How many times have you wished for a vacation where your dog can come along with you? When it comes to our furry companion we would rather them be by our side not left at home or at a boarding place. After all, who can leave a family member out of a family vacation? I know you’ve most likely been told that you go overboard when it comes to your pet. But no one can truly understand until they become a parent to their own furry child.
I have a 3-year-old Chihuahua named Hunter and I’ll admit I’m that crazy dog mom. I thought I was going to be taking him everywhere with me the minute I got him. Unfortunately, there aren’t too many places that allow dogs. However, last month my family and I were able to plan a family vacation around him and it worked out perfectly.
Amelia Island, Florida is by far one of the best vacation spots for all you crazy dog moms and dads out there.
The first reason I have for all of you is the beach. Your best friend will be wagging his tail when you tell him he’s allowed on the beach at all hours of the day with you. Yep, you read that correctly, there is absolutely no time restriction for your dog to be with you at the beach. Almost every other beach will only allow dogs in a designated area, or only during early hours, or only during evening hours. All of those options don’t help us dog parents that wanted to enjoy their vacation with their dog by their side.
Next are the restaurants and bars. These are just a few of my favorite and Hunter’s too.
The Palace Saloon is full of history and the oldest bar in Florida. They allow your pet to enjoy the atmosphere with you by allowing them inside. I know, I was excited about this one too. They don’t serve food, it’s strictly a bar with entertainment each night. Make sure to try their famous Pirate’s Punch while you’re there. You and your best friend won’t be disappointed with The Palace Saloon.
The Falcon’s Nest, Brett’s Waterway Cafe, and Sliders Seaside Grill all have great food and have outdoor seating for you and your dog. They will even bring your dog a bowl of water to keep hydrated while begging you for part of your meal.
Pictured from left to right: Falcon’s Nest, Brett’s Waterway Cafe (Hunter was too busy begging to be in a photo here), and Sliders Seaside Grill.
Last on the restaurant list was Hunter’s absolute favorite. This one is the Marsh View Bar and Grill. It’s located at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort and not only do they have great food and a great happy hour, they have something even more special for your pup. Every Thursday from 5-9 PM they host a “Yappy Hour” for all of the dogs. Your four-legged friend even gets his own menu to order from. I would highly recommend going here to eat and for their regular happy hour too. The food, drink specials, and the atmosphere is the perfect combination.
Last but not least Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach. Who doesn’t want to do a little shopping and walking around on their vacation? Well not only can you find that here but your dog can come along with you too. Most of the stores will leave out water bowls and treats for the dogs at their front door too.
I hope you all get a chance to visit this amazing area with your pup. It’s great to finally find a place that considers our pets as part of the family. My only advice when taking your pet with you on vacation is to make sure restaurants allow your dog to come with you. There were a lot of places mentioned on Bring Fido and other websites that claimed to allow dogs, but when we got there they said they didn’t.
There’s no need to waste time on the places who won’t allow your dog to be with you. Always double check beforehand so you can plan your vacation around those who accept your pup at their location. Hunter and I will be visiting Myrtle Beach next. We’ll be sure to let all of you pet parents out there how it is. Happy vacationing!
Featured image via Tower Paddle Boards on Unsplash
