Dubbed "Florida's most relaxing place," Navarre Beach is nestled along the scenic shores of the Gulf of Mexico, west of Destin, on Santa Rosa Island.
One thing is for sure: there are many attractions for you to enjoy in this paradise-like spot with white-sand beaches and emerald-green waters. But what about your faithful furry companion?
They deserve to enjoy the sun and surf just as much, don't they? While Navarre Beach itself is not really dog-friendly, there are nearby spots that provide great opportunities for pet-friendly adventures as well as establishments that caterN to pet owners and their needs.
In this blog, we'll bring you a list of the most pet-friendly spots and establishments in and around Navarre Beach, FL.
Can you already see that tail wagging?
First things first: Is Navarre Beach Dog Friendly?
No, sadly, dogs are not permitted on Navarre Beach. Local authorities worry about public safety and comfort, as well as wildlife protection. This means you'll need to find another spot for your furry friend to frolic around.
The good news is that there are alternative spots nearby where dog owners and their pets can enjoy the beach, and they are just a short drive away.
Alternative 1: head to a dog-friendly beach in Pensacola
The best alternative is to head to a dog-friendly beach in Pensacola, a 35-minute drive from Navarre Beach. Let's go over some of the options:
Pensacola Beach West Dog Park
This pet-friendly area in Pensacola Beach is small, about the same length as a basketball court, but a great gem for the little ones to have some fun exploring the beach. You'll see signs marking the designated area for your dog to splash around.
The sands can indeed get a bit busy with other dog families around, but hey, most doggies love a bit of socializing and making friends, don't they?
You know what else they love? A day catching waves and leaving their paw marks in the super-soft sand. At the end of the day, you can all enjoy the sunset together.
Just remember that dogs need to be leashed at all times on this beach, even in the water. Waste bags and trash bins are provided, but it's always smart to BYO. And there is no water for washing or drinking.
Pensacola Beach East Dog Park
This is another small yet clean beach with beautiful and soft sand that's a delight for the furry ones to explore, soaking in the sea breeze and sniffing at some pretty seashells. Less busy than West Beach, this is also a great spot to take some memorable pics of the entire family — the golden hours are stunning!
Here too, dogs have to stay on a leash, but the friendly people and great waves around will compensate for it.
Bayview Park
Bayview Park is a one-acre dog park that provides two large areas for them to run wild and off-leash. One of these areas goes down to the shore so that the doggies can fetch in the water and enjoy a good swim.
Alternative 2: head to Fort Walton Beach
Another good alternative is driving to Fort Walton Beach, which is closer, a 24-minute drive from Navarre Beach.
Liza Jackson Dog Park
This is a dog park with a small beach area where you can let your dog play off-leash. The park boasts a secured fence with places for both small and large dogs, and both areas have water fountains. The park is very nice for two-legged visitors too, offering a fishing pier, several pavilions, and playgrounds for the kids.
Another way for your dog to enjoy the water? Book a pet-friendly boat tour
Frisky Mermaid Dolphin Tours & Boat Rentals
This company stands out as a pet-friendly rental company in Pensacola Beach, extending a warm welcome to pets on any privately chartered pontoon and tritoon rentals. Your furry companions can bask in the scenic views and gentle rocking motion of the boat - just remember to bring along some water for them and ensure they are snugly secured in a safety vest. And let's be honest, they look absolutely adorable in their little vests, adding an extra touch of charm to your aquatic adventure.
Green Dog Parks right in Navarre
Navarre Central Bark Dog Park
This one doesn't have a beach, but it is still a treat. The park is nestled in the heart of Navarre, a 9-minute ride from Navarre Beach. Navarre Central Bark Dog Park boasts acres of lush greenery that's great for dogs of all sizes, with individual areas for each.
There's a large and fenced-off leash area that's great for the furry ones to let all their energy out.
And since Florida can get pretty hot, there's water in this park too: a splash pad area with cool water shooting from the ground designed specifically for dogs.
There are also some beautiful landscaped areas with benches and lots of shade, which are great for dog owners to relax and some walking trails around the pond and the trees. A true haven for dogs right in Navarre!
Dog-Friendly Establishments in Navarre Beach, FL
Bulldog Brewing Co.
This local coffee shop is dedicated to inclusion and does a great job employing individuals with disabilities. On top of that, there's another great inclusion aspect - they are pet-friendly!
The coffee is a delicious and satisfying experience for the taste buds, and they also have baked goods to complement your drink. The ambiance includes comfy seats, blues music in the background, a reading corner, and even a kids' area where they can play while their parents enjoy their time.
With a name like Bulldog Brewing Co., this means you can bring your furry companions and spend quality time with them while soaking up the homey atmosphere of the place.
Another great pet-friendly establishment in Navarre, FL, is St. Michael's Brewing Company. This microbrewery serves great traditional-style beers, and Fido is welcome in their outdoor patio, where you can also often find local food trucks with delicious grubs.
The Best Pet Stores in Navarre, FL
With the motto of "Bringing people and pets together," Pet Nation is Navarre's favorite pet store, in business since 1999. That's the place to swing by if you realize you forgot anything for Fido. There's nothing you cannot find there, and just swinging by to ask some questions to staff is also a great idea to make yourself more acquainted with the pet landscape in town.
Extra Tips for a Successful Dog-Friendly Visit to Navarre Beach
To have the best experience when vacationing with your pet through the Gulf Coast, keep some things in mind:
Ensure that your lodging is pet-friendly. More and more hotels and short-term rentals are allowing pets nowadays. At Great Lucy Coastal Vacations, for one, we have a great selection of pet-friendly homes.
If you're traveling by car, secure your pet in a well-ventilated crate or use a pet seatbelt.
Just in case, it's always a good idea to have proper identification for your pet, including a collar with an ID tag containing your contact information.
If you are going on holiday with your furry friend, schedule a visit to the vet before the trip to ensure your pet is in good health. Check if vaccinations are up to date, and if there is any new documentation that you need to bring for your destination.
Packing essentials for your pet including food, water, bowls, medications, a favorite toy, and bedding. Traveling can be as stressful for them as it is for us, and having familiar items always brings some comfort.
Use resources like this blog to research and plan the best pet-friendly activities and spots in the region you are visiting.
Always study local pet regulations, including leash laws and any restrictions on pets in certain areas. You don't want to be caught with fines and unpleasant surprises.
Always save the location of the nearest veterinary clinic at your destination and have a pet first aid kit at hand.
Be mindful of your pet's behavior and comfort level in new surroundings. Some pets may need time to adjust to a new environment.
In many places, you will find doggie bags and other cleaning supplies, but it's always a great idea to bring your own. Carry waste bags to clean up after your pet and be respectful of public spaces.
Finally, prepare yourself to be flexible and adapt your plans based on your pet's needs and the environment.
By planning ahead and considering all the above, you'll make your vacation amazing for both you and your furry companion.
Extra tip for a pet-friendly trip to Navarre Beach: book a pet-friendly vacation rental
Dogs usually love it when owners book short-term rentals with local character and space for them to play around.
Staying like a local by booking one of our Navarre Beach vacation rentals. From luxury beachfront homes to amazing rental condos, we offer all the space, privacy, and home-like amenities you need.
At Navarre Beach Property, we have a great selection of pet-friendly vacation rentals, and we guarantee you and your furry buddy a 5-star experience during your Navarre Beach vacation.
Absolutely no doubt about it! Fido is set to shower you with tail-wagging gratitude!
