5 Pet-Friendly Cities in Florida You and Your Dogs Will Love Exploring
Fort Myers Beach/Sanibel Island
Also located on the Gulf Coast, Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island reign as two of Southwest Florida’s most visited coastlines. Prepare to be transported to a tropical paradise when you see the expansive white-powdered beaches dotted with stunning seashells and realize the plethora of pet-friendly activities on offer.
Where to Stay
Waterside Inn at the Beach, located on Sanibel Island, has several pet-friendly beachside cottages to choose from. Lighthouse Resort Inn and Suites is nestled right on Fort Myers Beach and offers accommodations for guests and their four-legged friends.
Dog-Friendly Activities
The main beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel Island are all pet-friendly. Spend your days soaking up some sun on the shoreline or check out the dog beaches in Bonita Beach or Lovers Key State Park. Paddleboarding and kayaking in the Gulf’s calm and clear waters is another very popular activity, and Yolo Board Adventures and Holiday Water Sports are proud to offer rentals for visitors and their dogs.
Be sure to check our list of even more pet-friendly things to do in Fort Myers and Sanibel.
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Key West
Key West is Florida’s southernmost city and a tropical paradise of natural beauty, culture and history. The island’s colorful and vibrant atmosphere has attracted thousands of vacationers, artists, musicians and writers throughout the years, including the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Jimmy Buffett and Robert Frost.
You and your furry best friend are invited to be immersed in this lively and carefree town. The only rule is to leave your worries behind!
Where to Stay
The Old Town Manor is the top-rated bed & breakfast in Key West and welcomes dogs of all breeds and sizes. Plus, they’ll even provide dog beds, food bowls and dog waste bags for your pup upon arrival.
The Margaritaville Key West Resort pays homage to Jimmy Buffett’s iconic tune by offering luxurious accommodations with stunning views, many of which are open to dogs up to 45 pounds.
Dog-Friendly Activities
Take your dogs for a walk down Duval Street, the main hub of Key West, to admire the town’s architecture, grab a bite at one of the dog-friendly restaurants, and of course, indulge in the island’s signature dessert at the Key Lime Pie Co.
Active pups may also enjoy exploring the nature trails at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park or seeing native fish at the Key West Aquarium.
