If you’re thinking about a beach getaway, you have a choice to make – leave your furry friend behind with a sitter or at a boarding facility, or take them along on the adventure! But before you decide, make sure the beach you’re planning to visit is dog-friendly.
Fortunately, if your beach plans include Alabama, you’re in luck! There are several dog-friendly beaches in the state where you can enjoy the sun and sand with your four-legged companion. Here’s a rundown of the top seven dog-friendly beaches in Alabama to help you pick the perfect spot for your trip!
Top 7 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Alabama
1. Pirate’s Cove Marina
https://www.instagram.com/p/Civ4-bqMuHA/
| 🗺️ Address: | 📍 6664 Co Rd 95, Elberta, AL 36530 |
| 🕐 Open Times: | 8 AM–9 PM Monday–Thursday, 8 AM–10 PM Friday and Sunday, 8 AM–11 PM Saturday |
| 💲 Cost: | Varies, depending on the food you get |
| 🐕 Off-Leash: | No |
- Located on Arnica Bay, on the north shore
- Incredibly dog-friendly area
- Dogs required to be on leash
- Can boat with your dog at the public boat launch
2. Orange Beach Waterfront Park
https://www.instagram.com/p/CRj6k1OLEoE/
- Beach isn’t on the Gulf, but on Wolf Bay
- Features picnic areas and a kids’ park
- Most people with dogs come after sunset
- Dogs must be leashed at all times
- Does have a pier (though it’s currently closed for hurricane damage)
3. Mayday Park
https://www.instagram.com/p/CTcTh3aLdsD/
- Features a boardwalk
- Can take dogs out in canoes or kayaks
- Has beach and bayfront access
- Leashes are required
- Watch out for snakes and alligators
4. Graham Creek Nature Preserve
https://www.instagram.com/p/ClemZN5vvcM/
| 🗺️ Address: | 📍 23030 Wolf Bay Dr, Foley, AL 36535 |
| 🕐 Open Times: | Preserve open 7 days a week from dusk till dawn; nature center open 10 AM–4 PM Monday–Friday, 10 AM–2 PM Saturday, closed Sunday |
| 💲 Cost: | Free |
| 🐕 Off-Leash: | No |
- Enjoy a dog-friendly beach and creek
- Take your pup for a hike on one of the many hiking trails
- Plus, enjoy boardwalks, disc golf, and kayak launch
- Leashed dogs only
5. Dauphin Island Public Beach
https://www.instagram.com/p/CNZ7H50Ho7q/
- Least crowded of Alabama beaches
- Dogs must remain leashed due to leash law on the island
- Dogs cannot go on the West End
- 2-hour drive from the mainland, or you can take a ferry that allows well-behaved dogs on leashes
- Rather long walk from the parking lot to the beach
Dog-Friendly Beaches in Gulf Shores, AL
Many people head to Gulf Shores when they’re taking an Alabama beach vacation. Unfortunately, this area only has two dog-friendly beaches for those with pets.
6. Fort Morgan Historic Site Bayside Beach
https://www.instagram.com/p/ClFI97KuDOs/
| 🗺️ Address: | 📍 51 AL- 180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542 |
| 🕐 Open Times: | Fort is 8 AM–4:30 PM; beach is always open |
| 💲 Cost: | Fort is $8 for adults, $5 for children 6–12 and seniors, under 6 free; beach is free |
| 🐕 Off-Leash: | No |
- Historical fort 22 miles out from Gulf Shores that also includes a beach
- Dogs can visit the fort and beach (but not the fort’s museum)
- Leash needed at all times
- When on the beach, those with dogs have to stay between Fisherman’s Wharf and the old Fort Morgan Pier because there’s a nearby Federal Wildlife area
7. The Dog Pond at Lake Shelby (Gulf State Park)
https://www.instagram.com/p/CisY0SeO-mu/
- Dog Pond at Lake Shelby is inside Gulf State Park, so there are also hiking trails
- Dogs can be off-leash on the beach but are required to stay on leash in the park
- Has an agility course
- Has picnic area
- Can bring dog treats, but not dog food
Conclusion
If you’re considering a beach vacation and want to bring your dog along, Alabama is a great choice. With numerous dog-friendly beaches and adjacent areas, there’s plenty to explore. Whether you’re lounging on the beach or hitting the trails for a hike, there’s no shortage of dog-friendly activities and places to enjoy!
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Featured Image Credit: Sbolotova, Shutterstock