Dogs

Question

We’re just passing through.we need to see the water with my dog? Advise?

Answer

Good question. Short version: you cannot take your dog on the public Gulf-facing beaches in Destin — but there *are* some dog-friendly alternatives and places to walk your pup with a water view. Here’s a detailed breakdown.

What the Rules Are in Destin

According to city and county ordinances, dogs are not allowed on Destin’s public beaches.
Okaloosa County’s ordinance (which covers Destin) explicitly prohibits animals on public beaches (except for service animals).
The Destin city FAQ confirms: “Dogs are NOT ALLOWED on the beaches in Destin/Okaloosa County.”

Why the Rule Exists / What It Means for You and Your Dog

This rule is primarily about public health and safety — as noted by local sources, concerns include animal waste on sand, potential contamination, and general beach crowd use.

Where You *Can* Take Your Dog in Destin / Nearby

Nancy Weidenhamer Dog Park: This is Destin’s official dog park, located at 4100 Indian Bayou Trail.
- Dogs can be off-leash in the enclosed areas (once inside).
- There are watering stations, grassy areas, benches, and space to let your dog play.
Gulf or Bay View Walks: While dogs aren’t allowed on the sandy beach, you can walk pets (on leash) along certain waterfront walkways / boardwalk areas:
- Destin Harbor Boardwalk: A scenic, pet-friendly boardwalk along the harbor where you and your dog can stroll.
- Henderson Beach State Park: Dogs are allowed on nature trails (on leash), though not on the swimming beach.
Nearby Dog Beaches (if you're okay with a drive):
- Some dog-friendly beaches are in other counties—notably Pensacola / Escambia County.
- User-reported options include Panama City Beach (Pier Park dog beach), though it’s not exactly next door.

Important Tips for Your Dog While Visiting

Bring fresh water and a bowl — Don’t let your dog drink salt water: it can dehydrate them or worse.
Keep your dog on a short leash when on trails or boardwalks — many of the areas allow leashed dogs only.
Pick up after your dog — standard pet-waste etiquette applies, especially in public parks.
If you want to actually let your dog run on sand or swim, you’ll likely need to plan a trip to a *designated* dog beach outside of Destin.

Bottom Line

Unfortunately, you won’t be able to bring your dog on most of Destin’s public beaches, thanks to Okaloosa County rules. But there are pet-friendly places nearby: a dedicated dog park in Destin, waterfront walkways, and some dog beaches if you’re willing to drive a bit. So yes — you *can* see the water with your dog, just not on the typical public beach sand in Destin.