Pet-Friendly Wilmington: Beaches, Parks & Places to Visit

House sitting in Wilmington, North Carolina? Visiting with your pup? Or maybe you’re a local sharing the best spots with your pet sitter? Either way, you’re in the right place. From beaches and parks to dog-friendly restaurants, Wilmington has plenty for you and your furry co-pilot to enjoy. The hardest part? Deciding what to do first! Luckily, this guide to pet-friendly Wilmington is a great place to start.

Dog-friendly beaches, Wilmington, NC

Looking to let your pup dip their paws in the Atlantic? While there aren’t any specific dog beaches in Wilmington, NC, there are a couple that allow furry friends – just make sure to check the leash laws and seasonal rules before you go.

Freeman Park Beach

This beach is popular with dog lovers and 4X4 drivers, as you can load up your vehicle and drive right down onto the sand. There’s a fee of $30-$50 to bring your car (depending on the season), and furry friends must stay leashed from April 1 to the end of September. Outside of those dates, they can roam leash-free, but must stay under voice control. Carolina Beach dog rules also state that pet parents must carry a pet waste container (plastic or paper) and be ready to show it if asked.

Location: 1800 Canal Dr, Carolina Beach, NC 28428, United States

Wrightsville Beach

Just a short drive from downtown Wilmington, this beach welcomes pooch pals from October 1st through March 31st. According to Carolina Beach dog laws, leashes are required at all times. On the plus side, you’ll enjoy free parking during the off-season and easy access to nearby cafes and restaurants.

Location: Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480, United States

Wag-worthy dog parks, Wilmington, NC

Wilmington’s dog parks have plenty of sniffable spots, shady trees, and space to run wild. Whether your pup’s into paddling, digging, or making new furry friends, here are some top parks to check out:

Empie Dog Park

This park features two separate fenced areas — one for big pups and the other for smaller ones. Each has plenty of shade, spots to sit, and water bowls to keep four-legged furries hydrated. On warmer days, you might even find a paddling pool for a splash!

Location: 3405 Park Ave, Wilmington, NC 28403, United States

Long Leaf Park

There’s plenty of off-leash fun to be had in Long Leaf Park. Surrounded by tall pine trees, there’s benches and poop bag stations placed throughout the trails.

Location: 1701 College Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403, United States

Ogden Park

This sandy dog park feels like a mini beach for your four-legged friend! It’s clean, fully fenced, and has lots of dog waste stations.

Location: 615 Ogden Park Dr, Wilmington, NC 28411, United States

Smith Creek Park

This is a great spot for a stroll, so long as you keep your pup away from the lake, which is home to alligators and toxic algae. There’s a water fountain and cleanup bags to keep things tidy, but four-legged friends must stay on the leash.

Location: 633 Shenandoah St, Wilmington, NC 28411, United States

Carolina Beach State Park

Tucked among the pines, this coastal park is perfect for a scenic walk with your pup. There are shaded trails and small pools for a quick cool-down – just remember to keep your fur pal on a leash.

Location: 1010 State Park Rd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428, United States

Dog-friendly restaurants, Wilmington, NC

Hungry after all those zoomies? Wilmington has plenty of pup-welcoming patios and tasty treats for humans and hounds alike. Here are some top eateries where dogs are more than welcome:

Poe’s Tavern

After a romp on Wrightsville Beach, pop over to Poe’s for classic pub grub and a warm welcome. There’s pet-friendly outdoor seating and cold water at the ready for pups, while humans can refuel with burgers, fish tacos, and more.

Location: 212 Causeway Dr, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480, United States

Blue Surf Café

This chill neighborhood favorite chefs up fresh, locally sourced dishes inspired by flavors across the U.S. Grab a spot on the patio where your pooch pal will be treated to a refreshing water bowl while you dig into something delicious.

Location: 250 Racine Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403, United States

Anne Bonny’s Bar and Grill

This floating barge on the Riverwalk offers gorgeous views of the water and live music – and it’s dog-friendly! They specialize in Calabash-style seafood and other pub fare, and serve a refreshing array of cocktails, beer, and wine.

Location: 106 S Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States

Blueberry’s Grill

This popular brunch spot has a pretty, dog-friendly terrace, which is heated in winter months. Try the blueberry hushpuppies, Bloody Mary shrimp & grits, or sweet potato pancakes!

Location: 1900 Eastwood Rd unit 44, Wilmington, NC 28403, United States

Mess Hall ILM

Smash burgers, crispy chicken sandwiches, and loaded tots – need we say more? The Mess Hall’s sunny outdoor seating area is totally pup-approved, so bring your furry sidekick and enjoy a bite to eat.

Location: 2136 Wrightsville Ave, Wilmington, NC 28403, United States

Block Taco

Grab your order at the walk-up window and settle into the dog-friendly outdoor seating at this taco joint. Fan faves include fish tacos, nachos, and even Brussels sprout tacos. Afterwards, stroll over to the Satellite Bar & Lounge – their courtyard welcomes pups too!

Location: 120 Greenfield St #B, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States

The Maroon Monkey Coffee Co

This cute coffee shop serves unique caffeinated specials – try the Sweet Like Summer (with cookie and marshmallow), Emerald City (creamy iced matcha), or Basgiath Brew (cold brew with edible glitter).

Location: 124 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, NC

Other dog-friendly places in Wilmington, NC

Wilmington isn’t just beaches and brunch – here are a few more spots to add to your dog’s social calendar:

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area

Take Fido along the flat, paved walkway, passing marshland, pine forests, and sandy shores. Note that furry friends are not permitted on the swim beach and must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.

Location: 1000 Loggerhead Rd, Kure Beach, NC 28449, United States

Greenfield Park

Leashed doggos will love exploring the shady trails around the lake – but keep your eyes peeled for alligators (yes, really!).

Location: 1739 Burnett Blvd, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States

Halyburton Park

Right in the heart of the city, this wooded park is great for a quick walk or a longer meander. With paved trails and lots of green space, it’s ideal for pups who love a sniffari.

Location: 4099 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28412, United States

Historic Downtown Wilmington

Keep Fido on the leash for a stroll around town, admiring 18th and 19th-century architecture and shopping for trinkets and artisan treasures.

Location: 1 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States

The Riverwalk

Leashed furries can enjoy scenic views and a gentle breeze along this boardwalk, which stretches nearly two miles.

Location: Wilmington Downtown Riverwalk, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States

New Hanover County Arboretum

It’s free to enter this seven-acre garden, where you’re welcome to bring your four-pawed pal on a leash. With quiet areas to sit and a beautiful Japanese Garden, it’s perfect for a peaceful afternoon with your four-legged friend.

Location: 6206 Oleander Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403, United States

The Gary Shell Cross-City Trail

This 15-mile trail runs from Wade Park to Heide-Trask Drawbridge. Don’t worry – you don’t have to tackle the whole thing all at once, just take your pick of the various points of interest.

Location: 3500 Bethel Rd, Wilmington, NC 28409, United States

The Riverwalk in Wilmington

Tips for pet parents in Wilmington

Beware of blue‑green algae in the water

Local pet owners often warn about dangerous algae in ponds and lakes around Wilmington, especially in spring and summer. Keep your pooch away from stagnant water and watch closely at parks like Smith Creek or Greenfield Park.

Bring your own supplies

Wilmington parks aren’t as well-equipped as some, so make sure you always bring your own poop bags and water for your furry friend.

Plan for when you’re out of town

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Tips for pet sitters in Wilmington

Prep for the beach

If you’re planning a day at the beach, pack everything your pup might need, including food, water, toys, a towel, a water bowl, and poop bags.

Be sun smart

Aim for early morning and evening walks, and always check the pavement with your hand before heading out in the summer. Local spots like Greenfield Park and Long Leaf Park have shady trails and water fountains to help your furry friend stay cool.

Discover Wilmington as a house and pet sitter

Exploring a new place is so much more fun with a furry sidekick! They’ll take you on an adventure you might never have found as a regular tourist, plus, pups are great conversation starters – they make it easy to meet locals and feel right at home.