Visiting Destin with your Dog: Pet Friendly Beaches, Restaurants & Hotels

Are you looking for the best dog friendly accommodations, restaurants, and activities in Destin? This post will give you all the best options to stay and play together.

I will also go over the rules for dogs on the beach in Destin, give details on my favorite resorts and condo complexes that welcome dogs, and offer some options for doggie day care if you need it while you are here.

Are Dogs Allowed on the Beach in Destin?

Dogs are not allowed on the beach in Okaloosa County. Okaloosa county includes Destin, Okaloosa Island, and Fort Walton Beach.

You might sometimes see dogs on the beach in Walton County (the beaches east of Pompano Joes in Miramar Beach) but they are restricted to being only dogs of residents who have obtained a special permit that allows them to bring their dogs to the beach during certain hours.

Dog Friendly Hotels and Resorts in Destin

Despite the fact that Destin beaches are not dog-friendly, there are still plenty of accommodations options for you and your furry friend.

Keep in mind that you should never just show up with your pet even if the hotel is “pet-friendly”. Many hotels have only a small block of rooms that allow pets in order to ensure that guests traveling without pets do not have to stay in a room where a pet has been.

Also, some hotels have size and breed restrictions and rules about leaving your dog unattended so make sure to discuss this with the hotel when making your reservation. Most will also charge a pet fee.

The list below contains the best dog friendly hotel options in Destin and then below it I will discuss condo options.

Beachside Inn at Crystal Beach

Beachside Inn is a quaint outdoor-access motel located directly across the street from the beach on Scenic 98 in the heart of Destin.

Besides the perfect location, Beachside Inn also has Camilles on their property, a favorite restaurant among visitors and locals. Beachside Inn is the closest you will get to the beach in a pet-friendly hotel.

Website: https://www.destinbeachsideinn.com

Quality Inn and Suites Miramar Beach

Quality Inn is a dog-friendly option in Miramar Beach. It is located at the far eastern end of Scenic Highway 98 almost to the main highway. The nearest beach is an easy 5 minute walk.

Website: https://www.choicehotels.com/florida/destin/quality-inn-hotels/flc69

Hampton Inn and Suites in Destin

The Hampton Inn and Suites is another options for a pet friendly hotel in the heart of Destin. This hotel is not directly on the beach but it’s very close the June Decker Park Public Beach Access which is not only a great beach, but has a lot of dog-friendly grass areas near the beach to walk. You will also be steps from Big Kahunas Water Park, the Track, and the Back Porch Restaurant among many other popular attractions.

Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/dsinehx-hampton-suites-destin/

The Henderson Resort in Destin

The Henderson Resort (not to be confused with their sister property Henderson Park Inn B&B) is located directly across the street from the beach at the far west end of Scenic Highway 98.

The Henderson is a large resort property with plenty of grassy areas to enjoy with your four-legged friend.

Website: https://www.hendersonbeachresort.com

Hotel Effie Sandestin

Hotel Effie opened in early 2021 on Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort property just steps away from the Village of Baytowne Wharf. This is a luxury hotel with elegant decor, fine dining on site, and the only rooftop pool on the Emerald Coast. Hotel Effie allows dogs with a pet fee.

Website: https://www.hoteleffie.com

Residence Inn by Marriott at Grand Boulevard

This pet-friendly hotel property is conveniently located on Highway 98 just outside the gates of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. You will have to drive a short distance to the beach from here but all the shops and restaurants of Grand Boulevard are within easy walking distance.

Website: https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/vpsri-residence-inn-sandestin-at-grand-boulevard/

La Quinta Inn and Suites in Miramar Beach

La Quinta is a great dog friendly option centrally located on Highway 98 in Miramar Beach. It’s only a few block walk to the Miramar Beach public access point at Pompano Joes Restaurant.

Website: https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/laquinta/miramar-beach-florida/

Village Inn near Destin Harbor

Village in is one of the more affordable dog-friendly options in Destin. There’s not many great things to say about these accommodations since it’s nothing special, but it’s in a convenient central area of Destin.

Village Inn is located directly across from Destin Harbor where you will find lots of dog friendly restaurants and walking areas to explore.

Website: https://villageinndestin.com

Motel 6 near Destin Harbor

Motel 6 is another option just across the street from all the dog-friendly fun around Destin Harbor. Motel 6 is nothing special, of course, except the location can’t be beat and they are one of the only places that does not charge for pets. Also many Motel 6 locations have newly updated rooms.

Website: https://www.motel6.com/en/home/motels.fl.destin.1409.html

Pet Friendly Condos and Homes in Destin

Some people prefer renting a condo in Destin for a longer stay or if they need more space. You will also notice that the hotels listed above are not beachfront but you should be able to find some beachfront condos in Destin.

The best way to find a pet-friendly house or condo is to do a pet-friendly search on VRBO, Air BnB or your preferred vacation rental site. There are over 200 pet-friendly properties in the Destin area to choose from. The policies and fees will vary depending on the owner’s rules.

There are some condo complexes that are more pet friendly than others. Favorites among pet owners are Sandpiper Cove, Leeward Key, Maravilla, Emerald Shores, Beach Retreat, and Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort.

All of those options are nice but I especially like Sandpiper Cove and Sandestin out of that list for great places to stay with a dog.

Sandpiper Cove is on Holiday Isle in Destin which is a great neighborhood for dog walking and the property has a lot of walkable areas as well. Half the complex is on the beach and half is on the harbor but you have access to both sides. It’s also nice that it is not a high rise.

Sandestin is another great option with a dog because it’s a huge property with plenty of walking areas. There is even a little dog park there near the marina and plenty of nature trails to enjoy with your dog on Jolee Island. Sandestin also has a private beach.

The above communities are made up of individually owned properties so not all of them will allow pets. You will need to do a search to find an owner who will allow it. Keep in mind that condos will often have higher cleaning fees, especially for pets, so most will prefer that option to a hotel for a longer stay.

Things to Do With your Dog in Destin

There are plenty of things to do with your dog in Destin other than go to the beach. Here’s some options to give you ideas for outings with your furry friends.

Play at the Destin Dog Park

Destin does have a nice dog park if you want to take your dog to run and play somewhere on or off a leash. It is approximately 3 acres and includes separate areas for large and small dogs. Both areas have lots of grass, open space and shaded areas. 

The Destin Dog Park has watering stations, benches, secure fences, and waste receptacles.

Walk the Nature Trail at Henderson Beach State Park

Dogs are not allowed on the beach at Henderson State Park, but they do have a beautiful pet-friendly nature trail.

Henderson State Park Nature Trail is three-quarters of a mile long and offers beautiful views of the water, natural dunes, and vegetation.

Dogs are required to be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. There is a per-vehicle day-use entrance fee of $6 per vehicle.

Stroll around at the Village of Baytowne Wharf

The Village of Baytowne Wharf is an area located at Sandestin Golf and Beach resort. It is a nice place to walk around with your dog and enjoy the bay, the marina and over 20 shops and restaurants.

During the summer and fall, there is also a live outdoor concert you can sit on the grass and enjoy. Most of the restaurants here have outdoor patios where you can dine with your dog.

Baytowne Wharf is home to many of the best festivals on the Emerald Coast, all of which are dog-friendly. These include Taco & Tequila Fest, the Gumbo Festival, the Sandestin Wine Festival, the Baytowne Beer Festival, and the Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights Festival.

Visit the Destin Boardwalk and Harborwalk Village

Another great place to go have fun with your pet is the Destin Harbor Boardwalk and Harborwalk Village area. Here you will find a beautiful boardwalk stretching almost a mile along the water from the Destin Yacht Club all the way to Emerald Grande at the Destin bridge.

You and your dog can wander around here looking at fishing boats and outdoor retail vendors as well as eat at a variety of terrific restaurants; most of which allow pets in their outdoor dining areas.

Harborwalk Village also has some of the best festivals and events in town and all welcome dogs. These include the Brunch Festival, Oyster Festival, and several others.

Take your Dog on a Boat Ride

There are several water sports rental companies on the harbor who will rent you a dog-friendly pontoon boat for a full or half day if you want to take your dog for a spin around the harbor and Crab Island.

My recommendation for a boat rental with your dog is Aloha pontoons located on Destin Harbor. They have free parking and you can avoid a lot of the traffic and congestion of Harborwalk Village rental spots that might be stressful for your dogs. Check out the Aloha Pontoons website for more information.

You can even take your dog to Crab Island in Destin if you think they will enjoy it! Crab Island is the most popular spot in Destin for boaters to anchor up and enjoy the day. I wrote a detailed post about Crab Island here if you need more info: Crab Island in Destin: The Ultimate Visitors Guide

If you don’t want to rent a boat, you can still take your dog on a boat ride by getting a ride on the Destin Water Taxi. One of the water taxi captains (Captain Patrick) usually has his dog on the boat with him, but he allows other dogs if they get along.

The water taxi travels all over Destin Harbor for only $8 each way. Sometimes they are unable to accommodate dogs in the busiest season, depending on how full the boat is, so be sure and ask when you call for a ride.

Take your Dog for a Treat at the Dog Bakery

Destin has a small locally-owned specialty pet store called The Doggy Bag located in the Barnes and Noble shopping center across from Destin Commons. They have all sorts of things for your pet including specialty dog foods as well as clothing and accessories.

There is a table with baskets of homemade treats to choose from and a bakery case with freshly baked goodies for your dog. It’s fun to pick and choose them with your furry friend. Your dog deserves special treats on vacation too! If it’s a special occasion you can even order a bone-shaped dog cake!

Play in the water at Liza Jackson Dog Park

Liza Jackson Park is located just outside of Destin in Fort Walton Beach but it’s worth the short drive for all the fun your dog is sure to have here.

Liza Jackson park features 1000 feet of waterfront beach on the bay, a playground, picnic tables, lots of grassy area, and large fenced in areas for dogs to run around off the leash divided into separate small and large dog areas.

They even have a hose off station to clean your dog off after all that fun in the sand and water.

Dog Friendly Restaurants in Destin

After all these activities you guys have probably worked up an appetite so now it’s time to head out for dinner at a delicious dog-friendly restaurant. Below is a list of the best dining options in Destin who will welcome your dog at their outdoor dining patio.

Marina Bar and Grill at Sandestin

Located at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort and offering beautiful views of the bay and the marina. Marina Bar and Grill even has a menu just for your dog. Steps away from the restaurant is the fenced Sandestin Bark Park if you want to let your dog run around and play after dinner.

Harry T’s at Harborwalk Village

Harry T’s Lighthouse, situated at HarborWalk Village in Destin, Florida, is not only known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the harbor but also for its dog-friendly patio. This makes it an ideal dining spot for visitors looking to enjoy a meal with their furry companions.

The restaurant’s location offers panoramic vistas of the Destin Harbor, providing an atmospheric backdrop to a diverse menu that includes locally sourced seafood, steak, chicken, and pasta.

Brunch is available on Saturdays and Sundays, featuring specialties like Crab Cake Benedicts and bottomless mimosas, making it a perfect morning destination on the weekends. You can’t beat this view for your pup!

Boshamps on Destin Harbor

Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House in Destin, Florida, is a beloved dining destination for both locals and visitors, renowned for its stunning location on Destin Harbor and its commitment to providing an authentic Gulf to Table dining experience.

The restaurant is very pet-friendly, with its name itself paying homage to the owner’s dogs. Boshamps is inspired by the owner’s three Labrador Retrievers—Bobo, Otis, and Shug—and his initials.

Guests are encouraged to bring their furry friends along when they dine on the pet-friendly deck, where dogs are warmly welcomed with treats and water, adding to the laid-back and inclusive atmosphere. Boshamps is often praised in reviews for its dog-friendly service, noting that staff are welcoming and accommodating to pets.

Boshamps has several large decks of dining tables with amazing panoramic views of Destin Harbor. They also have a beach area with hammocks, a fire pit, and bean bag toss games.

The menu at Boshamps is a celebration of Southern cuisine with a focus on fresh, local seafood. Offerings include a variety of dishes that showcase the best of the Gulf’s bounty, from “The Original” Snapper Destin featuring jumbo lump crab and Gulf shrimp, to pan-roasted Gulf Grouper with a feta cheese soufflé. Appetizers, soups, salads, and their famous oyster bar provide a wide range of dining options.

Signature dishes like the Corn and Crab Chowder, Local Gulf Seafood Gumbo, and a selection of fried or grilled catch of the day dishes highlight the restaurant’s commitment to quality and flavor​

Most visitors would say this is one of the best dining experiences in Destin, so be prepared for a very long wait during dinner hours between the months of March through October. If you want to avoid the wait, go for lunch or an early dinner before the peak times.

The Boathouse Oyster Bar

The Boathouse Oyster Bar is located on Destin Harbor at the east end of the Boardwalk in the same parking lot as Harbor Tavern (also pet-friendly), Red Door Saloon, and the Edge Seafood. It’s a popular hangout for dogs so you will see a lot of them there in the outdoor areas.

The Boathouse Oyster Bar in Destin is a cherished local gem nestled on the Destin Harbor. It’s renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, exceptional seafood, and vibrant live music scene.

For over 30 years, this harborfront establishment has been a go-to spot for both locals and visitors, earning accolades for its delicious oysters and gumbo. Their dedication to serving up fresh, Gulf-to-table seafood, along with burgers and salads, provides a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes.

The Boathouse is especially famous for making oysters a delicacy, offering them in various styles including raw, steamed, baked, and chargrilled, making it a paradise for oyster aficionados.

The Boathouse Oyster Bar is equally celebrated for its daily live music, enhancing the dining experience with good tunes and a fantastic waterfront view.

The Boathouse does a lot of charity events to raise money for local dog rescue organizations as well as adoption events onsite. So of course they are a very popular spot with dogs!

Dewey Destin’s on Choctawhatchee Bay

Nestled off Choctawhatchee Bay on Calhoun Avenue, the original Dewey Destin’s Seafood in Destin, Florida, is a testament to the town’s rich fishing heritage and the Destin family’s deep roots in the community. Founded on the legacy of Leonard Destin, who established the town in 1835 after a shipwreck led him to these beautiful shores, the restaurant continues to honor his connection to the sea by serving up fresh, sustainable seafood.

This location, known for its laid-back vibe, allows guests to order at a window and enjoy their meal with a spectacular waterfront view, creating an ambiance reminiscent of old Florida​. Enjoy the casual laid-back atmosphere and fresh seafood offerings with your dog by your side on the waterfront patio.

Camiles at Crystal Beach

Camille’s at Crystal Beach in Destin offers a unique dining experience that transitions from a beachside café by day to a refined seafood and sushi restaurant by night. Located just a stone’s throw away from the Gulf of Mexico, Camille’s provides a scenic dining spot where guests can enjoy breakfast, smoothies, cocktails, and more during the day.

Dog owners will be delighted to know that Camille’s warmly welcomes their furry friends in its outdoor seating area at the downstairs cafe. The café’s patio provides a comfortable and inviting space for dogs, making it a perfect stop for a bagel and coffee after a morning walk along beautiful Scenic 98 beachfront road. Camillies is a favored destination among both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a meal with their canine companions in tow.

Conveniently located attached to the dog-friendly Beachside Inn mentioned above, Camilles is a favorite open air cafe for dog owners to enjoy a meal with their furry friend.

The Craft Bar in Destin

The Craft Bar in Destin, Florida, is a prime destination for those who appreciate craft cocktails, craft beer, and southern pub food. Nestled at Paradise Key in the Publix shopping center, this gastropub offers a laid-back yet contemporary atmosphere, where guests can enjoy their dining experience both indoors and outdoors.

There’s an outdoor dining area under a huge awning, complete with open windows for ample airflow and big TVs for catching your favorite games. This patio is dog-friendly, allowing guests to bring their canine companions along for the outing. The outdoor area ensures your pets are treated well, with treats often provided by the attentive staff who are known for doting on visiting dogs while ensuring their owners receive top-notch service​.

The Craft Bar boasts a wide array of drink options, from unique cocktails crafted by professionally trained bartenders to an impressive selection of craft beers. Some of the standout cocktails include the Resting Beach Face and the Tequila Mockingbird, alongside classic cocktails and rare beers that are sought after nationwide.

The food menu complements the drinks perfectly, featuring traditional pub fare with a twist. Dishes like half-pound burgers made with local grass-fed beef, fresh Ahi Tuna, and Grouper from the Gulf are just a few examples, paired with Southern sides. My favorite thing on the menu is the black bean veggie burger. It’s so good and you can’t beat the price. Even non-vegetarians love it.

If you’re visiting Destin with your dog and looking for a pleasant dining experience, The Craft Bar is a must-visit. Not only will you enjoy the food and drinks, but your furry friend will also be welcomed warmly.

As a bonus there is a fabulous pet store (Pet Supplies Plus) in the same parking lot if your dog needs food, treats, a self groom station, or anything else. The Craft bar has locations in Miramar Beach and Fort Walton Beach as well.

Kenny D’s Beach Bar in Destin

Kenny D’s Beach Bar and Grill, situated in Destin, FL, is celebrated for its delightful Cajun culinary offerings. This dining spot boasts a variety of pet-friendly outdoor seats, inviting you and your canine companion to enjoy dishes such as gumbo or po’boys side by side.

The menu is rich with signature seafood entrees, including the likes of Cajun Ken’s Fish Couvillion and Gracie’s Shrimp Creole, alongside other favorites such as fried fish baskets, burgers, sandwiches, pasta, and classic dishes like crawfish etouffee.

Kenny D’s is also one of the best spots for karaoke in Destin, drawing a super-fun crowd on Wednesdays and lots of singers. You are sure to see some dogs at Karaoke too! Read my post here for more info: Best Karaoke spots in Destin, Miramar Beach, and Okaloosa Island

Boarding Options in Destin

If you have a day of activities planned that your dog can’t join you for, consider a fun day at Doggy Day Care.

What’s Up Dog is the largest doggy day care in our area with a 2500 square foot indoor play area and a 4,000 square foot outdoor yard that provides a safe and fun area for your dogs to run and play with their new friends. They can also accommodate overnight visitors.

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If you decide to bring your four-legged friend with you on vacation, I hope this post will help you figure out all the best spots for you and your best friend to enjoy!

Be sure to comment below if you have any questions or feedback. I love hearing from you and prefer to answer questions on here so my answers can help others as well. Don’t forget to subscribe to my email list so you don’t miss any posts!

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Hi, I’m Sarah–the creator, writer and photographer behind this site. I sell prints, books, journals, and calendars all made from my Emerald Coast photography and I also manage a few vacation rentals on beautiful Holiday Isle in Destin if you want me to be your helpful, knowledgeable host when you visit.…..🌴😃🐬 I have a few rentals including a large house with a boat slip, a 2-bedroom condo, and a 1-bedroom apartment. All are directly on Destin Harbor with private gated access to the most beautiful beaches in Destin. If you enjoy my posts, please consider supporting my blog by shopping my products. I appreciate every sale, and it helps me continue to put out quality free content for you. Thank you SO much 🙂