5 Best Dog Beaches Near Atlanta, GA

Do you live in or around the Atlanta area? Do you have a dog? Would you love to find some beaches nearby that could give you and your dog a chance to get away for a day trip or maybe a weekend stay?

Atlanta is a landlocked city, which means there aren’t any beaches in the nearby area. However, plenty of beaches are within just a short drive of the city limits and can provide you, your dog, and your whole household with an excellent opportunity to get out and soak up some sun too.

In the article below, we’ll show you five of our top picks for dog beaches you can drive to easily from the Atlanta area. Use this information to plan your next getaway with your dog and see for yourself what makes these beaches such popular destinations!

Tidwell Park Beach in Cumming, GA

This beach is located on a lake instead of on the ocean or the Gulf. It is located in Cumming, GA, about an hour’s drive away from Atlanta, and provides an excellent opportunity to get away for the day. If you want to take your dog to the beach but don’t have the time or resources to go to an oceanside beach, then Tidwell Park may be the best choice for you!

This park is also home to a boat launch, which makes up the majority of its popularity. Be cautious when allowing your dog to swim at this beach, as boats may be entering and exiting the water frequently during the busier times of the year.

Whitewater Creek Trail Beach in Atlanta, GA

Although this beach isn’t quite a true beach, it can give you and your dog a taste of beach life without having to leave the Atlanta city limits. This beach is located on the Chattahoochee River instead of on the ocean or Gulf, making it easy to get to without having to plan a big trip to make it there.

This beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists both, so during the busy months, it can be packed with people and dogs alike. Don’t take your dog to this beach if she dislikes crowds of people or isn’t friendly to other dogs.

Morningside Nature Preserve Dog Beach in Atlanta, GA

This beach is part of the Morningside Nature Preserve, which is located within the heart of Atlanta. Like the Whitewater Creek Trail Beach, the term “beach” might be a little strong for this location, but it’s still a great solution for dogs who want to run and scamper around for a little while.

If you take your dog to this beach, make sure she gets along with other dogs. Since this is a dog beach specifically, it is generally treated like a dog park and is full of pet owners with their furry friends along for a day trip.

East Beach in St. Simons, GA

Between four and five hours by car away from Atlanta’s city limits in St. Simons, GA, you can find East Beach. This beach is located on Saint Simon’s Island and allows dogs at certain times of the year. Dogs are not permitted on this beach during the busy season however, which usually runs from May through August.

East Beach provides an excellent option for off-season beachgoing with your dog. During these months of the year, dogs are allowed to roam without a leash as long as they have good recall skills—meaning your dog can go off-leash if she comes back to you when called.

Driftwood Beach in Jekyll Island, GA

This beach, located in Jekyll Island, GA, is a bit of a drive, clocking in at about five hours away from the heart of Atlanta. However, the payoff is worth the effort of getting there, as the beach is a very popular destination for individuals and families with dogs in tow.

This beach requires dogs to stay on a lead of 16 feet or less. The beach also has a lot of driftwood present, so be careful with your dog if she’s prone to eating sticks she finds on the ground.

Important Things to Remember When Going to Dog Beaches Near Atlanta, GA

With so many great beaches to pick from, it can be difficult to choose the one you like the sound of the best. However, no matter which one you choose, there are some things that are important to keep in mind when going to any dog beach near the Atlanta area.

Check the Beach’s Rules Prior to Going

Keep in mind that all of these beaches do allow dogs, but each one may have its own specific rules and regulations about dog presence on the beach. Always check with the beach in question ahead of time to make sure you’re following the rules.

Bring Items for Your Dog to Have While You’re There

When you take your dog to the beach, it’s also very important to bring along some items for your pet’s comfort and for the comfort of others, too. Bring plenty of water and a dish for your dog, and bring dog sunscreen if she has short hair or no hair.

Don’t forget some beach-friendly dog toys and a long lead so she can have room to run. And of course, bring some poop bags so you can pick up after her when she goes potty!