The Emerald Coast offers plenty of pet-friendly spots, including waterfront dog-friendly beaches, scenic dog parks, outdoor shopping malls, and even pontoon boats where you and your best friends can explore the world-famous emerald waters together.
No matter where you're heading for vacation, from the Colorado Rockies to the Smokies in Tennessee to the Emerald Coast, there's nothing better for pet parents than bringing their furry friends along for the trip.
Planning a beach getaway to the Emerald Coast soon? The soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and epic sunsets along this slice of Florida paradise are great for you and your family to enjoy, including your faithful furry companions.
Just a quick taste of what's ahead:
- Wet-N-Wild Watersports, Destin: Dog-friendly pontoon boats, no extra pet fee, and swim-friendly.
- Destin Commons, Destin: 95+ shops and restaurants, patio dining, hydration stations.
- Village of Baytowne Wharf, Miramar Beach: Pet-friendly shops and patios, water bowls, leash required.
- 30A Farmers' Market, Rosemary Beach: Sunday market, leashed pets welcome, close to pet-friendly cafés.
- Dog Beach Across from Pier Park, PCB: Leashed dogs allowed, warm water, sandbars, beach showers.
- Pier Park, Panama City Beach: Dogs welcome on patios and some stores, water stations, cleanup bags.
- Frank Brown Dog Park, Panama City Beach: Fenced play zones, dog pool, benches, walking trails.
- Conservation Park, Panama City: 24 miles of trails and boardwalks, rest areas, leashed walks.
At RealJoy Vacations, we've been part of the Emerald Coast hospitality scene for years. If you're looking for spacious beachfront houses or luxurious resorts, we offer a wide range of options to suit every preference.
As local experts, we know the area inside and out, and we're here to help you have the best possible experience. For more tips, check out our destination blog for insights on all things Emerald Coast; from the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants to nightlife guides, it's all there.
In this blog, I'll share a list of pet-friendly spots along the Emerald Coast to help you plan a vacation where your pooch feels included and happy.
Ready? Let's "dig" into some seaside adventures with our four-legged pals!
1. WET-N-WILD WATERSPORTS, Destin
Pontoon boats perfect for letting Fido splash around.
Wet-N-Wild Watersports is one for the whole family. This rental company has dog-friendly pontoon boats available, allowing you to include Fido in a day of water-based activities and exploration.
The boats are well-maintained and suitable for groups of up to eleven people, with no extra fee for dogs. You can rent one for a half or full day and enjoy a fun time with your furry companion exploring Destin's crystal-clear waters.
If your pet enjoys a good swim, they're free to jump in, as long as you keep a close eye on them at all times.
2. DESTIN COMMONS, Destin
Pet-friendly boutiques, restaurants, events, and water stations to keep Fido cool.
This local gem is a great outdoor shopping spot with more than 95 shops and restaurants. It even has six hydration stations scattered throughout to help keep your furry friend cool and refreshed when you visit together.
Plus, all the restaurants with a patio are totally cool with your pup tagging along. Lots of the stores are dog-friendly too, but it's always a good idea to double-check before you bring your buddy inside.
But wait, there's more! Dogs can also join in on the fun at Destin Commons events, like the awesome annual Halloween Haunt Costume Contest. Just picture the hilarious photo ops!
3. THE VILLAGE OF BAYTOWNE WHARF, Miramar Beach
Pet-friendly spots for shopping and dining in Miramar Beach.
Like Destin Commons, The Village of Baytowne Wharf is a pet-friendly shopping and entertainment destination in Miramar Beach, just a 17-minute drive from Destin.
It boasts more than 12 restaurants and nearly 20 stores. Doggos are welcome to tag along while you go on a shopping spree, but they must be on a leash, and you must clean up after them.
Some stores allow them inside (but remember to ask before walking in), and the restaurant patios are dog-friendly. Some even provide complimentary water bowls for them.
4. 30A FARMERS' MARKET, Rosemary Beach
Buy treats for you and your pet at this charming farmers' market.
Every Sunday from 9 AM to 1 PM, the 30A Farmers' Market brings local charm to Rosemary Beach. Set in a scenic park along North Barrett Square, it's the perfect spot to browse fresh produce, artisan goods, and even a few dog treats. Pups are welcome on a leash, and the whole vibe is relaxed, friendly, and full of flavor, plus you're just steps from pet-friendly shops and cafés nearby.
5. Dog Beach Across from Pier Park, Panama City Beach
Warm waters, expansive sandbars, and gentle Gulf waves.
Located right next to the pier at Pier Park, this dog beach in Panama City boasts clean, pristine white sand and beautiful waters. It's a great spot for both dogs and families, offering warm waters, expansive sandbars, and gentle Gulf waves.
Highlights
- Great location: Right next to Pier Park, with beach access points 56 and 57.
- Dog-approved fun: Leashed dogs can splash, run, and socialize in a clean, open space.
- Family-friendly: Warm water, sandbars, and gentle waves make it a hit for everyone.
- Easy cleanup: Showers with attached hoses are perfect for rinsing off sandy paws.
- Plan ahead: No pet waste bins onsite, so bring your own bags.
- Nearby eats: Lots of dog-friendly restaurants just steps away for post-beach bites.
6. PIER PARK, Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach's ultimate pet-friendly entertainment hotspot.
Pier Park is Panama City Beach's go-to spot for shopping, dining, and hanging out, with your pup in tow. Leashed dogs are welcome on patios, in many stores, and even get water bowls and cleanup stations along the way. Grab a bite, do a little browsing, then kick back on a bench before exploring more of this open-air hub.
7. FRANK BROWN DOG PARK, Panama City Beach
Fenced play zones, a splash pool, and plenty of space for pups to run and play.
Tucked inside Frank Brown Park, this pup paradise has two fenced play zones, the Lazy Dawg Zone for chill pups and the Party Dawg Zone for the wild ones. There's room to run, splash in a doggie pool, and roll in both sand and grass. You'll also find water stations, benches, and poop bags to keep things easy. Just leash up outside the fenced areas and enjoy the nearby walking trails too.
8. CONSERVATION PARK, Panama City
Twenty-four miles of pet-friendly trails and boardwalks, perfect for leashed walks.
Conservation Park in Panama City Beach offers over 24 miles of pet-friendly trails and more than a mile of boardwalks, perfect for leashed walks with your dog. With a mix of scenic paths, rest areas, and plenty of space to roam, it's a top pick for outdoor-loving pet owners.
Extra Tips for a Successful Dog-friendly Visit Along the Emerald Coast
To have the best experience when vacationing with your pet along the Emerald Coast, try to keep some things in mind:
- Ensure that your lodging is pet-friendly. More and more hotels and short-term rentals are allowing pets nowadays. At RealJoy Vacations, for one, we have a great selection of pet-friendly units.
- If you're traveling by car, secure your pet in a well-ventilated crate or use a pet seatbelt.
- Just in case, it's always a good idea to have proper identification for your pet, including a collar with an ID tag containing your contact information.
- If you are going on holiday with your furry friend, schedule a visit to the vet before the trip to ensure your pet is in good health. Check if vaccinations are up to date, and if there is any new documentation that you need to bring to your destination.
- Packing essentials for your pet, including food, water, bowls, medications, a favorite toy, and bedding. Traveling can be as stressful for them as it is for us, and having familiar items always brings some comfort.
- Use resources like this blog to research and plan the best pet-friendly activities and spots in the region you are visiting.
- Always study local pet regulations, including leash laws and any restrictions on pets in certain areas. You don't want to be caught with fines and unpleasant surprises.
- Always save the location of the nearest veterinary clinic at your destination and have a pet first aid kit at hand.
- Be mindful of your pet's behavior and comfort level in new surroundings. Some pets may need time to adjust to a new environment.
- While we're excited about how many local businesses are dog-friendly nowadays, don't assume without checking first. It's best to avoid disappointments for you and your furry friend.
- In Florida, some waterways are home to a familiar wild resident: the alligator. While rarely dangerous to humans (especially adults), gators do pose a risk to dogs. Be cautious along shorelines and pay attention to posted warnings.
- In many places, you will find doggie bags and other cleaning supplies, but it's always a great idea to bring your own. Carry waste bags to clean up after your pet and be respectful of public spaces.
Finally, prepare yourself to be flexible and adapt your plans based on your pet's needs and the environment.
Where To Stay with Fido During Your Visit to Florida's Emerald Coast?
Stay like a local by booking one of our RealJoy Vacations rentals.
From spacious beachfront homes to chic coastal condos, our vacation rentals across the Emerald Coast offer the perfect setting for your beach getaway. With top-tier amenities and thoughtful touches, every stay is designed to help you relax, recharge, and make lasting memories.
Book now and have the ultimate vacation on the Emerald Coast!