Florida Keys dog beaches

Florida Keys Dog Beaches

The Keys provide warm, calm waters and a few off-leash or leash-friendly beaches. Local rules change island to island — check the local park pages.

Many “dog-friendly” spots in the Keys are on-leash or have limited off-leash zones (usually fenced dog parks adjacent to beaches).
Some beaches do not allow dogs on the sand (even leashed), but dogs may be welcome in park portions, paths, or waterfront edges. Example: In Key West, apart from Key West Dog Beach, many of the main beaches do not allow dogs on the sand. Tripadvisor
The Keys’ beaches are also sea turtle nesting zones in many areas — that adds extra restrictions (e.g. limiting digging, staying off marked zones, etc.).
Because the Keys are a chain of many islands, the spread of dog-friendly beaches is more limited than on the mainland.

Key West Dog Beach

🐾 Key West Dog Beach

Location: Key West

Leash Policy: Off-leash (small designated area)

Amenities: Small sandy beach, ocean access

Details: One of the few places in Key West where dogs can run off-leash right in the water. It’s small and rocky in spots, but beloved by locals.

Official Rules

Higgs Beach Dog Park Key West

🐾 Higgs Beach Dog Park

Location: Key West

Leash Policy: Off-leash in fenced areas

Amenities: Fenced play areas, shade, benches

Details: Adjacent to Higgs Beach, this fenced park offers separate areas for large and small dogs. Beach itself requires a leash.

Official Rules

Sombrero Beach Marathon

🐾 Sombrero Beach

Location: Marathon

Leash Policy: On-leash at all times

Amenities: Picnic pavilions, playground, restrooms

Details: A beautiful sandy beach in Marathon where leashed dogs are welcome to stroll along the shore.

Official Rules

Coco Plum Beach Marathon

🐾 Coco Plum Beach

Location: Marathon

Leash Policy: On-leash at all times

Amenities: Pavilion, restrooms, parking

Details: A quieter beach in Marathon where dogs are welcome on leash. Shallow water makes it great for wading.

Official Rules

Anne's Beach Islamorada

🐾 Anne’s Beach

Location: Islamorada (Lower Matecumbe Key)

Leash Policy: On-leash at all times

Amenities: Boardwalk, picnic tables, restrooms

Details: A shallow-water beach that’s perfect for wading. Dogs must remain on leash, but the calm water is great for them to splash around.

Official Rules

Rowell's Waterfront Park Key Largo

🐾 Rowell’s Waterfront Park

Location: Key Largo

Leash Policy: On-leash at all times

Amenities: Picnic tables, benches, swim access

Details: A dog-friendly park on the water in Key Largo. Great for picnics and scenic views, but pets must stay leashed.

Official Rules

Tip: Keys islands can be sunny and hot — carry water and shade for your pet.