Summer is right around the corner, and it’s a sultry time to head down to The Emerald Coast of Florida to experience some of the most quaint beach towns in the world. Resting on the tranquil Gulf of Mexico, there is a deep sense of ease… with gulf breezes, palm trees, warm emerald waters and white sandy beaches dotted with bright-colored beach houses, The Emerald Coast is the epitome of a tropical paradise.
Dog-friendly vacationing is at its best in an area called 30A, a collection of bite-sized beach towns that run along the panhandle coast in South Walton County between Destin and Panama City Beach. There you will experience The Emerald Coast’s picturesque vistas, delicious fresh southern seafood and fun for the whole pack.
Image courtesy of 30A
Where to Stay with Your Pup
Our Pick:
Seaside Pastel-Colored Beach Houses
Seaside is a jewel of 30A, Florida with a walkable town center just minutes from the beach and an abundance of pet-friendly, pastel-colored beach house rentals. You will be sure to get into vacation mode as soon as you check into one of these vibrant seaside stays.
Image courtesy of VRBO
The Runner-ups:
Where to Eat with Your Pup
Our Pick:
You don’t want to miss the food and the ambiance of Old Florida Fish House, where you will be immersed in–true-to-the-name–old Floridian vibes on Eastern Lake, with mouth-watering sushi, seafood and live music. And maybe the best part... your pup can come along too!
Image courtesy of Old Florida Fish House
The Runner-ups:
Where to Eat without Your Pup
Our Pick:
In Seagrove Beach, Café Thirty-A is a must visit casual fine-dining experience with eclectic and innovative American cuisine with a great selection of fine wines and speciality martinis. You won’t feel guilty for leaving Fido at home for a night out wining and dining at this special spot.
Image courtesy of Café Thirty-A
The Runner-ups:
Buddy’s Seafood Market - Order online and take to-go for a picnic on the beach!
What to Do with Your Pup
Our Pick:
Play at the dog beach at Pier Park Panama City Beach
Pups deserve to play in the sand too, and it wouldn’t be a tropical holiday with your four-legged companion without some quality time together at the beach! The dog beach next to Pier Park is the perfect place for your pup to play fetch, run free, and go for a swim!
Image courtesy of 30A Vet
The Runner-ups:
Run free at Alaqua Unleashed Bark Park
Peruse the 30A Farmers’ Market at Rosemary Beach
Take a hike at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
What to Do without Your Pup
Our Pick:
Throw your swimmies on and hit the Beach
30A has an abundance of gorgeous beaches–for two-leggeds only–to choose from. No matter where you choose to stay in the region, there will be an emerald water and power-sugar sand oasis just a hop and a skip away. Don’t forget to lather up on sunscreen and pack plenty of water in a cooler–it’s gonna be hot. Oh, and maybe bring an umbrella and a floatie or two!
Image courtesy of Southern Living
The Runner-ups:
Grab a drink while viewing a spectacular sunset
Shop Floridian boutiques and galleries ‘til you drop
Services for Your Pup
Sometimes Fido needs a little relief and pampering… and you may need some time to experience the sights and museums on your own. We have all the bases covered for your pup’s particular needs and emergencies while vacationing on Florida’s Emerald Coast.
Image courtesy of Southern Vacation Rentals
- Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport Pet Relief Locations
- Bark Baths And Beyond Grooming, Walking and Doggy Day Care
- Bow Wow Meow Pet Grooming, Food Supply and Gear
- 30A Barks Dog Treats and Accessories
- 30A 24/7 365 Pet Urgent Care
Image courtesy of Homes on 30A
So load up your Out-of-Office Carry-All and Out-of-Office Pet Food Travel Kit, zip your pooch in their matching Out-of-Office Pet Carrier, and fly down to panhandle for a pastel-colored, Floridian beach escape you and the pack will be daydreaming about for years to come!
P.S. Remember to tag @roverlund in your photos from The Emerald Coast!
