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Fisherman's Cove Conservation Area

Fisherman's Cove Conservation Area in Manasquan, NJ is the last undeveloped tract on the Manasquan Inlet. The 55-acre site is a great place to fish, walk on the beach, or go sunbathing. Dogs are welcome at Eastern section of the beach, but they must be leashed at all times to preserve the delicate coastal habitat. Be mindful that the Western section of the beach does not allow pets. Visit Website

Or call (732) 842-4000 for more information.

Reviews

BringFido Guest Rating
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Fisherman's Cove Conservation Area has received a rating of 4.1 out of 5 bones by 84 canine critics on BringFido and 4.0 out of 5 by 37 guests on TripAdvisor.

  • Dennis
    Sep 9, 2023
    Must be heaven.

    At Fisherman's Cove it was great. My little dog Caesar and i visited Fisherman's Cove and Conservation Center, two days after Labor Day for two days, after a day of traveling.

    The beach was great and no better or worse than any other eastern seaboard beach up and down the coast of New Jersey.
    The people were great and the nearby Riverside Cafe could not have been any better. The family that runs it are so nice I was just over my head in greatfulness to them. They were so nice, a brother, sister, and I think father team. After a rough start at the Motel 6 in Tom's River, a total stranger helped me find the Motel 6 that I was booked to in Tindor Falls.
    In 2024, I plan again on going to Fisherman's Cove and Conservation Center. It will be either the same three days after Labor day, or perhaps 5 days.

    Jordan, is by some stroke of God, you get to read this review, I hope to see you again, and Leever. Maybe the next time we can get him to swim out and get that tennis ball. I found him and you to have the most eerie calming effect on me. That might just be due to how nice you both are. I could tell right away that Leever was a good boy but just was not into swimming after the ball. I hope to see both of you in 2024 right after Labor Day. Your Golden Lab is a beauty for sure.
    Hope to see you both as I had a great time swimming a talking with you.
    May God be with you, always.

    Dennis Fenstermacher

  • Anne
    Sep 5, 2023
    Great Beach for dogs

    I thought this was a great little beach to bring my dog. It was our first visit and it won't be our last. We got there early in the morning on 9/1 (Labor Day Weekend). There were a lot of people walking their dogs. Dogs were playing in the water. We walked in the water and then sat for a while. My dog loves to people watch so he was quite content sitting under his umbrella and watching everything. I was very happy to see everyone adhering to keeping their dog leashed. It did get busier as the day went on but we really enjoyed our stay and highly recommend this beach to bring your dog.

  • Shelly
    Jul 23, 2023
    Great place! Dog approved!

    We took our dog here for the first time yesterday. The beach was actually a little bigger than I expected. It's the bay side so you won't find waves but it's a good height for your dog to go in, if he likes water, mine does not. The dogs were all well behaved and leashed and people were friendly. There was plenty of space to spread out, so that you were not on top of others. The beach itself is free but if you park in the lot there is a fee ($15 weekends). There are porta potties for humans nearby but no actual bathrooms, plus a hose to rinse off yourself and your dog if needed. There are 2 dog friendly restaurants that offer casual outdoor dining about a 5 minute walk from the beach. Really nice day for us.

  • Cheri
    Jul 19, 2023
    Loved it!

    I brought my dog here for the first time today. We had a blast! Everyone there was so nice and there was plenty of room for any dog. There are port-a-potties for humans and garbage cans for disposing of your dog’s #2. There is water available for your dog but not directly on the beach. I brought my collapsible dog bowl and filled it with water I brought with me. The ranger was very strict about the leash rule but was also incredibly nice about it. Definitely will return!

  • Jamie
    Jun 16, 2023
    Wonderful!!!

    This was a great first beach experience for my little pup. He met so many friendly dogs and was able to jump the little waves and dig in the sand. All the people were very friendly too. I would highly recommend!

  • EJ
    May 17, 2023
    Loved it!

    I loved this little spot and so did my pup. She had the best day ever playing in the water and running along the beach. Other pet parents were also very nice and the other dogs were friendly. No issues at all and I can’t wait to take my pup back!

  • Joanna
    Aug 14, 2022
    Great little spot!

    Never ever even knew this place existed! Thought it would be a crummy little beach but it wasn’t. Perfect for dogs and the parents! Water is perfect height for the dogs to stand and swim. There are a lot of broken shells where the waves break but once you get past there it’s fine. There’s enough beach for everyone to have their own space. There’s also dog water fountains in case you forget to bring a bowl with water. Highly recommend!!!

  • Lisa
    Aug 7, 2022
    Great day at the beach

    very clean. park ranger enforces leash policy. best day don’t let the negative reviews discourage you!

  • Kelly
    Aug 4, 2022
    BEACH WAS GREAT VISCOUS DOG TRYING TO ATTACK MINE, NO GOOD!

    My dog and I walked up about 1/2 the beach from the rocks with no issues. She interacted with a couple of other pups, again NO issues. After sitting for a bit, we got up headed to the water only to have this woman’s German Shepard mix trying desperately to attack my dog. Her dogs teeth were out, and the dog was growling and snarling at my dog within 2 inches of my dogs face as I screamed at her to control her dog! She said her dog didn’t do that to my dog, but she didn’t see her dogs face! PLEASE BE CAREFUL IF YOU GO THERE!!! There is no one around to help you in this kind of situation either, so just beware!

  • Jessica
    Jun 27, 2022
    Great find!

    Wanted to give an updated review since all are almost a year or older. The beach is clean of trash but there are a lot of broken shells everywhere. Down by the water it’s filled with rocks and more broken shells. So you just have to be careful with your dog running. Other than that the water is perfect high for your dog and you to cool off! The ranger was on top of people who didn’t have their dogs on a leash. We had a long 8 foot rope and the ranger didn’t bother us. We couldn’t find the water station that is mentioned on the beach site so bring lots of water for your dog. We will deff be going back.

  • Jarrod
    Jul 25, 2021
    Awesome place

    you’re supposed to keep your dog on a leash but no one does. So keep that in mind if that bothers you. otherwise it’s a great place to cool your dog down in the summer.

  • Annie
    Jul 21, 2019
    Great Find!

    I don’t understand the negative reviews. This is a cute little beach. What a find down the Jersey Shore!!! This place is a perfect way to spend the day with your best friend(s)! Very dog friendly with a hydrating station to rinse off your pooch as well as a doggy water fountain. Even doodie bag dispenser too to ensure everyone is responsible for proper dog etiquette. Leashes dogs welcome but as I noticed from the regulars just get a retractable leash or a long lead and you’re good! Then your dog can go out far while you still have control. The beach is a bit rocky so I noticed after a bit my feet and my dogs feet were getting sore. But otherwise, I honestly can’t wait to go back...and I’m sure neither can my dog! Also, down the road within walking distance is Riverside Cafe which is yet another great find and super dog friendly! They even have “Happy Dog Meals!” Overall, an excellent little nook down the Jersey Shore!

  • Bryan
    Aug 29, 2018
    Terrible

    Water wasn't even deep. Way to many flies,crabs and rocks. So much tar. I couldn't go deep because of how much tar there was. Worst place ever. Wouldn't recommend to anyone PLEASE DON'T GO.

  • Linda
    More than a year ago
    Not worth the trip!

    Small, rocky and restrictive. No fun for my dog or me.

  • Eric
    More than a year ago
    These people are bugging

    My wife suggested this after reading the reviews on this site. We were all excited out dog loves the beach. Once we got here we knew we made a mistake. First of all, this is barely a beach. It has some sand and water but thats the only ties it has to being a beach. Secondly dogs have to be leashed at all times. If you live around the corner from here maybe check it. But if you have to travel go elsewhere. It is dirty and unpleasant.

  • Andrea
    More than a year ago
    Nice to get your pup in the water

    This is a nice little beach to get your pup in the water. Everyone there (mostly locals, it seemed) was very friendly and mostly kept to themselves. I saw a mix of leashed and unleashed dogs, so I felt comfortable putting my dog on her 20 foot leash while we were there (she's not reliable for recall off leash.) I parked on the street during July 4th weekend (2016) and had no issues getting to the beach - it's a very quick and easy walk. We also used the dog wash station that others mentioned - very nice and perfect so my dog didn't smell like seawater all the way back to the city.

    I wonder if some of the other reviewers are used to pristine sandy beaches? This was just fine for me and my pup, but we're used to swimming in the muddy gunk of Lake Erie. :) I wasn't concerned about the kelp or broken shells, that happens on a beach - but I did see some human garbage and dog poo that should have been cleaned up. Based on the reviews here, this beach has a strong local following - it would be nice if the fans banned together to maintain the beach area.

  • Andrew
    More than a year ago
    mr

    Rangers are crazy enforcing the leash laws, and now you are only allowed on 1/3 of the beach with your dog. 2/3 of beach is off limits at all times. No fun going here anymore. They really destroyed a fun place to take your dog for a swim and to socialize with other dogs.

  • Ed
    More than a year ago
    This is GREAT news

    The news regarding the dog beach is GREAT. This is the ONLY beach I consider when Tim and I want to take our Yorkie Teddy for a day trip. We have gone NOWHERE so far this year. Teddy had major tumor removal in May and with his recent diagnosis of arthritis we have been unable to go anywhere so far this season. Now that we are able to come back to dog beach we can not wait.
    THANK YOU Monmouth County for realizing that dogs ARE family and that they really do matter to those of us who consider them our children. The area designated for dogs is quite possibly the best area of the whole beach. When there is low tide our dog LOVES this area as he can run and play. The western area is a little to deep even in low tide to be of use.
    We definitely WILL be coming back soon.
    THANK YOU!!!

  • Samantha
    More than a year ago
    BUGS!!!!!!

    This was our first time at this part of the shore and at a dog beach. Today is June 13th, 2015. We got onto the beach and it was fine until 4 minutes later we were attacked by bugs. There were 15 of them on my one arm. So the 4 of us quickly ran off the beach and since he drove 1hr and 20 minutes to spend 4 minutes there with a dog really sucked! So we did walk and it was very nice to see a very family oriented beach!

  • Erika
    More than a year ago
    There is a reason why the rules changed

    So I contacted someone from Fisherman's Cove and got this response in regards to the hours and rules being change for dogs to come on the beach:

    Thank you for your inquiry. Fisherman's Cove Conservation Area is a special park and attendance has increased. We have received many requests from visitors who wish to use the beach for other activities without worrying about dogs. While leash regulations have been in place at Fisherman's Cove, many have chosen to disregard it. That creates a problem for others and the problem has grown. Parents and grandparents of small children have asked to be able to enjoy the beach without getting knocked over; fishermen wish to have a dog free area where dogs are not stirring up the water or getting caught in their lines; others may want to enjoy the beach without barking; or some people are simply intimidated by dogs. The Park System is trying to accommodate everyone and it is important to note that while dogs are not allowed on the beach between the hours of 10am to 4pm, all people are welcome. You and your family can still enjoy the beach area during these hours.

    Also, please consider that Fisherman's Cove Conservation Area is not a sanctioned dog beach or dog park. It is a Monmouth County Park and, as such, open to all people. While dogs have been welcomed to the park, and throughout the Park System, they must be on a leash and under control at all times. The only off-leash dog areas in the Park System are at Wolf Hill Recreation Area, Oceanport, and Thompson Park, Lincroft.

    The new time limits for dogs on the beach will remain in effect and be enforced. If a visitor violates a Rule or Regulation, the Ranger may educate, warn, ask the individual to leave the park, write a summons or make an arrest - or a combination. Should a summons be issued, the municipal judge will determine the amount of a fine or outcome.

    Thank you again for writing. We hope that you will continue to enjoy Fisherman's Cove Conservation Area throughout the summer. While some of the beach hours are restricted for your dog, there are still several hours when your dog can be there with you.

    **there is a reason why the rules were changed. Not everyone, and I dislike to say this, is a responsible dog owner. Also not all dogs are well behaved off leash. Some bark too much, invade people's space, can be aggressive towards other dogs which was ruin a person's beach experience. My quest to find a dog friendly beach continues. To all dog owners: please PLEASE train your dogs on or off leash and SOCIALIZE THEM!

  • Ed
    More than a year ago
    THIS NEW RULE SUCKS!!!

    This new rule SUCKS!!!. I took a long time reviewing beaches to bring my dog to for a day and Fisherman's Cove beat everyone by far. We have NOWHERE to go in PA so this is a great day trip for us and our dog, especially low tide. We spend 3 to 4 hours there and go home. We bring food, NO beer like some do. Put up a cabana, walk our dog, ON THE LEASH, pay in the water and then go home. We DO clean up after ourselves, put trash in the bins and take everything else we brought along. We are polite, say hello to people and do not cause trouble. These trips, 6 last year, are THE highlight of my now 10 year old Yorkie Teddy. He has pics here and we were looking to add more this year. BUT, I guess we will not be this year. I hope enough people can get the this rule changed and FAST. I had hoped to be there on June 6th after my dog has finished recuperating from having a major tumor removal. PLEASE MONMOUTH COUNTY CHANGE THE RULE. I also suggest that anyone that can please email the Governor. I DO NOT want to have to go to Sandy Hook as the reviews
    are not great even though it is closer to home.

  • Dave B
    More than a year ago
    Help Save the Dog Beach

    Hello,

    I just signed the petition, "Monmouth County Park System/ Fisherman's Cove: Allow dogs to visit and enjoy "Dog Beach" at Fisherman's Cove any time of the year!."

    I think this is important. Will you sign it too?

  • Jennifer Vigil
    More than a year ago
    Leave the cove for the dogs

    I am writing because I hope people review this I am starting a petition against the change of fishermans cove "the dog beach" not allowing dogs from 10am to 4 pm memorial to labor day.... I think it is insane It has been the dog beach for the last 20 years maybe more and they are trying to regulate it like this...Peaceful protest I am starting Sunday the 24th at 12:30 pm against this change... If your interested in this please come down and sigh the petition. Thanks
    Jenn Vigil Wall nj

  • Amanda
    More than a year ago
    Five Ruff's

    This place is great for your dog to run and swim without being hassled too much by the rangers. Just keep leash on as you should anyway. We usually spend all day there even though we live a few miles away. After a whole day there, we rinse our dog off by the entrance to doggie beach from a red pickup that has a pressurized water tank with hose that is sponsored from the Riverside cafe. They are about a block away on the Inlet looking at the Manasquan Inlet. Very nice for them to do this for free!! We always go there good food and very dog friendly. They also give treats and water for free just ask.

  • Chase Finch
    More than a year ago
    Great spot!

    My dog and I love this area.

  • Ruby
    More than a year ago
    best for locals not wrth the drive

    We have being dying to try this beach! We have a well trained happy 6 month old pup. I came prepared with a couple different leads as I could see there was a bit of an issue "to leash or not to leash". This is a long narrow beach covered with rotting kelp and broken shells. My dog was having a much easier time navigating it than I was and having him leashed was unrealistic. He wanted to chase the balls being thrown and enjoy romping in the waves, so I set him free. Everyone seemed to have control over their dogs and plenty were unleashed.I was told I should keep my dog on a leash and that they give tickets to the unleashed. This made me really uncomfortable so I put him back on for a bit. It is no fun on a lead, no fetch , no waves, no play. This beach is the armpit of the surrounding beaches, there is absolutely NO reason to be there if you do not have a dog. These rules make it ridiculous. Is there ANYWHERE you can take your dog off lead and just PLAY? I was picturing a more relaxed setting I cant imagine enforcing the leash law here, it would make it even more uninviting. We spent the day unleashed, but nervous of a possible citation. Just like the dog park it is completely up to the people who happen to be sharing it with you at the time you choose to go. The rules should be simple, non aggressive dogs only and owners must pick up after their dog! If I was local I'd go more frequently, but I think my guy seems to enjoy our local dog park much more, and I dont want to drive an hour and a half only to run into Leash Nazis.

  • Ayla
    More than a year ago
    Ok beach but best in Jesrsey

    (summer 2014) I try to go to this beach during the week as the weekends are just too crowded. Ok there was that one time a off leash un-neutered pit came up t my dog and it looked like he had blood on his neck! But that was only one incident. Seems like they have really cracked down on the leash rules which I like. I keep my dog on a long line tied to my chair if we are not actively swimming in the water. Still a few dogs off leash came up to my dog but they were well behaved (or good natured, not well behaved or they would have listened to their owners) and therefore my dog was too. Though some dogs were off leash owners seem to respect that this is a dog beach for owners to enjoy the beach with their dogs and not a dog park for all dogs to romp and play with each other (my dog is not too good with that part)

  • K
    More than a year ago
    July 2014 Review

    This our first time at the conservation area. Here is our review. Parking in the lot is $11 Fri-Sun & $6 Mon-Thur. Also you can park on the street for free if you can find a spot. There were no restrooms, only one port-a-potty that was located in the parking lot. Needless to say it was extremely filthy. We noticed some dog poop along the trails that was left by irresponsible owners. What a shame. The place even provides bags for owners to clean up after their dogs. I do suggest that you bring water for your dog to drink since there is no place at the beach to hydrate you pet. As we approached the beach it was low tide. The seaweed was piled up along a lot of the beach which drew flies/other insects and a foul smell. I suggest you wear water shoes since at places there are a lot of shells/small rocks. The water was fairly clean with the exception of the seaweed. Since it is an inlet, the water is pretty calm, so the dogs can really enjoy the water. Most people had their dogs on leashes, however you still have the people who do not follow the rules. Maybe they are the same ones who do not clean up after their dogs? The people that we were in contact with were very nice, the staff included. I did not see any rangers, however our dogs were leashed so I wasn't really looking for them. All in all I liked this place. You cannot find many places that allow dogs on the beach anymore. Kudos to this community/officials for allowing us to enjoy with our pets. Unfortunately, there are people out there that do not follow the rules and will ruin it for the rest of us. Also there was a pick up truck located outside of the exit on the street where you can rinse off your dog. They take donations. If you decide to go, I am sure you will have a good time. We were there on a Friday in July 2014.

  • Denise
    More than a year ago
    dog beach

    Took our pit there today 6/18/14 and was pleasantly surprised. Nice area for the dogs and people. We have a wonderful dog beach in Florida and was happy to find something here.

  • Lyndsey
    More than a year ago
    Where's the beach?

    We pulled up to the beach and walked down the path and all we saw was garbage, seaweed, and poop everywhere. I was so disappointed. I have been there before and it looked like a beach. We ended up leaving even the dog didn't want to be there.

  • Wind
    More than a year ago
    dog beach

    This is an awesome beach for you and your dog's to enjoy. The only downside to beach , which is why I gave it a rating of a 4 and not a 5 is because of the multiple people who ruin it but unleashing their crazy dogs. If everyone did what the law states, which is to leash their dog this beach would be rated a 5.

  • Rainha
    More than a year ago
    Love the Beach

    Fabulous time for my PWDs. Let's continue to have fab times by keeping the beach clean and not picking up after you dog(s). There are very, very, very few beaches where dogs are welcomed.

  • Ed
    More than a year ago
    Second time was better than the first

    Great time was had by all. Last Labor Day weekend Tim and I brought Teddy to the beach for the first time. We came back on the 25th of May for his second time...what a GREAT day. We set up "Camp Teddy" with cabana, beach chairs and food. For being the start of season the beach was in great shape, especially after the winter we just had.
    There were a huge number of dogs. All well behaved except for one brief scrap that was quickly taken care of by the owners.
    Only thing seen this trip were the two guys that seem to ignore the no alcohol rule as they had bottles of beer the whole time I saw them there. It only takes a few to put in jeopardy something enjoyed by so many.
    Keep up the great work FCCA for this is truly the greatest time my dog has except for walking in the Little Lehigh Park here in Allentown!!!

  • Jennifer
    More than a year ago
    Loved it

    Brought my two Australian Shepherds, yesterday, they had a great time! The beach was clean ,.people were friendly, dogs were well behaved too! It takes alot to wear these 2 out but the were exhausted on the way home! Wish it was closer to home, it was an hour and half trip out there , but we will be going back

  • Alison
    More than a year ago
    This is not a dog park!

    Fisherman's Cove is a conservation area, not a dog park or a dog beach. There is no fenced in area, thus no unleashed dogs. It never was a dog park and never will be. Leash your dogs!

  • Ed
    More than a year ago
    Way to much fun for a short time...need MORE

    Tim ad I brought our almost 9 year old Yorkie, Teddy down from Allentown, PA for his first beach experience. It took me some time to decide between here and Sandy Hook but hands down this was the greatest trip he has had so far. He LOVES car rides and boy was he tired after 2+ hours of riding each way but the beach was the highlight. He LOVED every minute of time 1-3/4 hours we stayed.
    The beach was clean, no trash anywhere. There were many dogs, some off leash but all were friendly and under control of owners at all times. Teddy made a few friends and enjoyed the water and rest on the sand when he tired out.
    This was the best place he has been in a while. I definitely give this beach 2 thumbs up. We are already planning for numerous trips down next year for the whole day. Thank you Manasquan for giving pet owners a GREAT place to go with their dogs year round rather than just off season

  • R.E.
    More than a year ago
    Awesome time!!

    We took our pittie to the beach yesterday and had an awesome time. What a great place!

  • Emma
    More than a year ago
    I have some questions/concerns

    I was at this beach last weekend with my two terriers...I did have them on leashes and did not find that a problem. Some people did not have their dogs on leashes which I can understand, even though I got a 'huge unexpected hug and kiss' from a very large dog--it was sweet, but a bit unexpected.
    My real concern is if the water is clean/safe for my dogs, my kids, and myself?! There were a lot of boats around and I'm wondering if the water is not filled with way too much fuel from these boats? I don't mind the rocks, seaweed, shells--all that is organic and NORMAL...but I'm concerned about the quality of the water...I hope someone out there reading this can shed some information on my concern--Thank YOU!

  • Crystal
    More than a year ago
    Nice beach but..

    Nice beach but I am done going. They are becoming very strict with having the dogs on the leash and said that after two warnings you would get a summons. To me that is like bringing my dog to the park and keeping a leash on him. Time to find a new place!

  • Shirley
    More than a year ago
    Worth Every Moment

    7/27/13 - Today, my two Yorkies were introduced to a beach setting in this lovely town , and they absolutely adored it. Owners and their pets are welcoming - smiles everywhere! The atmosphere is well worth the trip down the Parkway. We will definitely return.

  • DaveDarin
    More than a year ago
    I'm not going, typical no freedoms in New Jersey

    I live in Phoenix and go to Ocena Beach in San Diego. No leash laws and it's clean and fun. NJ is too uptight, probably because of overpopulation. So reading these post, I consider it rediculosu to have a beach and have to have a leash on sand and water, forget it, I am not even going to attempt getting a ticket there because I know I will have a confrontation with the typical unfriendly law enforcement. I don't like New Jersey, west coast is much MUCH better for freedoms.

  • Donell
    More than a year ago
    excellent spot

    June 28,2013 was my dogs first visit to the beach and they loved it my female loves to swim and she had such a great time catching the waves she didn't want to leave. this place was easy to find and clean. definitely the hours drive we will surely be going back

  • Jacki
    More than a year ago
    this place is amazing

    this beach is great. i'm just amazed b/c it's a real live dog beach in new jersey. i went for the first time on 6-23-13 and i brought by 8 year old male amstaff. we got there late so i found a spot at the 1 hour parking but that was fine for our first time. it seemed like all the other dogs and the people were friendly. it was just great and i will be going there many more times this summer. i really can't talk about it enough. like one of the other reviewers said, i also recommend this to everyone who has a dog. all i can say is thank you manasquan for having this for us dog lovers

  • Tino
    More than a year ago
    Had so much fun

    I went with my dog and wify last weekend to this beach, and we had a amazing time. i recommend this beach to visit.

  • Melissa
    More than a year ago
    Fun in the Sun

    I went to visit this beach yesterday 6-15-13 for the first time with my 11 month old boxer and couldn't have been happier! The beach was very easy to find (Free of charge). We arrived at 11AM and parking was easy to find as well (Also free of charge). It was so nice to see so many dogs on the beach having fun. Everyone was friendly and my pup had a blast playing with the other dogs on the beach and in the water. It is so nice to know that there is a dog beach that i can go to anytime of the day. I look forward to spending much more time at this beach with my dog this summer.

    I do want to warn you that your dog MUST be leashed as I saw the park ranger giving out several tickets to people that had there dogs unleashed.

  • G_Bird
    More than a year ago
    Great time

    We went there now knowing what to expect since the reviews here are quite old. We drove from Bayonne in the morning, had no trouble finding the beach. We walked with our dog on a leash to the beach and to our nice surprise it was full of fellow canine friends (many not on a leash but nobody seemed to care). However a local did tell us that the rangers do show up and that there are two of them. One that is nice and will let you just put the leash on and call it a day, and another one that will simply hand you the 350 dollar ticket. We saw a lot of people that let the dogs run around with their leashes hanging. Overall we had a great time, everybody was on the same page, having a good time. The beach itself has quite some seaweed , the sand has some sticks, derbis etc make sure you wear appropiate footwear. We did see the the ranger as we were exiting the park. Great day at the beach, we are going to come back for sure.

  • Dawn
    More than a year ago
    Beautiful Beach

    I really enjoyed the beach today with my dog. Because it is after season, there is no parking fee involved on the Third Street park entrance. I would warn you about the dogs not being leashed. The previous review is accurate. If you have a smaller, weaker or older dog, dogs without leases often come up to the leased dogs abruptly and can "playing" aggressively". I also noticed several unleashed dogs rolling on dead seagulls and a large dead fish on the beach.. There was a park ranger warning people to put their dogs on leases. Someone asked me why mine was leased - as hers took off after another dog way down the beach. The beach is VERY nice - get there early while its fairly empty.

  • Anon
    More than a year ago
    Used to love it here

    I have been going to this beach for many summers and our dog has always loved it here and so do we.

    Of course there will always be some people local or out of town that will ruin it by not cleaning up after themselves or their dogs or not watching their dogs who do not know how to behave while they bask in the sun.

    HOWEVER, today will be my last day going to this beach after my run in with the rangers. It was a wednesday morning, there were 8 dogs on the whole beach. All playing in the water solo. My dog was off the leash fully in the water with her frisbee. the rangers came and asked all of us to leave the beach as he warned us about the leashes. I understand the leash laws as they are for safety but my question is this...HOW DO YOU EXPECT A DOG TO SAFELY SWIM WITH A LEASE ON??

    the rangers made us all leave. It was unreasonable and I will not be coming back.

  • Fat_Ali
    More than a year ago
    Great beach for you and your pooch

    Visited here on 08/12/12 and it definitely a great beach for dogs! Parking can be difficult. However park on Brielle Rd for free and take the short walk to beach. I had my dog on a retractable leash with no problems. Good swimming area, but it gets rocky (small pebbles) toward the water. Plenty of other dogs there for your pooch to play with. Also, as we were leaving there was a pickup truck with a water tank and hose to shower your dog down. Donations were appreciated. I thought was extremely generous for someone to provide. You must check out this beach!!!!

  • Melissa
    More than a year ago
    All dogs must be leashed!

    All dogs are required by law to be on a 6 ft leash at this beach...no exceptions. It's a wonderful area but a dozen or so unleashed dogs ends up with smaller, weaker or old dogs getting hurt, bit or threatened. Please have control of your dog(s) at all times. Young children should not be in charge of your dog either...several children were almost hurt because of jumping, aggressive and out of control dogs.

  • Ben
    More than a year ago
    Dogbeach

    We was there this weekend with our two dogs and had a lot of fun. We will back again.

  • Meg
    More than a year ago
    Great Place

    This is a phenomenal dog beach, where most (if not all) dogs are friendly and behaved off-leash. I did not see any signs requiring dogs to be on leash and didn't have an issue with mine running/swimming here on a crowded summer weekend.
    It's unfortunate that the locals who have posted on this site have such a poor attitude. "Benny's" clean up after their dogs just as well as you all do and have every right to come to a public park/beach. Get over it.

  • Chris
    More than a year ago
    Loved this place

    I was here once in 2009 - how sad it is now so restrictive. How do you expect a dog to run and swim on a 6' leash? At the time I was there, I was glad that NJ had a dog friendly area. Now I find that is not true. In fact NJ State Parks do not even allow you to bring your dog camping! I am a senior citizen and my dog is my family! I hate being discrimiated against because I love dogs.

  • H
    More than a year ago
    Nice/ Clean/ Friendly

    we enjoyed a nice day here a few weeks ago during the week. Its a little walk from the parking area but not far. Everyone was really friendly typical dog people. It was clean so if you not capable of bending down to clean up after your dog please don't come. It really does ruin it for everyone else, Enjoyed our day. Will be back!

  • Jamilet
    More than a year ago
    Nice Place =)

    Our furbaby Nina had a blast at this beach! Very clean, everybody was nice and dogs were well behaved. Please take care of it (clean up after your dog), be polite and keep your dogs leashed, so we can all enjoy this pet-friendly place this summer =)

  • Sally
    More than a year ago
    great day @ the beach but dont forget the leash

    i recently visited the 'dog beach' with "cindy" and had a great time. what a beautiful spot. As a 1st time visitor i was informed by the ranger that this is a conservation area maintained by the monmouth co park system. he told me due to a few isolated incidents with aggressive dogs and the sensitive wildlife which reside there, dogs need to be leashed at all times. We still had a great time on a beautiful day! And they provide the doggie bags! too!

  • Dolores a. lawson usa
    More than a year ago
    doggie heaven

    my dogs and I love this beach! Only well behaved dogs are tolerated here. The owners and dogs are all nice,please don"t come if your dog doesn"t get along with other dogs and not good with kids,please keep an eye on your dogs and clean up after them.This is a fun place and we want to keep it that way.

  • Deb
    More than a year ago
    a great time in Manasquan!

    I took my dog Lila to the dog beach yesterday on a beautiful late summer day...it was her first experience digging in sand and tasting salt water. We had a great time for three hours and she is STILL exhausted, lol. All the dogs were well-behaved and the owners conscientious. Parking was easy and free (during the week at this time of the year, at least). The park ranger walked the beach several times while we were there to make sure all was under control, but was not totalitarian. Dogs may be unleashed if in the water, of course. Highly recommended!

  • S
    More than a year ago
    Let's work on keeping this place clean

    I love taking my dog here however lately I have noticed a lot of owners not cleaning up after their dogs. My husband even stepped in dog poo last time we were there. Please, please clean up after your dogs. They even have plastic bags for you at the entrance.

  • Mary
    More than a year ago
    Great park!

    It's so hard to find a beach outside of Cape cod that you can bring your dog to. This beach is very nice and the people and other dogs are friendly. Since it's an inlet you don't get that big expansive ocean view, but it's worth it to be able to bring your dog with you. There are also a couple of inexpensive restaurants down the block where you can sit with your dog at an outside table - one even has a dog bowl outside.

    It's sad that some local folks giving reviews on this site want this park to be hidden from all the other taxpayers in NJ who have a right to visit it. Not sure why some people feel the whole world belongs to them, but I'm glad most people can be friendly and share with others.

    This site is also awesome! Clean up after your dog and follow the rules so we can all continue to appreciate these great dog-friendly places!

  • Ellie
    More than a year ago
    Great dog beach

    Me and my husband brought our 2 beagle mix pups first time beach.(8/10/11) many dogs and it was very nice time. If you consider to go there, PLEASE CLEANUP AFTER YOUR DOG. There is even poo bags. Protect our dog beach!

  • Ray
    More than a year ago
    Its Over!

    (summer 2011)The Park Rangers that have maintain this dog beach now seem to be there ALL the time. They walk along the beach warning everyone to keep their dogs leashed. I was told they will be issuing summons to people letting there dog run or swim!

  • Jenean
    More than a year ago
    ms

    took my 2 silky terriers for the 1st time and they really liked it...swim shoes a definite to have because of the rocks and shells..i also suggest bringing along some water to rinse off your dogs paws and your feet when you get back to the car. there is a lot of sand and i didnt see a place to rinse the sand off...definitely going back

  • Michelle
    More than a year ago
    "Keeping the Beach alive"

    No grills, No leaving dogs mess when you pretend you don't see your dog doing it..clean it up please...It is a fun place for our companions and people. Please be kind and respect our beach.We welcome all dogs and remember to care for them more when it is hot outside. They need rest and plenty of water after running. Take care...and have fun this summer.......

  • Bill
    More than a year ago
    on/off leash dog area

    Please dog owners, try to respect the fact that it is an on leash area, if you do not want it closed down leash and clean up after your dog. No wild and crazy puppies as it will just draw negative attention to an outstanding place for pets!

  • Shannon
    More than a year ago
    Decent dog beach

    Me, myself and my hot dog were very excited to go to this beach. Free parking took about 20 minutes to find. Not everyone keeps their dog on a leash and the shore line is filled with broken shells and rocks. On the positive side my dog did have a great time running, swimming and digging in the sand.

  • Maritza
    More than a year ago
    AWESOME!!

    My two dogs had the GREATEST time this weekend! They absolutely loved it! Most of the dogs were very well behaved - I highly recommend it! It was about an hour away from me and TOTALLY worth it! I have two very exhausted dogs right now - mission accomplished! :)

  • Gina
    More than a year ago
    LOVED IT!!

    My Golden Retriever had the best day of his life there! It was a little bit of a drive for me but it is well worth it! Everyone was so nice and the dogs had a great time ruining and swimming! I plan on going again and again!!

  • Dan
    More than a year ago
    Not a dog park

    This is actually a Monmouth County Park System Conservation Area, and pets are required to be on leashes. The rangers don't often patrol the property, though, and dog owners are generally responsible and respect others.

  • Leonida
    More than a year ago
    question

    i take my 2 pitbulls to this beach often and i as well as my dogs really enjoy it. i do agree with not paying for parking and i don't like that the water swallows the path later in the day. i was wondering does anyone know the rules of this park or an information number i can call i would like to know if grills are allowed

  • Brian
    More than a year ago
    Great Dog Beach

    I have been to this dog beach like 10 times already. It is always open, there are always lots of friendly dogs there and the beach is great! I would highly recommend it to other dog owners. I would not pay for the parking, just drive around a little and you will find something, we always do in less then 10 mins, usually right in front of the place. Perfect Dog Beach!

  • Oriana
    More than a year ago
    So much fun!!

    My boyfriend and I have been dying to take our black lab puppy swimming since the summer began, but don't have anywhere nearby that allows dogs - so I did some research and found this place! We made the 1.5 hour drive over 4th of July weekend, and it was SO worth it! Our pup (and we) had an absolute BLAST! He took to the water right away, and could not get enough! It was so entertaining for us to see him have so much fun playing around by himself and with the other dogs. The only downside is that we didn't bring water shoes, as recommended by another reviewer, so going into the water was a little rough on the feet, but now we know for next time. Highly recommended for dog owners and dog lovers!

  • Tiffany
    More than a year ago
    Great Puppy Beach!

    After an 1 1/2 hrs. driving, we found this great puppy beach. And my 5 mo. old puppy had a BALL! She played with other dogs, she jumped in the water and tried to swim, and dug huge sand holes in the sand! She was covered in sand ! We will definitely go back again!

  • Phil Zielinski
    More than a year ago
    This place is awesome

    This is the perfect place to bring the family including the furry one. Everyone was very friendly and clean. We will be going back twice a month at least.

  • Eric
    More than a year ago
    Awesome beach

    I took my dog there for the first time and we had a great time. Paid parking is $11 for the weekends, it's a little expensive so make sure you stay around for a while to make it worth. The trail entrance is also inside this paid parking area.

  • Lauren
    More than a year ago
    Pleasently surprised, better than i expected.

    Loved the beach. There were lots of friendly dogs and people. It was alot larger and nicer than I expected. Just remember to bring some water shoes, it gets a little stoney and shelly down by the water. But overall it was great, a new favorite for me and my aussie!

  • Samantha
    More than a year ago
    Fantastic Time

    I have two dogs who ran and played and swam for hours. 50 other dogs there and all were fun and friendly. Owners were responsible and it was a great day. I was worried that it wasn't fenced in but it is so far away from the street that the dogs didn't even look to leave. Bring bags to clean up after your dogs and lots of toys because all the dogs share. I parked for free on the street. Bring fresh water for your dogs, mine were very dehydrated when we left the park. Couldn't recommend it high enough - a great day for you and your dogs.

  • Mel
    More than a year ago
    awesome

    This is a terrific dog park. Even though I live on the water there is not public access for dogs:(. I salute the township for their conservation and quality of life efforts. It really is spectacular, well worth the hour and half drive.

  • Nick
    More than a year ago
    Worth the trip.

    Well worth the trip down the parkway.

  • Jennie Lobato
    More than a year ago
    Know about the trail entrance!

    Well worth the visit. ONLY after we figured out the "back entrance" to this place. I tried to take my dog and mom down the rocks and she fell. -it was virtually unwalkable. So we went back up and circled all the way around to the trail. --to get to the trail, we made a sharp left after climbing back up the rocks. Walking the trail was a nice little walk-maybe a city block and a half long but it was nice and even-no danger here.

    We had a great little visit..I recommend!

  • Colleen
    More than a year ago
    Worth the drive

    I've heard lots of good things about the Manasquan Inlet from other dog owners and decided to make the TWO HOUR drive down for my pups birthday and it was well worth it.
    There was lots of parking nearby and it's only a short little walk to get to the beach. The water stays pretty shallow but there's some parts that get deep (where the water starts to look smooth is the drop off but already just about deep enough for them to swim anyway so it's not that bad). My dogs had a ton of fun running along the beach, playing in the sand, and fetching in the water. Lots of other dogs and owners walking along the shore all day, lots of locals. My dogs came home and passed out, they had a ball!

  • Donna
    More than a year ago
    True Dog Beach

    This was by far worth the hour drive. Perfect for Dogs on and off-leash. Easy to park and not a far walk to the beach area. Definately will go back.

  • Steve
    More than a year ago
    Dogs Love it!

    The parking is $11 if you can't find it on the street for free. No need to spend $7 for beach tag so if you bring your significant other, your ahead $3. There is a trail from the far left corner in the back of the parking area that takes you to the west end of beach. You can avoid the sloppy entrance mention in other review by taking this path. We've done 6 day trips this year (1 hour 45 min form northwest Philly) Admitedly the beach isn't the best for people, (pickings are slim out there if you want to bring your pets) but the dogs love the socialization. At least 50 other dogs running free, swimming, playing. Beach does narrow significantly at high tide, but is still walkable (except at main entrance byt street)

  • Shelby
    More than a year ago
    ok, but could be better

    parking nearby is expensive, lots of dogs, but the water is a little filthy and stinky after 4 when the tide goes up. Also hard to walk to, especially when the tide swallows the path to the beach. but its ok for a couple of hours with the dosg

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Fisherman's Cove Conservation Area