Daytona Beach, Florida

One of the most fun things you can do with your dog is to take them to the beach. Many dogs love to frolic in the sand and ocean. Unfortunately, not many beaches are dog friendly. What about Daytona Beach? Are dogs allowed on Daytona Beach?

Daytona Beach is considered a dog-friendly location, but only certain areas are dog friendly. Dogs are welcome on the Daytona Beach Boardwalk, as well as the Lighthouse Point Park and Smyrna Dunes Park. Make sure to bring doggie bags and keep your dog on a leash at these locations.

Keep reading to learn more about how to enjoy Daytona Beach with your furry friend in tow.

Can I Bring My Dog to Daytona Beach?

Dogs are allowed at certain locations at Daytona Beach, but not all. Dogs are not permitted on any of the ocean-fronting beaches in Daytona Beach’s Volusia County. The good news is that there are two beaches that permit dogs, as long as they are kept on a leash and picked up after.

The Ponce DeLeon Inlet has two beaches that are dog friendly. You can always bring your dog to Lighthouse Point Park and Smyrna Dunes Park. In both of these locations, the dog needs to be kept on a leash, and you need to bring doggie bags to pick up after your dog.

Even though there are only two beaches that are open to dogs, Daytona Beach has plenty of dog parks for you and your pooch to enjoy. Some of the most popular dog parks include the following:

  • Michael Crotty Bicentennial Park
  • Riviera Oaks Dog Park
  • Ormond Beach
  • Holly Hill
  • Manatee Island Dog Park
  • Halifax Humane Society Dog Park
  • Barkley Dog Park

These parks are always open to dogs, and they are scattered all throughout the area. So, you shouldn’t have to look too far to find a place that welcomes your best friend!

Daytona Beach
Photo courtesy of Pixabay

Can I Bring My Dog to the Daytona Beach Boardwalk?

In addition to specific beaches, dogs are also allowed on the Daytona Beach Boardwalk. Just make sure to keep your dog on the leash during this time and pick up after your furry friend.

Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe at Daytona Beach

If you decide to take your dog to one of these beaches or the Daytona Beach Boardwalk, it’s important to keep them safe. Here are some tips to keep in mind to ensure your dog and everyone around have a safe and enjoyable time at the beach:

Keep Your Dog on a Leash

In most of these locations, it is required to keep your dog on a leash. Whenever your dog goes on a leash, you’ll have more control over them, and you don’t have to worry about your dog getting into any mischief. It also keeps your dog safe in case of a dog-aggressive neighbor. Keep your dog on a leash to keep everyone happy and safe.

Bring a Lot of Fresh Water

Don’t forget to bring a ton of fresh water with you. Daytona Beach is hot. Not to mention, dogs are often tempted to drink from the ocean, which leads to dehydration due to the salt content. Having fresh water on hand will ensure your dog stays hydrated and healthy.

Don’t Forget the Doggy Bags!

Your dog will have to go to the bathroom at some point, so make sure to bring doggie bags. This is more for the sake of other humans than your dog. Keep the Daytona Beach area clean and welcoming to other people, pets, and visitors by cleaning up after your dog.

Last Thoughts

Daytona Beach is considered a dog-friendly location. Although there are some areas of the beach that are not open to dogs, there are two beaches that are. Plus, dogs are always welcome on the boardwalk and at dog-specific parks.

Just make sure to keep your dog on a leash and bring tons of water. Don’t forget the doggie bags either, and be sure to clean up after your dog after it goes to the bathroom. If you do these things, everyone will have a wonderful time at the beach, including your furry friend.


Featured Image Credit: Pixabay