Panama City, Florida, attracts visitors year-round, thanks to its 27 miles of stunning beaches. There’s more to our city, however, than sand and sea. We have access to high-quality food, exciting local music and entertainment, and world-class golf courses. If you’re a dog owner, the city also has plenty of options to ensure your pet enjoys a day on the town as much as you do. Our team here at Panama City Toyota has put together five of the best places for dog owners and their canine friends to relax and have fun.
Dog Beach
Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by Olin Gilbert
Dog Beach is located near the Pier Park outdoor entertainment area. It comprises about 400 feet of white sandy beach set aside for pets to enjoy. You can access the beach at no cost each day from sunrise to sunset. Entry to Dog Beach is through public beach access points 56 and 57. Note that all dogs must be on leashes while at Dog Beach. Each owner can take up to three dogs with them at one time.
You can let your dog paddle in the water or stroll along the shoreline. If you let your pet swim in the Gulf, wash them with fresh water afterward to prevent the saltwater from irritating their skin. If you’re looking for a place to wash your pet, check out some of the dog parks we’ve listed below.
Al Helms Dog Park
Located in a residential area of town, this large dog park has won rave reviews from visitors. They’re impressed above all by its cleanliness and large size, as well as the separate areas for small and large dogs.
The park is divided into three sections: one side for large dogs, one side for small dogs, and a fenced-off area in the middle that’s ideal for puppies. A water hose is on hand in case you need to wash your four-legged friend or help them cool down on a hot day. You can also fill up your dog bowl using the available water faucets.
Your dog can run freely once you’re inside the park. You’ll find benches where you can relax with your family or friends while your dog burns off energy. You’ll also find several bins around the park for disposing of poop bags. Ample space is on offer in the parking lot for vehicles. Across the road, you’ll discover several walking trails in case you want to take your pup for a leashed stroll or if anyone in your group wants to explore the area while your dogs play.
Pier Park
Pier Park is the premier shopping and dining destination in Panama City Beach, and the location couldn’t be better. You’ll find this 1.1-million-square-foot site in the heart of the city, providing innumerable opportunities for entertainment, relaxation, and fun.
Dogs can have a great time accompanying you as you explore Pier Park’s many outdoor attractions. Whether you’d like to take a stroll along the boardwalk or listen to local music performed outdoors, your dog is welcome. Keep in mind that many of the stores don’t allow dogs inside, so you’ll need to bring a friend to wait with your pet outside if you plan to shop.
Attractions at Pier Park have longer hours during the summer, with the mall open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. The rest of the year, hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
Frank Brown Park And Dog Park
Frank Brown is another dog-friendly park well worth checking out. It has separate sides for “lazy” and “fast” dogs and a pool where your pet can take a dip. The park has large open areas where your dogs can run. If you want to relax while your dog plays, take advantage of the pavilion seating. A nearby walking trail offers a great alternative if you feel like walking your dog on a leash.
The fenced-off dog park is at the back left of Frank Brown Park. Dogs are also welcome throughout Frank Brown Park, but you must keep them on a leash. Frank Brown Park is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and sometimes plays hosts to sports games.
Outdoor Dining
You’ll be happy to hear that Panama City restaurants and cafes have many outdoor dining options perfectly suited to guests with dogs. If you enjoy a morning or afternoon coffee, swing by Starbucks in Pier Park. It has 10 outdoor tables where you can sit with your pet. Starbucks also offers caffeine-free “Puppuccinos” for dogs.
The Angry Tuna Seafood Company is a locally owned restaurant inside Pier Park. As its name suggests, the restaurant specializes in seafood dishes associated with the diverse flavors of the Gulf of Mexico. Another thing that makes Angry Tuna stand out is its outdoor dining area. It’s fenced off from the rest of Pier Park and nicely shaded, making it an ideal location for you to enjoy a bite to eat with your dog.
So, there you have it! Panama City Toyota just gave you the rundown of five of the best hangout options for dog owners in Panama City Beach. Did we cover one of your favorite places to spend time with your pet? Did we miss any animal-friendly locations you’d like to tell us about? Let us know, and we’ll add your tip to our list.
Whether you’re visiting Panama City from out of town or you’re a local resident, we can offer you the full range of services you’d expect from a top-rated auto dealership here at Panama City Toyota. We have an extensive range of new and pre-owned vehicles, a service center staffed by certified technicians, and a team of finance experts to support you in getting an auto loan. To get to know us better, contact us today. Alternatively, drop by our Panama City dealership to chat with one of our professional team members.
