"Dog reads"

Virginia Beach offers plenty of fun for you and your pal — from beach romps to playtime in spacious parks. The popular beaches of the city’s main drag are closed to dogs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, but there are still plenty of places you and your dog can enjoy and still romp around in the sand with your best friend at your side.

This entertainment-centric city also has more than surf and sun for you both. There are great trails to explore, restaurants to check out, and lots of hotels and motels that welcome dogs. (And during the off-season, you both can check out those other beaches – just call ahead for updated policies.) The state slogan is “Virginia is for lovers,” but with so many options, it’s clear that Virginia Beach is for dog lovers!

First Landing State Park
2500 Shore Dr., Virginia Beach, VA 23451
757-412-2320
First Landing State Park has more than a mile of beach open to both you and your dog all year long. There are also 20 miles of trails at the park, so wear your walking shoes. Adjacent to the park is Fort Story and the famed historical lighthouse on Cape Henry. Here, the Atlantic Ocean meets the Chesapeake Bay in a sweeping expanse of pristine beach. Dogs are welcome, and you’re likely to spot a pod of dolphins.

Abbey Road Restaurant & Pub
203 22nd Street
Virginia Beach, Virginia, 23451
When the dinner bell rings, your mouth waters like Pavlov’s dog. And Abbey Road is a best bet for a good meal. Just a block from the Atlantic, the restaurant has a Beatles theme and a patio that’s open to dogs. Grab an outdoor table and enjoy the ocean breeze while you kick back with your dog, a plate of seafood scampi, and one of the more than 100 international beers on tap. There’s also live music many weekend nights.

False Cape State Park
4001 Sandpiper Road
Virginia Beach, Virginia, 23456
It’s a quick boat ride to False Cape State Park, a mile-wide barrier island in southern Virginia Beach. Fifteen miles of trails, complete with beaches, dunes, forests, and salt marshes will take you and your buddy hours and hours to explore at the park. And from November through March, dogs are allowed on Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which borders the park. After the sun sets, you and your buddy can take in a brilliant display of stars — the location of the park makes it a great escape from light pollution. The truly adventurous can pitch a tent and spend the night (advance reservations required).

Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront
57th Street and Atlantic Avenue
Virginia Beach, Virginia, 23451
Located on the northern end of Virginia Beach, just a few blocks from the fun of the boardwalk, the Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront welcomes you and your dog. Each of the hotel’s pet-friendly rooms has a garden view and a patio leading out to a lovely lawn. The semi-private beach is open to dogs during certain hours. Just look for the signs with hours and other pertinent information.

Chesapeake City Dog Park
900 Greenbrier Parkway
Chesapeake, Virginia, 23320
Located in Chesapeake City Park, this 1.5-acre space has plenty of room for you and your best friend to romp and play. With separate areas for large and small dogs, you can feel safe letting your pal off the leash so he can make a few new friends. Water fountains and benches provide hydration and a place to rest. But just like the park at home, he’ll have to be current on his vaccinations to join in the fun.

This article is courtesy of WagWorld magazine by Beneful® brand Dog Food.

Add a Comment

You must have an account to add a comment.

• LOG IN
• REGISTER NOW
• or Login with Facebook