Port Washington is a small town with a lot to recommend it. When the New York Times featured this town in its “Living In” column, they praised its rolling hills, charming book shops, and fascinating history. Port Washington residents enjoy living here for many reasons. But at Dan’s Pet Care, there’s one reason we think all Long Island pet lovers should know about: Port Washington is an exceptional place to own a dog.

With its small-town atmosphere, abundance of places to spend time outdoors, and easy access to the water, Port Washington is the perfect place to settle down with your dog and spend the weekends exploring. Let’s take a look at a few of your options for spending quality time with your dog in Port Washington, Long Island.

Outdoor restaurants in Port Washington

When you’re out and about with your dog and need to grab a bite to eat, a space with outdoor dining is ideal. It’s always a good idea to call ahead before visiting a restaurant and ask about specific guidelines for pets. However, some restaurants have a reputation for being easier to visit with pets than others. Check out this list of seven dog-friendly restaurants in Port Washington. They typically offer outdoor seating during warmer seasons, so you can keep your dog with you while you eat.

• Louie’s

• Nino’s Beach

• Dirty Taco & Tequila

• Nikkei of Peru

• Butler’s Flat Clam Shack

• Waterzooi

Louie’s

At Louie’s, you can enjoy top-notch surf-and-turf cuisine while enjoying a gorgeous view of the waterfront with your dog. Come for live music on Thursdays or enjoy a relaxing Sunday brunch. If you love seafood, you’ll appreciate the ultra-fresh raw bar options.

Nino’s Beach

Nino’s Beach offers Mediterranean cuisine and a beautiful view of the waterfront. This spot is a perfect choice for lunch or dinner if you’re visiting the historic Gold Coast area of Port Washington. Enjoy live entertainment while you dine, and be sure to check out the array of signature house-made cocktails.

Dirty Taco & Tequila (La Motta’s Dockside)

This seaside restaurant had been shut down after years of being in business. However, it’s now reopened under a new name: Dirty Taco & Tequila! The menu is still fantastic, and it features a fusion of Asian, Mexican, and classic American flavors. This goes without saying, but you can’t leave without trying a margarita!

Nikkei of Peru

This Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant is a great place to explore new flavor profiles.The menu has plenty of gluten-free options, and sushi lovers will appreciate the extensive sushi and sashimi selection. The owners at Nikkei of Peru pride themselves on providing unique dishes you can’t find anywhere else.

Butler’s Flat Clam Shack

At Butler’s Flat Clam Shack, you can enjoy some of the freshest seafood available. They’re starting their 12th season, and there’s a good reason they’ve remained a local favorite for years. This is the perfect place to enjoy a seafood platter, ice cream or clam chowder while enjoying the sunshine with your dog.

Waterzooi

Waterzooi is open every day of the week, offering lunch and dinner on weekdays as well as brunch on weekends. Their menu features plenty of seafood favorites and a European flair. If you enjoy French and Italian flavors and a fantastic drink selection, you’ll love Waterzooi.

Port Washington Parks to visit with your dog

Port Washington has an impressive number of parks, given its size. Some are designated specifically as dog parks, while others are simply dog-friendly outdoor spaces where you can enjoy the outdoors together with your best friend. Here are a few of our favorites in both categories!

Dog-friendly parks in Port Washington

Port Washington has a rich history, reflected in its Gold Coast mansions. At Port Washington’s best parks and conservancies, you can relive the glamor of the town’s past while also enjoying peace and quiet in a natural environment.

Sands Point Preserve

At Sands Point Preserve, you can enjoy gardens, forest trails, mansion tours, and much more. There are plenty of special programs and events to enjoy with your whole family throughout the year.

North Hempstead Beach Park

At North Hempstead Beach Park, you can enjoy the beach and stroll the waterfront to your heart’s content. Whether you want to fish, barbeque, kayak, or just play catch with your dog, there’s plenty of space at this 60-acre park. It offers facilities for participating in many sports, including:

• Volleyball

• Softball

• Soccer

• Bocce ball

• Basketball

• Shuffleboard

Baxter’s Pond

At Baxter’s Pond, you can enjoy beautiful public gardens, a serene pond, and a variety of educational activities. There are plenty of trails where you and your dog can head out on an outdoor adventure.

Dog parks in Port Washington

Sometimes, your dog deserves an outing that revolves around them. Dog parks are a great way to meet other dog owners and give your dog the socialization they need to thrive. We’d like to share a couple of our favorite Port Washington dog parks with you.

Sands Point Dog Park

If you enjoy visiting Sands Point Preserve, good news – there’s a dedicated space just for your dog! Your dog needs to be leashed throughout much of the preserve, but in this enclosed area, they can enjoy the full dog park experience while you take a break on the seating provided.

Manorhaven Dog Park

Manorhaven Dog Park is a great place to let your dog run off-leash. It’s one of the most popular dog parks in Port Washington, thanks to its friendly atmosphere and high-quality facilities.

The Park at East Hills Dog Run

This one isn’t technically in Port Washington, but in nearby Roslyn. Still, the Park at East Hills Dog Run is known for being especially clean and well-kept, with plenty of amenities like poop bags on hand and shade provided for days with bad weather.

Boating with your dog in Port Washington

If your dog loves water, Port Washington is a great place to go out in a boat together. Remember to always dress your dog in an appropriate flotation device, and make sure your dog is well-trained before heading out on the water. Where can you find a boat in Port Washington? Check out these popular local spots.

Long Island Boat Rentals

At Long Island Boat Rentals, you can enjoy a day out on the water without purchasing a boat. There are also plenty of special offerings to try out, like sunset cruises, water sports, and luxury party yachts.

Port Washington Water Taxi

At Port Washington Water Taxi, you can rent a small boat to enjoy with your dog, or hop on a large tour boat and go sightseeing. This is also a great space to simply enjoy watching the sunset on a dock.

Manhasset Bay Marina

Manhasset Bay Marina offers hookups and floating docks for your own boat, if needed. There’s also a waterfront restaurant to enjoy, boat maintenance and repair services, and the option to rent various boats in the short term.

Port Washington neighborhoods to explore with your dog

Port Washington features many neighborhoods, each with a slightly different atmosphere and flavor. All are excellent places to own a dog, but few of them are especially known for their beautiful outdoor spaces and views to enjoy on walks. Here are a few Port Washington neighborhoods that stand out!

Baxter Estates, Port Washington

The village of Baxter Estates is named for an early American family known for building ships and being leaders in the whaling industry. Today, it’s a great place to get a view of the Long Island Sound or take a walk down a shady, quiet sidewalk.

Flower Hill, Port Washington

Flower Hill is part of the greater Port Washington area, and it’s on the southern part of Cow Neck Peninsula. In Flower Hill, you can explore historic homes, abundant tree growth, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Beacon Hill, Port Washington

Beacon Hill is a Port Washington neighborhood that offers easy access to the water and a well-planned layout. Its name can be traced to Revolutionary War times, as it was a common spot for fire beacons to shine as a warning.

Need a pet care service in the Port Washington area?

If you and your dog live in or near Port Washington, Long Island, finding the right local dog care service is a must. Dan’s Pet Care is Long Island’s favorite pet care company, offering a full array of services, including daycare, grooming, dog walking, pooper scooper services, pet sitting, and more. Want to learn more? Fill out our consultation form today!