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Enjoy fun filled days without having to leave your dog behind. The Palm Beaches have a great selection of pet-friendly things to do.
By Hannah Deadman-Arnst
Ready to get outside? The Palm Beaches are the perfect place for you and your pup to blaze the trail together—from Palm Beach’s pristine paths to the rugged John D. MacArthur Beach State Park.
Generally, most state and county parks offer dog-friendly trails and paths, with just a few exceptions*.We recommend checking each park’s website or calling ahead to confirm your destination is still dog-friendly.
Pro tip: Always make sure to bring poop bags and plenty of water for you and your pup.
Located along the Intracoastal Waterway on the island of Palm Beach, the 5.5-mile (one-way) Palm Beach Lake Trail is perfect if you prefer a relaxed yet manicured experience. As you walk the paved path, you’ll pass iconic viewpoints—including the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, The Society of the Four Arts, and more. You’ll also see mid-century condos, jasmine- and bougainvillea-lined walls, and Palm Beach’s oldest house, the Sea Gull Cottage, which was constructed in 1886.
For a taste of wild South Florida and a quiet trail experience, look no further than J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area. While many use the area for responsible hunting during hunting season, you can also enjoy scenic drives and several trails, including the 1.2-mile Bald Cypress Boardwalk and Trail and the rugged Ocean to Lake Trail, which spans over 60 miles from Lake Okeechobee to the Atlantic Ocean.
As The Palm Beaches’ only national wildlife refuge, Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge is one of the best places to take in Florida’s natural beauty and see a remnant of the northern Everglades. Remember to give wildlife their space! For a fun challenge, walk part of the 36-mile Perimeter Levee Trail with your dog. Consider hiking this trail in wintertime or the cooler parts of the day, since it has little shade.
With a sweeping view of the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic, you’ll want to take your pup to The Palm Beaches’ only state park over and over. The park offers several trails and boardwalks that stretch over pristine estuarine habitat, giving you and your pup endless places to traverse. Be sure to check out the park’s nature center and gift shop before heading out!
Want even more of wild Florida? Run—don’t walk—to Jonathan Dickinson State Park. Home to some of South Florida’s most unique terrain, you and your pup can trek through pine flats, Florida scrub habitat, and cypress swamps. Two favorite trails include Kitching Creek Nature Trail (1.5 miles) and the Green Loop Trail (about 5 miles). Part of the Ocean to Lake Trail also passes through the park. Keep your eyes peeled for Florida scrub jays and other wildlife. And for one of the best views of the park, climb Hobe Mountain Tower—located on the highest natural point south of Lake Okeechobee.
You don’t have to leave your fur baby behind when you’re craving culture! There are several elevated experiences to enjoy with your pup, from galleries and shopping to arts districts and public markets. And since many cultural organizations are located near city centers, it’s easy to visit multiple places in one day.
Pro tip: If you plan to shop, take your dog for a nice long walk first so they’re tuckered out. This will help them stay calm while you browse.
Mounts Botanical Garden (West Palm Beach)
Bring your dog to “Dogs Day in the Garden” on the second Sunday of each month! Stroll around Mounts Botanical Garden and enjoy 25 display gardens boasting over 7,000 plant species with your leashed pup. For nonmembers, dogs can enter for $5! Please practice Leave No Trace principles by staying on paths and picking up after your pet.
Many galleries and antique stores welcome dogs inside. Simply double-check with the owner or shopkeeper before entering the gallery or store. Happy shopping! You never know what you (or your pup) might find.
Ready to hit the town? Mizner Park offers exceptional shopping and dining in a walkable, manicured park. Many stores are dog-friendly, and several restaurants offer outdoor seating—reflecting the City of Boca Raton’s recent honor as a Better City for Pets by Mars Petcare, placing it among the nation’s most pet-friendly cities. After exploring Mizner, stop at Cielito Artisan Pops for doggy pops (and a popsicle for yourself!)
Located down the street from the walkable neighborhoods of Grandview Heights and Flamingo Park is Grandview Public Market. This vibrant venue offers unique restaurants, curated shops, and a big outdoor space to enjoy with your dog. Enjoy delicious fare from Ramen Lab Eatery or Clare Ave Grille, grab a drink from the bar, and relax as you take in the balmy Florida evening. Don’t forget to fill up your pet’s water bowl. Cheers!
While CityPlace is one of The Palm Beaches’ most beloved places to shop, dine, and take in local culture, it’s also a pet owner’s paradise! CityPlace collaborates with Peggy Adams Animal Rescue, a local nonprofit, to host an annual Halloween pooch parade & day “pawty” and photos with Santa during the holidays. For a perfect day with your canine, stop at Starbucks for a pup cup, and shop the afternoon away. Bonus—many of the stores welcome dogs! Finish up your day with happy hour at City Cellar Wine Bar & Grill, then head over to Pura Vida for dessert (including dog-safe macarons your pup can enjoy!)
For a quintessential Palm Beach day, visit Worth Avenue. Lined with palm trees and beautiful Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial Revival buildings—many designed by famed architect Addison Mizner—this three-block street features luxury brands, including Louis Vuitton, Lilly Pulitzer and Chanel, plus contemporary art galleries. In addition to shopping, you’ll love exploring the avenue’s “Vias” with your canine companion—paths that lead to enchanting hidden courtyards. The Worth Avenue Association also hosts a fun annual pet parade and costume contest each year.
Situated in a mid-century piazza, The Royal Poinciana Plaza hosts elegant boutiques like LoveShackFancy and Roller Rabbit, restaurants, and health & wellness studios—all tucked amongst lush courtyards. At The Royal, it’s easy to tell which tenants will welcome you and your dog. Look for the “Royal Pups” decal on the storefronts. Don’t forget to stop for a delicious cappuccino or panini from Sant Ambroeus.
Other pet-friendly shopping options include:
Mounts Botanical Garden is a 20-acre tropical oasis featuring diverse plants and serene walking paths. Visitors can enjoy themed gardens and discover exotic flora from around the world.
On the second Sunday of each month (except during special events and plant sales), the garden hosts “Dogs Days in the Garden,” welcoming guests to explore the beautiful grounds with their dogs. This pet-friendly event makes Mounts a delightful destination for both nature enthusiasts and dog lovers.
Strolling through beautiful walkable neighborhoods is the perfect way to enjoy The Palm Beaches while letting your dog check out new sights and smells. Plus, you’ll both get fresh air and exercise! Please remember to respect residents and their property, and always pick up after your pooch.
West Palm Beach is home to several historic districts, including Flamingo Park, just south of downtown West Palm Beach. Walk underneath old live oaks and palms and marvel at the beautiful Mediterranean and Spanish Mission-style homes, many of which date back to the 1920s. The historic Armory Art Center, which offers a variety of art classes and exhibitions, is also located here.
North of Flamingo Park is Grandview Heights, which features many early Craftsman bungalows. It’s also a stone’s throw from CityPlace, Howard Park and CityPaws Dog Park. From here, head to several nearby restaurants with outdoor tables, including Souvlaki Grill for great Greek fare and Hive Bakery and Cafe for scrumptious pastries.
Located in West Palm Beach between Flagler Drive and Dixie Highway, El Cid is a picturesque neighborhood with stunning homes in various styles, including Mission, Art Moderne and more. After walking around this idyllic neighborhood, head toward nearby Antique Row, which offers additional shops and cafes to visit. Or, head east to walk along the district’s edge, along the Intracoastal.
For an unmatched view of downtown West Palm Beach, Palm Beach, and the Intracoastal, stroll the city’s waterfront. While you walk, you’ll pass Clematis Street. This main street offers countless shops, cultural venues and restaurants, many of which have pet-friendly seating. On Saturdays between April and October, check out the pet-friendly West Palm Beach Greenmarket. Pick up a handcrafted smoothie or cider donut—and locally made treats for your pup!—to enjoy along the way.
Just north of downtown West Palm Beach is Northwood, known for its artistic flair and over 300 historic buildings. This thriving, artsy neighborhood is a fun place to walk with your dog. Stop by Harold’s Coffee Lounge and Georgian Eatery for a coffee or French Grill House or Malakor Thai Cafe, both of which have tables outside.
Located in the heart of Delray Beach, Atlantic Avenue boasts one of South Florida’s hottest places for dining, shopping, and nightlife. Many stores welcome dogs, and many restaurants along the avenue offer gorgeous patios that are dog-friendly, too. After exploring “the Ave,” check out Pineapple Grove, a beautiful artsy neighborhood punctuated by quaint shops, delicious local fare, and neighboring arts organizations and public art to take in.
There are countless neighborhoods to walk in Palm Beach. In addition to Worth Avenue, the Palm Beach Lake Trail, and The Royal Poinciana Plaza, you and your pup can stroll down palm-lined roads of Midtown and check out the walking path adjacent to the beach. You can also head north or south on County Road or Cocoanut Row to see the many gorgeous homes that make the island so iconic.
With dozens of amazing parks in The Palm Beaches, there’s no shortage of places to explore! As a general rule, dogs are allowed in most county parks, on a leash no longer than six feet. In addition to dog-friendly parks, there are several dog parks so your pet can run around freely.
Pro tip: Dogs should be up to date on vaccines, socialized and well-behaved before entering dog parks. Don’t forget to clean up after your pet.
If your dog loves the water, take them to Peanut Island. Only 0.6 miles from the mainland, this beloved park is a go-to for locals and visitors for boating, swimming, snorkeling and enjoying a day in the sun. The Peanut Island Shuttle Boat is also dog-friendly—so if you don’t have a kayak or other vessel, you’re in good hands.
With 4.5 miles of paths, John Prince Park offers numerous strolling options. In addition to winding around canals, ponds, and parts of Lake Osborne, the park also offers a couple of nature trails, which wind through hardwood hammocks and along marshes. After walking around the park, stop at Lake Woof Dog Park to let your pup off-leash.
Directly south of downtown, Howard Park is 13+ acres with plenty of walking trails. The park is within walking distance of many destinations, including Flamingo Park, Grandview Public Market and CityPlace. It’s also home to CityPaws Dog Park, which offers two separate fenced-in areas for big and small dogs—plus benches, picnic tables and water stations.
With about 1.6 miles of walking paths, Commons Park is a great way to get some exercise with your dog. This park also hosts a dog park, so pups can have fun playing with others. Head to Commons Park in the evening to enjoy cooler temps and a beautiful western Palm Beach County sunset.
County dog parks include:
Other city parks & dog park options include:
!!! Dogs are not allowed on county beaches, golf courses, pools, nature centers, natural areas, or at the following county parks:
Looking for even more ways to adventure with your pup? Below, you’ll find our top recommendations for pet-friendly places to stay, dog-friendly beaches, and restaurants where four-legged friends are always welcome!
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