Best 4 dog-friendly beaches for adventures for you and your pup in Southeast Florida.
(Plus, mapping out dog-friendly beaches from Jupiter to Key Biscayne.)
South Florida isn’t just sunshine and surf – it’s a paradise for pups too. Whether you’re a local looking for your favorite weekend escape or a tourist planning paw‑fect beach days, here are the best 4 dog‑friendly beaches from Jupiter to Miami. From off‑leash stretches where your dog can run free, to quieter leash‑friendly spots with shady trees and nearby treats, we’ll cover what to expect, how to plan, and how to stay cool and comfortable.
Dog-Friendly Beaches to Love in South Florida
Know Before You Go: Not every beach in Florida rolls out the welcome mat for four-legged guests, but a few local favorites do.
Here are our best 4 dog-friendly beaches:
1. Jupiter Dog Beach
(Palm Beach County)
A true gem for dog lovers. Off-leash, spacious, and totally free. Look for beach markers #25 to #59.
Location & Access:
Located between beach markers #25 to #59 off US-1 in Jupiter. Free street parking is available nearby, but it fills up quickly on weekends.
Hours & Cost:
Open 24/7 with free public access.
Jupiter Dog Beach Rules:
Dogs are allowed off-leash within the designated area. They must be under voice control at all times. Bring water, bags for waste, and be prepared to clean up after your pup.
Amenities:
Natural shade from dunes and palm trees. No lifeguards.
Nearest pet-friendly café: The Lokomotive (5 mins drive).
Closest vet: Jupiter Inlet Pet Emergency, 10 minutes away.
Best Time to Visit the Jupiter Dog Beach: Early morning before 10 AM or late afternoon when the sand cools down.
Insider Tip: Low tide reveals extra sandy space your pup will love. Bring a pop-up shade tent and doggy booties if you’re visiting midday.
2. Canine Beach
Fort Lauderdale
A dedicated stretch north of Sunrise Blvd. Open Friday through Sunday from 3–7 PM. Day passes or permits required.
Location & Access:
Sunrise Blvd and A1A, Fort Lauderdale. The Dog Beach in Fort Lauderdale is the designated area between lifeguard towers 16 and 17.
Hours & Cost:
Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 3 PM to 7 PM (Summer) or 3 PM to 6 PM (Winter). Weekend permit required: $7 per visit or $30 for an annual permit.
Canine Beach Dog Rules:
Must show proof of vaccinations. Dogs must remain under control and be leashed entering/exiting.
Amenities:
Restrooms nearby. Limited shade, so bring water and sunscreen.
Great boardwalk nearby with dog-friendly dining at Coconuts.
Best Time to Visit the Dog Beach in Fort Lauderdale: Fridays tend to be less crowded than weekends.
Insider Tip: Parking can be tricky, consider parking a few blocks away and walking in. Great sunset view on clear days.
3. Hollywood Dog Beach
Just north of Sheridan Street, this dog beach allows leashed dogs on weekends (3–7 PM) with a permit.
Location & Access:
Between Pershing and Custer Streets on Hollywood Beach. Limited metered parking available nearby.
Hours & Cost:
Open Friday through Sunday, 3 PM to 7 PM (Summer), 3 PM to 6 PM (Winter). $5 per visit or $30 annual pass.
Hollywood Dog Beach Rules:
Off-leash dogs allowed within designated area. Leash required outside dog beach zone. Must clean up after your dog.
Amenities:
Dog wash stations, trash bags provided.
Nearby pet-friendly café: Cafe Club by Les Artistes.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays have fewer crowds. Sundays are popular with locals.
Insider Tip: Bring an umbrella or small tent – shade is minimal and heat can be intense.
4. Haulover Beach Dog Park – North Miami
Offers fenced areas and off-leash access from 8 AM to 3 PM daily. It’s well-maintained and pup-approved.
Location & Access:
10800 Collins Ave, Miami Beach. Designated dog beach area is on the south end of Haulover Park.
Hours & Cost:
Open daily from 8 AM to sunset. Free access; metered parking available.
Haulover Park Dog Beach Rules:
Off-leash dogs inside fenced area only. Dogs must be leashed elsewhere. Dog ID tags and vaccinations required.
Amenities:
Double-gated dog park, water fountains, agility equipment, shade trees, restrooms.
Nearby Attractions: The Dog Bar Miami (pet boutique)
Best Time to Visit: Mornings are best for less heat and social pups.
Insider Tip: Check the tide and plan around it, you’ll get more sand space at low tide. It’s also adjacent to the clothing-optional beach, so… be advised!
Always check the latest dog beach rules online. Hours and leash laws can change by season or weather.
Once you’ve picked your best dog beach, it’s time to pack what you need and keep a few things in mind.
Think of your beach bag as a shared toolkit. Sure, you’ll need your towel, SPF 50, and maybe your favorite cold drink, but your pup needs gear too.
Bring plenty of fresh water (for both of you), a collapsible bowl, and dog-safe sunscreen. Pack an extra towel or two, and don’t forget a little shade: umbrellas or pop-up tents make a world of difference for you and your dog.
If you plan on grabbing a smoothie or iced coffee after your beach stroll, check out nearby pet-friendly cafes where your dog can join you on the patio. You can find an all inclusive list at PetJunction411.com.
Be mindful of the sun and sand at the dog-beach of your choice.
Midday rays can be intense, and the sand? It gets hot enough to burn paws and feet alike. The early morning or late afternoon golden hours are ideal, not only is it cooler, but the light is perfect for snapping those sun-soaked selfies with your dog.
Speaking of swimming, if your pup’s not an experienced paddler, consider bringing a doggie life vest. Safety first, even when you’re having fun.
At the dog beach, take it easy. Respect other beachgoers and their pets.
Some dogs (and people) aren’t up for socializing. Keep a polite distance, ask before approaching, and always clean up after your pup. You wouldn’t leave trash behind so don’t leave waste bags either.
When it’s time to head home, don’t skip the rinse.
Saltwater and sand can irritate your dog’s skin and paws, and they’re not exactly comfortable for humans either. A quick rinse under a beach shower or a jug of fresh water does the trick. Dry off, rehydrate, and maybe treat yourselves, a frozen pup cup for your dog and an iced latte for you sounds about right.
A beach day with your dog isn’t just a fun outing, it’s quality time. It’s shared sun, wind in your hair, and paws in the sand. So plan ahead, pack smart, and enjoy the kind of summer memories that make tails wag and hearts full.
If you can’t get to one of the best four dog friendly beaches listed, well there’s more dog‑friendly beaches in South Florida! Check out our interactive map below to find the dog‑friendly beach near you! Dog beaches are awesome, but if you’re looking for great South Florida dog parks, we got ’em here! Looking for dog-friendly camping in South Florida? We got you covered!
FAQ: Dog‑Friendly Beaches from Jupiter to Miami
Q1: Are dogs allowed off‑leash at Jupiter Dog Beach?
A: Yes. Dogs may be off‑leash between beach markers #25–#59 when under voice control. Leashes are required outside this zone and when entering/exiting.
Q2: Do I need a permit for Fort Lauderdale’s Canine Beach?
A: Yes on designated days. Day permits are commonly available (e.g., around $7) and annual permits are offered by the city. Bring proof of vaccinations and ID; check the city site for current rates and hours.
Q3: What hours is Hollywood Dog Beach open?
A: Typically Fri–Sun afternoons with seasonal times (later in summer, earlier in winter). Verify times before you go, as schedules can change for weather or events.
Q4: Is Haulover’s dog area on the beach or only in a fenced park?
A: Haulover has a fenced dog park area (off‑leash) and a designated dog‑friendly beach area with specific times/rules. Keep dogs leashed when outside marked zones.
Q5: What should I bring for my dog at the beach?
A: Plenty of fresh water, collapsible bowl, poop bags, leash, ID tags, paw protection for hot sand, shade (umbrella/tent), and pet‑safe sunscreen for light‑skinned or short‑coated dogs.
Q6: When is the best time to visit with a dog?
A: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temps, softer sand, and calmer crowds. Avoid midday heat and check tide times for more firm wet sand.
Q7: Are there dog wash/rinse stations?
A: Some beaches and nearby parks have rinse areas, but not all. Pack extra water/jug and a towel in case you need a DIY rinse.
Q8: What about parking and fees?
A: Expect a mix of metered lots and street parking that fills quickly on weekends. Bring a card or app for meters; some locations charge beach or permit fees during designated dog hours.
Note: Rules, hours, and fees can change. Always check the official city/county page for the beach you’re visiting before you go.
