Sunshine, salt air, and sandy paws, welcome to Honeymoon Island, a coastal gem on Florida’s west coast where pups are more than welcome. With its turquoise waters, laid-back vibe, and a dedicated dog beach, this spot is a must for anyone planning a beach day with their four-legged companion. Whether you’re a local or road-tripping across the state, Honeymoon Island is calling your pup’s name.
Here are the best places in and around Honeymoon Island where you and your dog can splash, sniff, and soak up the sun.
🏖 Honeymoon Island State Park Dog Beach
Description:
This is the star of the show. Located on the southern tip of Honeymoon Island, this dedicated dog beach offers soft sand, calm Gulf waters, and plenty of space for your dog to romp. It’s a favorite among locals and travelers alike for its natural beauty and dog-friendly attitude.
Know Before You Go:
Access: Take the Dunedin Causeway to Honeymoon Island State Park. Once inside, follow signs to the dog beach area on the south end.
Hours: Open daily from 8 a.m. to sundown
Amenities: Rinse stations, water fountains, trash bins, picnic tables, and restrooms nearby
Parking & Fees: $8 per vehicle for entry to the state park
Rules: Leashes are required (6 feet max), and owners must clean up after their pets
Why pet owners love it:
- Shady picnic spots near the beach
- Calm waves perfect for wading
- Long shoreline for walking or fetch
- Clean, well-maintained park with friendly visitors
🌳 Caladesi Island State Park (Dog-Friendly Ferry Area)
Description:
Although the main beach at Caladesi doesn’t allow dogs, pups are welcome on the ferry ride over and in certain designated areas, perfect for adventure-loving pups who enjoy boat rides and forested trails!
Know Before You Go:
Access: Take the Caladesi Connection Ferry from Honeymoon Island
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (weather dependent)
Amenities: Nature trails, shaded rest stops, ferry rides
Parking & Fees: $8 vehicle fee + $14 round-trip ferry fare
Rules: Dogs must remain leashed and are only permitted in designated non-beach areas
Why pet owners love it:
- Ferry rides make for a fun, unique outing
- Wooded trails great for shaded walks
- Quiet, less crowded experience
- Wildlife and scenic views
🌿 Hammock Park (Nearby in Dunedin)
Description:
Only a short drive from Honeymoon Island, Hammock Park is a hidden gem for those looking to extend their adventure. While not a beach, this lush park has dog-friendly trails and plenty of natural shade for cooling down after beach time.
Know Before You Go:
Access: Located at 1900 San Mateo Dr, Dunedin
Hours: 7 a.m. to sunset
Amenities: Nature trails, butterfly garden, water fountains
Parking & Fees: Free
Rules: Dogs must be leashed and under control
Why pet owners love it:
- Peaceful trails and birdwatching
- Great way to walk off the post-beach zoomies
- Picnic-friendly
- Dog water fountains are available
🌊 Dunedin Causeway (Leash-Optional Zones)
Description:
Before you even enter Honeymoon Island, the Dunedin Causeway offers a more relaxed, semi-urban beach experience. It’s a favorite for kayaking, sunset watching, and giving your pup a salty breeze with fewer crowds.
Know Before You Go:
Access: Located along Causeway Blvd leading to Honeymoon Island
Hours: Open 24/7
Amenities: Minimal — bring your own water and poop bags
Parking & Fees: Free roadside parking
Rules: Leash recommended but not strictly enforced in some areas — always use judgment
Why pet owners love it:
- Casual vibe and open space
- Great sunset views
- Perfect for quick dips or frisbee breaks
- Close to Honeymoon Island amenities
🐾 Wrapping Up Your Honeymoon Island Dog Day
Whether your pup is paddling through the calm Gulf waters or sniffing around a shaded nature trail, Honeymoon Island and its nearby gems are a dream come true for dog-loving explorers. With plenty of options to splash, stroll, or snooze under a tree, there’s no shortage of tail-wagging adventures waiting here. If you want more places to explore we prepared this article with dog-friendly beaches in Davis Island, just 30 minutes away from Honeymoon Island, that we think you will love.
For more pet-friendly travel tips, leash up and head over to the Whisker Bark blog. And if your pup needs a new dog harness or a comfy travel bed before the next beach day, come fetch something special at Whisker Bark.
🐾 Life’s better with sandy paws and salty kisses, especially on Honeymoon Island!
