Pet Friendly Vacations

Your best friend deserves a vacation too, and this is why the Outer Banks has always been pet friendly, with miles of beaches for everyone in the family to enjoy. Most dogs love the beach, but there are plenty of sights and sounds for Fido (and his owners) to explore and enjoy on Hatteras Island.

Take a long walk along the Pamlico Sound, where the gentle sound water is perfect for playing a cool game of catch, or explore the nature trails by the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, where a variety of maritime birds and animals will keep your friend’s nose to the ground. Above all else, just remember that it’s your dog’s vacation too, and it probably doesn’t matter where on Hatteras Island you go, just so long as your best friend gets to enjoy time with the family.

If you’re vacationing with your dog, there are a few tips to bear in mind to ensure everyone in the family, even the furry members, enjoys their Hatteras Island stay.

Rent a Dog Friendly Vacation Home

Surf or Sound Realty has plenty of dog friendly accommodations to choose from, in all sizes and locations. Several homes even have fenced-in areas with room to run. Look for the “dog friendly” indication in the home’s description, or simply browse all of our homes that allow dogs by clicking on the yellow “dog friendly” icon.

Observe the Leash Laws

All of Hatteras Island’s beaches fall within the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, and it is a National Park Service (NPS) rule that all dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 ft. while on the beach, unless they are playing in the water.

Clean Up

Please don’t leave anything that other beach-goers might accidentally step in. Be sure to include a couple of plastic bags when you pack for a trip to the beach.

Bring an Umbrella

When you bring your dog to the beach, be sure to have a little umbrella space available. The sand can get very hot on a summer day, and with a fur coat, your dog will most likely need a little shade.

Bring Plenty of Water

Pack along a dog bowl and lots of water to make sure your furry friend is hydrated while enjoying a day on the beach. Remember, that with the sun, sand, and salt water, your dog will probably drink more water than usual while on the shore.