Top Dog-Friendly Beaches and Restaurants on Alabama’s Coast

The perfect summer getaway doesn’t have to exclude the four-legged members of your family.

There’s nothing cuter than a dog, soaking wet and covered with sand, running down the beach in pure ecstasy. Unfortunately, this mental picture is harder to realize than you might think. Most area beaches either don’t allow dogs, or enforce a strict leash law. This is because dogs can have a negative impact on wildlife, like endangered  nesting turtles, or on fragile dunes. Before your next beach adventure, check out our list of dog-friendly beaches on the Alabama coast, as well as the waterfront restaurants who welcome Fido. Just be sure to follow all state laws. Dogs must dine outdoors, without crossing through an indoor dining room to get there. Once seated, please keep your pooch off the furniture and understand that restaurant employees are strictly forbidden by health codes to pet your pooch. It’s nothing personal!

Dogs enjoy playing on beach with owner

THE DOG POND AT LAKE SHELBY
20115 State Park Road, Gulf Shores

Located inside Gulf State Park, this is the only place your pup can swim and play off-leash. It’s not Gulf-front, but you can hike, fish and picnic at the lake so it’s a great stop when visiting Gulf Shores! Be sure to visit the agility course, too. 

DAUPHIN ISLAND PUBLIC BEACH
1501 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island
There is an island-wide leash law, so make sure to stay tethered. No dogs on the West End, please. 

GRAHAM CREEK NATURE PRESERVE
23030 Wolf Bay Drive, Foley
Don’t pass up this Nature Preserve’s dog-friendly beach, hiking trails, cool creek and kayaking opportunities!

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ORANGE BEACH WATERFRONT PARK
26425 Canal Road, Orange Beach
This waterfront access on Wolf Bay has spots for picnicking, a kids’ park and a newly-built pier.

FORT MORGAN BAYSIDE BEACH
51 AL Highway 180, Gulf Shores
Dogs are invited to visit the beach and the fort, but must stay between Fisherman’s Wharf and the old Fort Morgan Pier while on the beach due to a nearby Federal Wildlife area.

MAYDAY PARK
100 College Ave., Daphne
Enjoy the pier and small beach with amazing sunset views. You can also launch your canoe or kayak and head out for adventure! 

Waterfront Restaurants that Welcome Dogs

BIG DADDY’S
16542 Ferry Road, Fairhope
Come for the fried pickles at this shady cove on Fish River. 

COBALT
28099 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach
Watch the excitement of Robinson Island from the comfort of your table.

GTs
26189 Canal Road, Orange Beach
Come by boat for good eats on Wolf Bay.

OSO
5749 Bay La Launch Ave., Orange Beach
Latin flavors spice up this menu on Bear Point. 

PIRATES COVE
6664 Cty. Road 95, Elberta
A water dog’s go-to spot for burgers and sandy romps.

SUNSET POINTE
831 N. Section St., Fairhope
Marina views, killer sunsets and fresh seafood are the draw.

TACKY JACKS
240 E. 24th Ave., Gulf Shores
1577 AL hwy 180, FORt morgan
27206 Safe Harbor Drive, Orange Beach
Three locations and Mexican Garbage is all you need to know.

THE GULF
27500 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach
Don’t pass on this cool spot to watch the boats on Perdido Pass. 

THE HANGOUT
101 E Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores
Where 59 ends and fun with your pup begins.

THE TIKI
27844 Canal Road, Orange Beach
A taste of the islands on Terry Cove, thatched roof and all.

ZEKE’S RESTAURANT
26619 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach
New menu, new owners, new deck overlooking the marina, same fun.

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