Doggin' America: 50 Great Beaches To Take Your Dog (A Bark In The Park)

Have you ever noticed how many TV commercials and magazine ads show happy people walking down a beach with their dog? Fast forward to real life. Yes, it is hard to imagine any place a dog is happier than at a beach. Whether running around on the sand, jumping in the water or just lying in the sun, every dog deserves a day at the beach. But all too often dog owners stopping at a sandy stretch of beach are met with signs designed to make hearts - human and canine alike - droop: NO DOGS ON BEACH.

The reality is that about half of the beaches in America never allow dogs on the sand. Most of the rest only allow dogs in the off-season. Whenever you see a lifeguard stand you can assume your dog will not be welcome. Other beaches ban dog to protect nesting shorebirds.

But all is not lost. Here are 50 great places where you can get that dream vacation at the ocean with your dog. Included are beaches along the Atlantic coast, the Pacific coast and the highly restrictive gulf of Mexico. As a bonus, nine great Great Lakes beaches for your dog are described as well.