You Can’t Spell Florida Without “Fido”

Posted by Scott Tunstall

Florida consistently ranks as one of the country’s most visited states every year. However, it’s especially popular during the winter months, due in large part to its warm climate, sandy beaches and fun-filled theme parks. Most importantly, it’s an ideal destination for visiting canines. Dog-friendly Florida features plenty of hotels, restaurants and activities that welcome Fido. Here’s our guide to some of the best pet-friendly spots in The Sunshine State.

Hotels that Spoil Pups

Working on a winter tan. Photo by @dobby_day

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort Riverside - Located a short distance from the Magic Kingdom in Orlando, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort Riverside showers pooches with an array of goodies in its Pluto’s Welcome Kit, which includes mats, bowls, ID tag, waste bags, door hanger and a special charm for Fido’s collar. There's a designated pet park and exercise area on the property, and a dog walking map is provided. Disney’s Port Orleans Resort Riverside welcomes two dogs of any size for an additional fee of $50 per pet, per night.

The Standard Spa Miami Beach - When it comes to reasonably priced pet-friendly accommodations only steps from Miami Beach and South Beach, The Standard Spa Miami Beach fits the bill. This modern, stylish boutique hotel and spa provides Very Important Pets with a plush bed, tasty treats and a designated grassy relief area. Leashed pups are also granted access to the dining deck, spa rooms and poolside to soak in stunning views of the Intercoastal Waterway. The Standard Miami Beach accepts two pets of any size for no additional fee.

Residence Inn Sandestin at Grand Boulevard - Nestled between Miramar Beach and Santa Rosa Beach, the Residence Inn Sandestin at Grand Boulevard offers visitors and their pets all the comfort and convenience needed for an extended stay in Destin. Pampered pooches will receive plenty of tasty treats, friendly pats and soothing belly rubs throughout their stay. Two pets of any size are allowed at Residence Inn Sandestin at Grand Boulevard for an additional fee of $125 per stay.

Relaxing Rentals on the Water

Life’s a beach. Photo by flickr.com/anokarina

East Street Escape - In Pensacola, this dog-friendly vacation home can comfortably sleep six people in three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The house has air conditioning, internet, a laundry room, television and a fully fenced backyard with an outdoor patio that Fido will enjoy. The rental allows two dogs of any size for an additional fee of $20 per pet, per night. Bayview Dog Park and Beach is nearby if Fido wants to meet some local dogs and take a swim during his vacation.

Moana Oasis - Stunning Gulf views and a big backyard private pool highlight this waterfront escape in Fort Myers Beach. Up to 12 people can make themselves at home in this 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom property. Enjoy first-rate amenities including a spacious kitchen, tile floors, WiFi, barbecue and private access to the beach. Dogs can also frolic in the water at nearby Bonita Beach Dog Park. Moana Oasis welcomes pets of any size for no additional fee.

Aqua Villa Unit #201 - Nestled on Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach, this corner beachfront condo accommodates up to three people in two bedrooms and two baths. Amenities include a kitchen equipped with modern appliances, tile floors, free WiFi, a washer/dryer and a balcony with chairs. The white sand beaches are steps away and you can sample local seafood with your dog nearby on the waterfront patio at The Gulf on Okaloosa Island. Up to four dogs are allowed at Aqua Villa Unit #201 with prior approval for no additional fee.

“Pawsome” Dog Parks

Fetching some waves. Photo by Facebook.com/jaxdogs

Halifax Humane Society Dog Park - Located only five miles from the heart of Daytona Beach, the Halifax Humane Society Dog Park offers furry friends of all sizes a spacious place to play and exercise. This fully fenced park with separate sections for small and large pups is equipped with an agility course, shaded areas, walking trails and water fountains for both hounds and humans.

Bayview Dog Park and Beach - This fenced park and sandy beach on Bayou Texar in Pensacola offers visiting canines one acre of space to romp in the sun and cool off in the water. There’s a shaded pavilion with picnic tables on site, as well as waste stations, doggy showers and walking trails.

The Chillest Dog-Friendly Beaches

“Toss me a cold one, bro.” Photo by @mylunaeclipse

Dog Beach of Hollywood - Fido can work on his tan, frolic in the sand and play fetch in the surf at this off-leash dog beach in Hollywood. Dogs must wear a current rabies vaccination tag at the park.

Fort De Soto Dog Beach Park - Furry beach bums can throw a “pawty” at the Fort De Soto Dog Beach Park in St. Petersburg. Pups are welcome to play off leash in the Paw Playground section of the beach. There are also separate fenced sections for big and small dogs in the adjacent park, plus drinking fountains and doggy showers.

Dog Beach at Pier Park - Leashed pooches are welcome to build sandcastles and prance in the surf at this dog-friendly section of Panama City Beach located at the end of Pier Park near many dog-friendly shops and restaurants.

Doggy Dining

“Eating al fresco FTW!” Photo by @cornell.the.poodle

Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille - This seafood spot on Sanibel Island serves island-inspired cocktails paired with Caribbean cuisine. You’ll find ceiling fans and outdoor heaters to keep you and Fido comfortable no matter the weather as you chow down on your meal at one of several outdoor tables.

Deck 84 - Settle in on the dog-friendly patio at Deck 84 overlooking the placid intercoastal in Delray Beach. Fido can feast on savory dishes from the special doggy menu like Beggin’ for Beef and Chasin’ the Chicken while you sample delicious entrees ranging from BBQ baby back ribs to seared jumbo sea scallops.

Blue Heaven - Pups are welcome to join you in the tropical-themed outdoor seating area at Blue Heaven in the historic Bahama Village district of Key West. The Caribbean-inspired menu features eclectic fare befitting the city’s free-spirited nature, such as carrot and curry soup, blackened Key West shrimp, and for dessert, passion fruit cashew cheesecake.

Pet-Friendly Sights to See

Welcome to Jurassic Bark. Photo by Rachel

Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park - To ensure Fido maintains his youthful exuberance, he can drink from the Fountain of Pooch inside the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park in Saint Augustine. Leashed dogs are allowed everywhere in the park, including the planetarium, observation deck and Timucua Indian Village. There are occasional cannon fire demonstrations, so be prepared for loud noises.

Key Largo Princess Glass Bottom Boat - Four-legged Gilligans are permitted on board this 75-foot boat for a two-hour tour around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. You and your furry Jacques Cousteau can marvel at the wonders hidden beneath the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys from the comfort of the vessel’s air-conditioned cabin.

Dinosaur World - Located between Tampa and Orlando in Plant City, this dog-friendly outdoor museum features 150 life-sized dinosaurs in a tropical jungle setting. Leashed pups are permitted on the park’s pathways and can even pose for pics with the dinos. Water stations are provided to make sure Fido stays hydrated.

Excellent Winter Events

Give it up for the champ! Photo by Facebook.com/ColumbiaCountyDoxieDerby

Hops for Hounds - Join Dog-Harmony for an exciting day at the Annual Hops for Hounds event every January at Props Brewery Hammock Bay. The event will feature a short tail-wagging stroll through the Windmills, followed by a lively afterparty celebrating pets! For $35 per person, you and your furry companion can enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere featuring craft beer, live music, food trucks, and professional photos. All proceeds from Hops for Hounds will help support the pups and programs in the community.

WuffStock Festival “A Celebration of Dogs" - Pups of all breeds and sizes are welcome to attend the WuffStock Festival “A Celebration of Dogs” in Lake City, held annually in late February or early March. Fido can participate in a bevy of “puptacular” activities, including races, costume contests, Oldest Dog in the Crowd, Best Trick Competition and the K9 Team Challenge obstacle course featuring tunnels, weave poles and jumps. Pet vendors and adoptable pets from local animal rescues will also be on hand.

Bay Area Renaissance Festival - Sniff out some medieval fun at Dade City’s dog-friendly Bay Area Renaissance Festival in Tampa every weekend from mid-February until the end of March. This annual event includes themed weekends (including one weekend dedicated to dogs!) featuring live jousting, artisan markets, live music and various pup-friendly activities. Get ready for tail-waggin’ contests, canine activities and fun for humans, too! Pet owners should complete the online registration form and present proof of rabies vaccination through vet records or an up-to-date tag for free admission.