Note of 03-24-06: We have received several new, general updates about what's pet-friendly in the Miami Beach area and have added that info below. It's heartening to learn these changes/additions for dogs came about due to efforts of a fine grassroots organization called Responsible Dog Owners of Miami Beach.

1. South Beach

Not technically a dog beach, but people do walk their dogs on the beach and on Ocean Drive after sundown. However, caution is suggested as far as walking dogs on the boardwalk area, as some people have been ticketed for doing so.

Note of 03-24-06: The group noted above has petitioned the city government for a 75 feet dog beach to use, supposedly, in place of this area. The group will meet with city officials and tour North Shore Open Space Park Beach, with the intention of finding a good place for dogs and their people.

2. Flamingo Bark Park

Located in Flamingo Park, at the corner of Michigan Avenue and 14th Street. This was supposedly the first dog park in Miami Beach. Offers two separate dog areas, running water, benches, agility equipment and parking.

3. Pinetree Bark Park

Located in Pinetree Park, at Pinetree Drive and 45th Street. This is supposedly the newest dog park in the area. Offers two large, connected areas where dogs can run (fenced), running water, with more features coming later.

Web Mistress Note: Thank you to a FloridaPets.net reader for providing us information about dog parks #2 and #3 above.

4. SouthPointe Park

Located at Washington Avenue and Southpointe Drive. A nice park that is currently unfenced, but open at all times to dogs. Offers restrooms. The local board of comissioners is currently reviewing plans to completely revamp the park and make it into what sounds like a great dog park.

Note of 10-16-07: We have received the following update:

"The long awaited temporary dog park alternative to South Point Park is finally going to open at 2nd and Collins. The Responsible Dog Owners of Miami Beach (RDO)worked closely with the City Staff and Kevin Smith and staff at Parks and Recreation to design the layout and amenities to maximize this small area into a great little dog park that we believe will compliment the South of Fifth neighborhood and let our pets exercise safely. Located at the RDA police sub-station park at the corner of 2nd and Collins will be open from 8AM to 8PM every day starting October 17, 2007. There may still some construction action around the fountain so be careful in that area."

Note of 07-18-06: According to our research, a $20 Million renovation of this park will increase the space to 19-acres and will include a dog park.

Note of 03-24-06: It's official! There will be a dog beach at South Pointe Park, to be located on the Government Cut, in front of the Apogee, at the end of where a sea wall is currently being built. The dog park area will be ready in about four months.

06-20-05 Web Mistress Note: Thank you to the kind reader who sent us the information about this park.

5. Pet Friendly Beachwalk

Note of 03-24-06: This is a pilot program worked out between the Responsible Dog Owners (RDOs) of Miami Beach and the City of Miami Beach. The RDOs have made this a "pet" project, recently getting an extension to the trial period originally given the program. Members and other dog guardians using the paved public trail must work earnestly to show the city they can maintain this area to be clean and safe for all who wish to use it - or the program will end. Disposable plastic clean up bags are available along the trail - please use them!

NOTE: We can't visit every area on a regular basis, so if you have information about any dog parks or beaches, or any other animal recreation facilities, in the Miami Beach area, please contact FloridaPets.net.