8 dog-friendly beaches and waterfronts in Miami and South Florida

Haulover is as appealing to humans as it is to canines: beautiful, spacious and low-key with plenty of amenities including easily accessible public restrooms, dog and human shower areas, plenty of parking and a large grassy dog park just steps away from the beach. Dog lovers of all sorts gather here from 8am to 4pm between lifeguard towers #2 and #3 to let their dogs run around and get sandy. On weekends, expect quite a lot of happy dogs. 

An historic lighthouse marks the spot at this Florida State Park on Key Biscayne, which offers beaches, a marina, nature and biking trails and historical tours. While dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the wetlands, there's so much paved path for them to walk on, much of it with a sprawling bay view. Dogs are also allowed in the picnic areas, so be sure to pack them some crunchies to refuel.

Located inside the North Beach Oceanside Park between 80th and 81st Street Beach, this little chunk of paradise is officially open to dogs on weekends, including Fridays. Like most beaches in North Beach, things are pretty chill and relaxed. Though only a small portion of this beach is designated for dogs, there’s still plenty of room for fetch and swimming. The entrance is on Collins and 81st Street, right through North Shore Park Beach, which also touts an enclosed Bark Park.

So, technically South Pointe Park is not a dog beach. But this park is literally right next to the beach and is not only super dog-friendly, but also offers some gorgeous water views for you and your hairy best friend. Your good boy or girl will be able to hear the waves—just not swim in them. In a city short on dog beaches, you’ve got to take what you can get. 

Here’s an option in case you’re closer to Broward or want a change of scenery. Located between Pershing and Custer Streets, Hollywood Dog Beach is open Monday through Thursday, 9am to 5pm and Friday through Sunday 9am to 3pm. Full of animal lovers. Hollywood’s beaches generally have an older, more subdued crowd that just so happen to also be animal lovers. You can find more outdoor activities at the adjacent Anne Kolb Nature Center.

This man-made beach off Rickenbacker Causeway isn’t winning any beauty contests – but it sure has a winning view. The beach itself is shallow, a little narrow and rocky, which makes it perfect for your pooch to play off-leash in. Plus, you'll find parking here easier than most other beaches. Hang back in the shade during the day (there’s plenty) or come later to catch the sunset over the Downtown skyline. It’s really something.

This spot isn’t technically a beach, but when the tide is low there's no one but you to stop your dog from getting his paws wet in the sand. During "walk times," the amount of k-9s rivals the amount of humans, both inside the fenced off dog park and across Margaret Pace's sprawling lawn. It’s super popular, offering plenty of opportunities to mingle with other dog lovers while watching the epic puppy party.

One of the greatest misconceptions in the world is that the Florida Key's have plenty of beachfront. Eh, not the case. However, some of its best beaches also happen to be dog beaches, as is the case with Anne's Beach on Islamorada. It's a shallow stretch, better for wading the swimming, which also makes it great for pets. Make a daycation out of it and rent some kayaks or paddleboards so you can both experience the Keys by sea.