Destin works well with a dog if you plan around one rule: dogs aren’t allowed on the beach. Everything else below in Destin and nearby areas, from fenced dog parks to harbor patios and an open-air shopping center, welcomes leashed pets. (Beach rules and the nearest legal dog beaches are in our guide to dog-friendly beaches near Destin.)
Dog parks and trails
Destin Dog Park. At 4100 Indian Bayou Trail in Destin, this fenced park has separate areas for large and small dogs, shade trees, benches, water bowls throughout, a faucet to rinse off sand, and free waste bags. It opens at dawn and stays open into the evening under lights, closing to the public at 10 p.m. On Tuesday mornings city crews clean the park, and it stays closed until they finish, usually around 10 a.m. Keep your dog leashed on arrival and departure, leave food outside the gates, and pick up after your dog. It’s about a 9-minute drive from Maravilla.
Map · City of Destin park page
T.J. Brooks Park (Echo Park), Valparaiso. This 7-acre park has a 1,600-foot walking trail that circles a pond in the middle of the park. The newly built park also has pavilions, additional benches, restrooms and a dog park. It’s about a 26-minute drive from Maravilla.
Henderson Beach State Park. The state park offers hiking, camping, biking and fishing, and it’s open 8 a.m. to sunset. Entry is $6 per vehicle (two to eight people), $4 for a single-occupant vehicle, or $2 for pedestrians and bicyclists. Leashed pets are welcome on the nature trails and in the picnic areas, but not on the park’s beach. It’s about a 10-minute drive from Maravilla.
Map · Florida State Parks pet rules
Scenic Gulf Drive. Scenic Highway 98 is the original beach cruising spot in South Walton. This paved path is perfect for biking, jogging or even longboard skateboarding, and it runs right by the Miramar Beach Access, which offers expansive views of the coastline. It’s also a local favorite for surfing and sunsets. The trail is 3 miles, easy, flat and paved, with restrooms and parking available, and it’s wheelchair accessible. Pets are allowed on a leash. Access the trail in front of Maravilla.
Patios where dogs are welcome
Harbor-front seafood is part of a Destin trip, and several spots welcome dogs at their outdoor tables.
- Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House: A popular harbor-front restaurant where dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio (the restaurant’s mascot is even a dog).
- Harry T’s Lighthouse: Offers waterfront outdoor seating on the harbor that accommodates pets.
- Dewey Destin’s Harborside: A casual, pet-friendly spot right by the water for seafood.
More spots that have welcomed dogs at their outdoor tables include Captain Dave’s on the Gulf, The Crab Trap, World of Beer, The Breakfast Table, The Craft Bar, The Wine Bar and Dockside Oyster Bar and Cafe. Patio policies change, so call ahead and ask for a table outside.
Shopping and strolling
Destin Commons welcomes leashed dogs, with all patio dining areas open to them and six dog hydration stations on the property. Dogs must stay on a non-retractable leash no longer than six feet, or in a carrier or stroller, and can’t enter the fountains, Splash Pad, Playground or Luckey Climber areas. Many shops allow dogs, but ask before you walk in. It’s about a 7-minute drive from Maravilla.
Map · Destin Commons dog policy
HarborWalk Village and the Destin Harbor Boardwalk. HarborWalk Village is a dog-friendly shopping center in Destin, FL. Well-behaved leashed pups are welcome to tag along at this destination, which features restaurants, retail stores, water activities and year-round events. While the outdoor boardwalk and common areas are pet-friendly, individual shops, boutiques and indoor spaces set their own policies, so always check for a sticker or ask at the door before stepping inside. Call (888) 965-7092 or email info@harborwalkvillage.com for more information. It’s about a 14-minute drive from Maravilla.
Map · HarborWalk Village website
The Village of Baytowne Wharf. Located on the Choctawhatchee Bay in Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, this open-air village is a pet-friendly venue with more than 12 restaurants, 15 retail stores and several nightlife venues. All canines must be on a leash. Owners are required to clean up behind their pets, and waste stations are located throughout the Village. It’s about a 12-minute drive from Maravilla.
On the water
Many visitors want a Crab Island day with the dog. Some pontoon rental companies allow dogs and others don’t. Wet-N-Wild Watersports in Destin, FL, offers dog-friendly pontoon boat rentals, perfect for exploring the Gulf Coast with your pup. Double Fun Pontoon Rentals allow pets at no extra charge. Ask about size limits and fees before you book, and bring a dog life vest.
Where dogs can’t go
- The beach. Dogs are not allowed on the beach in Destin or Okaloosa County, and Walton County beaches are limited to dogs licensed to county property owners and permanent residents. Visitors can’t get a license.
- Pools. Maravilla doesn’t allow dogs or other animals in its pools or pool enclosures.
- Many indoor spaces. Stick to patios and outdoor seating unless a business says otherwise.
If your dog needs a vet
| Clinic | Hours | Address | Drive time | Phone | Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barry Veterinary Hospital | Daytime | 29 S Shore Dr, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 | Approx 6 minutes | 850-837-7072 | Map |
| Emergency Veterinary Clinic Destin | After hours | 247 Main St, Destin, FL 32541 | Approx 12 minutes | 850-424-4777 | Map |
| Emergency Veterinary Clinic Niceville | 24 hours | 203 Government Ave, Niceville, FL 32578 | Approx 24 minutes | 850-729-3335 | Map |
Call before you go, since hours change.
Quick tips for dogs on the Emerald Coast
- Bring fresh water. Dogs shouldn’t drink Gulf water, and shade can be scarce.
- Test sand and pavement with your hand first; both get hot by midday.
- Pack vaccination records in case a boat company, groomer or vet asks.
Stay with your dog at Maravilla
Every condo we rent at Maravilla welcomes pets, with a dedicated pet walk area and open green space steps from your door. Read our pet policy, then check live availability or call 678-313-5115.
See additional Dog-Friendly Activities at Bring Fido.