Summer crowds are gone, the boardwalks are quiet and the sea air is crisp. For many New Yorkers, the off-season is the best time to look for dog-friendly beaches near NYC, because some of the shoreline that is closed to dogs in summer opens up to leashed walks in the cooler months.

Here are two easy trips worth knowing about, the rules that apply this time of year, and a short packing list for a calm, comfortable winter beach walk with your dog.

Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk, Queens

Rockaway is the easiest beach escape for many city dogs, reachable without leaving the five boroughs. According to NYC Parks, leashed dogs may use the sand and boardwalk at Rockaway Beach as a courtesy from October 1 until May 1.

• Dogs must stay on a leash no longer than six feet at all times.
• Dogs are not allowed in bathing facilities.
• Always pick up after your dog and give other beachgoers plenty of room.

A long, flat boardwalk walk is a gentle option for small dogs and seniors, while sand offers a softer surface for dogs who love to sniff and dig. Keep your visit short on windy days, since the shore often feels colder than the city.

Sandy Hook, Gateway National Recreation Area, New Jersey

Across the bay, Sandy Hook is a popular day trip from the city. The National Park Service lists these pet rules for the Sandy Hook unit:

• Bayside beaches at Plum Island and Horseshoe Cove allow pets year-round.
• Pets are not allowed on the ocean-side beaches from March 15 to September 15, the nesting season for piping plovers.
• Pets must always be on a leash, and owners must clean up after them.
• Pets are not allowed in the Sandy Hook campground.

The same Gateway page notes seasonal rules for the Jamaica Bay unit as well. Pets are not allowed on the ocean-side beaches at Jacob Riis Park, Fort Tilden and Breezy Point Tip from March 15 through September 15, so check the page before planning a visit there.

Rules change, so check the official site before you go.

Is It Safe to Take Your Dog to the Beach in Winter?

For most healthy dogs, a short, leashed winter beach walk is a lovely change of scene. A few simple habits keep it comfortable:

• Check the forecast and wind. Small, short-coated, young and senior dogs feel the cold faster.
• Watch for shivering, lifting paws or slowing down, and head back to the car if you see them.
• Do not let your dog drink seawater, which can upset the stomach. Bring fresh water instead.
• Rinse and dry paws after the walk to remove sand and salt.
• Plan around early sunsets, so you are off the sand before dark.

If your dog has a health condition, is very young or very old, or seems unwell after a cold outing, check in with your vet.

Pack a Simple Winter Beach Bag

A hands-free setup makes a sandy, windy walk much easier. The Macaron Hands Free Leash in Pink can be worn around the waist or across the shoulder, or held by hand, so you can keep a grip on coffee, keys or a phone. It is made of lightweight nylon webbing with an adjustable buckle, in sizes M and L.

Clip the Macaron Collapsible Bowl in Aqua to your bag for fresh water. It is food-grade silicone, holds up to 12 oz. and folds into a slim disc with a carabiner clip.

Keep it all together in the Macaron Walking Bag, a 0.3 lb canvas bag sized for a phone, keys, poop bags and a collapsible bowl, in Lemon or Ivory.

Leave a Hooded Microfiber Dog & Cat Dry Towel in Cream in the car. The absorbent microfiber dries a damp coat quickly, and the hood doubles as a cozy wrap or travel blanket for the ride home.

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