Fort Lauderdale is famous for its sun-soaked beaches, sparkling canals, and vibrant downtown, and yes, it’s also a great place to bring your pup for a seaside romp. While the main Fort Lauderdale beach stretches don’t allow dogs freely during the day, there are dedicated dog-friendly beach times, plus fantastic nearby spots where pups can splash and play. Here’s your guide to the best dog beaches around Fort Lauderdale, designed to get tails wagging.
🏖 Fort Lauderdale Canine Beach
Description:
This is Fort Lauderdale’s official dog beach section, located near Sunrise Boulevard on the north end of the main beach. Here, dogs can romp on the sand and dip into the Atlantic during designated hours.
Know Before You Go:
Access: Located on A1A (N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd) just north of Sunrise Blvd.
Hours: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 3 pm to 7 pm (April–October) and 3 pm to 6 pm (November–March).
Amenities: Beach access only, bring your own water and bags.
Parking & Fees: Metered parking nearby. Daily permit $7 per dog or seasonal permits available.
Rules: Dogs must be on leash entering/exiting; can be off-leash under voice control within the dog beach area. Owners must carry waste bags.
Why pet owners love it:
- Dedicated dog-friendly slice of iconic Fort Lauderdale beach.
- Great for splashing in gentle waves.
- Fun social atmosphere with local pups.
🐾 Hollywood Dog Beach
Description:
Just south of Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood Dog Beach offers specific off-leash hours on weekends and lets pups frolic right on the sand by the ocean.
Know Before You Go:
Access: Located between Pershing & Custer Streets on the beach.
Hours: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays 3 pm to 7 pm (April–Oct), 3 pm to 6 pm (Nov–March).
Amenities: Bring water and dog waste bags.
Parking & Fees: Metered parking nearby. Dog beach fee: $5 per visit or discounted seasonal pass.
Rules: Dogs must be on leash to and from the beach but can be off-leash in the designated zone under control.
Why pet owners love it:
- Spacious sandy stretch for off-leash play.
- Friendly locals make it a social hangout.
- Beautiful spot for sunset romps.
🏞 Snyder Park Lake & Dog Swim Area
Description:
Right in Fort Lauderdale, Snyder Park is a hidden gem for pups. It has a large off-leash dog area plus a freshwater lake where dogs are welcome to swim — a great option for a splashy day without the salt and sand.
Know Before You Go:
Access: Located off SW 4th Ave near the airport; easy to find with ample signage.
Hours: 7 am to 7 pm daily.
Amenities: Fenced off-leash zones, freshwater dog lake, rinse station, shaded benches.
Parking & Fees: $1 per hour or $5 max daily for parking.
Rules: Proof of vaccination required; dogs under voice control in off-leash areas; must clean up after pets.
Why pet owners love it:
- Clean freshwater lake so dogs can splash without ocean salt.
- Lots of shaded areas and space to run.
- Convenient city location to combine with other errands or a beach day.
✨ Ready to Plan Your Fort Lauderdale Dog Beach Day?
Whether it’s chasing waves on Fort Lauderdale’s designated dog beach, enjoying weekend freedom at Hollywood, or cooling off in shady parks before hitting the sand, this sunny corner of Florida has plenty of adventures waiting for you and your furry travel buddy.
For more pet-friendly travel ideas and hidden local gems, sniff around the Whisker Bark blog. And if your pup needs a fresh harness, cozy travel bed, or a snazzy collar for beach pics, come fetch something special at Whisker Bark. Happy exploring and wagging tails ahead! 🐾
