Ultimate Guide to Dog Friendly Beaches in Jacksonville

North Florida has so many great beaches to explore, it’s hard to pick where to visit. When you’re looking for the dog friendly beaches in Jacksonville, there are a few things to consider. What time of year is it, will you be visiting a local state park, do you plan to let your dog swim in the ocean? Luckily, there are lots of great options for a day out with your pooch.

Amelia Island & Fernandina Beach

North of Jacksonville, Amelia Island allows leashed pets on the beaches, just not at the state parks. Fort Clinch State Park allows you to bring dogs into the park, and they are allowed at campsites and trails. However, dogs must stay off the beach. Dogs must be leashed and make sure your furry friend avoids bothering the local turtle nests.

Atlantic Beach

Dogs are welcome on Atlantic Beach during the day and evening year round. On Atlantic Beach if dog and owner are in the Atlantic Ocean together, the dog is allowed to swim unleashed. However, all dogs must be immediately put back on the leash before returning to the beach. This does not include walking the dog in the water.

Jacksonville Beach

Jacksonville Beach has the longest stretch of coast in the North Florida area. This makes it a great spot for you to bring your dogs to play. Dogs are welcome any time during day or evening from October 1st through March 31st. During the rest of the year, April 1st through September 30th, you can only bring your dog to Jacksonville Beach before 9am or after 5pm. Dogs must be leashed at all times.

Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

One of our favorite parks in Jacksonville for the kids, Hanna Park is also a great place to take your dog. Leashed dogs are welcome on the beach in Hanna Park year round. There is a 2 dog limit for visitors and all pets must be well behaved while visiting. Dogs are not allowed in the Hanna Park Splash Pad, but you can camp and hike with them while you’re visiting.

Mickler’s Beach

One of our favorite beaches in North Florida to find shark teeth, dogs are allowed on the beach any time during the day or evening as long as they are leashed and owners clean up after them.

Neptune Beach

Similar to Jacksonville Beach, Neptune allows leashed pets any time during the day or evening from October 1st through March 31st. During the rest of the year, April 1st – September 30th, you can bring your dog to Neptune Beach before 9am or after 5pm.

St. Augustine Beach

Dogs are allowed on all beaches in St. Augustine as long as they are leashed and owners pick up after them. Dogs are not allowed on the beach at Anastasia State Park. You can take your favorite canine to camp with you at Anastasia State Park, but they can only visit the trails and campground while you’re there.

Whichever of our dog friendly beaches in Jacksonville you decide to visit, always make sure you clean up after your pet. You’ll want to be sure to keep your dog away from turtle nests and off the dunes. Always follow local leash laws to keep your pet safe.