14 Best Dog-friendly beaches in Florida
Are you planning for a beach vacation in Florida but worried about what beaches in Florida allow dogs? No worry. Here we have done the research to find the best dog-friendly beaches in Florida where you can spend a fun-filled sunny day when your dog is busy with fetching, swimming, and running along the shorelines.
Florida is home to numerous beaches that allow dogs where your furry friend can run in the sand, splash in the surf, and roll around in the grass of dog parks. There are also dozens of off-leash dog beaches and dog-friendly parks in Florida. Just remember to bring plenty of water, pick up after your pooch and make sure he or she is vaccinated.
Here is our list of the best dog beaches in Florida.
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#1 Bonita Beach Dog Park, Fort Myers Beach
Location: 8800 Estero Blvd Fort Myers, FL 33931
Beach Information
Located near the Bonita Springs border at the outside edge of Lover’s Key State Park, Bonita Beach Dog Park is one of the best off-leash dog beaches in Florida. This hidden gem is secluded from Estero Road. Luckily there are signs by the trees that will show you the way to the beach.
The beach is large enough for pooches of all sizes to socialize and splash in the water. Your dog can run freely along the beach without a leash and enjoy the splash of calm warm water that flows from the Gulf of Mexico. Although the water is shallow here, but there are not any fences on the beach. So make sure your pooch recalls well.
Bring your own water, and snacks as there is no facility for water and food. However, portable toilets are available.
Dog Rules: Clean up after your dog at all times. You must keep your dog on-leash if it is aggressive and barks excessively. Remember that only two dogs are allowed per person to Bonita Beach Dog Park.
Hours of Service: 7:00 am – Sunset(daily)
#2 Brohard Paw Park, Venice: Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Florida
Location: 1600 Harbor Dr. S, Venice, FL 34285
Beach Information
Brohard Paw Park is the only dog-friendly beach in Venice, Florida. It’s a popular tourist spot for both locals and tourists. The fenced area for off-leash play, water fountains, dog showers, fire hydrants, and picnic tables make it one of the most popular dog-friendly beaches in Florida.
It is an amazing dog beach where the owners and their four-legged friends can enjoy the sun and the surf together. Dogs can run and play freely on the beach because of its big areas. There is a separate section to the south of the park where humans can access the beach that includes boardwalks, benches, and showers.
Entry Fee/Parking: Plenty of on-street parking is available. Offstreet parking is limited. You have to reach early to get a parking spot.
Dog Rules: Dogs can be off-leashed
Hours of Service: 7:00 am – Sunset(daily)
#3 Fort de Soto Park Playground
Location: 3500 Pinellas Bayway Tierra Verde, FL 33715
Beach Information
Located in the south of St. Petersburg, Fort de Soto Park has been voted as one of the best dog beaches in the United States numerous times. The park contains two different areas for dogs: one for big dogs and the other for small pooches. Plenty of poop bags, doggie water fountains, and shower stations make it one of the best off-leash pet-friendly beaches in Florida.
A little sunshine, fresh air, and warm water can go along way for your best friend’s mental health making it an awesome day at the beach for all. You can use the hoses to cool down your pup on a hot sunny day. You can check out our top 10 beach coolers with wheels for a perfect beach vacation in summer.
Owners can also enjoy swimming on the beach or a picnic in this beautiful setting of natural beauty. After enjoying the beach, don’t forget to visit the historic Spanish fort and many pet-friendly trails with your pup on leash.
Entry Fee/Parking: The beach is free and parking is $5.
Dog Rules: Dogs are allowed anywhere in the Paw Playground area. They can run freely inside the fenced area on the beach. If you visit the fort or its trails, keep your dog on a six-foot leash.
Hours of Service: 7:00 am – 10:00 pm(daily)
Read Also: 15 Most Beautiful Lakes for Swimming, Fishing and Boating
#4 Jupiter Beach: Best Dog Beaches in Florida
Location: 48 Ocean Blvd, Jupiter, FL 33477
Beach Information
Jupiter Beach is another popular off-leash dog-friendly beach in Florida where your dogs can romp free in the sand and water to their heart’s content. The designated area is around 2.5 miles stretch of beach that starts from beach marker #25 at Marcinski Road and proceeds north to beach marker #57 at the Carlin Park property line.
The beach is very clean. You won’t see a single plastic bag or waste bag on the beach. Thanks to Friends of Jupiter Beach (FJB) who are dedicated to keeping the beach clean and dog-friendly. Dog owners can relax under the pavillions or swim in the refreshing waters with their pups. Dogs can freely explore the 2.5 miles of coastline and the sand dunes.
Consistently ranking as one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Florida, where you’ll find a large 1,136-acre fenced-in park divided into sections for both large and small dogs in St. Pete.
People can stretch out and soak up the sun, while their dogs run off-leash and play in the clear water.
Entry Fee/Parking: Visitors can park their cars for free in the lot at Ocean Blvd and Marcinski Rd or in one of the lots along A1A.
Dog Rules: Since it is an off-leash Florida dog beach, only non-aggressive, obedient, and socialized dogs are allowed on the beach. Keep your dog on-leash from the parking area to the beach. Keep dog waste bags handy to maintain the cleanliness of the beach. Dogs are not allowed at Town of Jupiter parks.
Hours of Service: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm daily.
#5 Davis Island Dog Park & Beach, Tampa
Location: 1002 Severn St Tampa, FL 33606
Beach Information
What is more fun for a dog than running along the sandy beach freely? Located at the south of downtown Tampa, Davis Island is one of the best dog beaches in Tampa. It offers a perfect setting to enjoy a nice weekend with your buddy far from the city hustle. If you are looking for a dog-friendly beach in Tampa, Florida Davis Island dog beach can be your best bet.
It boasts a 1.5-acre dog beach, and a 1-acre dog park, and both areas are fenced, so you can relax on the beach leaving your dog unleashed. As the beach is located in the bay, the water quality is not that great for swimming. But the beach is clean and well maintained. You must check the water quality before letting your dog into the water.
The beach has more than 200 feet of shorelines. Visitors can use the wash station to rinse off their pooches and bag dispensers are available to help you pick up after your dogs.
Entry Fee/Parking: Plenty of parking options are available.
Dog Rules: Although unleashed dogs are allowed to roam here freely, dog owners must supervise their pups. Carry cleaning bags to dispose of the dog waste.
Hours of Service: 7:00 am – sunset daily.
Read Next: 10 Most Beautiful Natural Springs in Tampa
#6 Honeymoon Island State Park Dog Beach, Dunedin
Location: 1 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, FL 34698
Beach Information
Many dog owners who plan for a Florida beach vacation want to know which beaches in Florida allow dogs. It is not too hard to find one when you are near Dunedin city, which is also know as one of the cheapest places to live in Florida. Your pooch will definitely love to run on the soft sand along the white sandy shore at the southern end of Honeymoon Island.
The water is calm and clear, making it perfect for wave jumping. Your pooch is welcome to walk the nearby paved nature trail. You can rent a bicycle to explore the biking trail or can rent a kayak and spend some time on the beautiful water.
Entry Fee/Parking: There is an entry fee of around $8 per person. Parking space is available at the picnic area and at the Rotary Centennial Nature Center.
Dog Rules: Your dog must be on-leash and the leash needs to be a minimum of six feet to avoid a fine. Make sure to clean up after your dog.
Hours of Service: 8:00 AM – Sunset(Daily)
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#7 Haulover Beach Dog Park, Miami
Location: 10800 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33154
Beach Information
Looking for an ideal place to let your dog run free? Haulover Beach Park is it. Haulover is also known for becoming a popular nude beach in Florida. Your pup can enjoy the splash of the seawater as well as run freely in the fenced grassy dog park. There are two separate dog parks for small and large dogs. The off-leash dog beach area is marked between Lifeguard Towers #2 and #3.
You will see other well-behaved dogs playing freely. So, it is a great scope for your dog to get socialized with others. The dog park also features water fountains (for dogs and humans), dog waste bags, picnic tables, and benches. Also, there are some best places to live in Miami, where you can reside with your dog without any fear. The place never fails to disappoint you!
Entry Fee/Parking: There is a nominal fee to access the park(around $5 per vehicle). Parking lots #3 and #4 can be accessed to park your car.
Dog Rules: Your dog can be unleased only in the designated area. In all other areas, your pooch needs to remain leashed. No aggressive dogs are allowed on the beach.
Hours of Service: 8:00 am – 3:00 pm(dog beach), 8:00 am – sunset(dog park)
#8 Canova Dog Beach, Brevard
Location: 3299 N Hwy A1A, Indialantic, FL 32903
Beach Information
Although a small portion of this 9.1-acre beach park is dedicated to dogs, but the pristine sand, clear water won’t disappoint you and your furry friend. Canova Dog Beach Park boasts a dog washing station, pavilion, water fountains, and picnic area to experience a quintessential Florida beach vacation.
Canova Dog Beach is the one and only pet-friendly beach in Brevard County. They can roam around the beach with their owners. Keep an eye out for the signs that show which parts of the beach your dog can access. Doggie bags, trash cans, and water dishes are provided on-site to keep the beach clean.
Entry Fee/Parking: Free parking available at the intersection of Eau Gallie Blvd and A1A.
Dog Rules: Dogs must be on-leash, wear tags, and vaccinated to get access to this beach. Dog owners must clean the dog waste and carry waste bags.
Hours of Service: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm(daily)
#9 Key West Dog Beach: Pet-Friendly Beach in Florida
Location: 1500 Vernon Ave, Key West, FL 33040
Beach Information
Looking for dog-friendly beaches in the Florida Keys? Look no further than Key West Dog Beach. Let your dog have a blast with other dogs in the soft sands of this small pretty beach located at the southernmost point of the USA.
Your pups are free to roam off-leash on this beautiful, palm-lined beach in Key West. This is the only dog-friendly beach in Key West which is equally popular among couples making it a popular romantic getaway in Florida. Your canine friends love to run through the water. The sand can be a bit rocky, so you should be careful about your dog’s activity.
After visiting the beach, you can grab a beer can for nourishment at Louie’s Backyard, a cute dog-friendly restaurant.
Dog Rules: Dog owners must look after their dogs and carry waste bags to dispose of the waste. Keep your dog on-leash if he/she is not well behaved.
Hours of Service: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
Read Also: 12 Best Natural Mineral Springs in Florida
#10 Bark Park Dog Beach, Miami
Location: 8232 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33141
Beach Information
How can you leave your canine best friend at home while going on a beach vacation in Miami? Thankfully, Bark Park Dog Beach is such a picturesque beach that allows your pooch to roam on the beach freely. You can play fetch with your dog or just let him run freely along the shore.
Dog owners can also enjoy the beach and take a dip in the clear blue waters of Miami beach. If your dog loves swimming, it’s a great beach where you can swim with your pup.
After swimming in the sea go for a stroll through nearby North Shore Open Space Park which also welcomes dogs. There are lots of outdoor pet-friendly restaurants nearby Bark Dog Beach.
Dog Rules: Dogs are allowed to be off-leash in the designated area, still, their owners must keep the leash handy. Each dog owner is permitted to bring only two dogs at a time. Your dog must wear an up-to-date tag.
Hours of Service: 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm(Friday to Sunday)
Read Also: 11 Best Beaches In Northern Florida
#11 Pier Park Dog Beach, Panama City
Location: 16230 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Beach Information
It is one of the best dog-friendly beaches in the Florida Panhandle. Dogs are allowed on leash at beach #56 located just to the right of the pier. The beach boasts 400 feet of stunning Gulf Coast shoreline for your four-legged friend to enjoy. The clean beach and turquoise water are ideal for beach lovers to enjoy a getaway with their furry friends.
You will find this beach less crowded on weekdays. It gets busy during weekends and public holidays. Keep the place clean by using poop bags and trash cans. Here you’ll find plenty of dog-friendly restaurants that allow you to grab a snack with your dog on the patio.
Before visiting nearby restaurants and outdoor shopping malls, you can use the fresh water hose to rinse off your pet.
Entry Fee/Parking: Park your car in the Pier Park parking areas along the street.
Dog Rules: Maximum of three dogs are allowed per person. Dogs need to stay on 6 feet leash in the beach and restaurants. Remember that dogs are not allowed on the section behind Treasure Island.
Hours of Service: 24 hours a day, daily.
#12 Smyrna Dunes Park
Location: 2995 N Peninsula Dr, Smyrna Beach, FL 32169
Beach Information
Smyrna Dunes Park is about an hour’s drive from Orlando. From the friendly locals, soft sand, and fantastic surf to natural trails, picnic areas, and dog wash stations, this beach has everything that you and your dog need for weekend recreation.
Dogs must be on-leash while visiting this beach park. Smyrna Dunes Park has a boardwalk too which your dog can access till 10 am. Let your dog splash in the waves, dig in the beach, or take a refreshing dip in the clear water(while on a leash).
The beach is very busy during weekends and public holidays. Try to reach early to beat the crowd. There are lots of local hotels and restaurants that welcome pets. Grab a snack or enjoy a meal at any dog-friendly patios or eateries near Canal Street or Flagler Avenue.
Entry Fee/Parking: $10 per vehicle entry fee. Paved parking lot available.
Dog Rules: Pets must be leashed at all times. Keep a waste bag handy and always clean up after your dog.
Hours of Service: Sunrise to sunset, daily.
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#13 St. Augustine Beaches
Location: A1A Beach Blvd & A St, St Augustine Beach, FL 32080
Beach Information
If you are visiting St. Augustine, bring your pup with you to any of its beaches except Anastasia State Park. The oldest city in Florida and its beaches are very pet-friendly with plenty of dog-friendly accommodations and restaurants.
The beach is not overcrowded and your pup will get plenty of rooms to explore the beach. Your dog can be overheated on a hot sunny day. It is a smart idea to bring an extra umbrella or a doggy tent. Also, bring plenty of water for you and your furry friend.
When you’re done playing and swimming on the beach, take a stroll through the brick streets of the historic downtown where your dog can socialize with humans and other dogs.
Dog Rules: Dogs are needed to stay on a leash. Be sure to clean up after your pet.
Hours of Service: Sunrise – Sunset(daily)
#14 Gulfside City Beach Park
Location: 2001 Algiers Ln, Sanibel, FL 33957
Beach Information
Located in the middle of the lovely Sanibel Island, Gulfside City Beach Park is one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Florida. Your pup wouldn’t want to leave the beach while playing across the gorgeous stretch of white sand.
From the beautiful nature preserve to 15 miles of seashore filled with excellent shells, Gulfside City Park is a perfect destination to spend a day with your best friend. Let your dog play in the calm warm water and as the water is shallow, pups can play safely.
Dogs are required to keep on a leash. The beach is also known as Algiers Beach and part of this beach is protected for endangered turtles and birds. The beach amenities include picnic tables, restrooms, showers, and water fountains.
Entry Fee/Parking: Paid parking facility is available
Dog Rules: Algiers Beach is an on-leash Florida dog beach. Owners must pick up after their dog. Digging is prohibited to protect sea turtle eggs. If you see any sea turtles, be sure to give them plenty of space.
Hours of Service: 24 hours, daily.
I hope you enjoyed reading this post on the best dog-friendly beaches in Florida. Enjoy your day at the beach responsibly with your furry friend and keep the beach clean.
