The Emerald Coast has stunning white-sand beaches. Some areas have dedicated dog zones — check local park pages before visiting.
Location: St. George Island
Leash Policy: Dogs must be leashed at all times (check local leash-length rules)
Amenities: Miles of shoreline, public beach access, picnic spots
Details: Public beaches on St. George Island allow leashed dogs; the State Park portion (Julian G. Bruce State Park) restricts pets — always confirm at access points.
Official Rules
Location: Pensacola Beach
Leash Policy: Dogs must be leashed in the designated dog-beach areas; hours apply (seasonal turtle-season hours).
Amenities: Posted signs, doggie stations, lifeguards nearby
Details: Escambia County designates two dog-beach lots (21.5 & 28.5). Check official county page for current hours and rules before visiting.
Official Rules
Location: Panama City Beach
Leash Policy: Dogs allowed in the designated Dog Beach area; dogs must be leashed and follow posted rules (fines for violations).
Amenities: Beach access, nearby Pier Park amenities, posted access rules
Details: PCB permits dogs only at the designated Dog Beach on the west side of the City Pier (Russell-Fields City Pier area). Check the city page for exact access points and ordinances.
Official Rules
Location: Cape San Blas
Leash Policy: Dogs must be leashed on public Gulf County beaches; certain state park zones prohibit pets.
Amenities: Long quiet beach stretches, picnic amenities, nature areas
Details: Most Gulf County public beaches welcome leashed dogs (St. Joseph Peninsula State Park and a few restricted areas do not). Check county guidance for permitted zones.
Official Rules
Location: Carrabelle / Port St. Joe
Leash Policy: Leashed dogs allowed on public beaches except in certain state park areas — check local signs.
Amenities: Quiet public accesses, local parks, beach walkovers
Details: Many public beaches in the Carrabelle / Port St. Joe area welcome leashed pets; state parks may restrict animals. Check local county/tourism guidance before visiting.
Official RulesRemember to clean up after your pet and bring fresh water. Local ordinances can change — verify before you go.
