Does your dog love the beach? Then bring your four-legged friends along on your trip to St. Simons Island.
As a dog owner, there’s nothing quite like spending quality time with your furry friend. And what better place to have fun and bond than on the beach? The sun, sand, and waves create the perfect atmosphere for both you and your dog to enjoy.
Dogs are not allowed on the beach from 16th St. (East Beach South) to Mallery St. (Pier) between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., from the Saturday before Memorial Day through Labor Day. It’s best to visit during early mornings or late evenings when it’s cooler and less crowded.
From most of September to late May, dogs are welcome on the beaches at any time of day and on any part of the beach. They must stay close to their owner and be under control. If they can’t be controlled by voice, a 10-foot leash is required. And please remember to clean up after your pets, and your pup leaves nothing behind but footprints.
East Beach:
“East Beach” refers to St. Simons Island Beach, a beautiful Oceanside stretch on St. Simons Island. East Beach is divided into smaller sections, each named after its beach access point. It’s a perfect spot to bring your dog. Thanks to the tides, the sand is hard-packed, making it ideal for playing, romping and walking.
Gould’s Inlet:
At the northern tip of East Beach, where Bruce Drive ends, you’ll find Gould’s Inlet. This spot isn’t your typical beach destination; it’s a haven for bird watchers, anglers, and ocean enthusiasts.
Gould’s Inlet offers a range of amenities for you and Fido, including a water hose, a community water bowl for pets, a dog bag station and benches. However, parking is limited, so plan accordingly. Please remember that Gould’s Inlet is a designated Wildlife Beach Area, home to many shorebirds. To help conserve their habitat, keep dogs leashed and stay on the wet sand. Notice: There are no lifeguards at Gould’s Inlet.
Massengale Park:
Nestled between the historic Coast Guard Station and the King and Prince Resort, Massengale Park offers a more secluded beach access point. During low tide, you and your fur baby can even walk along the shore to reach the southern tip of East Beach at Pier Village.
Tips for a dog’s day at the beach:
- Always keep an eye on your dog: It can be tempting to relax and let your dog roam free, but it’s important to keep a close watch on them at all times. Make sure they are not venturing too far into the water or interacting with other dogs or beach-goers without permission.
- Bring essential items: Just like us, dogs need sunscreen too! Look for pet-safe sunscreen and apply it to areas that are vulnerable to sunburn, such as their nose and ears. Don’t forget to bring plenty of fresh water for your dog to drink throughout the day. And of course, don’t forget poop bags and clean up after your dog.
- Be mindful of other beach-goers: Not everyone is comfortable around dogs, so be respectful of others on the beach. Keep your dog close by and under control, and never let them approach someone without their consent.
- Consider special needs: If your dog is a senior or has any health conditions, take extra precautions at the beach. Provide them with an umbrella or tented shade to rest in, keep them hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities that may be too much for them.
Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to hit the beach! Some fun activities you can do with your dog include playing fetch in the water, romping in the sand or simply soaking up some sun while your dog rests beside you. For more dog-friendly fun on SSI, go HERE.
Source: https://www.glynncounty.org/1522/Beach-QR-page-2#:~:text=During%20allowable%20times%20and%20in,clean%20up%20after%20their%20pets.
