🐾 Top 5 Pet-Friendly Parks and Beaches in Miami (and How to Keep Pets Safe While Visiting)

Miami is a paradise not just for people, but for pets too! With sunny skies, ocean breezes, and plenty of green spaces, there’s no shortage of places where your furry friends can join in on the fun. Whether you have an energetic dog who loves the surf or a laid-back pup who prefers shady strolls, Miami has something for everyone. Here are the top 5 pet-friendly parks and beaches in Miami—plus essential tips to keep pets safe while enjoying them.

🌴 1. Haulover Beach Dog Park

Located between Sunny Isles and Bal Harbour, Haulover Beach Dog Park is one of Miami’s most famous off-leash areas. With separate sections for large and small dogs, it offers shaded seating, water fountains, and agility equipment. The highlight? Certain sections of the beach are designated as dog-friendly, so your pup can splash in the waves.

Safety Tip: Always rinse your dog with fresh water after swimming to remove salt and sand, and watch for signs of fatigue or overheating.

🌳 2. Amelia Earhart Park

A hidden gem in Hialeah, Amelia Earhart Park has 515 acres of open space, trails, lakes, and a popular Bark Park. The off-leash dog park includes five acres with obstacle courses, shaded benches, and wash stations.

Safety Tip: Keep an eye out for hot pavement on walking paths. Early mornings or evenings are the best times to visit to avoid heat stress.

🐕 3. Hobie Island Beach Park (Rickenbacker Causeway)

Just minutes from downtown, Hobie Beach is one of the few Miami beaches where dogs are welcome off-leash in the sand and surf. It’s a local favorite for paddleboarding with pups or letting dogs enjoy the shallow shoreline.

Safety Tip: Saltwater can upset your dog’s stomach if ingested, so bring fresh drinking water and offer frequent breaks.

🌺 4. Kennedy Park (Coconut Grove)

Kennedy Park is a Coconut Grove classic, with a large fenced-in dog park, shady trees, and beautiful Biscayne Bay views. It’s also home to the famous A.C.’s Icees truck—a perfect stop for pet parents on a hot day.

Safety Tip: The dog park can get busy, so supervise interactions closely. If your dog is shy, try visiting during quieter weekday mornings.

🌊 5. North Shore Open Space Park

This serene Miami Beach park offers plenty of green areas for leashed walks, shady picnic spots, and access to a quieter stretch of beach. While dogs must remain leashed, it’s a great spot for a peaceful stroll by the ocean.

Safety Tip: Bring biodegradable waste bags and pick up promptly—this helps keep Miami’s pet-friendly spaces open and enjoyable for everyone.

✅ General Safety Tips for Miami Outings

• Hydration is key: Always bring a collapsible water bowl and fresh water.

• Paw protection: Check pavement or sand temperature—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws.

• ID and microchip: Outings can get busy; make sure your pet’s tags and microchip info are up to date.

• Vaccinations: Parks and beaches can expose pets to other animals—stay current on vaccines and parasite prevention.

Final Thoughts

Exploring Miami with your pets is one of the best ways to enjoy everything the city has to offer. From off-leash beach play to shaded park strolls, these spots will keep tails wagging. By combining fun with safety, you’ll ensure every adventure is memorable for both you and your furry friend.