Dog-Friendly Beaches around JAX

Photo Credit: Visit Flagler

JAX beaches are a hot pick for summer living, especially for dog lovers. Here in JAX, taking a stroll or splashing around in the waves at the region’s various shorelines some activities that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

But before you hit the sand, we’ve compiled this list of rules for some of our dog-friendly beaches around JAX for you and Fido to explore.

(Listed from North to South)

Nassau County

Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island – With the exception of state parks, dogs are allowed on the beach at any time of day and must be leashed at all times.

Duval County

Neptune & Atlantic Beaches –Neptune and Atlantic Beaches have varying times and rules for dogs. Neptune Beach allows leashed dogs at any hour from Oct. 1 through March 1, but limits the hours during the rest of the year to 5 p.m. to 9 a.m. Atlantic Beach allows dogs year-round at any hour, but dogs must always be on a leash that should not exceed 12 feet.

Dogs are also allowed in designated areas at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park but must be leashed. There is an entry fee of $3 per pedestrian and cyclist or $5 per car.

Jacksonville Beach – Dogs are allowed on the beach from Oct. 1 through March 31 at any hour of the day on a leash. From April through September, the beach is off limits to dogs during the hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Clay County

Orange Park – For our inland areas, dogs can have off leash fun at Poochie’s Park. This 8-acre land features big swimming ponds with sandy shorelines for you to enjoy while your pet swims, runs and plays to their heart’s content.

St. Johns County

Ponte Vedra Beach, St. Augustine and Vilano Beach – Dogs are allowed at all times and must be leashed.

Putnam County

Palatka – Located in the South Historic District of Palatka is Riverfront Park. Dogs are allowed and must be leashed as you explore the panoramic views of the St. Johns River along the shorelines.

Flagler County 

Palm Coast – Palm Coast has three pet-friendly parks that allow leashed dogs – Jungle Hut Road Park, Mala Compra Road Beachfront Park and Old Salt Park. Park hours are from dawn to 11 p.m. Monday through Sunday.

Flagler Beach – Dog are allowed at the north entrance of North 10th Street and the south entrance of South 10th Street at any time. Dogs must be on a leash that is not to exceed 5 feet.

JAX beaches are a perfect photo-op for your dog’s next social media post, so be sure to leave nothing but paw prints behind! Owners are obligated and must pick up any waste left behind when visiting the beach. Bring plenty of bags or “pooper scoopers” to ensure you avoid any kind of citation or fine.

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