Best Dog Friendly Beaches in Southwest Florida
Real Estate News
Introduction
You’ve probably heard of tropical paradises like Hawaii, but did you know there are plenty of dog friendly beaches in Southwest Florida? If you’re looking for an excellent place to take your pooch on vacation, look no further than these five beaches that allow dogs.
Barefoot Beach, Bonita Springs
Barefoot Beach is a dog friendly beach, as long as your dog is on a leash and under voice control. There are no lifeguards on duty, so watch your dog closely. There are no bathrooms or trash cans at Barefoot Beach, but there are picnic tables in the picnic area.
Bowman’s Beach, Sanibel Island
Bowman’s Beach on Sanibel Island is a great place to go for your dog. It has plenty of sand for them to run around in, as well as nice, calm water that’s perfect for swimming. Since dogs are allowed here on a leash and must be under voice control (with proof of vaccination), it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your pup at all times so he doesn’t run off after something he shouldn’t or get into someone else’s space—even if they’re friendly!
Dogs must have rabies vaccinations before being allowed on the beach, but they must also be current in flea and tick prevention as well.
As always when going out with your pet, it’s important that you make sure they’re friendly people, other dogs and wildlife before taking them out into public areas like this one!
Redfish Pass Park, Captiva
- Location: Redfish Pass Park, Captiva
- Hours of Operation: 8 a.m. to sunset daily
- Parking: The park has a large parking lot right on the beach. There is no charge for parking.
What to Bring: If you have an active dog, bring them some toys and treats to play with in the water! These toys will help keep your pup entertained while they explore all of the new smells around them while they swim around in the Gulf of Mexico! Don’t forget to bring sunscreen so that you don’t burn up while enjoying this beautiful beach with your furry friend!
Restrictions (dogs, alcohol, etc.): No dogs allowed at Redfish Pass during turtle nesting season from May 1st until August 31st each year.[1]
Lighthouse Beach Park, Sanibel Island
You can take your dog on the beach at Lighthouse Beach Park, but there are certain rules that you need to follow. Dogs must be leashed at all times and they must have proof of vaccinations. If you’re thinking of bringing your dog, here’s what you should bring:
- Water and snacks for yourself
- Shade (umbrellas are allowed)
- Towels for drying off after swimming in the water
- A bag to pick up after your pet if he/she decides to go potty on the beach
Tigertail Beach Park, Marco Island
Tigertail Beach Park is one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Southwest Florida. The park features parking for cars, restrooms and showers. There are no lifeguards on duty at Tigertail Beach, so it’s up to you to keep your pup out of the water! If you’re looking for a place to eat lunch on Marco Island, check out one of our favorite restaurants here.
The park has many picnic tables where you can relax with your best friend as well as a few different playgrounds if your pets need some exercise after playing in the sand. For those who like boating or fishing: Tigertail Beach Park also has an area with docks available where owners can launch their boats into the Gulf of Mexico (please note there may be fees associated with launching).
Best Dog Friendly Beaches in Southwest Florida
The best dog friendly beaches in Southwest Florida are:
- Barefoot Beach, Bonita Springs
- Bowman’s Beach, Sanibel Island
- Redfish Pass Park, Captiva
- Lighthouse Beach Park, Sanibel Island
- Tigertail Beach Park, Marco Island
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed this list of the best dog friendly beaches in Southwest Florida. This is just a small sample of the many great places to take your dog on vacation, but they should all be able to keep up with your pup’s needs!
Danny Skelly
Platinum Real Estate Marco Island
Fort Myers has no shortage of gated communities for all price points and all walks of life. If you like golf, there are plenty of gated communities for you. If you like a large community pool, there's one for you! Big clubhouse? Yep, there are a few for you. Decide Read more
Platinum Real Estate Dan Skelly owns a real estate brokerage company in Colorado. He decided to branch out to sell real estate in his beloved state of Florida! Since he has spent most of his life in Florida, he knows the people, the market and real estate in Florida. Dan Read more
The Florida real estate market has been improving for the past few years, but it’s not necessarily where you’d think. According to real estate agent Heath Miller, “the Florida real estate market has been stuck in neutral.” While this is a complicated issue, Miller explains that the state’s economy as Read more
Fort Myers Florida - Pros and Cons of Living on The Gulf Coast Let's be realistic. Some people just don't like Florida. Not sure I could ever understand those people. Fort Myers Florida Fort Myers Florida is a great place to live for many reasons. It boasts beautiful beaches, palm Read more