The Sunshine State may be known for its gorgeous, white-sand beaches. However, beaches that allow you to bring your furry friend can be hard to find. We scoured the internet looking for reviews on dog-friendly beaches across Florida. After compiling comments from online review sites such as Yelp and BringFido, we’ve rounded up the dog-friendliest beaches in Florida.
Vilano Beach — St. Augustine
A short distance to the northeast of St. Augustine, FL, is a picturesque beach where you can bring your furry companion. Vilano Beach allows dogs at all times, but they must be leashed. The beach is located on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Tolomato River. The area is known for its casual, laid-back atmosphere, waterfront restaurants, and gorgeous beach.
Online reviewers love this beach for its cleanliness and ample room for their dogs to roam. People praise this relaxed beach for not getting overly crowded. They also enjoy that there are no time restrictions for when you are allowed to bring your pet. On the negative side, a few complained the sand is a little rough because it’s mainly crushed shells. Also, this may not be the beach for those who like to let their dog off leash to romp around as the beach rules are strict about keeping pets on leash at all times.
Jupiter’s Dog-Friendly Beach — Jupiter
Since 1989, dogs can roam freely along Jupiter Beach, at least in designated areas. This is one of the rare beaches in Florida where dogs can go off-leash. However, they should be well-behaved, non-aggressive, and responsive to voice commands. Jupiter is 15 miles north of West Palm Beach and 84 miles north of Miami. With powder white sand, pristine blue water, and incredible views, you and your dog will enjoy a day at Jupiter Beach.
Reviews online agree this is a gorgeous beach. People love that the beach is clean and dogs can run off-leash. Many commented that most people on the beach (and their dogs) are friendly. There is room here for dogs to run and play, either with each other or on their own if they need some space. One drawback that some reviewers warned of is that the white sand can get hot for your pooch’s paws on sunny days, so be careful of their feet.
Cape San Blas Beaches — Cape San Blas
Located on the Florida Panhandle, this area, also known as the “Forgotten Coast,” is situated along a 20-mile stretch of sandy beaches between the Gulf of Mexico and St. Joseph Bay. Cape San Blas has some truly unique features — it’s a dark sky preserve, and there are 15 coastal dune lakes in the area. In addition to its natural beauty, this place is for the dogs.
Online reviewers give high marks to Cape San Blas for its clean beaches, ample space, and dog-friendly amenities. People say the beach is rarely overcrowded, and the other dog owners they encounter are friendly. Most beaches in Gulf County allow dogs, and many beachside restaurants have pet-friendly patios. Note that dogs must be on leash at all times, and need to be kept away from marked turtle nesting sites.
Gulfside City Beach Park — Sanibel
Sanibel Island is a barrier island located off the West Coast of Florida. Although Hurricane Ian caused serious damage to the area in 2022, it’s been rebuilding ever since. Sanibel Island has gorgeous, white sandy beaches and a low-key, relaxed environment. And even better, many beaches here are dog-friendly.
Online reviewers adore Gulf City Beach Park for its clean facilities, long beach for walks, and magnificent scenery. People enjoy the friendly vibes, calm waters, and beautiful shells that wash ashore. Leashes are required at all times so that dogs don’t disturb the many endangered nesting shorebirds and sea turtles.
Sombrero Beach — Marathon
Sombrero Beach, located in Marathon, FL, is located between Key Largo and Key West. This tropical destination boasts white sand and turquoise water. Because the beach isn’t as well-known or well-traveled as other of the Keys destinations, beachgoers here enjoy a much quieter atmosphere. Dogs are allowed, but they must be leashed.
This beach gets high ratings from online reviewers with many saying they love the shady areas and dog amenities. The beach offers dog waste bags, trash cans, and a fenced grassy spot for walking your dog. There are showers and foot washing stations as you leave. The only downside for some is that dogs must be on a leash at all times.
Carabelle Beach — Carabelle
Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Carabelle Beach is west of the city. Sometimes described as “old Florida,” this spot on the Florida coast is less trendy and more laid-back than many Florida beach destinations. The waves are quieter since you are in the gulf and not on the open ocean side, and the water stays shallow for quite a while.
Reviewers praise the clean facilities, soft sandy beaches, and warm waters. The crowds are sparse, and the people are friendly. One reviewer recommends waiting for low tide to see the entire area, which is a wildlife haven full of hermit crabs, egrets, pelicans, and much more. You do, however, need to keep your dog on a leash at all times.
Ormond Beach – Ormond Beach
Ormond Beach is a much quieter alternative to nearby Daytona Beach. It’s also a great place to bring your dog. Dogs are allowed on the beach in designated areas from sunrise to sunset, provided they are on a leash. You also need to be aware of designated wildlife areas and be sure to keep your dog away from nesting turtle sites.
Online reviewers enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Ormond Beach. People also mentioned that the sand is nice and packed down at low tide, making it a great place for a long walk with your pooch. However, be aware this area is known for dangerous riptides and shark attacks.
Bark Beach at Spanish River Park — Boca Raton
Bark Beach in Boca Raton is one of the rare dog-friendly beaches in Florida where pups can run free without leashes. Located in Spanish River Park, permits are required, and dogs are only allowed between the lifeguard stations of 18 and 20. Hours are also limited, so be sure to check the website ahead of your visit.Reviewers enjoy the clean beach, friendly people, and letting their dogs roam free to play fetch, run, and swim. Some people say this is a fun place to watch dogs play, even if you didn’t bring one. On the negative side, some complain the dog-friendly area is small and that dogs are only allowed Friday through Sunday and during restricted hours. A few complained that once you buy a parking pass and beach permit, it can get costly.
Dog Park Beach at Fort de Soto Park — St. Petersburg
Fort de Soto Park, located at the tip of the Pinella County Peninsula, is about 35 miles southwest of Tampa. This beautiful location has gorgeous beaches, a historic fort, campgrounds, a boat ramp, and a dog beach. Dogs are allowed anywhere at Fort de Soto Park on leashes except for the beaches. If you want to take your pooch to the beach, head to the dog-friendly area where dogs can roam off-leash.
Most people have positive things to say about the dog beach, with reviewers pleased there is plenty of room for dogs to swim and play. People say the beach is beautiful and clean, and most people are friendly. However, a few reviewers had issues with aggressive dogs and irresponsible dog owners.
Peanut Island Park at Riviera Beach — Port of Palm Beach
Take a boat, kayak or ferry ride to this man-made island located at the mouth of the Lake Worth Inlet in Palm Beach County, FL. Built in 1918, this island is a wildlife paradise with waters full of stingrays, tropical fish, starfish, and much more. About 80 acres, this little island is free from houses, hotels, and condos, giving it an away-from-everything vibe.
As long as you keep your pooch leashed, you can bring your dog anywhere on the island. Reviewers rave that if you camp overnight there, you’ve pretty much got the place to yourself after the last ferry leaves at sunset. People also appreciate how clean the island is and how many fun places there are to explore with your pup.