Vilano Beach

Located on Florida's northeast coast, the city of St. Augustine is a must-visit destination for dog lovers and their pets. It features pet-friendly hotels, pet-friendly restaurants, and heaps of attractions that welcome your fur-kids. Best of all, it offers a host of grrr-eat beaches where dogs are more than welcome, and Vilano Beach is one of the best.

Reached via a four-mile drive northeast of St. Augustine, Vilano Beach offers an ideal location for you and your dog to take in some sun, sand, and surf. There's a nice, wide stretch of sand for your pet's paws to explore, and chances are you'll meet plenty of other dog owners and their pets doing the same.

The beach itself is located on the north side of the Matanzas Inlet, which means a steep drop-off in the water, larger waves, and strong currents. As a result, it's a wonderful spot to sit back and admire local surfers doing their thing when the tide is coming in, but it's hazardous for swimmers.

If you feel like stretching your legs and taking a stroll, the southern end of Vilano Beach curves around to Porpoise Point. This is a popular spot for fishing and also launching a jet ski, but if you're visiting at the right time of day, you and your pooch could be treated to a beautiful sunrise or sunset from this vantage point.

You'll need to keep your dog on a leash at all times on Vilano Beach, and make sure to always clean up after your furry friend. Waste bags are provided at most beach entrances, but these do run out from time to time so it's worth bringing your own supply just in case.

If you take care to be a responsible dog owner when you take your dog to the beach, you'll be doing your bit to ensure that Vilano Beach and beaches all around the nation continue to remain pet-friendly.