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Pet Friendly Beaches

HIT THE SAND, LEASH IN HAND!

Bring your furry friends along. Woofs are welcome all over Gulf County.

Let your four-legged best friend run through the sand, splash in the water, shake it off, and then do it all again.

Gulf County Florida is dog heaven and more families are taking their pets along on vacation. In fact, two of the Top 20 Dog Beaches in Florida are located in Gulf County. Both Cape San Blas and Salinas Park received the coveted “5-Bone Rating” for its long stretches of uncrowded beaches and gentle waves by BringFido.com.

Pets are welcome on all Gulf County beaches except for St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, William J "Billy Joe" Rish Recreation Area and Eglin Airforce Base property on the elbow of Cape San Blas. Animals must remain on a leash at all times, it’s the law. Bring a long lead leash so you and your pet can be active.

There are over 20 pet waste disposal stations with bags and receptacles along the public beach access points. However, owners must remove any remnants left behind so it’s a good idea to pack your waste baggies for beach adventures.

Many areas on and off the beach are perfect for pets; even the Gulf County Welcome Center is pet-friendly so stop in and say hello! Located in Port St. Joe, it’s a great starting point for the Port City Trail that meanders nearly four miles throughout the town. Many of the local shops and restaurants also welcome pets on leashes.

Need help deciding where to stay with your dog? Just look for the paw prints on the vacation rentals page or contact a Concierge.

Pet Etiquette or Helpful Tips

  • Always keep your dog on a leash. It’s the law.
  • Respect children and adults around you who may not be familiar with your pet.
  • Always keep waste bags with you. We want our beaches to be people friendly, too.
  • Don’t bury pet waste. Children enjoy digging in the sand as much as pets.