Miami’s Top Five Best Dog Parks For 2023

 
I feel like we have listed so many things for kids and grownups to do together in Miami this summer, but what about our four-legged family members? Miami is so rich in things you can bring your dogs to enjoy, and here is a list of our favorite dog parks in the area.

David T. Kennedy Dog Park

Located at 2400 South Bayshore Drive in Coconut Grove, the David T Kennedy Dog Park is a very well-maintained waterfront location that is quite popular for the locals of Coconut Grove as well as Brickell. There is a mid-sized fenced area with a leashing cage at the entrance to make getting in and out easy for everyone.

The pup park is broken into different sections for large dogs and little ones and plenty of shade and seating areas for tired doggie parents to rest while Fido runs off his or her energy. If you’re looking for agility equipment, there are also A-frames and tunnels as well as doggy water fountains in both areas.

Please be aware that parking can become a challenge during busy times, which tend to be weekend afternoons and weekdays in the early evening.

Haulover Dog Beach

Haulover is a sprawling off-leash dog area in Northeast Miami on Haulover Beach. With 177 acres, you will need to make sure your dog will not run for the hills if you let them off the leash as there is no fence. With that being said, it is beautiful and clean and also has a beach. Since the dog park is so large, it also never really gets overly-crowded.

For those who are new to beach life, you will need to bring plenty of food and water as there isn’t any shade and if your dog drinks the ocean water they run the risk of becoming dehydrated. They do have water fountains for people as well as pets, but in my opinion it is better to be safe and have a backup.

Margaret Pace Dog Park

One of the most popular dog parks for those in Downtown Miami and Edgewater areas is Margaret Pace Park at 1745 N Bayshore Drive. With its bayfront location nestled under the glittering high rises, this dog park is not just popular for the pets, it is also popular for singles looking to mingle. There are multiple benches positioned underneath shade trees where you can get to know your neighbors while the pups spend their energy. There is also a nearby playscape if you have children who need to spend energy as well.

The fenced area is separated into small and large dog sections with each covered in artificial grass. There aren’t any worries about dehydration as water fountains are positioned for the dogs and also for adults and plenty of cleanup stations. Given the size and location, this park is well-attended but does not get overly-busy except for the occasional Sunday afternoon. It’s a great option for a low key outing by the bay.

Washington Dog Park

Located in the chic South of Fifth neighborhood in Miami Beach, adjacent to Marjory Stoneman Douglas Ocean Beach Park, the Washington Dog Park is a mid-sized playground for all sizes of dogs. They have several options for ground cover including dirt, grass and pea-sized gravel as well as ample shade and seating areas.

There are two separate play areas at Washington Dog Park. One is for small, shy or older dogs who prefer to play more calmly. If you have a big, rambunctious dog that likes to run and wrestle, there is another area for this so that everyone is safe and happy. The busiest days are Monday and Tuesday, with the rest of the week being more calm.

When you are finished with the off-leash play in the dog park, you can also take your furry friend for an on-leash stroll along the bay and ocean at South Pointe Park, which is just 2 blocks away.

Tropical Park Bark Park

Inside the expansive Tropical Park at 7900 SW 40th Street in South Miami is the Miami Bark Park Dog Park. If you can say it really fast 3 times, you become the mayor. We kid, but the Tropical Park Dog Park is amazing. It is very popular with friendly locals and since it is so spacious, it almost never gets overly-crowded. There is plenty of free parking as well.

The grassy landscaping is perfect to exercise your pup and there are plenty of shade trees to avoid overheating. You can bring a picnic and set up for an afternoon of fun, as there are also shaded picnic tables with canopies in case you have less energy than your doggo. Throughout the park, you can find plenty of agility equipment where you can teach your pup some new tricks or just let them play and water fountains are provided.

If your dog isn’t super friendly, you may want to plan a trip during the week when it is slower. Maybe they can ease into the more social weekend crowd. Also, cleanup bags are provided but since this park is very popular, they sometimes run out. You may want to bring your own as a backup.

Of course, these are not the ONLY dog parks in Miami. The city has more dog-friendly spaces than we can even count. Some condominium developments even have their own private dog spaces. These are only our favorites, whether they are situated in an amazing location, or have different amenities to set themselves apart, any of these will be sure to thrill your fur baby and make you smile as well.

Image Credit: Mark Felice by Unsplash