Your Guide to Beach Rules, Paw-some Adventures, and the Perfect Stay with Your Pup
At Canalside Inn, we get it—your dog isn’t just a pet, they’re family. That’s why we go the extra mile to make your Rehoboth Beach getaway easy, relaxing, and tail-wagging fun. Whether you’re strolling along the dunes or cuddling up after a day in the surf, your furry friend is always welcome here. But before you pack your leash and sunscreen, here’s what every dog-loving beachgoer needs to know.
🏖️ Rehoboth Beach & Boardwalk Dog Rules
Planning a trip from October through April? Great!
Leashed dogs are welcome on the beach and boardwalk from October 1 to April 30
Visiting in summer?
From May 1 to September 30, dogs are NOT permitted on the beach or boardwalk—plan your beach outings around nearby dog-friendly areas (more on that below!).
Reminder: Rehoboth city law requires all dogs to be leashed when not on private property, and they cannot run at large. So bring that leash (and maybe a cute harness too!).
Bonus: The Rehoboth Beach Police Department has a microchip scanner, so make sure your pup is chipped—just in case they decide to go on an unplanned solo adventure.
🐶 Dewey Beach Dog Rules (Just Minutes Away!)
Just down the road, Dewey Beach is a dog-lover’s paradise, especially in the summer!
- From Memorial Day Weekend through the Sunday after Labor Day, dogs are welcome:
- Before 9:30 a.m. and after 5:30 p.m.
- All other times of year? Dogs can play all day, any time!
- Licenses are required (available as 3-day, 8-day, or lifetime).
👉 Purchase your dog license here: https://www.townofdeweybeach.gov/purchaseadoglicense
Leashes are optional if your dog is under voice control, but be mindful—lots of pups will be off-leash having fun. Make sure your dog is social and always clean up after them (bags provided at every dune entrance!).
🌊 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Delaware State Parks
Looking for open spaces and salty air? Delaware’s State Parks are full of dog-friendly beach options. Some great spots include:
- Cape Henlopen State Park
- Delaware Seashore State Park
- Beach Plum Island Preserve
- Fenwick Island State Park
🟩 Look for drive-on access or fishing beaches for dog-friendly areas year-round!
🛑 Note: No dogs on swimming or sunbathing beaches between May 1–Sept 30.
🐕 Lewes, DE Dog Rules
In charming Lewes, your pup can visit the beach:
- Before 8:00 a.m. or after 6:30 p.m. from May 1–Sept 30
- Dogs must be leashed at all times within city limits.
🐾 Why Canalside Inn is the Best Dog-Friendly Hotel in Rehoboth Beach
At Canalside Inn, we love dogs. Here’s why pups (and their humans) can’t stop barking about us:
🐾 All rooms are Pet-friendly with easy outdoor access
🐾 Canal Trail across the street you can safely stroll along the trail path
🐾 Dog wash station to rinse off sandy paws
🐾 Walkable neighborhood near trails, parks, and pet-friendly patios
🐾 Travel Light we provide, dog bowls, dog blanket, towel and a couple doggie doo bags.
We’re more than just a place to stay—we’re your pup’s vacation home.
🐶 Book Your Dog-Friendly Stay Today!
Rehoboth Beach is better with your best friend by your side. At Canalside Inn, we make it easy to create memories with your pet—from beach days to breezy porch naps.
🎾 Ready to fetch the best trip ever? Book your stay now! https://www.thecanalsideinn.com
Or give us a bark—I mean call! 302-226-2006