St. Simons is known for its wide beaches, towering oaks, and Southern hospitality, but did you know it’s also a great place to bring your four-legged friends? Whether your dog’s idea of a good time is chasing waves or just napping under the shade of a tree, you’ll find plenty of ways to keep their tails wagging. Here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect pet-friendly vacation on St. Simons!

St. Simons Dog Parks

With several dog parks on St. Simons, your pups can play off-leash, make new furry friends, and sniff to their heart’s content!

Frederica Park

Frederica Park is way more than just a dog park; it’s a full family outing. With wide open spaces and separate fenced areas for large and small dogs, it’s a great place for pups to stretch their legs while the rest of the crew enjoys everything else the park offers. With watering and clean-up stations, a botanical trail and labyrinth for leashed strolls, nearby picnic pavilions, a playground, and restrooms, this thoughtfully designed space makes it easy to spend the entire morning or afternoon outside!

Epworth Park

Epworth Park is a great place for two and four-legged visitors craving a little sunshine. While tennis players enjoy the courts and families gather for a friendly game of bocce, pups can burn off energy at the fenced dog park, complete with agility-style play features that add a little extra fun to every visit. With room to socialize in a safe space, shaded areas for pup parents to relax while their furry friends play, and convenient picnic tables and restrooms nearby, Epworth Park makes it easy to turn a quick outing into a whole afternoon of fresh air and fun!

Kings Park

An extension of Mallery Park, Kings Park is a local favorite where pups and their people can all stay active. With a dedicated dog park, it’s also a fun place to challenge your family, with tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts nearby. Shaded play areas keep pups cool on sunny days, and with separate areas for large and small dogs, and convenient watering and clean-up stations, it’s easy to relax while your dog runs free in a safe, well-maintained space..

Pet-Friendly Trails on St. Simons

Whether strolling under the oaks or exploring native plants, these pet-friendly paths let you roam freely while taking in the sights!

• Alice Richard’s Botanical Trail – home to a peaceful woodland path surrounded by native plants, interactive signs, and a children’s play area.
• The Southeast Georgia Health System Fitness Trail – a wheelchair-accessible half-mile paved loop winding through live oaks and native foliage, with benches and fitness stations along the way.
• St. Simons Trail System – offering over 20 miles of scenic views and paved paths for quick and easy access to local restaurants, shops, and attractions.

Pet-Friendly Restaurants on St. Simons

St. Simons has plenty of pet-friendly restaurants where you and your pup can relax and enjoy the scenery, from patios with water bowls to casual eateries that welcome four-legged guests with open arms. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Porch
• Del Sur
• Tramici
• Brogan’s South
• Barbara Jeans
• Iguana’s Seafood
• Palm Coast Coffee
• Wake Up Coffee Co.
• Beachcomber BBQ
• Wolf Island Oyster Co.
• Frosty’s Griddle and Shake
• Southern Soul BBQ/Channel Marker Bar

Where to Find Pet Food, Toys, & Accessories

Need supplies for your furry travel companion? Check out local favorites like Island Dog and Pet Exchange for food, toys, accessories, and anything else your pet might need.

Boarding and Dog Daycare on St. Simons Island

When your pup needs a little pampering or a safe place to stay, St. Simons Puppy Paradise offers top-notch boarding and daycare with plenty of tail wags to go around. The Pack Canine Studio is a favorite among local dog lovers for grooming and training.

Local and 24-Hour Veterinary Care Near St. Simons

Peace of mind comes easily with trusted local veterinary care nearby. Seaside Veterinary Hospital and Island Animal Hospital offer compassionate, full-service care for pets, while 24-Hour Emergency Veterinary Service in Fernandina is there for after-hours emergencies when you need it most.

St. Simons Pet-Friendly Beaches, Rules, and Tips

One of the many charms of St. Simons is how often you’ll spot happy dogs strolling alongside their humans: it’s truly a pet lover’s paradise. Dogs are welcome on the beach year-round, though seasonal restrictions apply between the Saturday before Memorial Day through Labor Day, when pups aren’t permitted on the beach between 9 AM and 6 PM. 

Off-leash play is allowed only if dogs are under voice control, and owners are required to clean up after their pets. While waste bags are provided at most beach access points, it’s always a good idea to bring your own. 

Some of the most popular beach spots for dogs include Massengale Park, with plenty of parking and green space; Gould’s Inlet, a favorite for sunrise walks; East Beach and Coast Guard Beach, ideal for social dogs; and the quieter East Beach neighborhood access points, perfect for shy pups who prefer a little more space.

Jekyll Island Pet-Friendly Beaches and Rules

Jekyll Island also makes it easy to enjoy the sand and surf with your furry companion. While dogs are welcome on most beaches year-round, there are a few exceptions. Look for signage around the South Dunes and St. Andrews Picnic Areas where pets are prohibited. Leashes are required at all times (maximum 16 feet), and as always, please be sure to clean up after your pup. Driftwood Beach is a favorite for quiet sunrise strolls, while St. Andrews Beach is perfect for a peaceful sunset walk.

Plan Your Pet-Friendly Vacation with Hodnett Cooper

We look forward to hosting you and your furry companion for a tail-wagging good time on the Georgia coast! With Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals, you’ll find a wide range of pet-friendly vacation rentals that make it easy to relax, explore, and enjoy every moment together!