Welcome to Gulf County, where your furry friends are not just allowed—they’re celebrated! We love those wet noses and cute paws almost as much as they love us. Our pristine beaches, lush parks, and welcoming community make this the perfect destination for a tail-wagging good time. Let's embark on a journey through our top pet-friendly spots that will have both you and your four-legged companion ready to return again and again.
Start your adventure at St. Joe Beach, where the soft sand and gentle waves create the perfect
playground for pups of all sizes. As you stroll along the shoreline, your dog will delight in the salty breeze
and endless opportunities for fetch.
Just a short distance away, you'll find the crown jewel for dog owners: Veterans Memorial Park at
Beacon Hill. This park is the only public spot in Gulf County where your furry friend can legally roam off--
leash, making it a must-visit destination for energetic puppers of all ages.
After working up an appetite, head to WindMark Beach Sunrise Cafe. This charming eatery features
delicious food, coffee drinks, and sweet treats. Pets are more than welcome on their patio and as a
bonus, WindMark is proud to offer "pup cups" to keep your canine companion cool and content while
you pause to enjoy a savory chicken salad croissant or the nearly famous fruity pebble waffles (ahem,
this is a spot where breakfast is served all day!).
For a perfect end to your day, swing by The Mill Mercantile & Social where you can expect a bazaar of
groceries, local goods, coffee, and cocktails. This unique venue combines shopping and socializing,
allowing you to browse local goods while your pup mingles with other four-legged patrons.
Next on our pet-friendly tour is the Cape San Blas and Indian Pass areas, home to the stunning Salinas Park Bayside. This park is a testament to Gulf County's commitment to our furry visitors, featuring the Serenity Trail boardwalk complete with a dog water fountain. Here, your pup can stay hydrated while you both enjoy the breathtaking bayside views.
No visit to this area is complete without a stop at the legendary Indian Pass Raw Bar. Known for its fresh
seafood and laid-back atmosphere, this neighborhood hangout welcomes well-behaved dogs on their
outdoor patio. Enjoy some of the best oysters in the region while your pup relaxes at your feet.
In the heart of Port St. Joe, you'll find George Core Park, a green oasis that's part of the extensive Port
City Trail is within walking distance of most of the area’s most popular amenities. This park offers an
ideal setting for both locals and visitors to walk their dogs, with plenty of space for shade and scenic
views.
As an added bonus, the pet-friendly Gulf County Welcome Center is right next door, ready to provide
you with all the information you need for your day or an extended stay. After your walk, treat yourself
and your pup to a meal at the Sand Dollar Cafe. This cozy spot offers outdoor seating where your dog
can join you as you devour scratch-made Southern cuisine like crab cakes, Charleston-style shrimp and
grits, and plenty of other comfort food classics.
For a unique evening out, check out TapRoot PSJ. This no-frills Florida dive bar often hosts live music or
entertaining events, and their outdoor area is perfect for enjoying a cold beverage with your fur-buddy
by your side.
For those seeking a more secluded adventure, the St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve is a welcome
change of pace. With its extensive trails winding through natural landscapes, this preserve offers a
peaceful retreat for you and your pup to explore Florida's diverse ecosystems. The preserve is home to
over 5,000 acres of untouched land, featuring coastal scrub, pine flatwoods, and salt marshes, making it
an ideal spot for adventurous dogs who love new scents and wide open spaces.
The quiet atmosphere means fewer distractions, allowing your dog to roam in a calm, natural
environment, while the miles of pet-friendly trails offer a variety of terrain to keep you both feeling fully
engaged. These trails are relatively uncrowded, which means plenty of room for a leashed stroll without
the hustle and bustle of busier parks. Whether you’re looking for a brisk walk or a day-long hike, St.
Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve offers the perfect backdrop for you and your pup to bond while
witnessing the splendor of Florida’s wilder side.
