We know that your dog is an important member of the family, and when it’s time for your annual beach vacation, it’s hard to leave the furriest member of your family behind. Great news! Destin is dog-friendly. Here we answer your questions and share the top things to do with your dog when visiting Destin, Florida.
Can you bring your dog on the beach in Destin?
Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the area’s beaches, however, there are plenty of near-beach activities for your pet. With tons of dog-friendly restaurants adjacent to the beach, dogs love Destin. For starters, stop by the beach bar behind the Crab Trap and enjoy gorgeous views of the Gulf while Fido enjoys the coastal breezes. In addition, Camille’s Café in Crystal Beach has a patio that is pet-friendly and is attached to the Beachside Inn, a charming pet-friendly Inn in the heart of Crystal Beach. You can also walk your dog along Scenic Gulf Drive, which runs adjacent to the beach in Crystal Beach and Miramar Beach, offering a paved path for exercise and viewing the area's scenic vistas. If your dog loves the water, we've got you covered! Crab Island is a great place to bring Fido for a day in the sun. On any given day, there is sure to be several dogs accompanying their owners on the boats or in the water.
Does Destin have a dog park?
Yes, there is a dog park open to the public. Destin offers the Nancy Weidenhamer Dog Park. There is an area for small and large dogs over the three-acre park. Both areas have lush Bermuda grass open spaces and shaded areas with pines and oaks. The facility has watering stations for dogs and their two-legged companions, benches, waste receptacles, and a dedicated parking area. For questions, please contact the Parks & Recreation Department at (850) 837-4242.
Where can you spoil your pooch?
If you want to make sure your pet has the trip of their lifetime, consider pampering your pet at Goochie Poochie Doggie Resort & Spa. Located 6 minutes east of Destin Commons, the salon takes extra measures to ensure all dogs feel comfortable and stress-free during their experience. You can pick between a spa bath, partial or full grooming, various treatments, and even daycare options if you want to drop them off for an extended period.
Are there dog-friendly restaurants in Destin?
Yes. There are lots of dog-friendly establishments with outdoor seating in the Destin area. While Camille’s Café and The Crab Trap (mentioned above) are two of our favorites, there are dozens of others. The pet-friendly website, Bring Fido, has done a great job of listing many of them. On the Destin Harbor, dogs love Harry T’s, Boshamps (the mascot is even a dog!), The Boathouse, Brotula’s, and Dewey Destin’s. In Crystal Beach, Kenny D’s is a great casual choice across the street from the beach. In the Destin Commons area, World of Beer, The Craft Bar, and Bruster’s Real Ice Cream are great choices. If you’re craving Italian, Mimmo’s features a patio that is pet-friendly so you can enjoy original Sicilian delicacies while your pup looks for love (cue Lady and the Tramp scene).
Where do you go to get medical help or supplies for your dog?
There are lots of veterinarians and dog supply stores in and around the Destin area. We've listed some of the ones our staff uses on our For Fido webpage. For supplies, there is a wide array of options from big box stores such as Pet Smart and Pet Supplies Plus in Destin to boutique stores such as Fury Fanatics, 30A Barks, Bow Wow Meow Pet Company, What's Up Dog and Huck & Harlowe in Santa Rosa Beach. Veterinarians and Animal Clinics are also located throughout the area and some include weekend hours.
What are the best pet-friendly accommodations in Destin?
Newman-Dailey offers a diverse array of pet-friendly options, ranging from rooms at the charming Beachside Inn in the heart of Crystal Beach, to dozens of pet-friendly vacation rental homes and condominiums. Homes range from cozy beach houses such as Sea Blessings, a 3-bedroom home that sleeps up to 11 to large 9-bedroom homes such as Blessings by the Beach which sleeps up to 22, there is a pet-friendly home to accommodate your family. View Newman-Dailey’s pet rules and available rentals here.
At Newman-Dailey, we believe a family vacation should include the whole family, and that means Fido too. Start planning your next family beach vacation today. Remember to book direct with Newman-Dailey for our best rate guarantee.
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See you (and your dog) @ the beach!