St. Simons Island
Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals

Curated for four-legged travelers—and the people they own.

Let’s be honest: most pet-friendly vacation rentals on St. Simons Island are only friendly in the way someone who says “I’m fine” is fine. You’ll find the word “dog” buried in the fifth paragraph—right next to “under 25 lbs” and “nonrefundable damage deposit.”

That’s not Emmons.

We don’t just allow dogs—we build entire vacations around them. The kind of homes where the backyard has a fence, a purpose, and a squirrel with a vendetta. Where your golden retriever doesn’t get side-eyed for being 65 lbs. Where “pet fee” means a flat $99, not a dropdown menu.

These are dog-friendly vacation homes designed for real dogs—big ones, loud ones, weird ones, and the kind that eat your socks but somehow improve your life anyway. Whether your pup is a porch napper, a beach sprinter, or a drama queen with opinions about flooring—this page is for you. (And for them. Mostly them.)


Which Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals on St. Simons Island Have Fenced Yards?

For dogs who believe “off-leash” is a birthright and fences are there for your peace of mind, not theirs.

These homes are for dogs with opinions about boundaries—fully fenced, no loopholes, and plenty of perimeter to inspect (again, and again, and again).

Here’s what to expect:

  • Fully enclosed outdoor spaces that mean it

  • Ideal for big dogs who turn corners like they’re herding furniture

  • Fewer leashes, more lounging—indoors and out

  • Clearly labeled listings (no zoom-and-guess gallery games)

  • Close to dog-friendly beaches, bistros, and places to sniff

What Are the Best Pet-Friendly Rentals on St. Simons If I Don’t Need a Fenced Yard?

For the well-adjusted leash philosophers of the world.

Some dogs don’t need a yard. They need a porch, a breeze, and a person who understands that the best part of vacation is being nearby while you grill something suspiciously good-smelling.

Why these dog-friendly rentals are still a treat:

  • Walkable to beaches, trails, patios—and shops with dog bowls

  • Shade, space, and all the smells of the sea

  • Quiet streets for the contemplative stroller

  • Designed with the unspoken understanding that all dogs sleep exactly where you’re trying to cook

BIG DOGS. SMALL FEES. NO DRAMA.

Our pet policy is written in plain English. No legalese. No gotcha fees. No asterisks big enough to qualify as a rescue.

  • Up to 2 dogs allowed per stay

  • 65 lbs max each (bigger dogs considered—just ask)

  • Dogs only. No cats. (We tried. It went badly.)

  • Minimum age: 1 year—no puppies-in-training, please

  • Dogs must be current on flea & tick meds (your vet will thank us)

  • $99 flat pet fee per stay—not per pet, not per night

  • No pit bulls, unfortunately—thanks to outdated HOA bylaws and insurance regs. We hate it too, but it's outside our control.

We don’t judge dogs by their Instagram following—just let us know who’s coming, and we’ll make it work (within reason).

Where Are the Best Dog Parks and Walking Trails on St. Simons Island?

You say the W-word by accident, and now someone’s waiting by the door—and you’ve given yourself an unintended chore. You're in luck: St. Simons Island is full of places to lift legs, sniff hydrants, and act like they've never been on a walk before. From shaded parks to marsh boardwalks, there’s enough space for every kind of dog—fast, slow, social, or existential.

  • Frederica Park – Fenced dog park, wide fields

  • Neptune Park – Shady oak trees and a little ocean breeze

  • Gascoigne Bluff – Picnic tables, marsh views, and open grass

  • Epworth Park – Quiet, low-traffic, great for leash walks

  • Murphy’s Tavern Side Yard – Not official, but the regulars know dogs are welcome on the lawn

What Are the Beach Leash Rules on St. Simons Island?

Because most beach towns tolerate dogs—St. Simons invites them in like locals. There’s space to run, rules that make sense, and a whole island full of trails, trees, and strangers ready to say “good boy” like they mean it.

If you’re headed to the beach, here’s how it works:

  • East Beach and Massengale Park welcome dogs year-round, as long as they’re leashed or under control

  • Memorial Day through Labor Day, dogs aren’t allowed on the beach between 9 AM and 6 PM—but early mornings and evenings are wide open, and full of locals doing the same

  • North of the Coast Guard Station, dogs are allowed all day, all year. It’s one of the best places on the island for off-hours zoomies, wet fur, and impromptu meet-cutes

    Facing the Ocean? Here’s How to Think About It:

  • To the right of the Pier (past the lighthouse):
    This is the stretch where dogs go off-leash, splash in the surf, and make friends like they’ve been coming here for years—because many of them have

  • To the left of the Coast Guard Station:
    During summer, dogs are welcome before 9 AM and after 6 PM. In the off-season, it’s open all day

Whether your dog is here for the surf, the turf, or the attention—they’ll get all three.

Where Can You Eat Out with Your Dog on St. Simons Island?

For brunch beneath the table and biscuit-based diplomacy—with minimal interference from your server.

  • Palm Coast – Dog-friendly breakfast spot with a shady patio and solid coffee-to-bacon ratio

  • Porch – Fried chicken and water bowls under the tables.

  • Mallery Street Café – Casual brunch where bringing your dog doesn’t start a conversation.

  • Golden Isles Olive Oil – Technically a gourmet shop, but really just the pet-friendly wine mom repository.

  • Fuse – Frozen yogurt and a patio full of dogs pretending not to beg.

  • Gnat’s Landing – Live music, dogs are regulars on the deck

  • Southern Soul BBQ – Walk-up ordering and dog-friendly picnic tables

  • Coastal Kitchen – Waterfront views and dog-welcoming patio

Which Bars and Breweries Welcome Dogs on St. Simons Island?

  • Bubba Garcia’s – Tex-Mex, margaritas, and one table specifically designed for dog guests—because of course there is.

  • Barrier Island Brewing – Craft beer, excellent food, and outdoor tables that fill up early with locals and their dogs.

  • Brogen’s South – Visitors bring their dogs, locals act like dogs.

  • Brogen’s North – More casual, outdoor-friendly sister to the south location

Where Can You Shop with Your Dog on St. Simons Island?

For dogs with taste, restraint, and a soft spot for naps under the tasting table while you browse.

Some dogs hate shopping. This isn’t their bag. But if they’re game for what we have in store, their itinerary includes sitting for a bandana fitting, an inspection of the lower shelves, and waiting semi-patiently while you try to find something “just beachy enough.” They’ll know who’s a good boy.

  • Island Dog – Local boutique with treats, gear, and just enough decor to make your dog look like they own a cottage

  • Redfern Village – Cluster of walkable shops that allow leashed dogs—and usually offer a water bowl and some mild admiration

  • St. Simons Antique Mall – Some vendors allow pups inside (ask nicely and act like you’ve done this before)

  • Pier Village – Outdoor setups, lots of dog energy, and more than a few bowls filled by people who don’t even work there

Where Can I Find a Vet on St. Simons Island?

For the rare “uh-oh” moments, here’s who the locals trust.
Most dog-friendly vacations on St. Simons Island stay on course—but if something unexpected surfaces, help is close by. These clinics are local, reliable, and used to answering “Is this normal?” before you finish asking.

  • Island Animal Hospital – Full-service veterinary clinic near Redfern Village

  • Coastal Animal Hospital – Trusted local vets on Frederica Road

  • St. Simons Emergency Vet Referrals – Available through both clinics above (they’ll coordinate after-hours care if needed—and yes, they’re nice)

Emmons family Rhodesian Ridgeback—130 lb dog smiling at the camera in a pet-friendly yard on St. Simons Island

FAQ

How many dogs can I bring?

Up to two dogs per stay. That’s our limit—not because we don’t love dogs, but because our homes are designed for comfort, not chaos.

Are big dogs allowed in your vacation rentals?

Yes—up to 65 lbs, and often more with approval. We welcome dogs of substance. If your dog is sweet, well-behaved, and not a furniture-mounting enthusiast, just ask.

Do any homes have fenced yards for off-leash time?

Yes. We’ve separated those out just for you. Our pet-friendly vacation rentals with fenced yards on St. Simons Island are ideal for off-leash play, backyard lounging, and dogs who treat the fence line like a duty post.

What if I don’t need a fenced yard? Do you still have dog-friendly options?

Absolutely. We call them Dog-Ready Homes—walkable, leash-friendly, and built for dogs who are just happy to be included. Porch nappers, sidewalk philosophers, and dogs who stay close will feel right at home.

Do any pet-friendly rentals have private pools?

Yes—several of our homes offer both a fenced yard and a private pool. Perfect for guests who like the splash without the sand (and dogs who supervise from the shade like lifeguards on break).

Can I walk to Pier Village from any of your pet-friendly homes?

You bet. Several of our dog-friendly rentals are walkable to the Village, with easy access to patios, snacks, coffee, and more than a few bowls of water set out like your dog owns the place.

Can I take my dog on the beach in St. Simons?

Yes—with a few seasonal rules. Dogs are welcome year-round, but from Memorial Day to Labor Day, they’re allowed before 9 AM and after 6 PM. The rest of the year, it’s open season. The stretch north of the Coast Guard Station is one of the best off-leash spots on the island.

Which part of the island is most dog-friendly?

East Beach is one of the most dog-welcoming areas on St. Simons. It’s close to beach access, generally quiet, and full of homes with yards, patios, and porches dogs tend to claim within minutes.

What’s your pet fee, and what does it cover?

It’s a flat $99 per stay—not per pet, not per night. No hidden fees, no deposit surprises.

Where can I take my dog for a walk or to let off some steam?

Frederica Park has a fenced dog area and big open fields. For shaded walks and marsh views, check out Neptune Park or Gascoigne Bluff. We’ve got a full list of dog parks and walking trails on the page above.

Where can I eat or drink with my dog on St. Simons?

Dozens of places—from patios and porches to a few spots where dogs are arguably treated better than people. We’ve outlined our favorite dog-friendly restaurants, breweries, and shops above, including one with a literal table designed just for dogs.

What if my dog needs a vet while we’re on the island?

You’re covered. Island Animal Hospital and Coastal Animal Hospital are both local, well-rated, and capable of handling everything from “I think he ate sand” to “she’s acting a little off.” Emergency care is coordinated through both.

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