Summer is in full swing, and everyone’s itching to head outdoors and hit the beach. But what should you do with Rover?

Pet boarding can be exorbitantly expensive, and affordable in-home pet sitters are few and far between. But why should your furry friend miss out on all the fun?

Luckily, Alabama’s Coastal Connection boasts plenty of pet-friendly parks, beaches and outdoor adventures the whole family will love.

Pack up your pooch and head to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Your four-legged friend will love playing at the Gulf Shores Dog Park or the Dog Pond at Lake Shelby  in Gulf State Park. In Orange Beach, your pups will play nice at Unleashed,  the city’s official dog park, or walk, fish and picnic at Orange Beach’s Waterfront Park,  where leashed dogs are welcome.

For a fun, dog-friendly outdoor adventure for the whole family, head out to the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. Or experience 

history first-hand with your leashed, tail-wagging friend in tow at Fort Morgan. Or venture into nature for some kayaking, hiking and picnicking at Graham Creek Nature Preserve in nearby Foley for a memorable time with your mutt.

Prepare to get a little sandy on Dauphin Island’s dog friendly public beaches, or test your knowledge of military history at Fort Gaines, where pets are also welcome.

Fairhope’s off-leash dog park  features watering stations, waste bags and collection stations that makes a perfect pit stop for you and your cute canine. Daphne’s dog park is another option for a stop and features a separate area for smaller pups to play.

Whether you’re looking to save on pet sitting or you just can’t part with your furry companion, Alabama’s Coastal Connection offers plenty of ways to play with your pooch, from nature trails to public beaches to dog parks and more!