A vacation just isn’t a vacation unless your ENTIRE family can be there, right? And that includes your four-legged family members! The good news? There are lots of dog friendly beaches in Florida just waiting for you to enjoy them.
Here are 25+ dog friendly beaches in Florida that we know you and your pooch will adore.
Northwest Florida
Northwest Florida is home to some of the best beaches in the state. And the best news is, your dogs are welcome to join in on the fun!
Dog Beach at Pier Park (PCB)
Directly across from Pier Park in Panama City Beach, you’ll find a pet-friendly beach just west of the City Pier.
With 400 feet of beach to play on, your leashed pet will have the best time playing in the sand! This popular pet-friendly beach is perfect for your entire family to enjoy the turquoise waters, and the white, sandy beach.
After play time, head on over to Pier Park — an outdoor mall — where many restaurants offer pet-friendly outdoor seating!
Read More: 37+ Best Things To Do in Panama City Beach on Your Next Vacation
St. George Island
St. George Island beaches are incredibly pet-friendly — in fact, they (almost) all are! Leashed pets are welcome on all the public beaches, so they can join you on your next beach vacation to this lovely island.
A lot of the restaurants and shops on St. George Island are pet-friendly as well, and you’ll see water bowls set out, and maybe a treat or two offered to your pets as you explore the town.
The only exception is Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park, where pets are welcome at campsites and on trails, but not on the beaches within the park.
Carrabelle Beach
Carrabelle Beach is a nice, quiet beach located just down the way from St. George Island. This pet-friendly beach is perfect for a relaxing day in the sun with your four-legged family member!
The best part? Your dog can be off-leash on Carrabelle Beach as long as your pet responds to your voice commands. That means your dog can have a blast running and playing in the water too!
You’ll find calm waters and soft sand here, so it’s the perfect place to play and maybe even sneak in a nap!
Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach is a great beach for dogs — if you’re a local resident.
Residents of Miramar Beach must apply for a permit in order to walk their leashed dogs on the beach here. A fee of around $40 will get you a permit that will last you a year.
The beach is just gorgeous though! White sands, and beautiful blue water make for some amazing views while walking your pup.
Gulf of Mexico
Is anything better than the warm waters and the white sandy beaches you’ll find on the Gulf of Mexico? Of course not! And these beaches will welcome your pet with open…paws.
Cape San Blas
You and your four-legged family members will love the beautiful beaches at Cape San Blas!
The beaches here are some of the pet friendliest around! There are no restrictions about what times they can be there — anytime is a pet-friendly time. Just make sure your pup is on a leash! Another thing to look out for is turtle nests! You must make sure your dog doesn’t dig near them, of course.
Cape San Blas is known as a pet-friendly town, so after a day at the beach, you’ll find plenty of rentals and restaurants that allow pets too.
Read More: Cape San Blas Florida: A Vacation Guide to Florida’s Forgotten Coast
Salinas Park
Salinas Park on Port Saint Joe is not only dog-friendly, but horse-friendly as well!
Enjoy the white, sandy beaches with your pooch, and let them play in the warm Gulf waters. Dogs do need to be leashed at all times.
At Salinas Park you’ll also find restrooms and grills, so you can enjoy the whole day on the beach with your pets! Make sure you take a walk along the boardwalk too!
Causeway Islands Park
Note: In 2023, this park is undergoing construction due to damage caused by Hurricane Ian. The park is currently closed until construction is complete. Check here for updates.
Causeway Islands Park is a 10-acre, palm tree-lined park on a man-made island in Sanibel, where people can enjoy fishing, water sports, and playing with their dog!
The water here is shallow enough that your leashed pet can enjoy wading in the water. There are two islands — Island A and Island B. You’ll find free parking on Island A, and restrooms, grills, and picnic tables on Island B — making it easy to make a day of it!
Your puppy will be glad you did!
Read More: 45+ Leisurely Things To Do on Sanibel Island (Beyond Shelling)
Atsena Otie Key
Atsena Otie Key is a barrier island outside of Cedar Key in the Gulf. Here, you’ll find a wildlife refuge — where leashed dogs are welcome, and a small beach nearby too.
The beach is quiet, the sand is soft, and the beach has plenty of shady spots for cooling off from the sun.
You’ll find a swimming area for your dog is roped off and shallow, so your pup should have no problems enjoying the water!
This is the perfect place for a nice, relaxing day with your pup.
Fort De Soto Park
If you’re looking for a beach where your dog can run free — head out to Fort De Soto Park!
The park itself has fenced areas for both large and small dogs, and they include nearby doggie showers so they can cool off on hot days.
In the Paw Playground area, dogs can run free on the beach inside the fenced areas! So they can run off all their energy in the sand. Hoses are provided nearby if they need a cool down, and of course drinking water is available for them there too.
Pensacola Beach
Pensacola Beach has two places for your dogs to run in then sand — West Dog Park and East Dog Park.
Pensacola Beach West is a small, pet-friendly beach area that offers doggie bags, trash cans, and handy wipes for your pet. And Pensacola Beach East is the same — except on the east end of the park! No matter which side you choose, your dog will have the best time frolicking in water, and playing in the sand.
All dogs must be kept on a leash at both locations.
Read More: 27+ Can’t-Miss Things To Do in Pensacola for Family Fun
Gulfside Beach
Gulfside Beach, also known as Algiers Beach, on Sanibel Island is the perfect place to spend the day with your pet.
Enjoy white sands, and turquoise waters at the beautiful Gulfside Beach. You’ll also find picnic tables, wash stations, restrooms, and water fountains for both you and your four-legged companions.
Because this beach is also home to nesting birds and sea turtles, your pet must be leashed at all times, and the law requires you pick up after your pet.
Brohard Paw Park
The only dog-friendly beach in Sarasota County is Brohard Paw Park — but it’s a good one!
Here you’ll find everything your dog (and their owners) need to have a great time on the beach! Water stations to clean off your dog’s paws, drinking fountains for both you and your pet, restrooms, leash posts, picnic tables, free parking, doggie bags, and even fire hydrants are guaranteed to make your beach day a memorable one.
This beach is clean, well-maintained, and really fun, making it one of Florida’s best dog-friendly beaches.
Read More: 37+ Memorable Things To Do in Sarasota for a Weekend of Fun
Bonita Beach Dog Park
Is your dog ready to run? Then take them to Bonita Beach Dog Park on the Fort Myers/Bonita Springs line.
Your dog can run off-leash here, and play in the quiet, calm waters of the Gulf. They’ll love spending the day running in the waves, playing in the sand, and making new friends.
There is a portable toilet, but no running water here — so make sure you bring some for your furry friend.
Read More: 19 Things To Do in Fort Myers for Fun in the Sun
Davis Island Dog Beach
Dogs are allowed to play off-leash in a designated area of Davis Island Park, located on Severn Avenue in Tampa. The parks are two separate fenced-in areas located at the South end of the Island, past the Peter o.
Anchored boats sometimes crowd the beach in front of this sandy spot near downtown Tampa. It may not be the best for swimming but it’s fine for reading or sunning.
Read More: 41 Amazingly Fun Things To Do in Tampa, Florida
Atlantic Ocean
Ready to make some amazing memories with your pup? These beaches along the Atlantic Ocean are some of the best, and your dog will love them too.
Fernandina Beach – Main Beach Park
You’ll find a nice, clean beach that’s not too crowded, so you and your pet can enjoy all the beach has to offer at Main Beach Park on Fernandina Beach.
Take a stroll down this dog-friendly beach so you and your pooch can make new friends along the way! Just make sure to pick up after your pet.
Fernandina Beach is also home to several dog parks, some of which include pools, so you can make a whole day out of it. Make sure you stop by Sliders Seaside Grill afterwards — pets are also welcome at the beachside tiki bar and restaurant.
Read More: 29+ Things To Do in Amelia Island That the Locals Want Kept Secret
Mickler’s Landing
Looking for a place to enjoy a relaxing beach day with your pet? Check out Mickler’s Landing in Ponte Vedra Beach!
You’ll find easy parking, and an uncrowded beach at Mickler’s Landing. Pets are more than welcome, as long as they are kept on a leash.
You’ll enjoy a day with your four-legged family member and end the day refreshed. What could be better than that?
Crescent Beach
Just down the way from St. Augustine Beach, you’ll find Crescent Beach — a dog-friendly beach where your entire family can enjoy the waves.
You’ll find this is one beach that is extremely welcoming to pets. At this beautiful beach, your pet must be leashed at all times. You must pick up after your pooch, of course, but there are plenty of receptacles along the beach to make it easier for you!
There are restrooms and showers for the humans, but they also have a doggie shower too!
Read More: 33 Sensational Things To Do in St Augustine for All Travel Types
Stuart Beach
This beach is perfect for you and your pup!
At Stuart Beach in Stuart, FL, — just south of Port Saint Lucie — you’ll find a beautiful, pet-friendly beach.
Your dog must be kept on a leash, but you can explore the beach and the surrounding areas together with no problem.
There are several dog parks in the area too, so after a day in the waves, you can run off any extra energy at the parks!
Read More:
Peanut Island
Just a short ferry or kayak ride from West Palm Beach, you’ll find the dog-friendly Peanut Island.
For $10, take the ferry over to the island, and enjoy the day in the sun and the sand with your pup! Your dog must be kept of a leash at all times here, but you’re sure to have a great time. You can also boat or kayak over to the island if you’d like.
And if you want to stay longer — camping is allowed on the island too!
Read More: 20 Family-Friendly Things To Do in West Palm Beach
Sombrero Beach
Sombrero Beach in Marathon is the perfect beach for your dog!
Enjoy the white, sandy beaches and the warm waters of the Atlantic with your pup. You’ll find plenty of shady areas too — like pavilions with grills — if you need to take a break from the sun, or want to have a cookout.
And after your day is done, enjoy a rinse off at the outdoor showers — for both humans and dogs! They have doggie showers for small, medium, and large dogs — so every size will be accommodated and clean at the end of the day.
This beach is part of a park, so your four-legged family members must be leashed at all times.
Read More: Sombrero Beach: Don’t Miss This Hidden Treasure in the Florida Keys | 1+ Sensational Things To Do in Marathon FL
Canova Dog Beach
Canova Dog Beach is home to Brevard County’s only dog-friendly beach!
This 9-acre park is open to the public, and includes beaches, pavilions, grills, and outdoor showers.
Dogs must be kept on a leash, and be wearing tags that show their license and vaccinations.
You’ll find this popular beach filled with dogs of all shapes and sizes enjoying fun in the sun and water. Remember to pack your doggie nose sunscreen!
Walton Rocks Dog Beach
Ready to let your dog run free?! Walton Rocks Dog Beach, about an hour north of West Palm Beach, is all about puppy freedom!
This 24-acre beach is perfect for your well-behaved pet. Plenty of room to roam, and play in the sand and surf.
You’ll also find picnic tables, restrooms, and a wash station for dogs. Your pup will go home happy!
Jupiter Beach
Another perfect place to let your dog run off-leash is Jupiter Beach in Jupiter, FL!
Dogs are allowed to run free of their leash in a 2.5 miles designated section of the beach — which runs along the A1A.
A group, Friends of Jupiter Beach, are dedicated to keeping this dog-friendly beach well-maintained and clean — and they do an excellent job. You’ll always find poop bags, and garbage bins available. And if your dog likes making friends, he’s sure to do so here!
Jupiter Beach is just made for dogs — and they’ll be begging to come back as soon as you leave.
Read More: 15 Super Fun Things To Do in Jupiter FL You Can’t Miss
Bark Beach at Spanish River Park
In Boca Raton, you’ll find Bark Beach at Spanish River Park — a dog-friendly beach that your pets can enjoy.
Residents of Boca Raton can register and pay for an annual pass to take their dogs here. If you’re just visiting, weekend passes are available for $11 per dog.
This beach allows your dog to run off-leash. Just remember to pick up after your pet!
Read More: 15 Phenomenal Things To Do in Boca Raton, Florida
Canine Beach
Fort Lauderdale is home to Canine Beach — a place where your leashed dog can enjoy the sand and waves on a beautiful beach on the weekends.
Only open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, Canine Beach offers dog bags, water, and showers for your four-legged friends.
There is a $7 weekend fee for your pet to play here, or residents can apply for an annual pass.
Read More: 17 Things To Do in Fort Lauderdale With Kids That Even Adults Are Sure To Love
Dog Beach of Hollywood
In Hollywood, Florida, you’ll find Dog Beach — a beach your pup is sure to love.
It’s a fun beach, with plenty of room for your puppy to roam, and lots of waves to play in. You’ll meet lots of other fun owners, and your four-legged family members will make plenty of friends at this popular beach.
This beach is only open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and it’ll cost you $10.
Read More: 13+ Superb Things To Do in Hollywood FL You’ll Adore
Key West Dog Beach
Key West is a dog-friendly town — you can take your pup with you almost anywhere, and that includes the Key West Dog Beach.
The beach is small, and somewhat rocky, but if your pup wants to splash in the water, it’s the place to go.
Read More: 29+ Perfect Things To Do in Key West for Every Type of Traveler
Smyrna Dunes Park
Dogs are welcome to join you on-leash at Smyrna Dunes Park, a lovely inlet which also includes showers, bathrooms, and plenty of parking.
This park has five ecosystems represented within it, elevated boardwalks, picnic pavilions, nature trails, an observation tower, and more.
Miami Beach
If you’re traveling to Miami with your pooch, there are options for you and your furry friend.
Miami is home to a handful of beaches that allow dogs where Fido can run in the sand, splash in the surf, and roll around in the green grass of oceanfront dog parks. There are also dozens of dog-friendly parks and off-leash bark parks across Miami.
Read More: 41 Kick-Ass Cheap and Free Things To Do in Miami for Tourists and Locals
Dog Friendly Beaches in Florida FAQ
Does Destin have a dog-friendly beach?
Dogs are not allowed on the beaches in Destin/Okaloosa County. You can visit the City of Destin’s Nancy Weidenhamer Dog Park, though! It’s located at 4100 Indian Bayou Trail.
Are dogs allowed on Clearwater Beach?
Unfortunately, no dogs or cats are allowed on Clearwater Beach. There are several great dog parks in the area for your dog to run and play.
Are dogs allowed on Ft. Myers Beach?
Yes, dogs are allowed on the beach in Ft. Myers. Bonita Beach Dog Park is a great place to let your pup run off-leash.
MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO FLORIDA
- YOUR FLORIDA VACATION
- BEACHES: 17 Best Florida Beaches for Families to Relax and Unwind
- GETAWAYS: 33 Sensational Weekend Getaways in Florida
- RESORTS: 19 Best Resorts in Florida
- ISLANDS: 23 Amazing Islands in Florida You’ve Got To Visit
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Kate Gelsthorpe
Kate Gelsthorpe is a former TV news writer, and a born and raised Georgia girl who grew up camping with her family at state parks around central and south Georgia.After 18 years in Atlanta, her family recently moved to Athens, and in their spare time you can find them exploring their new hometown.She and her husband, Kevin, are the proud parents of an 8-year-old dinosaur expert, and a 6-year-old outdoor-loving fashionista.
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