If you’ve been searching for dog friendly beaches in Georgia, I have good news and I have some news you’ll need to plan around. The good news? Georgia has some genuinely beautiful beaches where your pup is welcome. The part that requires a little planning? There aren’t many of them — but the ones we have are worth every mile of the drive.
Spoiler: you’re heading to the Golden Isles.
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Why the Golden Isles?
The Golden Isles of Georgia are one of the most stunning stretches of the Georgia coast. Spanish moss, maritime forest, wide open marshes, and some of the most uncrowded beaches you’ll find on the East Coast. It’s also, as it turns out, one of the most dog-welcoming areas of the state.
My dog Nala has been coming to these beaches her whole life, and she might love this place more than I do. There is nothing quite like watching a dog sprint full-speed toward the ocean for the first time every spring. Pure joy.
Let’s check out the two most dog friendly beaches in Georgia:
St. Simons Island
Living in Brunswick, Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island are right around the corner, but St. Simons is my home base, and it’s a wonderful place to bring your dog. The beaches here are wide, the vibe is relaxed, and locals are always happy to see four-legged visitors trotting along the shoreline.
Nala and I love to park at Massengale Park when we go to the beach because they have dog water fountains and it’s easy to retreat to the shade when you need to. For a full list of the beaches on St. Simons Island, check out the St. Simons Island Beach Guide.
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Beach Rules for Dogs on St. Simons Island
Dogs are not permitted on the beach from between the hours of 9:00 am and 6:00 pm, beginning the Saturday before Memorial Day until Labor Day
Outside of those hours (before Memorial Day, after Labor Day, and in the early mornings and evenings of summer), dogs are welcome to be on the beach and off-leash as long as they are under the immediate voice control of the owner. If your dog isn’t a good listener, they must be on a 10-foot leash.
Where to Stay with Your Dog on St. Simons
- Saint Simons Inn by the Lighthouse – Big dogs are allowed at this hotel right in the pier village, and there’s no pet fee!
- Hotel Simone – Dog owners with no children will love this one – big dogs are allowed, but kids are not. There is a small pet fee, but if you want a quiet vacation (or a wild one by the rooftop pool), you’ll love this adults-only hotel.
- VRBO – You can find a full list of dog-friendly vacation rentals on St. Simons Island here.
- Hampton Inn St. Simons Island – There is a small pet fee here, but big dogs are welcome at this hotel. It’s one of our personal favorites.
- Best Western Plus St. Simons Island – This is one of the most budget-friendly stays on the island, and small dogs are welcome for a fee.
Jekyll Island
Jekyll Island has more of a resort vibe. The beach parks here have beautiful amenities like pavilions and restrooms and plenty of parking. It’s also one of the most dog-friendly destinations on the entire Georgia coast.
For a full list of pet-friendly stays, things to do, and restaurants, check out our Pet-Friendly Jekyll Island Guide!
Beach Rules for Dogs on Jekyll Island
Dogs are permitted on all beaches on Jekyll Island year-round, but they must be on a leash no longer than 16 feet.
Be sure to keep your pets out of the dunes, especially during sea turtle nesting season (May – August).
Where to Stay with Your Dog on Jekyll Island
- Jekyll Island Club Resort – The height of luxury, this resort in the historic district is absolutely gorgeous. You can bring a max of 1 small dog, and there is a pet fee.
- The Beachview Club – This hotel is beautiful, and big dogs are allowed for a fee.
- Holiday Inn Resort Jekyll Island by IHG – The pool here is amazing and has an ocean view. You’ll love the onsite restaurant, too! Small dogs are welcome for a fee.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Jekyll Island – This hotel is large dog friendly for a small fee, and they have bike rentals onsite!
- The Westin Jekyll Island – This beachfront hotel allows small dogs only, for a fee.
- Best Western Plus Jekyll Island – This is a great budget-friendly option, and small dogs are welcome for a fee.
- VRBO – You can find a full list of dog-friendly vacation rentals on Jekyll Island here.
Tips for a Great Beach Day with Your Dog
A few things I’ve learned from years of beach days with Nala on the dog friendly beaches in Georgia:
- Bring fresh water. Salt water is not your dog’s friend, and a thirsty dog on a hot Georgia beach is a miserable dog. Pack more than you think you’ll need and be sure to grab one of these collapsible silicone dog bowls to make those water breaks easy.
- Bring poop bags. We love seeing furry friends on the beach, but if you don’t pick up after your dog you’re going to see some very unhappy locals. Look for the white canisters full of grocery bags near the trashcans at most beaches, or grab one of these dog poop bag dispensers with bags to be on the safe side.
- Watch the sand temperature. Georgia summers are no joke. If the sand is too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for paws. Early morning or late evening trips are your best bet in the heat of summer.
- Know your dog. Some dogs are natural water dogs; others want nothing to do with waves. Either way, keep a close eye near the surf.
- Respect the rules. Leash laws exist for a reason, and keeping these beaches dog-friendly long-term depends on all of us following them!
Currently planning a trip? Here are some helpful resources:
- Find the best hotel options here.
- Book the cheapest flight here.
- Find tons of tours and activities here.
- Book your rental car here.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Here are some other articles to help you plan your and your dog’s beach vacation in the Golden Isles:
- Pet Friendly Jekyll Island
- Your Guide to Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island
- St. Simons Island Locals’ Beach Guide
- Georgia Beach Camping: Where to Pitch Your Tent by the Sea
- 10+ Best Beaches Near Brunswick, GA
- St. Simons Island, GA at a Glance
- Jekyll Island Guide
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