Seaside founder Robert Davis and his labradoodle, Gracie, enjoy a day in Seaside.
Contributed by VisitSouthWalton.com
Whether you enjoy active vacations or just kicking back and relaxing, South Walton’s easy-going vibe makes it the perfect place to spend time with friends and family — even when your definition of “friends of family” includes your K-9 companion. Do people in South Walton love dogs? You bet. Grayton Beach is even sometimes lovingly referred to as the home of “Nice Dogs, Strange People.” Read on to discover a selection of dog-friendly offerings in South Walton:
Hiking Trails
Want to get some exercise? Hit the trails in South Walton and take your dog along for the adventure. With more than 200 miles of hiking and biking trails, there are plenty of opportunities to explore, from Grayton Beach State Park and the Timpoochee Trail to the Point Washington State Forest and Deer Lake State Park.
Dog Park
Located along JD Miller Road, Alaqua Unleashed is the perfect place to let your pooch run free and play with other dogs. The dog park, which is open from dusk till dawn, provides separate areas for small, large and senior dogs. The park is open daily from dawn to dusk.
Restaurants
If you’re out and about with your dog and hunger hits, don’t worry. South Walton is home to a bevy of pet-friendly dining options. Most restaurants with outdoor dining patios are pet-friendly (as long as the deck can be accessed without entering the restaurant itself, in Florida it’s up to the owners of the establishment). A few notable pet-friendly spots to try include lunch or dinner at The Craft Bar, Modica Market, Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant, La Crema and The Wine Bar.
Accommodations
South Walton is home to more than 100 pet-friendly rental options, no matter which of our 16 unique beach communities you choose to visit. Visit our website at visisouthwalton.com to find a large list of pet-friendly accommodations.
The Beach
Dogs are allowed on the beach in South Walton as long as their owner is a full-time resident or property owner, and they have the proper permit. Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach from 4 p.m. to 8 a.m. during spring and summer and from 3 p.m. to 9 a.m. during the fall and winter.