6 Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Gulf Shores

With endless sandy stretches, Gulf Shores is a dream come true for beach lovers and their four-legged friends. Although we’re home to fantastic beaches, not all allow your pups to join in on the fun.

So, let’s explore the best dog-friendly beaches in the area that you and Fido will love.

Remember, a perfect beach vacation starts with the right place to stay. Harris Vacations offers a unique selection of pet-friendly vacation rentals in Gulf Shores, AL, to make your beach outing an unforgettable experience.

These are the 4 best dog-friendly beaches in Gulf Shores and 2 others a quick drive away.

1. Gulf State Park Beach

Photo Credit: Jacob Boomsma

Gulf State Park has 65,000 acres of space on offer, including rolling sand dunes, white sand beaches, and gentle surf that’s popular for watersports like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

Pets aren’t allowed on the beach itself, but there’s a popular beachfront dog park that gives you the opportunity to enjoy unspoiled beach views while your four-legged friends burn off some energy. The dog pond on Lake Shelby is where your pooch can cool off in the strong Alabama sun. This fenced-in area is exclusively for dogs to enjoy, so they can run around without you having to worry about them running off.

The park has a paid parking lot, and if you’re driving, you’ll find it between Highway 59 and SH 161.

2. Dauphin Island

Photo Credit: Carmen K. Sisson

There are three beautiful beaches on Dauphin Island, and you’ll be excited to learn that dogs are welcome on two of them! The public beach area and East Beach are pet-friendly, but West End Beach isn’t due to the critical bird nesting habitats in this area.

The entire family-friendly town of Dauphin Island has strict leash laws, so dog owners must take care to keep their canines restrained at all times. As with all dog beaches, it’s highly important to pick up after your dog, so please take care to do so.

3. Fort Morgan Beach

Photo Credit: Cavan-Images

Fort Morgan Historic Site is a must-visit spot for any first-timers in the Gulf Shores area. Constructed between 1819 and 1834, it played a highly important strategic role in four wars, including the Civil War and the Spanish-American War.

Fort Morgan is just a 30-minute drive from Gulf Shores Offering a tranquil atmosphere, Fort Morgan Beach is a beautiful place to bring your dog. The bayside beach area between Quarantine Wharf and Fort Morgan Fishing Pier is the best place to head, and your pets will love making a splash in the surf.

Please be aware that beyond this area is a federal wildlife area, and pets are not permitted due to the potential disturbance of local wildlife. Elsewhere, the leash rule applies, and you must clean up after your pet to ensure the beach remains clean and inviting for everyone.

4. Orange Beach Waterfront Park

Orange Beach Waterfront Park is a family-friendly, year-round destination that you will love. The picturesque pier offers lots to see and do, a paved walking path is the perfect spot for a stroll, a kids’ playground lets your little ones blow off steam, and there’s plenty of parking. It’s even possible to see dolphins playing just off the coast if you keep a close eye on the water.

Orange Beach Waterfront Park is a great place to visit with your furry friends, just know they can’t go on the nearby beach, just within the park itself.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to one of the area’s many dog-friendly restaurants to refuel.

5. Fairhope

Fairhope is about an hour drive away from Gulf Shores, but dogs are very welcome in this area, and the bayfront is stunning.

Dogs must be leashed at all times, but you’ll find plenty of pretty places to walk that both you and Fido will thoroughly enjoy.

6. Pirate’s Cove

Pirate’s Cove in Josephine is another spot that welcomes dogs with open arms. It’s about 30 minutes away from Gulf Shores.

It’s a little off the gulf and you might find that the water isn’t as perfectly turquoise as the ocean you’ll enjoy in Gulf Shores, but your four-legged friends will thank you for bringing them here.

Tips for Enjoying the Great Outdoors With Your Dog

Photo Credit: SB Arts Media

Whichever Alabama beach on this list you’re heading to, there are a few things to bear in mind during your visit:

• Always keep dogs on a leash
• Bring along lots of water and make sure they’re well-hydrated
• Remember to bring along a waste bag to clean up after your pet
• Applying a pet-friendly sunscreen can protect your dog from harmful UV rays
• Some beaches require a pet permit, so it’s a good idea to check in advance

Gulf Shores Beach Rentals for the Whole Family

Perched just over the Florida border, Alabama’s Gulf Shores is the perfect destination to enjoy a beach vacation with your loyal companion at your side.

Harris Vacations offers a wide selection of pet-friendly beach rentals and condos in Gulf Shores. With a perfect balance of comfort and luxury, our properties make your vacation more than just a getaway — it will become a cherished memory.

So, what are you waiting for? Your unforgettable beach vacation with your furry friend awaits! Explore the magnificent dog-friendly beaches of Gulf Shores and enjoy the unparalleled comfort of Harris Vacations’ rentals. Book now!

Remember, vacation is better when it’s shared, especially with your four-legged friends!