29 Best Dog Friendly Beaches in Florida to Visit in 2024

Planning a Florida beach getaway can be a joy. Even with hectic schedules to coordinate, baby beach essentials to pack and reservations to make, all the details seem sunny and wonderful. But in the mix of all the anticipation, one (or sometimes more) four-legged family member often gets left out. This doesn’t have to happen if you visit one of the many dog friendly beaches in Florida.

Don’t leave the dog behind this time around. Florida is full of beaches for dogs, and we’re counting down the best of them right here! Whether you’re looking to vacation in the Panhandle, Atlantic side, or Gulf Coast, we’ve got a list of pet-friendly beaches in Florida for each area.  

Dog-Friendly Beaches in Florida: Panhandle 

1. Dog Beach at Pier Park in Panama City Beach

Aerial view of Dog Beach at Pier Park, one of the dog-friendly beaches in Florida

The Dog Beach at Pier Park in Panama City Beach is one of a handful of dog-friendly beaches in northern Florida. This beach, located at Russell-Fields City Pier, is clean and offers the perfect atmosphere for your pup to splash around. 

Owners are asked to keep dogs on leashes and under control. If you want to keep the party rolling, wrap up your time on the beach with a meal at one of the pet-friendly restaurants along the pier or in the greater Panama City area. 

Where to Stay: The Rodeway Inn is a quaint and comfortable spot to enjoy your pet vacation in Panama City. 

This property allows up to two dogs (under 35 lbs) for each reservation. Cats are not permitted. Each pet accrues a $25 fee per night stayed. A $60 pet deposit is required as well but is refundable if the say goes without incident. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: The Rodeway Inn

2. St. George Island Beach 

St George Island Beach is one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Florida

St. George Island Beach is a barrier island located along the Florida panhandle. Largely untouched, it has an amazing primitive feel and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. 

Unlike most dog-friendly beaches in Florida, St. George Island doesn’t limit where your pet can roam. The entire island is theirs for the taking! As is typical, dogs must be on a six-foot leash and under the owner’s control at all times.

Where to Stay: Water Street Hotel and Marina is our accommodation recommendation for the Eastpoint area, near St. George Island. This hotel offers both standard rooms and suites with kitchenette options. 

Both dogs and cats are welcome at this pet-friendly location. Dogs must be under 50 lbs. A maximum of two pets are permitted per room, at a $35 per pet, per night fee. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Water Street Hotel and Marina

3. Pensacola Dog Beach (West and East) 

Pensacola Beach in Florida is dog-friendly

If you’re planning to visit Pensacola Beach, your dogs are in for an extra special treat. This white sand beach paradise is home to not only one but two designated beaches that allow dogs. ,

Both the West and East beaches offer limited space and require dogs to remain leashed at all times. Keep in mind this can be trying for visitors wishing to play fetch with their dog or allow them to splash through the waves freely. Doggie bags and wipes are available at these beaches. 

Where to Stay: Surf & Sand Hotel is a dreamy place to stay while visiting Pensacola. Their pet policy allows for two pets per room, charging $40 per pet per night. They do cap the pet charges at $100 per pet, so if you’re looking for a place to stay on an extended trip, this is a great pet-friendly find. 

They do not discriminate based on weight. Dogs and cats of all sizes are welcome at Surf & Sand. Last but definitely not least, the hotel even features a private beach area where dogs are allowed to roam while leashed. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Surf & Sand Hotel

4. Perdido Key River Road Park 

My daughter and dog playing on the beach in Florida

Pensacola is home to yet another one of the most dog-friendly beaches in the Florida panhandle. Perdido Key River Road Park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike because it is one of the few off-leash dog beaches in Florida.

Here dogs have the opportunity to roam unleashed in a separate fenced-off area while still having access to the water.  

This beach seems to be most suited for smaller to mid-size dogs, as some larger dogs might feel literally fenced into this space. Also of note, this beach does not offer fresh water, so be sure to bring some. 

Where to Stay: Studio 6 is a stellar spot to crash after enjoying the waves and the breeze of the ocean. Recently renovated, this motel is comfortable but basic.

They allow two pets (dogs or cats) of any size at a low $10 per pet, per night rate. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Studio 6

Dog-Friendly Beaches in Florida: Atlantic (East Coast) 

5. Cocoa Beach 

If you’re looking for a low-key and serene beach to enjoy with your doggy, definitely keep Cocoa Beach in mind. Keep in mind, this highly regarded area only allows dogs on the beach in a specific area and during specific time periods. 

You can find the pet-friendly beach on 4th Street South on the north side of Murkshe Park. If you’re hoping to bring your pup to Cocoa Beach, make sure you visit from 6 am-10 am or 4 pm-10 pm, which are the specified dog beach hours. 

Where to Stay: Best Western Cocoa Beach Hotel & Suites is an excellent place to stay near Cocoa Beach, especially when traveling with larger pets. This hotel welcomes two pets up to 80 lbs for $15 per pet, per night.

That said, a $50 cleaning and damage deposit will also be required upon check-in. This hotel also offers a killer pool (not for the pups, unfortunately) and grassy areas for fun walks (totally pup approved!).  

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Best Western Cocoa Beach Hotel & Suites

6. Crescent Beach 

Crescent Beach is one of the dog friendly beaches in Florida near St Augustine

Crescent Beach is the dog beach sister to St. Augustine Beach, which is located just 3 miles away. With sand and waves for days, your dog will have the time of its life on this quiet beach. As per usual, dogs must stay leashed on this beach. 

Fun fact, the sand here is hard-packed and makes for a great setting for beach games like frisbee and volleyball. It’s also an amazing place to take a beach bike ride. 

If you haven’t been to St. Augustine before, it is well worth a visit. We loved this historic city along with the beautiful beaches in the area. It also has quick and easy access to a lot of the natural springs in Florida.

Where to Stay: Any dog would be thrilled to stay at The Smart Stay Inn. Nearby Crescent Beach, this establishment does not have any limitations regarding pets and does not require a pet fee.

Keep in mind this is an older hotel, but it’s been well-kept and is clean. But most exciting of all, the property features a dog run that would make any pet’s day.  

▶️ Check Rates & Book: The Smart Stay Inn

7. Flagler Beach 

Man and dog running on Flagler Beach in Florida

Flagler Beach is seven miles of pristine, sandy paradise. Dogs are allowed on the beach north of N 10th Street and south of S 10th Street. Though the space is limited, and dogs have to remain leashed here as well, the scenery alone is worth a visit.  

Don’t miss the Flagler Beach Pier while you’re here. It’s a staple of the city’s history, first built in 1927. It’s beautiful and adds so much to this beach’s charm. It really does help make Flagler Beach one of the prettiest dog-friendly beaches in Florida.  

Where to Stay: A1A Ocean Club has a killer beach vibe and is one of the coolest places you could dream of resting your head alongside your pet. Keep in mind pet-friendly rooms are limited at this spot, so they fill up quickly. 

In comparison to some of the other hotels mentioned on our list, the $99 flat fee for one pet of any size seems a bit steep. Also, keep in mind that pets cannot be left unattended in rooms at A1A Ocean Club. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: A1A Ocean Club

8. Frank B. Butler County Park 

Dog at one of the dog friendly beaches in Florida

Frank B. Butler County Park is a coastal park conveniently located just off of St. Augustine Beach. It features a sweeping boardwalk that your dog will love meandering on as you make your way to the beach. 

Once there, the whole family will enjoy the calm and peaceful ambiance of this portion of the beach as everyone runs and plays. Four-legged friends must remain leashed at all times. This park also features picnic tables, covered pavilions, and restrooms.  

Where to Stay: The Cozy Inn is a wonderful place to stay when visiting this area. Just as the name entails, it’s cute and comfortable. A great option for anyone who loves a country meets tropics decor scheme. A maximum of two dogs are allowed per room. 

This property implements a range of pet fees dependent on the animal’s size. Small dogs, 20 lbs and under, require a $25 per pet, per stay rate. Medium-sized dogs, 21-40 lbs, are $45 per pet, per stay.

Large dogs allowed on the property will range between 41-50 lbs, and accrue a $55 per pet, per stay rate. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: The Cozy Inn

9. Jupiter Dog Beach 

Jupiter Dog Beach is one of the dog friendly beaches in Florida

Jupiter Dog Beach is home to 2.5 miles of the most pristine and enjoyable off-leash beach that Florida can offer. This is where all the really good furry boys and girls get to reap all their vacation benefits. 

Because this beach offers such a special experience for dogs to be able to enjoy the sand and water unimpeded, only the most obedient pups are allowed to play here. If your pet does not respond to voice commands or is aggressive, they will not be permitted to stay.  

Where to Stay: La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Jupiter is a comfortable and thrifty place to stay when visiting Jupiter with your pet in tow. Rooms here allow 2 pets up to 75 lbs for $20 per pet, per night, not to exceed $40, which is a steal of a deal, especially if you’re planning to stay for a handful of nights. 

Keep in mind this location has a limited selection of pet-friendly rooms, so it’s wise to book early before they are all reserved. Also note though they are pet-friendly, animals may not be left alone in rooms. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Jupiter

10. Ponce Inlet Dog Beach  

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse

Ponce Inlet Dog Beach is one of the top dog-friendly beaches near Orlando. About 1 hour and 10 mins outside of Orlando, this beach is part of Lighthouse Point Park. The beach and park area are beautiful and offer amazing views of the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse. 

Dogs are permitted to explore the inlet and river shoreline beach areas, leashed at all times. It’s truly one of the most laid-back and relaxing pet-friendly beaches on our list. 

Where to Stay: Residence Inn by Marriott Daytona Beach is just 15 minutes away from Ponce Inlet Dog Beach, and it has an amazing pet policy. Two pets of any size are permitted per room at this property for a flat $75 fee, which is a great deal if you are traveling for an extended period of time.

Keep in mind this location does not discriminate when it comes to beloved pets, as both dogs and cats are allowed. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Residence Inn by Marriott Daytona Beach

11. Bark Beach at North Shore Open Space Park  

Dog-friendly beach in Miami, Florida

Miami is one of the most highly visited cities in Florida. If you’re considering a vacation there, take note of this Bark Beach, located on Miami Beach. Bark Beach at North Shore Open Space Park is one of the most dog-friendly beaches on Florida’s East Coast. 

Only open to dogs Friday-Sunday (1:30 pm-5:30 pm), visitation is limited, but the area is booming with other pet-involved activities.

After playing on the beach, you can wander over to the greater North Shore Open Space Park, which features trails you can meander with your pup and even picnic areas if you want to pack a lunch or dinner along. 

Where to Stay: The Standard Spa Miami Beach is the place to stay if you’re looking to live your best life in Miami. It’s a beautiful hotel with top-notch comforts for humans and pets alike. With a beautiful pool, relaxing spa, and delicious on-site restaurant, you’ll never want to leave. 

The Standard’s pet policy allows for 2 pets (of any size, no limitations) to accompany their owners at no additional fee. It seems like a dream, but it’s not.

Pet beds are provided to enhance your dog’s free stay even more. Keep in mind pets are allowed to stay unaccompanied in rooms, but housekeeping will not service the room while they are there. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: The Standard Spa Miami Beach

12. Peanut Island 

Peanut Island, Florida

If you want to take your dog on a real adventure, Peanut Island might be your perfect Florida destination. The little island off the coast of Riviera Beach, FL is only accessible by boat, ferry, or kayak. So, hop on a ride or get paddling out for this adventure. 

Dogs are to remain leashed, but with the secluded nature of this spot, the island will be serene and relaxing for them regardless. If you’d like, you can keep the zen feeling flowing and even camp out overnight on the island. 

Where to Stay: If camping isn’t in the cards, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham West Palm Beach Airport is an amazing second choice. This property allows 2 pets of any size for an additional fee of $25 per night.

Keep in mind the pet fees are not to exceed $75 per stay, so if you’re planning a longer visit, this location could be an optimal choice.  

▶️ Check Rates & Book: La Quinta Inn & Suites West Palm Beach Airport

13. Performance Pups Freshwater Dog Beach 

If you want to move away from the beaten trail, consider a visit to Performance Pups Freshwater Dog Beach in Dania Beach. This beach is home to the cleanest freshwater dog lake in the area. 

This beach area is fenced, making it another prime spot to allow your dog to run and frolic off-leash. Your pups will love taking a dip in the lake, but owners should refrain from swimming at this location. 

Where to Stay: Kimpton Epic Hotel will keep your pet’s daydream rolling. Not only a pet-friendly hotel, but this spot also puts your good boy or girl front and center. Both dogs and cats of all sizes are welcome, and you can find treats, bowls, toys, and waste bags at the front desk. 

As if pampering your pup wouldn’t be enough, owners reap the benefits, too, as there is no additional fee required for traveling with pets. It’s a dream stay for the entire family. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Kimpton Epic Hotel

14. Rickenbacker Causeway Dog Beach 

There is a dog friendly beach in Florida near the Rickenbacker Causeway

Rickenbacker Causeway Dog Beach is a rare pet-friendly find as you travel from Miami to the barrier islands of Virginia Key and Key Biscayne. You’ll find the specified dog beach portion of Rickenbacker Causeway Beach at the foot of Rickenbacker Bridge which crosses over to Key Biscayne.

It’s a great spot to enjoy views of Miami and let your leashed dog wander along the shoreline. If your family is looking to enjoy the beach as well, this is a hub for watersport rentals like kayaks, paddleboards, and even sailboats. 

Swimming warnings vary in this area, so don’t count on that. And also, watch where you step, as this beach is not known for its pet-related cleanliness. Though others before you may have not, do the beach a solid and pick up after your pet. 

Where to Stay: Yotel Miami is a comfortable place to stay near Rickenbacker Causeway Dog Beach. However, Yotel doesn’t have a firm pet policy. If you let the hotel know at the time of booking that you are traveling with a pet(s) if they are able to meet your request.

They typically add an additional charge of $75 per pet, just once for the whole stay. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Yotel Miami

15. Sombrero Beach 

Dog on the beach in Florida

Sombrero Beach is located in Marathon, Florida, which is lovingly thought of as the heart of the Florida Keys. This white sand beach is rated as one of the best dog-friendly beaches in all of Florida. 

Though dogs must remain on leash while visiting, there is ample room for them to dig in the sand and splash in the water. It’s also known to be the origin spot for many canine friendships.

Where to Stay: Conch Key Fishing Lodge & Marina is located near Sombrero Beach and is a unique and fun accommodations option. Their pet policy allows a max of two dogs of any size, for a $25 per pet, per night fee. Cats are not permitted at this property. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Conch Key Fishing Lodge & Marina

16. Stuart Beach 

Dog on a pier by the beach in Florida

Stuart Beach is a favorite for pet owners and families alike. The turquoise water and sparkling clean beach make it a great place to spend the day. The area doesn’t typically get too crowded, and with leashed and well-behaved pets, it’s a dog-friendly paradise. 

Where to Stay: Best Western Downtown Stuart is a great hotel option near Stuart Beach. To avoid any booking mishaps, be sure to let the hotel know you need a pet-friendly room at the time of reservation. This property permits 2 pets with a combined weight of 60 lbs for a flat $30 per night fee. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Best Western Downtown Stuart

17. Vilano Beach

Vilano Beach

Another St. Augustine entry, Vilano Beach, is a top-tier dog beach. Sparse crowds with clean water and sand, it can’t get much better than that. 

If you’ve got a swimmer, Vilano Beach is an excellent place to play because your pup will be able to walk out into the water for a decent distance before it gets too deep. As always, dogs and owners should be respectful.

Stay leashed and pick up after your pup in an effort to keep the beach pristine. Kids will also love shell hunting on this beach or flying a beach kite

Where to Stay: With a name like Magic Beach Motel, how could you not spend a night here? This is an older property but the bright, beautifully painted murals throughout make it a memorable place to stay. This motel welcomes 2 dogs max, up to 40 lbs for $25 (plus tax) per pet, per night. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Magic Beach Motel

18. Walton Rocks Dog Beach 

Dog sitting on a dog friendly beach in Florida

Walton Rocks Dog Beach is another dream location for the pups ready to break free. This 24-acre dog park allows your pet to run to its heart’s content. Off-leash and fancy free. And a plus: the hose near the parking area is perfect for pup clean-up after a fun day’s work. 

Where to Stay: If you’re looking to unwind in the lap of luxury after your visit to Walton Rocks, add Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa to the top of your list of places to stay. This hotel allows up to 2 dogs per room, which must be under 30 lbs. The pet fee is $75 per night.

The hotel offers extras like beds, bowls and treats to make your pet’s stay all the more comfortable. Live it up in class at this gorgeous, high-brow resort. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa

Dog Friendly Beaches in Florida: Gulf Coast  

19. Bonita Beach Dog Beach 

Dog sitting on the beach in Florida with a dog harness on

Bonita Beach Dog Beach is also known as Lee County Dog Beach. The calm and shallow water makes the perfect backdrop for an off-leash afternoon on the beach. Let your cares wash away as your dog is able to run, jump and soak up the refreshing mist off the surf. 

Where to Stay: Lighthouse Resort Inn & Suites is an adorable and whimsical spot to stay while visiting the Fort Myers area. This resort welcomes two dogs max, up to 25 lbs for $25 (plus tax) per pet, per night. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Lighthouse Resort Inn & Suites

20. Brohard Paw Park 

Dog sleeping on the beach in Florida

If you’re planning to check out Venice, Florida, you will definitely want to swing by Brohard Paw Park. With limited options for dogs in this area, this stretch of beach will be a welcome place to allow your pup the space and freedom to stretch their legs. Doggy drinking fountains and showers are stellar extra features at this fun beach. 

Where to Stay: Ramada by Wyndham Venice Hotel Venezia is a picturesque place to stay with your pup while visiting Venice. The pet policy at this establishment allows two dogs up to 50 lbs to accompany their owners in their rooms. The charge is $50 per pet, per week spent at the hotel. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Ramada by Wyndham Venice Hotel Venezia

21. Davis Island’s Dog Beach 

Florida Beach with dog foot prints

Davis Island’s Dog Beach is bound to be your dog’s favorite place in Tampa. This designated stretch of beach permits dogs to roam leash-free. This is a great spot for dogs uncomfortable with waves, as there is no surf at this location. 

Visitors will notice two fenced-in areas here, one for dczxbeach access and one in the style of a typical dog park. So, if your pup gets antsy in one spot, you can move to the other. Water for doggy drinks and baths is accessible. 

Where to Stay: Hyatt Place Busch Gardens is an amazing place to stay in Tampa, near Davis Island. This hotel has pet-friendly options in each of their room styles, so limited availability isn’t too much of a concern here. The hotel permits two dogs up to 50 lbs for an additional $75 per week. 

Keep in mind, there are some amazing places to stay on the Tampa Riverwalk as well!

▶️ Check & Book: Hyatt Place Busch Gardens

22. Fort De Soto Dog Beach 

Dog running on the beach in Florida

Fort De Soto Park is definitely home to one of the most fun and dog-friendly beaches in central Florida. With two distinct, fenced-in areas, dogs of all sizes can enjoy some off-leash fun in the sun. 

The nearby Paw Playground is sure to also be a big hit with your pet. Once owner and pet are both tuckered out, you can even give your four-legged friend a shower as you wrap up your day. 

Where to Stay: Crystal Bay Hotel is a charming, old-time Floridian hotel. The comforts extend beyond clean and comfortable rooms (not to mention an impressive continental breakfast) to pet accommodations as well. 

Two pets of any size are welcome at this hotel for no additional fee. Above and beyond, the staff asks that pet names be added to the reservation alongside those of the dog owners. And a bag of doggy treats is known to greet canine guests upon arrival. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Crystal Bay Hotel

23. Honeymoon Island State Park 

Picture of Honeymoon Island State Park which is a dog friendly beach in florida

Honeymoon Island State Park is home to some of the best dog-friendly Gulf Coast beaches in Florida. The spot you won’t want to miss is the designated dog beach at the southern tip of the island. This is an amazing spot for your dog to play and enjoy the best of what the beach can offer. 

Honeymoon Island is a stunning location. Take in the beautiful Floridian plants and maybe even catch a glimpse of some wildlife during your visit here. Also, remember that aside from the beach, dogs can also venture onto the pet-friendly nature trail. 

Where to Stay: Lorelei Resort Motel is a very welcoming, pet-friendly motel near Honeymoon Island State Park. This property allows 2 pets (both dogs and cats are permitted) 45 lbs and under to stay on location for no additional fee. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Lorelei Resort Motel

24. Key West Dog Beach 

Dog digging in the sand on a beach in Florida

It’s challenging to find a good place for your dog to enjoy the beach in the Key West area. That said, Key West Dog Beach is small and can be rocky. It’s not an ideal space to play with your pup, but if you’re desperate for an off-leash beach in the city, this will have to do. 

If you’re hungry, swing by Louie’s Backyard, a tasty nearby restaurant that is known for treating their canine customers even better than the customers responsible for covering the bill.  

Where to Stay: The Palms Hotel is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to experience old-time Key West. This aged property is upscale in its beauty and stature, complete with vaulted ceilings and gorgeous wrap-around porches. Not to mention the over-the-top continental breakfast served under a cabana alongside the pool. 

As for pets, the hotel permits two animals per room. The pet fee is a sliding scale, based on weight. Dogs 40 lbs and under require a $35 fee, those 41-50 lbs are $45 and pets over 50 lbs are $65.

All rates are per pet, per night. Pet-friendly rooms are limited, so make sure to discuss that requirement at the time of booking.  

▶️ Check Rates & Book: The Palm Hotel

25. Lighthouse Beach Park 

sunset from a dog friendly beach in Florida

Lighthouse Beach Park is the first of a few of our beach entries for Sanibel Island. This beach is the most easily accessible dog-friendly spot on the island. If you’re not interested in driving around Sanibel Island, this is the perfect place to stop. 

The beach area is limited, as it’s right next to a dock, but there’s still room for your leashed dog to explore the sand and water. Enjoy the sun and walk along the sandbar. There’s even a restroom and shower area for convenient clean-up. 

Where to Stay: Anchor Inn & Cottages is a homey spot to stay while exploring Sanibel Island. This property allows two dogs, up to 70 lbs for an additional $20 fee, per pet, per night. Cats are not permitted at this location. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Anchor Inn & Cottages

26. Bowman’s Beach 

Dog sitting on a dog friendly beach in Florida

Bowman’s Beach is hands down one of the most dog friendly beaches in Southwest Florida. Also located on Sanibel Island, it’s a dream escape for a pup. 

This beach is secluded, so it’s perfect for quiet getaways. The water is beautiful and decently comfortable year-round. And after playing in the water and sand, there are pet-friendly hiking trails to explore as well. 

Where to Stay: Sanibel Island Beach Resort will provide a gorgeous island getaway backdrop to your trip to Sanibel Island. Not a humdrum hotel, this property will hit the pocketbook harder than others, but if you’re looking for the full island experience complete with hammocks over sweeping greens, keep this spot in mind. 

Sanibel Island Beach Resort permits two dogs up to 30 lbs for $75 per pet, per night. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Sanibel Island Beach Resort

27. Gulfside City Park

paw print from a dog friendly beach in Florida

Gulfside City Park is yet another beach on the very pet-friendly Sanibel Island. This on-leash beach is also home to endangered shorebirds and sea turtles, so keep a lookout for wildlife if you visit here. As always, have fun but remember to preserve the beauty of the area and clean up after your pets.  

Where to Stay: If you’re not interested in staying on the island, back in Fort Myers, the Holiday Inn – Fort Myers Downtown Area is a beautiful and enjoyable property.

Guests are permitted to bring up to two pets, up to 50 lbs for an additional $20 per pet, per night fee. Pet-friendly rooms are only on the ground floor, so options are limited. Treats and waste bags are available. 

▶️ Check Rates & Book: Holiday Inn – Fort Myers Downtown Area

28. Cape San Blas Beach

poodle on the beach in florida

Cape San Blas Beach is the perfect place for your dog to play in the sand and surf. As this beach is also a known nesting area for turtles, be sure to watch where your pet is playing and digging. Another favorite activity on this beach is campfires. There’s nothing like experiencing the warm glow of a campfire on the beach with your furry best friend. 

Hotel accommodations are sparse in Cape San Blas. That said, there are pet-friendly rentals available in the area. 

29. Clearwater North Beach 

A husky dog on the beach in Florida

Clearwater Beach is known not only as one of the most beautiful beaches in Florida, but it often makes the list of the top beaches in all of the United States. That said, the pristine nature the beach is known for, is not conducive to pets. Pets are not allowed on the majority of Clearwater Beach. 

The north portion of Clearwater North Beach is the sole area of this beach where dogs are permitted. Dogs must remain leashed at all times, but at least you will be able to experience one of the best things to do in Clearwater together. 

While you are in north Clearwater, you can also make the short drive up to the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks. This is a great and walkable neighborhood to explore, with lots of yummy Clearwater restauraunts for lunch and dinner. And even a special collection of breakfast eateries along Clearwater Beach.

Where to Stay: La Quinta by Wyndham Clearwater Central is one of the best pet-friendly Clearwater hotels. This property welcomes two pets up to 50 lbs for an additional $25 per pet, per night stay.

Keep in mind this property will max pet charges at $75 per pet, so if you’re looking for an extended stay, it’s not a bad deal. There are also lots of Clearwater motels that are pet-friendly if you’re on a budget.

▶️ Check Rates & Book: La Quinta by Wyndham Clearwater Central

Map of Dog Friendly Beaches in Florida 

Things to Bring to the Beach With Your Dog 

  • Fresh water
  • Food/Treats (of the human and canine variety) 
  • Portable water/food dishes 
  • A leash 
  • Toys (for fetch or water play) 
  • Durable, all-terrain type dog bed
  • Some sort of portable shade (beach chair with an umbrella or shade screen) 
  • First aid and safety items: canine sunscreen, goggles, paw booties, lifejacket 

FAQ: Dog Friendly Beaches in Florida 

Are There Any Dog Friendly Beaches in Florida? 

There are so many dog friendly beaches in Florida! From Tampa to Key West, St. Augustine and Jupiter Beach, there’s always a pup-friendly coastline somewhere around the corner.

What Beaches Are Dog Friendly in Florida? 

There are dog friendly beaches in most of Florida’s most popular cities. Fort De Soto Dog Beach, Davis Islands Dog Beach, Bonita Beach Dog Beach, Key West Dog Beach, Miami Beach’s Bark Beach, and so many more. 

Walking on a dog friendly beach in Florida

Where is the Most Dog Friendly Place in Florida? 

Florida is a dog friendly state, so it’s hard to determine which city loves them most! St. Augustine, Jacksonville, Panama City, Key West and Sanibel Island are all crazy about canines. 

Does Destin Allow Dogs on the Beach? 

There are no dog friendly beaches in Destin, Florida. Though dogs are not permitted on the beach in Destin, they still have a place to play at the Destin Dog Park. 

What Beaches Allow Dogs in the Panhandle of Florida? 

Dog Beach at Pier Park in Panama City, St. George Island Beach, Pensacola Dog Beach and Perdido Key River Road Park are some of our favorite dog-friendly beaches in the Florida panhandle. 

Kids with their dog on a Florida beach

Does Clearwater Beach Allow Dogs? 

Due to the pristine nature of the white sand, pets in general (including dogs) are not allowed on the majority of Clearwater Beach. Clearwater in October is beautiful and dogs are allowed on the northernmost portion of Clearwater North Beach.

Conclusion: Dog Friendly Beaches in Florida 

Dog beaches in Florida are plentiful. No matter where you are planning to travel, if you’ve got your furry friend in tow, you’ll find a spectacular place to play. 

Wherever your journey takes you, have an amazing time checking out some of the best dog-friendly beaches in Florida!

More Florida Adventures

Tampa vs Clearwater: Where to Visit On Your Next Vacation
Planning the Perfect Orlando to Clearwater Day Trip

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