to plan your visit before you go.
Second, the beaches at Lynn Shore and Nahant Beach Reservation are very clean! There are not always doggy bags available, so please bring your own. With your cooperation, Nahant Dog Beach will stay pristine.
When you visit the park, take note that visitors have called the ticketing “aggressive.” Ensure that you have your parking paid for appropriately, or purchase a season parking pass. This is a residential area and residents’ cars are stickered for parking; finding a space on the street may be difficult.
Finally, visitors love that the beach is spacious, particularly during low tide. You can see the Boston skyline on the horizon, and you’ll love the gentle surf, too. Bring a towel and spread out and make new friends — human and canine — at Nahant Dog Beach.
What to Bring to Nahant Dog Beach
Now that you’ve read through the rules and reviews, it’s time to pack your bag! But what, exactly, should you bring to Nahant Beach with you? Well, you’ll certainly need your dog’s rabies tag and a collar and leash. It’s a good idea to keep vet records in your car, too.
Bring some fresh water with you for your dog to drink. A collapsible or small bowl will be handy. Pack doggy treats, and bring enough to share! Other dog owners and their pups are quite social and Nahant, so you may meet a few new friends.
Towels are useful, although the showers will help remove sand from your pup and from your own feet. In the cooler months when dogs are allowed, it may be more comfortable to just give your pet a quick wipe down before getting into your vehicle.
Finally, bring sunscreen for your dog! Even in the winter months, your dog will be exposed to the sun’s rays; find a formulation that’s made just for canines and keep your doggy protected.
While You’re In Nahant
Nahant is a very small community, and during the cooler months, the entertainment options can be limited. You will have lodging options in Nahant, most of which are privately owned rentals. Check Airbnb and Vrbo listings, and be sure to ask about breed restrictions. Boston is just a short drive away, and there are many more hotels in the city.
Dog-friendly restaurants in Nahant are few and far between, but Salem, Quincy, Somerville, and Boston have tons of great dining spots. Rockafellas in Salem is a local favorite, and dogs are allowed on the patio. If you just want a snack, head to J.P. Licks in Boston for a frappe and grab your pup a scoop of ice cream.
Just want to explore? Boston Public Garden offers an opportunity to stretch your legs with your dog. The New England Dog Biscuit Company makes some of its treats on-site, and you can shop for treats and toys in-store. Rainy days warrant a trip to Norwell, Massachusetts, where you can visit JB’s Indoor Dog Park.
Need a little pup-free time? There are plenty of doggy daycares that will happily host your dog while you do human activities. The Dogmother in Peabody is a favorite of locals, and she charges just $30 for a day of fun and activities. Oceanview Kennel and Pet Resort offer overnight options, and it’s located in Revere.
Before you visit any of the locations listed, call ahead! You’ll want to verify that there are no breed restrictions and that your dog’s weight group is welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dogs are not allowed from April 1 to September 15, but the rest of the year, the beach is fair game.
Parking is $10 for Massachusetts residents and $40 for non-residents.
There are restrooms and showers at Nahant Beach.
Conclusion for “Nahant Dog Beach”
Whether you live in Massachusetts or are visiting the shore, you’ll want to take an afternoon and check out Lynn Shore and Nahant Beach Reservation. The clean beach is a short drive from Boston, and the skyline is even visible from the park!
You’ll find plenty of amenities at Nahant Dog Beach, but be sure to plan your trip around the months when pups are allowed on the beach. Once you’ve explored the beach, check out the dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, and other activities in the area — there’s something for everyone!
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Garrett loves animals and is a huge advocate for all Doodle dog breeds. He owns his own Goldendoodle named Kona. In addition, he volunteers at the Humane Society of Silicon Valley, where he fosters dogs and helps animals. Garrett enjoys writing about Doodles and believes that dogs can teach humans more about how to live than humans can teach a dog.
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