Dog Friendly Spots on the Emerald Coast

Dogs are a man’s best friend and the Emerald Coast is the perfect place to pair dog adventures and beach vacation. Below are four activities to take your dog on, and the best places to do them, on the Emerald Coast.  

1. Experience the beauty of Florida’s nature in trails that go by forests, bays, oceans, sand dunes, and more. Henderson Beach State Park is a great place to take your dog for some outdoor adventures. Pair fresh air and exercise with your little bud on South Walton’s 200 miles of trail over four state parks. Below are some of the best South Walton trails.  

-Point Washington State Forest offers 3.5-, 5- and 10-mile loops located ½ mile south of 98 on Highway 395. 
-At nearly 2,000 acres, Grayton Beach State Park offers a variety of activities like paddleboarding, trails and options for overnight stay.
-Sharing its name with the coastal dune lake inside of its boundaries, Deer Lake State Park has 11 natural communities in the park for visitors to enjoy.
-One of the most widely used paved paths in South Walton is the Timpoochee Trail. The 19-mile-long multi-use path winds through 12 beach communities along Scenic Highway 30A, through recreational areas, state parks, the state forest and coastal dune lakes.


2. Take your dog shopping! Many stores at the Destin Commons are dog friendly, including Lush, Southern Living, and World of Beer. World of Beer even offers a dog menu! Looking for some organic food and cute outfits for your best friend? Check out Bow Wow Meow Pet Company in South Walton.  


3. If you want to go out and not leave your buddy at home, take them with you to one of these pet friendly restaurants. As mentioned above, World of Beer (Destin) offers a dog menu. Boshamps Oyster House (Destin) offers fun outdoor seating for you and your dog. Hammerhead’s Bar and Grille (Destin) offers $6 dog hamburgers and hotdogs and Harry T’s Lighthouse (Destin) includes doggie dining in their menu. Props Craft Brewery (Ft. Walton Beach) lets you bring along your dog for craft beer and will give them water and treats.  


4. Let your dog socialize at Alaqua Unleashed. Located at 342 J.D. Miller Road in Santa Rosa Beach, Alaqua Unleashed is a great way for your dog to run around and enjoy the Florida sun. (Be sure to bring lots of water for the heat, though!) Dogs will be put in small, medium, and large groups for playing.  


Whether it’s eating out or hiking, we hope you have a blast on all you doggy adventures! 

Published on Monday, July 16, 2018