You're in luck if you're considering relocating to Virginia Beach, VA, and want to take your pet. This coastal city is not only a wonderful place to live, but it is also full of dog-friendly places to visit.
The following are some of the best dog-friendly spots in Virginia Beach.
Off-Leash Parks
Virginia Beach, Va, is a dog-friendly destination. Choose from five off-leash parks within city limits, all with their own attractions. Bayville Farms Park has an off-leash area with separate sections for small and large dogs. You can also play the 18-hole disc golf course if you keep your pup leashed.
Red Wing Park and Woodstock Park offer an acre of off-leash space where dogs of all sizes can interact. Salem Woods Park is even bigger, with 1.7 acres for off-leash play. Finally, Marshview Park has four fenced off-lease areas and lots of shaded areas and is crisscrossed by (on-leash) walking trails.
Keep in mind that off-leash still means under control, and there are a few key rules to follow, including:
- Dogs must be licensed and up-to-date on all vaccines
- No sick dogs or puppies under four months old
- Stay with your dog the whole time
- Leave food in the car or at home
- Scoop any poop
- Don't let your dog dig
Grab a Bite
Every good dog deserves a treat after a fun romp at the dog park. Head to Salty Paws for a doggie ice cream cone. Your pup will love flavors like Peanut Butter, Bacon, and Pumpkin or a special cookie made just for dogs. Treats and ice cream are lactose-free and dog-safe.
Of course, humans need treats, too — fortunately, there's no need to leave your furry friend at home. Virginia Beach has many pet-friendly establishments. The aptly named Hair of the Dog Eatery boasts a patio where you can enjoy Southern comfort food and an extensive cocktail menu with your little buddy at your side. The Abbey Road Pub and Restaurant allows dogs at outdoor tables, and features live music in the evenings.
Bring your canine companion to the Smartmouth Brewing Company and Pilot House for pizza and beer. And if you need a caffeine boost, head to Astrea Coffee, housed in a historic building with plenty of outdoor seating for dogs and their humans.
Beach Time
If your doggo loves to frolic in the sand and surf, you're in luck: Virginia Beach allows dogs on beaches during specific times of the year. But, of course, the rules change depending on the season and area.
Before Memorial Day and after Labor Day weekend, leashed dogs are allowed on boardwalks, and off-leash dogs can play in some parts of the public beach. During the rest of the year, dogs are allowed on the boardwalk and in specific areas on the northern and southern ends of the beach from 6 am to 10 am only.
During summer, dogs aren't allowed on the resort stretch of Virginia Beach — which stretches from 42nd Street down to Rudee Inlet — at any time.
Fun with Your Pup in Virginia Beach
You will find lots of pet-friendly activities and destinations in Virginia Beach, VA. If you're moving to Virginia Beach, Brooks Transfer is here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can make your Virginia Beach move easier.
