Looking for epic pet-friendly Florida vacation destinations? Our sunny state has plenty of options for those looking to travel with their pet in tow, including a great selection of beach towns, hotels, and even restaurants that are happy to accommodate both you and your pet.
If you’re ready to start planning, here are some of our destination picks for vacations with pets in Florida.
Planning Dog-Friendly Vacations in Florida: Top Destinations
When it comes to pet-friendly places to stay in Florida, you’ve got plenty of options. Whether you’re in the mood for a day at the dog beach or a tropical nature hike (or both!).
Here are the destinations that should be at the top of your list:
1. Clearwater
Nestled in between the Gulf of Mexico and Old Tampa Bay is Clearwater, Florida, a beachy hot spot with lots of activities for pets and their people. Book a stay at a pet-friendly hotel like the Residence Inn by Marriott Clearwater Downtown, or opt for a pet-friendly Airbnb or camping ground. Then spend your days exploring, making sure to schedule stops at Sand Key Dog Park and Clearwater North Beach. And if your pup is small enough to sit on your lap, don’t miss the chance to take them out on the water with a kayak trip from Gregory’s Kayak N Paddleboard Adventure.
2. St. Petersburg
In St. Petersburg, directly south of Clearwater, you’ll find tons of fantastic things to do with your dog. Activities include romps at one of the city’s many fenced-in dog parks and/or cocktails and local craft brews (for humans) at The Dog Bar, a dog-friendly sports bar with more than 5,000 square feet of off-leash areas for your dog to explore. As for where to stay, check out the Hyatt Place St. Petersburg Downtown. Other options include a stay at the Lucky Dog Inn or the Hollander Boutique Hotel for a more luxurious experience.
3. Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island, located off the west coast of the state, touts itself as a pet-friendly paradise. All of Sanibel Island’s beaches welcome leashed dogs, as does the J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where you’ll find tons of trails—plus a chance to spot otters, manatees, and other native animals and species. Book your stay at one of the island’s many pet-friendly hotels with beach access, such as the West Wind Island Resort, Sanibel Island Beach Resort, or the Beachview Cottages.
4. Key West
What’s better than a lazy day at Margaritaville? A lazy day at Margaritaville with your dog! Yes, Key West, including the Margaritaville Beach House hotel, is quite accommodating to our furry friends, with dog parks, dog beaches, and dog-friendly hiking trails at the Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. For pets that like to be out on the water, be sure to book an excursion with Key West’s Lazy Dog Adventures, which offers guided kayak tours for pets and their humans.
5. Miami Beach
One of the most dog-friendly beach towns in Florida also happens to be one of its most popular all-around vacation hotspots. Pet-friendly hotels line the coast from North Miami Beach to South Beach, including the Eden Roc, Catalina Hotel & Beach Club, and the Residence Inn by Marriott Miami Beach Surfside, just to name a few. Spend your days at destinations like the Flamingo Bark Park or Performance Pups Freshwater Beach, and schedule some sightseeing with a dog-friendly Art Deco tour. Make sure to explore the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens too, where well-behaved dogs are welcome to stop and sniff the abundance of tropical plants and flowers.
Is there a must-see place you want to visit on your vacation that doesn’t allow dogs? We’ve got you covered. Fill out our contact form to arrange for dog walking, pet sitting, or other services from Jill’s Next Door during your Florida vacation.