Pet Friendly Beaches and Hotels in Southwest Florida


What are the best beaches to bring your pet in Southwest Florida? Read on to discover where to sunbathe with your best friend... 

Walking barefoot on the sand while gazing out at the crystalline Gulf waters is one of life's simple pleasures. So, why shouldn't your beloved pup soak up the seaside sunshine too? Here, Suncoast Girl presents the 3 best beaches in Southwest Florida to take your pooch. The beaches were chosen not only for their pet friendliness but also their location and natural beauty. Then, read on as the top pet friendly hotels on the Gulf Coast are revealed.

Davis Island Dog Beach

With the word "dog" in the name, this must be a beach that welcomes your canine children! Conveniently located south of downtown Tampa, the 1.5 acre beach is designed for dogs to roam free. No leashes are required on this beach that features water stations for panting pups to cool off and plenty of space to play. 1002 Severn St., Tampa. Parking and beach access are free.

Gulfside Beach

Nestled further down the Gulf Coast is Gulfside Beach (known locally as Algiers Beach for the steamboat of the same name that once docked there). Blessed with a location on seashell-rich Sanibel Island, Gulfside Beach offers entertainment for both dogs and their people. Barbeque grills, picnic tables, and a boardwalk are a few of the perks for humans, while canines will enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore. On this beach, dogs must be on leashes. 2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel Island. Parking is $5 per hour. and beach access is free. 

Bonita Beach Dog Park

Like Davis Island Dog Beach, Bonita allows dogs to frolic without their leashes. Described by beach goers as a "fur baby paradise" this Ft. Myers hot spot lets dogs sprint through the sand and shallow water during a day of fresh air exercise. 8800 Estero Boulevard, Ft. Myers. Parking and beach access are free. 

Best Pet Friendly Hotels in Southwest Florida

When you've had your fill of the beach, head back to one of many pet friendly hotels on the Sun Coast that welcome both dogs and cats. Here are Sun Coast Girl's Top 3 picks for furbaby friendly accommodations. 

  • voco Sarasota by IHG, Downtown Sarasota. The swanky Boulevard of the Arts is the setting for this boutique hotel that permits up to two pets per room. 

  • Naples Bay Resort & Marina, Naples. If you find yourself at the southern tip of the Gulf Coast, then check out this 4-star Naples resort that welcomes up to two pets per room with "open arms" according to the website.

Florida Is a Pet Friendly State

Ranked #14 of all 50 states in a recent Safewise pet friendliness list, Florida overflows with beaches, hotels and apartment buildings that welcome furry residents. Florida is also a haven for diverse species of wildlife, whether it's beautiful tropical fish or funny looking guys like this manatee. 

Join Sun Coast Girl in respecting the stunning natural world in Florida. Clean up after your dogs wherever you bring them to keep our beaches and surrounding areas sparkling. Then, go home and spoil your four-legged baby with treats and love.

In Loving Memory of My Sweet Clover

Faithful Companion on Many Journeys

Adopted 13 years ago today

Passed away peacefully last year

Clover relaxing in our Suncoast home