Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Key West

Key west is one of the most popular family-friendly destinations in the United States. Most families include a pet of some kind. So, what is a summer fun filled vacation without your furry friend? The keys provide a variety of dog-friendly beaches, parks, and restaurants so you don’t have to leave your dog behind. 

Key West Dog-Friendly Beaches

Key west is a very dog-friendly area if they are on a leash. Depending on the beach they are even able to explore the sandy beaches as well. When exploring Key West with your best friend, look out for the posted signs that will let you know the most recent rules and regulations.

Key West Dog Beach, End of Alberta St. 

If it’s not already obvious, Key West Dog Beach is open to dogs. We will admit that this beach does have some mixed reviews. Some days the beach can be a little smelly when the seaweed hasn’t been cleaned off for a couple of days. However, when it’s a good day on the beach, you will have the best time with your best bud.

Smathers Beach

Smather’s beach is the largest beach in Key west and runs along the southern shore. There is so much to do including watersports and volleyball. Dogs are welcome on the sidewalk but not on the sandy part of the beach. 

Higgs Beach Dog Park- White St and Atlantic Blvd

This dog park is perfect for small dogs and large dogs alike. This dog park offers fenced-in areas for your pup to run around off-leash. There are different runs for different size dogs. 

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park- 601 Howard England Way

While For Zachary Taylor State Park isn’t exactly a beach, it offers a vast amount of space for you to adventure with your dog. Dogs are required to be on a 6’ or less leash throughout the property. Dogs are not allowed on the park’s beaches and swimming areas. You are responsible for cleaning up your dog’s waste and ensuring your pet is well-behaved. 

Sombrero Beach

Sombrero Beach is open for dogs with a few restrictions. Dogs are allowed on the beach as long as you keep them on their leash and clean up after them.  

Lazy Dog Kayak 

Looking for an adventure on the water with your dog? Lazy Dog Kayak offers paddleboard and kayak rentals that are perfect for you and your dog to hit the channel. 

DOG BEACH ETIQUETTE

Dog owners who frequent dog beaches and parks already know what to do when taking their furry friends out in public. If you are a new puppy parent or this is the first time taking your pup out to the beach, there are a few dog-owner rules to follow when out in public spaces. 

General dog beach etiquette includes:

• Keeping your dog leashed where required

• Always, clean up after your dog. Many places provide bags for you to do so

• In designated unleased areas, only unleash your dog if they are well behaved and listen to verbal commands 

• Only allow your dog to visit other people and dogs if they are welcome

• Pay close attention to your dog if they are in an unleashed area

GRAB A BITE TO EAT WITH YOUR PUP AFTER THE BEACH

After spending all day at the beach it’s fair to say it’s time to replenish all that energy. There are a variety of dog-friendly restaurants that both you and your pet can enjoy

 Azur  

• Bagatelle   

• Blue Heaven

• Nine One Five Bistori & wine Bar    

• Onlywood Pizzeria Trattoria 

BOOK ONE OF OUR DOG-FRIENDLY KEY WEST VACATION RENTALS

Don’t leave your dog behind! Our Key West dog-friendly vacation rentals are prepared and ready to welcome you and your ball of fluff to the most southern part of Flordia. Browse our dog-friendly Vacation Rentals and find your perfect historic home away from home.