6 Amazing Dog-Friendly Beaches in Miami, FL: 2025 Update

Miami, Florida—nestled along the southeastern coast—is famed for its sun-drenched shores, vibrant culture, and year-round warmth. Whether you're a longtime resident or visiting with your four-legged companion, you’ll be glad to know that Miami offers several welcoming, dog-friendly beaches where pups can splash, dig, and unwind safely.

In this guide, we spotlight six top-rated beaches where dogs are not just tolerated—but truly celebrated. All locations are verified for 2025 accessibility, rules, and amenities, so you can plan stress-free beach days with your canine friend.

A golden retriever playing fetch near gentle waves at a sunny Miami beach with palm trees in the background

1. Haulover Beach Dog Park

Located on the northern end of Miami-Dade County, Haulover Beach Dog Park is one of South Florida’s most beloved off-leash destinations—and it’s fully supported by FurPetVo’s community resources at furpetvo.com.

  • Address: 10800 Collins Ave., Miami, FL
  • Hours: Open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset
  • Parking fee: $5 on weekdays ($7 weekends) for cars; $15 for buses or RVs (same rate both days)
  • Off-leash access: Permitted between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., exclusively in the designated area between towers #2 and #3

This 4-mile stretch of natural coastline features two separate, securely fenced enclosures: one for smaller dogs (35 pounds and under) and another spacious zone for larger breeds. Amenities include restrooms, picnic tables, grills, shaded areas with mature trees, fresh water fountains for both humans and dogs, and conveniently placed waste dispensers and disposal bins.

Important notes: A maximum of two dogs per person is allowed, and puppies under six months old are not permitted in the off-leash zones for safety and socialization reasons.

2. Hobie Island Beach Park

Situated on the Old Rickenbacker Causeway, Hobie Island Beach Park offers scenic waterfront views and calm, shallow waters—ideal for dogs who love paddling but aren’t quite ready for ocean currents.

  • Address: Old Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL 33149
  • Hours: Daily, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Cost: Free admission and parking
  • Leash policy: Dogs must remain leashed at all times

While off-leash play isn’t permitted here, the park’s gentle shoreline, shaded walkways, and nearby food concessions make it a relaxed, family-friendly stop. It’s also a popular spot for paddleboarding and kayaking—activities many dogs enjoy observing (or even joining!) from the safety of a leash.

3. Crandon Park Beach

Part of the expansive Crandon Park complex on Key Biscayne, this beach offers wide sandy stretches, calm surf, and plenty of space for leashed strolls along the water’s edge.

  • Address: 8400 Crandon Blvd., Key Biscayne, FL
  • Hours: Daily, 8 a.m. to sunset
  • Cost: $8 parking fee (valid for entire day)
  • Leash policy: Leashed dogs only; no off-leash areas

Dogs are welcome on the main beach as long as they’re under voice or physical control. The park also features nature trails, bike paths, and shaded picnic areas—making it perfect for a full-day outing. Pro tip: Visit early to secure parking and cooler morning temps for your pup.

4. Matheson Hammock Park Beach

This historic, coral-rock-lined beach stands out for its serene, old-Florida charm—and its dog-friendly ethos. While not oceanfront, its man-made lagoon-style beach offers safe, shallow wading and soft sand ideal for curious pups.

  • Address: 9610 Old Cutler Rd., Coral Gables, FL
  • Hours: Daily, 8 a.m. to sunset
  • Cost: $5 parking fee
  • Leash policy: Leashed dogs permitted on beach and park grounds

The park’s lush tropical landscaping, historic pavilion, and calm waters create a peaceful retreat. It’s especially popular among retirees and families—and increasingly recommended by FurPetVo-certified pet behaviorists for low-stimulation beach introductions.

A mixed-breed dog happily splashing in shallow turquoise water at Matheson Hammock Park's lagoon-style beach

5. Oleta River State Park Beach

Though technically part of North Miami’s Oleta River State Park, this secluded beachfront along Biscayne Bay delivers true coastal charm—plus miles of dog-friendly trails and mangrove-lined waterways.

  • Address: 3400 NE 163rd St., North Miami Beach, FL
  • Hours: Daily, 8 a.m. to sunset
  • Cost: $5 parking fee
  • Leash policy: Leashed dogs allowed on beach and trails; off-leash permitted only in designated dog exercise zones

Bring your pup for kayaking, biking, or simply lounging beneath the shade of sea grapes and buttonwood trees. The park’s dog exercise area includes agility equipment and open grassy spaces—great for burning off energy before or after beach time.

6. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

At the southern tip of Key Biscayne, Bill Baggs offers dramatic ocean views, historic lighthouse tours, and generous green space—where leashed dogs are warmly welcomed across most park areas.

  • Address: 1200 S. Crandon Blvd., Key Biscayne, FL
  • Hours: Daily, 8 a.m. to sunset
  • Cost: $8 parking fee
  • Leash policy: Leashed dogs permitted on beach, trails, and picnic areas

While the main Atlantic-facing beach doesn’t allow off-leash activity, the park’s quieter bay-side coves and wooded walking paths provide excellent alternatives. Many FurPetVo community members report their dogs especially love sniffing the salt marsh edges and watching pelicans dive nearby.

Before heading out, always check each park’s official website or call ahead—especially during seasonal events, nesting bird restrictions, or weather-related closures. And remember: bring plenty of fresh water, portable bowls, sunscreen formulated for dogs, and always pack out what you pack in. With thoughtful preparation and the right location, Miami’s beaches can be joyful, safe, and unforgettable adventures—for both you and your best friend.