Top 10 Dog Friendly Beaches in St. Augustine, FL You Can Visit Today

St. Augustine is located in St. Johns County, Florida. St. Johns County is one of the most dog-friendly counties in Florida and allows leashed dogs on most of its miles of public beaches. St. Augustine is also the oldest city in North America, with plenty to do and see in town and on the beach. The fascinating history, tourist attractions, amenities, and gorgeous beaches make St. Augustine one of the best places in Florida to visit with your dog.

Here are 10 of the best dog-friendly beaches to check out in St. Augustine, whether you are visiting or living there.

The 10 Dog-Friendly Beaches in St. Augustine, FL

1. St. Johns County Ocean & Fishing Pier Beach

• Free parking is available, but the lot is small
• Dogs are allowed on the beach but are restricted from the pier
• Gift shop nearby sells food, drinks, and souvenirs
• Plenty of shade and seating for those warm summer days
• Restrooms are available
• Awesome views of Saint Augustine Beach from the pier

2. Ocean Hammock Park

• Shady trails are perfect for dog walking
• Water fountains are available to keep your pup hydrated
• Long boardwalk winds through beautiful natural Florida wilderness
• Beach is wide, but resist the urge to let your dog off-leash
• Usually not as crowded as other nearby beaches

3. Vilano Beach

• One of the most popular local Saint Augustine beaches
• There is a large grocery store nearby to help you stock up on supplies for the day
• Plenty of free parking is available year-round
• Perfect beach to watch the sunrise in the early morning
• Mind your pup during crowded times

4. Saint Augustine Beach

• Primary beach for the Saint Augustine area
• Nearby attractions include historic downtown Saint Augustine, local beach resorts, delicious restaurants, and several bars
• One of the best and largest dog-friendly beaches in all of Florida
• Plenty of amenities on the beach, including lifeguards, restrooms, tables, and pavilions
• Beautiful scenery and plenty of room to roam

5. Frank B. Butler County Park

• Known to the locals as Butler Beach
• Free access and free parking year-round
• There is an east and west park, but both are dog-friendly
• Dog waste stations are conveniently posted at boardwalk entrances
• Horses are allowed on the beach, so be aware before you bring your dog

6. Crescent Beach

• Pristine white sands stretch for miles
• Picnic benches are available for when you need to take a break
• Be aware that vehicles and horses are sometimes on the beach
• Stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere define this excellent beach
• Can get crowded during tourist season and good weather

7. Matanzas Inlet Bridge Beach

• Beautiful vistas showing off Matanzas Inlet and Matanzas Inlet Bridge
• Local spot rarely has crowds
• Great spot for fishing with your dog
• Twenty minutes from downtown St. Augustine
• Dogs will love the shallow waters, large mangrove roots, and soft, cool sand

8. North Beach

• Bring your pup to experience a breathtaking sunrise
• Free parking and pavilions are available year-round
• Keep an eye out for amazing natural shells, but also watch for dangerous marine life
• Bring your own waste bags and pick up after your pet
• Just minutes north of Vilano Beach and downtown St. Augustine

9. Matanzas Beach

• Fort Matanzas and a national monument are located nearby to explore
• Matanzas Inlet is surprisingly beautiful
• Smooth and shallow waters are great for swimming
• Access to the intercoastal for boaters and fishermen
• Few crowds compared to larger, more popular beaches

10. Anastasia State Park

• One of the most beautiful state parks in the St. Augustine area
• Dog-friendly camping is available
• Check and obey all leash laws inside the park, but some areas require more attention than others
• Not all beaches in the park are pet-friendly, but some are
• Consider getting a Florida state park pass if you plan to visit often

Conclusion

St. Augustine is home to some of the best beaches in the southeast. There are miles of pristine sands to explore with your dog. Between the numerous local parks, public beaches, fishing piers, and historical landmarks, there is more than enough to explore for a day, a week, or a lifetime, depending on whether you are just visiting or living nearby.

• See also: Top Dog-Friendly Beaches in Jacksonville, FL

Featured Image Credit: Zach Zimet, Shutterstock