You might be surprised to learn that South Florida isn’t the most dog-friendly place for swimming. I know what you’re thinking - why have all that shoreline if the pups can’t frolic and play?! Trust me, I feel the same way. The dog beaches in South Florida are very limited (I can think of one about 90 miles north) and usually it’s overcrowded with rowdy dogs and even rowdier humans. But just when I thought all hope was lost for my pups to swim in South Florida, I heard about Snyder Park.

Snyder Park in Fort Lauderdale is a hidden gem right near the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, spanning approximately 93 acres. With a perfect blend of both green space and urban appeal, this park has so much to offer for both humans and fur friends alike. But, let’s focus on the fur friends for this one.

There are two main attractions for dogs - the Bark Park and the dog beach. We started in the Bark Park to get some wiggles out (the dogs, not me) and it was the perfect off-leash area for dogs to run and play. Everything was fenced in, and there were pavilions and benches for humans to sit. Plus, there was a walking track at the edge of the Bark Park where I walked and got some exercise as my pups played and made some new friends. On hot days, there are hoses with fresh water available, so it’s nice to give your pups a little spray dog to keep them cool. 

But across the parking lot was the star of the show: the canine beach. This dog-friendly beach offers a 100-yard fenced-in area, where dogs are free to play, run, and swim in the freshwater spring. Open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., this dog beach was free to enter and even parking was free!

There are a few rules to consider before entering the park like all dogs must be current on vaccinations and licenses. Puppies under four months are not allowed. Of course, pick up after your pet, and the gate must be closed at all times. All pretty normal stuff. 

What I noticed immediately was how clear blue the water was. Sediment and sand were being kicked up by the splashing of dogs and it created this beautiful turquoise hue that South Florida water is known for.

I will say, there were a lot of dogs when we went. But most were too busy retrieving various toys thrown by their owners to even care about anything else or even give us a passing sniff. 

Some pro tips before you go: wear shoes that you don’t care will get wet, or shoes with very good traction. The part of the dog beach where the dogs enter the water is very rocky, and the terrain is not ideal for flip-flops or leisurely footwear. Another thing to remember is that there are various parts of the beach where dogs can get in the water, but there may be a steep drop from the shoreline into the lake. I had to help my older dog out of the water a few times as the steepness wasn’t the easiest to navigate. And finally, bring a swimsuit! You can get in the water with your pups and many people did.

Hands down, this is one of the best dog-friendly spots in Florida you’ll find.

All in all, this dog-friendly beach in Fort Lauderdale was a true hidden gem and a place I revisit time and time again. Between the car ride, the Bark Park, the dog beach, and a pup cup from Starbucks on the ride home - it’s pretty much the best way to spend a sunny day in South Florida.

Before you go, check out this Float Coat Dog Life Jacket from REI! It'll help your pup brave the dog beach even as a non-swimmer.

Want another fun place in Florida to bring your pups? Check out Boo's Ice House & Dog Bar in Sarasota. I spent an afternoon exploring this historic ice-house-turned-dog-playground and it was the most fun.