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Southeast Florida
Dog Parks & Beaches
AVENTURA (Miami-Dade County)
1. Waterways Dog Park
Located at 3401 NE 213th Street, between NE 183 and 185 Streets. This 1-1/2 acre park offers space for off-leash exercise and fun, separate areas for small and large dogs, doggie water fountains and showers, playground equipment and red fire hydrants. Entry requires a valid Aventura resident ID card which can be acquired at the Community Recreation Center. Call 305-466-8008.
BOCA RATON (Palm Beach County)
Note: Dogs are not permitted on Boca Raton area beaches. The fine is $25. There is one exception - see item #3 below for details.
1. Boca Raton Dog Park
Located at 751 Banyan Trail. This city park has two acres; one acre for large dogs, one acre for small dogs. Offers benches, water stations, doggie waste bags, trash cans. A parking permit is required. There's no charge for the permit for local residents with proof of residency or vehicle ownership, but there is a charge of $25/month or $265 per vehicle/year for non-Boca residents.
2. Canine Cove
Located at 12551 Glades Rd., in the South County Regional Park. Directions: Go West on Glades Road, past 441, past Cain Boulevard, continue west until you see signs. The park is just beyond fire station on the right side of the road and just east of the high school. Hours will be dawn to dusk all days but Wednesday when it closes from noon to 3 p.m. for regular maintenance.Offers two large dog sections (only one open at a time) and one for small dogs. This park will eventually have three gazebos, three pet drinking fountains, 34 shaded benches, 15 Dogipot stations, and one pet washing station large enough to wash two dogs at a time.
3. Bark Park Dog Beach
This is the only exception to the "no dogs on the beach" law mentioned at the top of this page. The approved "dog beach" in the Boca area is located at 3001 N Ocean Blvd., along the stretch of sand at the North end of Spanish River Park between lifeguard towers 18 and 20. The dog park is normally open 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to sunset. Dogs will only be allowed on the beach Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and permits will be required. Weekend passes are $10 and available at the Spanish River Park gatehouse. Yearly pass are $30 for Boca Raton residents and $165 for non-residents and are available at the Boca Raton Community Center, the James A. Rutherford Community Center, and the Sugar Sand Park Community Center.
COCONUT CREEK (Brevard County)
1. Broward County parks
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are allowed to visit all Broward County Parks except Hollywood North Beach Park (beach side) and the following Nature Centers: Anne Kolb, Secret Woods, Fern Forest, Tall Cypress, Hillsboro, Pineland, and Deerfield Island.
2. Tradewinds Park
Located at 3600 W. Sample Road. This park has pooper scooper stations and plastic bags. Some of our readers say this is a great place to go for a walk on a shady boardwalk and have your dog chase a Frisbee in a wide open area. There is a large lake at Tradewinds Park. Dogs don't usually swim in the lake though. There is a north and a south entrance to the park.
COCONUT GROVE (Dade County)
1. Blanche Bark Park
Located in Blanche Park, at the SW corner of Virginia Street and Shipping Avenue. Open sunrise to sunset. Has benches, lighting, parking on streets around park, poop bags, restrooms, shelters, picnic tables, trash cans, small area with running water for dogs. It has been reported this is a popular, and often busy, park.
2. Kennedy Bark Park
Located in Kennedy Park, 2400 South Bayshore Drive, at Kirk Street, by the bay, in the northeastern portion of Kennedy Park. Offers separate areas for small and large dogs, benches, waste dispenser stations, running water for dogs. It has been reported this is also a busy park and parking can be a challenge.
CORAL GABLES (Dade County)
1. Chapman Field Park
Located at 13601 Deering Bay Drive in Coral Gables. The dog park portion of this recreational area goes from the park entrance at the canoe launch to the open-field area within the turn-around at the eastern edge of the property. This is a leash-only dog park. It offers doggie dispensers and trash cans.
DAVIE (Broward County)
1. Broward County Parks
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are allowed to visit all Broward County Parks except Hollywood North Beach Park (beachside) and the following Nature Centers: Anne Kolb, Secret Woods, Fern Forest, Tall Cypress, Hillsboro Pineland, and Deerfield Island.
2. Tree Tops Park
Located at 3900 SW 100th Avenue in Davie. Check Web site for hours. This 358-acre park is for nature lovers and leashed dogs (a 6-foot leash is required.) Guardians must clean up after their pets.
DEERFIELD BEACH (Broward County)
1. Broward County Parks
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are allowed to visit all Broward County Parks except the following Nature Centers: Anne Kolb, Secret Woods, Fern Forest, Tall Cypress, Hillsboro Pineland, and Deerfield Island.
2. Woofing Waters Dog Park
Located inside Quiet Waters Park at 401 S. Powerline Road, between Hillsboro Blvd and SE 10 Street. Dogs of all sizes are allowed, but they must be leashed. For more information, call 954-357-5100, ext. 0. This park offers extra activities, such as basic obedience and Flyball classes for dogs.
DELRAY BEACH (Palm Beach County)
NOTE: Dogs are not permitted on Delray Beach beaches.
1. Dog Park at Lake Ida
Located at 2929 Lake Ida in Delray Beach (adjacent to I-95.) Directions: I-95 to Atlantic West exit in Delray Beach. West to Congress Ave. Turn right (north) on Congress Avenue and proceed 7/10 mile. Turn each (right) on Lake Ida Road. Pass under I-95. The entrance to Lake Ida Park will be on your left; dog park is at the north end of the park, toward the back. Hours: Sunrise-Sunset. Features: 2.5 acres, two fenced in areas; one for small dogs and one for large dogs, double-gated entry, two canine drinking stations, a two-dog paved washing area, eight shaded sitting areas and benches, paved pathway, dispensers and receptacles for dog waste bags. Restrooms and parking areas located nearby, along with trash cans, information kiosk.
2. Pooch Pines Dog Park
Located inside Okeeheelee Park at 7715 Forest Hill Blvd. (exit off I-95). Open dawn to dusk. Offers 5 acres, fenced, separate areas for small and large dogs, dog water fountain and dog washing station, paved walking path, shaded sitting areas, poop bags, trash cans, restrooms and parking.
3. Lake Woof
Located at John Prince Park, 2520 Lake Worth Road. Open sunrise to sunset. Closed Thursdays noon to 3 p.m. for maintenance. Offers separate sections for small, medium and large dogs. There are actually 2 dog sections, used on rotating basis for rest and maintenance. Also offers gazebos with benches, Dogipot Pet Stations with plastic bags and waste receptacles, drinking fountains for both humans and pets, and a pet washing station large enough to accommodate 2 dogs.
FLORIDA KEYS (Monroe County)
1. Monroe County parks allow leashed pets only.
2. Higgs Beach Dog Park
The Grand Opening of Higgs Beach Dog Park (HBDP) in Key West was April 30, 2005. This park is located at the corner of White Street and Atlantic Boulevard, across from the White Street Pier. It offers small and large dog areas, each with its own water fountain. The park has lots of room to run, plenty of shade, and a view of the Atlantic Ocean. Please be sure to adhere to the rules posted at the entrance and, as should be done anywhere, always pick up the poop!
3. Dog Beach
Dogs are welcomed along the 80 miles or so of beaches and bridges from Key Largo to Key West. This is the only beach in Key West where they are welcomed. It is located adjacent to Louie's Backyard Restaurant near the southernmost point, at Vernon and Waddell. The area is about 20-30 feet wide and we're told there's a strong undercurrent, so be careful. On a positive note, the area is quite dog-friendly and well-behaved dogs are welcome at some nearby outdoor restaurants.
Reader Note: "Your comment [above], 'Dogs are welcomed along the 80 miles or so of beaches and bridges from Key Largo to Key West' is inaccurate. There are VERY FEW places in the keys where someone can take a dog. Besides one beach in Key West and certain areas of Bahia Honda Park, Anne's Beach in Islamorada is the only other dog friendly beach in the keys that I've found in a web search."
4. Bahia Honda State Park
Located at 36850 Overseas Highway on Big Pine Key. Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Leashed pets are welcome in designated areas. Offers shaded picnic tables and grills, guided nature trail walks, three cabins, camping, boating and boat tours.
FT. LAUDERDALE (Broward County)
General Note: Well-behaved, leashed dogs are allowed to visit all Broward County Parks except Hollywood North Beach Park (beachside) and the following Nature Centers: Anne Kolb, Secret Woods, Fern Forest, Tall Cypress, Hillsboro Pineland, and Deerfield Island.
Reader Notes:
"I've searched Ft. Lauderdale and talked with other dog guardians who agree that, 'Ft. Lauderdale parks are NOT dog friendly.' Every park I've visited, excluding Bark Park (see below) and John U. Lloyd State Park in North Dania Beach, have rules prohibiting dogs. Even the smallest of clearings that have a bench or picnic table or some sort of signage identifying itself as a 'park' also are posted 'NO DOGS'."
1. Canine Beach
Located on a stretch of ocean beach, beginning at Sunrise and A1A and continuing on for 100 yards to the north at Lifeguard Stand # 14, just north of Sunrise Blvd. Hours vary according to season; check web site given below. A permit is required to use this beach and you must have it with you (fees vary.) There is usually a park ranger on site that can take care of a day permit. For more information, call 954-828-7275.
2. North of Sunrise Blvd.
Right before where the hotels start on the east side of A1A. There's no life guard and a dog is free to swim and play in the sand. Some readers have suggested keeping your dog leashed (or at least attached) in case you have to grab him/her when people walk by on the beach. Otherwise they can pretty much run free as long as you have control of the dog. Bring plenty of plastic bags to pick up the poop to keep everyone happy. Permit required.
Reader Notes: "The parks above, #1 and #2, are the same location. This stretch of the beach is ALL OFF LEASH dog play. Yes, OFF LEASH dog play. This is not a fenced in area, so if a dog is not well-mannered, it can be an unsafe area. During daylight savings time it is open on FRI, SAT and SUN from 5-9 pm. After daylight savings time it is 3-7 pm on those day. There is a city park truck that sits on the beach and will take the fee when you walk onto the beach. It is suppose to be $5.70 per dog but this person collects $6.00."
Located at 1975 NE 15th Avenue. Closed Tuesdays.
Reader Notes:
"This park is in a nice location and very clean."
4. Hugh Taylor Birch Park
The beach at this park, located just south of Sunrise Blvd., is a great place to take furry friends.
Reader Notes:
"This park has no beach access, dogs must remain leashed, and there are additional restrictions."
5. Bark Park at Snyder Park
Located at 3299 SW 4th Avenue, just north of the Fort Lauderdale airport. Dogs must remain in the car until arrival at the Bark Park (dogs are not allowed in the remainder of Snyder Park.) Open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Daylight Savings Time, otherwise 6:30 p.m. Entrance fee: See below as this changes periodically. Features: fenced, benches, handicap facilities, trees, poop bags, parking, restrooms, water, trashcans, agility equipment, separate small dog area, two hose stations, drinking fountains, two open air pavilions and a small nature area. Those using the facility must show proof of vaccinations. Directions: I-95, exit State Road 84 east. Turn right on 4th Avenue. Park is on right at intersection with I-295.
Reader Notes:
"The fee is $1.00 per person, only on the weekends. This is entrance to the whole park. The dry dog park and dog lake are included. During the week there is NO fee and the dry dog park and dog lake are both open year-round. The dry dog park is great! They recently re-soded it. It has a large dog area and a small dog area. Both which have their own hoses for washing off Fido. They even have a separate enclosure for dogs that might get overwhelmed. They have 2 pavilion areas with covered benches for 'mom and dad.' There are also multiple doggy do do bag stations located around the dry dog park and lake. The dog lake is gorgeous. It's fenced in all the way around. There are picnic benches and regular benches at the lake for the humans to sit."
"On Saturdays and Sundays, they have a doggie swim program, fee of $1.00. If someone has questions they can call 954-828-4585 or 954-828-3647."
"There is also a fresh water lake at this dog park, where you and your dog can romp and swim leash free weekends and holidays only, from March to December for a fee of about $1.50."
6. The Riverwalk: Linear Park
Rover can roam along New River in downtown Fort Lauderdale in an area behind the Broward Center for Performing Arts to about 500 East Las Olas Blvd. Permitted daily from sunrise - 2 a.m.The Riverwalk is a type of boardwalk dotted with businesses and restaurants, so make sure your dog behaves. Pooper scoopers are available in boxes along the Riverwalk - please use them!
7. Woodville Dog Park
Located in North Lauderdale at 500 SW 83rd Avenue. Contact phone number for more information is: 954-726-0274.
Reader Notes: "This is a great park. They recently finished some renovations. It had a drainage problem which has been fixed and they planted grass so there's not as much dirt for our canine friends to get muddy in. The park has baby pools for the dogs to cool off in. A few above ground dog tunnels and it is big enough for a good run. A wash area to clean up you dog after a great day of playing. They have also planted bushes to make the view a nice one. There have been some instances with aggressive dogs and owners not taking responsibility, so be careful with that. But all in all, I have enjoyed this park almost as much as my two dogs and have found most owners very social and responsible."
HALLANDALE BEACH (Broward County)
1. Beaches
Dogs are not permitted on area beaches.
2. BF James Park
Located at 101 NW 9 Street. This is a two-acre park.
3. Bluesten Park
Located at 501 SE 1 Avenue. This is a six-acre park.
4. Golden Isles Park
Located at Egret Drive and Layne Boulevard.
5. Joseph Scavo Park
Located at 900 Three Islands Boulevard.
HIALEAH (Miami-Dade)
1. Amelia Earhart Bark Park
Located at 401 East 65th Street, in the Amelia Earhart Park in Hialeah, the Miami area. This is a 5-acre off-leash dog park operated by the county. Open sunrise to sunset. Fenced, benches, handicap access, dispensers and receptacles for dog waste, trees, parking, trash cans, separate section for small dogs, paved walkways, shade trees, water fountains for humans, spray fountains made just for dogs, swimming pools, obstacles for agility and show training. No admission charge. Free parking Monday through Friday; $4.00 on weekends and holidays.
HOLLYWOOD (Broward County)
1. Yellow Green Farmers Market
A 100,000 square foot farmer's market with 300 under-roof booths, open Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Yes, pets are welcome here! (Added 3-18-11.)
2. Broward County Parks
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are allowed to visit all Broward County Parks except the following Nature Centers: Anne Kolb, Secret Woods, Fern Forest, Tall Cypress, Hillsboro Pineland, and Deerfield Island.
3. Poinciana Dog Park
Located at Dixie Highway (21st Avenue) and Plunkett Street. Open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Has benches, fences, handicap access, lights, parking, phone, poop bags and receptacles, restrooms, shelters, picnic tables, trees, trash cans and water. There is also a nearby children's playground and basketball court.
Reader Notes:
"This is a very nice, open space dog park, fenced and gated, where dogs can run unleashed."
4. Topeekeegee Yugnee Park (T.Y. Park) Located at 3300 N. Park Road, corner of Sheridan Street. Offers picnic areas, lakeside gazebos all with water, electricity, grills, a swimming lagoon, which includes a waterfall, bathhouse, a freshwater beach, a water playground, boats for rent, tennis and basketball courts, biking/jogging path and concessions. All pets are welcome. This park has cool activities for dogs such as obedience, flyball and frisbee classes. For more information, call 954-985-1980.
HOMESTEAD (Miami-Dade County)
1. James Archer Smith Park dog park
Located at 300 NW 12th Street, this is a very cool dog park that has two bone-shaped play areas, one for large dogs and one for small ones. Each section offers play equipment, doggie water fountains, benches, shade trees, and more.
2. Dog Park at Mayor Roscoe Warren Park
This dog park opened March 31, 2012. Located at Palm Drive and SW 167th Avenue in Homestead. It offers two fenced-in play areas — one for small dogs; the other for large dogs.
INDIAN HARBOR BEACH (Brevard County)
1. Canova Beach Park
Note: This dog-friendly beach opened February 18, 2012. Located 700 feet along the beach on Hwy A1A, from the property line of the Radisson Suite Oceanfront Hotel to the south and the Eau Gallie Boulevard to the north, with signs marking the boundaries. There is no fee. CAUTION: Humans must keep their dogs on-leash and must pick up after their dogs and deposit the waste in receptacles provided or everyone will lose this new privilege. The Brevard County Commission voted in early October, 2011 to approve a year trial. Citizens can thank Sandy Paws Brevard, an advocacy group that has been gathering signatures to petition for this for some time.
JUNO BEACH (Palm Beach County)
Alert: Pet Unfriendly Area
While one reader tells us there is an area at 14775 Alt. A1A, in Juno Beachthat is OK for LEASHED dogs, another one of our readers tells us there is no longer a pet-friendly area on Juno Beach and that the closest dog-friendly beach in Palm Beach County is Jupiter. It may be that this area is not open for dogs running without an leash. We do know that dogs are not allowed in Juno Beach parks. In addition, residents and tourists who are pet guardians should know Juno Beach voted down allowing dogs at outdoor eateries.
Jupiter (Palm Beach County)
Jupiter Beach is about 90 miles north of Miami. Dogs are allowed on beaches without lifeguards from Jupiter to Juno Beach. (South of Carlin Park and North or Marcinski.) Or, per Friends of Jupiter Beach it's a 2.5 mile stretch of beach, from North of the Juno Beach Life-Guarded area to South of the Carlin Park Life-Guarded area - crossovers 2-24. Available amenities include benches, handicap access, poopbags, parking, restrooms, trash, shelter. Note: dogs must be on leashes and guardians must clean up after them. For more information, call (561) 746-5134. Friends of Jupiter Beach organized in 1994 after citizens complained about dogs on the beach. They work hard to keep the above stretch of beach leash-free with doggie bag dispensers and monthly volunteer clean ups. Visitors should follow the rules or find another place to play with their dogs. Directions to the dog beach from I-95: exit at Donald Ross Road, go east to to A1A, and turn left. The dog beach begins at the intersection of A1A and Marcinski Road.
2. Xanadu Road area
A reader tells us there is an area near this road, off State Road A1A, where unleashed dogs are allowed to play. Does anyone have more info about this area?
MARATHON (Monroe County)
1. Sombrero Beach
One of our readers said leashed dogs are allowed on this beach, but we have also read that it's not a pet friendly beach. Use caution and read any Ordinance signs in the area before taking your dog for a walk here.
2. Dog Park
Some time ago, we were told a citizen's group had been busy promoting a dog park here. The City Council was supposedly exploring the use of an acre of city-owned property behind Marathon City Hall, between 98th and 99th Streets, an area also known as the "events field." Since then, one of our readers said this area is used, but isn't fenced and has no facilities. If you have more up to date info, we'd appreciate you sharing it with us.
3. Other areas
One of our readers wrote us and said there are several other pet friendly areas in Marathon. We have very limited info about the following:
** A dedicated fenced in dog park by the Rotary Children's Park.
** Cocoa Plum Beach.
MIAMI (Miami-Dade County)
1. Amelia Earhart Bark Park
Located at 401 East 65th Street in North West Miami. Open sunrise to sunset. This 5-acre park offers a completely fenced in area for dogs, with paved walk ways, trees, picnic tables and benches, a separate fenced area for small dogs, water fountains for people and dogs, poop bag dispenser, doggie showers, swimming area, sand play area and agility equipment. Fee: while it's free to park here during the week, there is a $4 parking fee on weekends.
2. Blanche Park
Located at Shipping Ave & Virginia Street. A city park of 1.5 Acres. Open sunrise to sunset.
Reader Notes:
"I take my dog to Blanche Park every weekend. The fenced off area in the middle is where they grew some grass, and is no longer fenced. Very nice and shady here compared to Kennedy Park, which I found very dirty and with very little shade. I definitely would not be able to take my dog there in the summer. They should plant some trees."
3. Dog Chow Dog Park
Located at Kennedy Park 2400 South Bayshore Drive, in Coconut Grove. Open sunrise to sunset. Fenced, benches, handicap access, trees, parking, restrooms, water, trash cans. This park has lots of trees and places for pooches to sniff and explore; a separate fenced area for small dogs.
4. Michigan Avenue
A nice park, located at 1400 Michigan Avenue, where 14th Street connects. Open 5 a.m. to midnight. Offers fences, benches, poop bag dispensers and receptacles, trees, parking, restrooms, lights, water and trash cans.
5. Perrine Wayside Dog Park
Located in Perrine Wayside Park, at US1 and 160th Street in the Village of Palmetto Bay. Open dawn to dusk, 365 days a year. The three-acre park offers a walking path, benches, water fountains for people and pooches and lots of fenced room for dogs to play, including a separate area for small dogs.
Reader Notes: "Parking is bad in the front, but better in the back. To get to the back parking, take the stop light right before it (there are several car dealerships close by), then go 50 yards and the first street, take a right at the nursery (small kids with playgrounds; it is about a 250 degree turn) and then in 25 yards you will run into it."
6. Rickenbacker Causeway
Full access for canines is allowed sunrise to sunset on the county right-of-way on both sides of the Hobie Beach area, the first sandy island after the toll booth, and also on the south end of Virginia Key. Beautiful scenic view of Miami and the bay. This is one of Miami's premiere dog beaches and early beach goers are blessed with a wide expanse of open shallow water to romp. Important: dogs must be kept on leashes and guardians must clean up after them. For more information, call (305) 361-2833.
7. Waterways Dog Park
This dog park used to be located within Veterans Park, but is now located within Waterways Dog Park at 3401 NE 213th Street. The park features open space for pets to exercise and socialize. Amenities include two comfort stations with doggie water fountains, showers and a large covered patio. Resident ID cards are required for entry to the park. Hours of operation: 8am -7:00pm. For more info, call 305-466-8008.
8. Northeast Regional Dog Park
One of our readers tell us this county dog park is located in East Greynolds Park on US 1, just north of the main intersection of 163 Street, maybe a half mile on the right. Open sunrise to sunset.
Located at 10800 Collins Avenue, Miami. The dogs-allowed area is on the south end of the park, between lifeguard towers number 2 and 3, directly across from the park's 3.3 acre dog park. Offers a doggie wash-down area and doggie bags. This area is open to dogs only on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. To park in the dog recreation area with a dog in the car, visitors must pay $2 per car.
MIAMI BEACH (Miami-Dade County)
1. South Beach
Not technically a dog beach, but people do walk their dogs on the beach and on Ocean Drive after sundown. However, caution is suggested as far as walking dogs on the boardwalk area, as some people have been ticketed for doing so.
2. Flamingo Bark Park
Located in Flamingo Park, at the corner of Michigan Avenue and 13th Street. This is supposedly the first dog park in Miami Beach. Offers two separate dog areas, running water, benches, agility equipment and parking. For more info, call 305-673-7766.
3. Pine Tree Bark Park
Located in Pinetree Park, at 4400 Pine Tree Drive and 45th Street. Offers two large, separate and fenced areas where large and small dogs can run and play; also offers running water.
4. South Pointe Park
Located at Washington Avenue and Southpointe Drive. This is a 17.5-acre park that offers walkways and playground equipment. While dogs are permitted, they must be leashed. Responsible Dog Owners of Miami Beach is pushing for an off-leash area for dogs within this park.
5. Belle Isle Park
Located on Island Avenue on Belle Isle.
6. Washington Avenue Bark Park
Located at 201 2nd Street.
7. Pet Friendly Beachwalk
This is a pilot program worked out between the Responsible Dog Owners (RDOs) of Miami Beach and the City of Miami Beach. The RDOs have made this a "pet" project, recently getting an extension to the trial period originally given the program. Members and other dog guardians using the paved public trail must work earnestly to show the city they can maintain this area to be clean and safe for all who wish to use it - or the program will end. Disposable plastic clean up bags are available along the trail - please use them!
MIAMI SPRINGS (Miami-Dade County)
1. Dog Park
Located between Royal Poinciana Drive, Quail, Dove, and Shadow Way with the parking area accessed off Royal Poinciana, across from Miami Springs Senior High School at 751 Dove Avenue. For those not familiar with the area, we are told Miami Springs is a separate municipality, but contiguous with the actual City of Miami and so, we have listed this dog park under Miami Springs.
Reader Notes:
"It has three cleanup stations, a so-far inoperative fountain, and a picnic bench under one of only two trees actually inside the fencing. There's a parking area and a small-dog area with a separate entrance off the parking area in addition to the gate between the two sections."
OAKLAND PARK (Broward County)
1. Oakland Bark Park
Located at 971 NW 38th Street, west of I-95, in Oakland Park. This park, which opened in 2006, offers 2.26 acres, separate areas for large and small dogs, canine agility equipment, and more to come. For further info, contact 954-561-6250/6264.
PALM BEACH (Palm Beach County)
1. Palm Beach Island
One of our readers advised us this is a dog friendly beach with bags to pick up after dogs and trash cans. The beach is along North Ocean Blvd. between Sunrise Avenue and Wells Road. There are only a few beach access points and the parking is only 1 or 2 hours 1 to 2 blocks from the beach.
Reader Notes:
"The sign at the Southern most access point is a little misleading. The first sign says pick up after your dog and keep it on a leash with the bag dispenser next to it and below that is a no dogs allowed sign. The other beach access points have signs to pick up after your dog and keep it on a leash along with a bag dispenser and trash can, the bags are not stocked very well so bringing your own bags is a must. It is a nice quiet dog-friendly beach, not too many people or dogs."
2. North Palm Beach Pet Park
Located in the fenced section of Anchorage Park at 603 Anchorage Drive. To get there, go one block north of Northlake Boulevard, then go west (from US 1) on S. Anchorage, street winds through neighborhoods and it's right next to a yellow community center. A very nice area, very natural, where dogs are allowed. This area is for both small and large dogs and has running water."
Reader Notes:
A kind reader provides a generous amount of additional information about this park and we are very grateful:
"In North Palm Beach (Palm Beach County) there's a dog park in a residential area on S. Anchorage Drive by the old water tower. There's a children's playground and tennis court in front (street-side) so you may not notice it immediately. Our dogs know EXACTLY where it is when we 'chauffeurs' get anywhere in the vicinity. Furry necks get stretched to their 'outer limits', heads pop out the window and you HEAR them wondering: 'who's gonna be there tonight?' Owners almost get dragged across the yard when one of their 'buddies' is spotted. It would be remiss not to mention the ever enthusiastic 'greeting committee' which torpedoes to the gate to welcome each one."
"Amenities: 2 automatic water stations (donated by a local dog treat company), hose, poop bags are available but we donate our newspaper/grocery store bags just to be sure there's a good supply, double (security) gate at the entrance and 2 other single gate entrances, 6' chain link fence, 3 metal picnic tables, 3 new benches, one shaded (by trees) area - not much other shade, long dog run area and lots of VERY happy tail wagers of all sizes."
Reader Notes:
"There are the 'regulars' who come every night and people actually watch their dogs intently to make sure nothing goes askew.
"North Palm Beach plans to renovate the entire park (boat ramp, volleyball, tennis courts, playground and, of course, the dog park), but it's still in the planning stages. When that's done there will be a large and small dog section. At present - everyone is together. When it gets separated - SOME of the small dogs are insisting on remaining with their larger friends. These little guys are fearless and their counterparts welcome the camaraderie. It just wouldn't be the same without 'MoePie' (long haired Jack Russell) jumping over or under his much larger friends or even purposely sticking his head in their mouths"!
"The usual rules apply - we humans must immediately pick up after our 'kids', dogs must be at least 6 months old and neutered, owners are to be responsible and leave immediately if a scuffle ensues."
Reader Notes: Our research reveals expansions planned at this park, which will include additional parking and another dog park area for small dogs. The expansion could take up to two years to complete. A kind reader tells us this a decent park, although a bit on the small side. She said the area is not connected with any type of beach. It is located next to a children's playground and has a dog wash.
Located at 10900 State Road 703 (A1A) in North Palm Beach. Open daily, 8 a.m. to sundown. Entrance fee of $4.00 per vehicle. Pets are permitted in this park if on a 6-foot leash. They are permitted on the beach.
PALM BEACH GARDENS ( Palm Beach County)
1. Lilac Street Dog Run
Located on Lilac Street, east of the baseball field at Palm Beach Gardens High School. This one-acre park offers two park benches, a 6-foot chain-link fence. There are future plans for shade trees, water fountains for both pets and people and picnic tables.
Reader Notes:
"This park is small, and it does not have separate area for small and large dogs."
PALMETTO BAY (Manatee County)
1. Dog Park in Perrine Wayside Park
Located in Palmetto Bay. This is a 3-acre park with waste bag stations, pet water fountains, dog washing stations, and a nice lake around which dogs and their people can stroll.
PARKLAND (Broward County)
1. Barkland
Opened January, 2012. Located at 9245 Ranch Road in Parkland. This is Parkland's first dog park and encompasses about 2-acres. Both residents and visitors to Parkland may use this dog park. Offers one area for large dogs and a separate area for small dogs. There is also a dog washing station, a water fountain for both pets and humans, covered pavilions, walking trails, benches, picnic tables, and dog play equipment, including agility.
PEMBROKE PINES (Broward County)
Note: Well-behaved, leashed dogs are allowed to visit all Broward County Parks except the following Nature Centers: Anne Kolb, Secret Woods, Fern Forest, Tall Cypress, Hillsboro Pineland, and Deerfield Island.
1. Bark Park
Located at 9751 Johnson Street, between Douglas Road and Palm Avenue.Open dawn to dusk. Offers fence, benches, parking, handicap access, trees, trash, water, poop bags, separate small dog area, agility course. Directions: Take I-75 to Pembroke Pines Blvd., then head East. Turn left on Palm Avenue, then turn right on Johnson Street. The dog park is across from a playground.
2. C.B. Smith Park
Located at 900 N. Flamingo Road. Offers pooper scooper stations with bags. For more info, call 954-437-2650.
PLANTATION (Broward County)
Note: Well-behaved, leashed dogs are allowed to visit all Broward County Parks except the following: Nature Centers: Anne Kolb, Secret Woods, Fern Forest, Tall Cypress, Hillsboro Pineland, and Deerfield Island.
1. Happy Tails Park at Seminole Park
Located at 6600 SW 16th Street, off Peters Road. To get there, go east on Peters Road from University Drive, make a right turn at the traffic light on Figtree. There is another park on the other side of the road. This road will curve around and come to a stop sign and you will be across from a school. Make a right at the stop sign and a left at the next stop sign. That road will curve around and lead you to Happy Tails. The park has three sections: a small area for small doggies; a larger area with jumps and training paraphernalia - small & large dogs go to this area; and a huge area that's mostly for larger dogs, but also has smaller dogs that can "hold their own." The park also features parking, restrooms and pavilions. Open to the public from 7:00 a.m. until dusk, seven days a week. Holiday hours will vary.. Various canine events and activities are held throughout the year. For information on these happenings, you should contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 954-452-2510 or 954-797-2162.
2. Plantation Heritage Park
Located at 1100 South Fig Tree Lane. Offers pooper scooper stations and plastic bags. For more information, call 954-791-1025.
POMPANO BEACH (Broward County)
1. Canine Corner
Pompano's first no-leash dog park is located at 1101 North Federal Highway near the city’s golf course on the corner of Federal Highway and SE 10th Street. Entry to the dog park, the benches, water fountains, and the walking path for the small dog area are completed. The dog park organizers are selling bricks to help complete construction. There will be no fee, membership, or admission charge for use of this park. Check the Web site above for more information and a continuing list of events to be hetyld at the dog park to raise money for more benches, landscaping, poop bag stations, and more.
2. Other area parks
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are allowed to visit all Broward County parks except the following Nature Centers: Anne Kolb, Secret Woods, Fern Forest, Tall Cypress, Hillsboro Pineland, and Deerfield Island.
3. Beach near Lighthouse
In the past, people have played with their unleashed dogs on the beach next to the lighthouse on Pompano Beach, however, homeowners in this area are trying to keep members of the public off the beach. One of our readers told us this beach is supposedly now "private" and gated. He said unless you are a resident of that neighborhood with a gate access card, you can not get to the beach by the Lighthouse anymore. We are confused by this since beaches in Florida cannot be deemed "private." We spoke with the city commissioner representing this area and she said homeowners do own the property on the ocean side of their land, but only to the high tide mark and anything further than that belongs to the state. She acknowledged there's been an informal practice of romping with dogs on the beach in this area, but, she said, the bottom line is dogs are not allowed on the beach. However, she said she would be happy if a few citizens got together and got a petition started to present a request to the commission to set aside an area on the beach where dogs were permitted. She felt there would be interest on the commission to do so.She said one lady had taken such action in the past to form a dog park, but had gotten sick and had not been able to follow through. She said she'd love for someone to pick up that cause as well and petition and request the commission to open a dog park in a separate location than the proposed dog-friendly beach.
WEST PALM BEACH (Palm Beach County)
1. Greenbriar Dog Park
Located in the village of Wellington. Offers water stations, benches and 3 acres of land for dogs to roam.
2. Howard Dog Park
Located on Parker Road. To get there, take I-95 to Okachobee east to Parker Road. Then take a right and go past the fire station. Take a left, go to first stop sign, take another left and you will be on the back side of Howard Park. Go past the open soccer field; the fenced-in park is on your left. Open dawn to dusk.
3. Mary Brandon Park
Located two blocks south of Forest Hill Blvd. on Georgia Avenue. Open dawn to dusk. Offers fence, benches, parking, poop bags, picnic tables, trash cans, water. Reader Notes: "I had a weird experience at this park. I have been walking my dog at the park (which also has a dog run area) for 9 years and never had a problem. Today there was a guy there with what appeared to be a 'pit bull' puppy (ears were cropped) The gate was not completely closed but I didn't feel threatened walking by with my 11 year old Australian Shepherd. My dog is very, very friendly with all dogs. This [puppy] came charging out and started immediately fighting with my dog! The owner didn't seem to try hard enough to grab his dog until I screamed at him to get his dog. It was so weird that I gave the whole situation some serious thought. I am convinced that this was a 'fighting dog' in training. The guy seemed to want to see how the situation would 'play out.' BE ON YOUR GUARD. Even a harmless puppy can be a big problem. The guy was driving a black pick up truck. Watch out just in case I am right! I am not a pit bull hater. My sister has two wonderful pit bull dogs."
4. Dreher Park
This park is located across from the Palm Beach Zoo on Summitt Blvd. Just go into the park to the end, then you will see paw printed fire hydrants that lead to the dog park which has separate areas for small and large pups. Not well known at this time, so people with shy dogs might take advantage of it for a while, or at least until it becomes more well known and crowded.
5. Pooch Pines Dog Park
This park officially opened 08-21-04. Located at 7715 Forest Hill Blvd., within Okeeheelee Park on Forest Hill Boulevard, just east of Florida's Turnpike and west of West Palm Beach. Directions: From I-95, take Forest Hill Boulevard exit in West Palm Beach and travel west approximately 6 miles to the main Okeeheelee Park entrance on the north (right) side of the road.Turn right into park and follow the park road to the Pooch Pines sign. Turn right at the sign and the dog park is at the top of the hill. Open sunrise to sunset daily except Wednesdays noon to 3 p.m. when it's closed for maintenance. News reports said this dog park cost $300,000. It offers a total of 5 acres, with separate fenced areas, two for large dogs and one for small dogs, double-gated entry, three gazebos, three drinking fountains, with fountains for the dogs attached, shaded benches, a paved dog-wash station, bike rack, poop bags, parking and trash cans.For more information, contact the Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation Department by calling telephone 561- 966-6600, or e-mail pbcparks@co.palm-beach.fl.us.
Reader Notes:
"This dog park is wonderful. It's located at what may be the highest point in the park. The hill allows for a cool breeze even in the middle of the summer. There are actually two separate large dog areas; one remains open while the other is maintained and the grass re-sodded. "One issue is there's not enough shade from the harsh, direct sun. One gazebo in the large dog area means that all the people gather there. If all the people are there, then too many dogs are there also. This leads to fights and aggression. My advice: please don't hang out in the gazebo. Find a bench in the back under whatever shade trees are available.
"There also happens to be an abundance of apathetic people that let their dogs have too much freedom, i.e., aggressive behavior, mounting, displaying dominance in the gazebo area. But all in all, it's still the best park in the area."
About the area
Southeast Florida includes Big Pine Key, Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Deerfield Beach, Delray Beach, Greater Fort Lauderdale, and more.