Bringing your dog to Florida’s Gulf Coast sounds perfect until you discover the fine print: most barrier island beaches ban dogs entirely. Longboat Key, Siesta Key, and Lido Beach all prohibit pets on public beaches to protect nesting sea turtles and shorebirds. But that doesn’t mean your dog can’t enjoy the vacation.
Here’s what actually works for vacationing with dogs in the Sarasota area – and what you need to know before booking.
Where Dogs Can Actually Go
Brohard Paw Park (Venice)
The only official dog beach in Sarasota County sits in Venice, about 25 minutes south of Longboat Key. Brohard Beach and Paw Park is fenced, off-leash friendly, and offers direct Gulf access where dogs can swim and play freely. Separate areas for large and small dogs. On-site water stations, waste bags, and shaded seating.
What to expect: Hot sand between parking and waterline (bring paw protection). Busy on weekends. The beach closes for cleaning on Wednesdays.
Bayfront Park Dog Park (Longboat Key)
Mid-island location with fenced off-leash area. Not a beach, but your dog gets outdoor time without the 25-minute drive to Venice. Water fountains and waste stations on-site.
Joan M. Durante Park (Longboat Key)
Leashed dogs allowed on walking paths. Pet-friendly water fountains installed along trails. Good for morning or evening walks when the beach isn’t an option.
Tips for a Comfortable Stay
Managing Florida Heat: Walk dogs early morning or evening when pavement cools. Midday temperatures turn sidewalks and beach sand into hot plates that burn paws. Always carry water – Florida humidity dehydrates dogs faster than you’d expect. Watch for overheating signs: excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy mean it’s time to get inside and cool down.
Dealing with Sand and Salt: Rinse paws thoroughly after any beach visit – salt water irritates skin and pads, and embedded sand causes discomfort. Check between toes for shells or debris. Keep a dedicated towel in your car for post-beach cleanup before heading back to your rental.
Rental House Expectations: Most pet-friendly properties charge $100-300 non-refundable pet fees with strict rules: no furniture access, crating when unsupervised, immediate accident cleanup. Weight limits typically max at 25-50 lbs, and most rentals allow a maximum of two pets. Get all policies confirmed in writing before booking.
Wildlife and Bug Awareness: Mosquitoes and sand fleas peak at dawn and dusk, so consider pet-safe repellent for walks. Keep dogs leashed in nature areas; alligators inhabit freshwater ponds and canals, and Florida has venomous snakes. Ticks exist but are less common than inland areas. Always supervise outdoor time.
Finding the Right Pet-Friendly Rental
Vacationing with dogs on Florida’s Gulf Coast requires more planning than dog-friendly destinations like North Carolina’s Outer Banks or California beaches. The beach restrictions are real, enforced, and come with fines. But if you’re prepared for limited beach access and willing to drive to Brohard Beach or use local parks, it’s manageable.
Properties allowing pets typically feature:
- Ground-floor units or homes with easy outdoor access
- Tile or laminate flooring (easier to clean than carpet)
- Fenced outdoor areas or patios
- Proximity to parks or walking paths
Looking for a pet-friendly rental that fits your needs? Jennette Properties manages select pet-friendly properties in the Sarasota and Longboat Key area. Contact us today to discuss availability, pet policies, and find a rental that works for both you and your four-legged family member.
