Pet-Friendly Travel and Leisure in Sarasota

Traveling with pets is easy to do in Sarasota. From pet-friendly resorts and paw parks to patio dining and farmers markets, Sarasota offers many ways to experience Florida's Gulf Coast without leaving your four-legged friend behind. Use this guide to find the best places to stay, play and relax with your pet.

Top Dog Parks in Sarasota

Sarasota is a dog-friendly destination with several leash-free parks designed for exercise, recreation and socialization. Whether you're visiting with a high-energy pup or simply seeking a safe space for off-leash fun, these local dog parks provide plenty of room to explore.

Brohard Beach and Paw Park

Brohard Beach offers the only dog-friendly, off-leash beach area in Sarasota County. Beach-loving pets will enjoy one of the most unique places to bring the pup out on Florida's Gulf Coast. Offering all the amenities of other dog parks in the area, pups can run off-leash and meet friends while also getting the opportunity to splash and cool down in the gentle waves of this sandy beach, just sound of Venice Beach. 

17th Street Paw Park 

Give your four-legged travel companion a chance to run free at 17th Street Paw Park, one of Sarasota's most popular leash-free dog parks. Owners will enjoy the separate fenced areas for large and small breeds, both with double-gated entries, doggie drinking fountains, agility ramps, free waste disposal bags, a kiddie pool in warmer months and shaded areas to sit and watch your pet make new friends.

Canine Club at Gillespie Park 

Find this paw park across the street from the noise and distractions of Gillespie Park’s playground on the outskirts of Downtown Sarasota. The Canine Club Dog Park offers two fenced areas for unleashed fun, while dogs on a leash are allowed to walk the paved paths around the park’s basketball courts, tennis courts, open spaces, covered pavilions, picnic areas and pond. Canine Club at Gillespie Park

Dog Park at Arlington Park 

While the top-notch aquatic facilities are a major draw to Arlington Park, its fenced, off-leash area provides a safe and welcoming space for dogs to run, play and socialize. Owners can relax on benches while their pets burn off energy in enclosed space or take their dog on a walk along the park’s half mile walking trail pass the swimming pools, green space and pond.

Lakeview Paw Park

Located next to Lakeview Elementary School, Lakeview Park provides a safe space for dogs under supervision with stunning views of Lake Sarasota. The dog park itself has fenced areas with doggie water fountains and shady spots for owners and their pets. Dogs are allowed to join their owners on the disc golf course, as long as they are well-behaved and on a leash.

Woodmere Dog Park

For pet-friendly recreation in Venice, the 2.5-acre dog park at Woodmere Park is a welcoming destination for dogs of all sizes. The park’s many trees provide natural shade for dogs to run and play out of the warm Florida sun. Dogs are allowed to venture, if on a leash, along the unpaved path around the tennis courts, picnic shelters, restrooms and playground.

Best Dog-Friendly Parks in Sarasota

Exploring Sarasota with a dog is easy thanks to its network of public parks that welcome leashed pets. These spaces offer scenic walking trails, picnic areas and peaceful green spaces where dogs can accompany their owners safely.

Myakka River State Park 

Like most state parks in Florida, Myakka River State Park welcomes pets that are leashed, supervised and well-behaved. The park has easy hiking trails that lead through pine forests and prairies. Visitors can encounter native Florida wildlife, like the rare roseate spoonbill, bald eagles and armadillos. Dogs are welcome not only during the day but also can stay overnight at the campgrounds.

Red Bug Slough Preserve 

Explore one of Sarasota's best-kept secrets, featuring 72 acres of natural Florida wilderness in the middle of the Sarasota suburbs. Quiet, unpaved hiking trails wind through Red Bug Slough (pronounced “sloo”), providing paw-friendly passage through the wilderness. Red Bug Slough also features a butterfly garden as well as a fishing dock, picnic tables and restrooms. Just don't forget to bring your own baggies to clean up after your doggie.

Bayfront Park 

Enjoy one of the most dog and family-friendly spots in town. Located near downtown Sarasota, Bayfront Park offers vistas of Sarasota Bay and the Ringling Causeway. Leashed dogs are welcome to stroll with their owners through the grassy park and around its paved perimeter, which is bordered by the bay. Bayfront Park features a playground and waterpark for kids and is home to O'Leary's Tiki Bar, a waterside restaurant that welcomes dogs on its spacious patio.

Venetian Waterway Park 

In Venice, the Venetian Waterway Park connects with the Legacy Trail and area beaches. Dogs on leashes are welcome on the scenic 10-mile-long paved trail, but keep in mind that the pavement can be hot on paws on sunny days! Although some parts of the park are in an urban setting, most of the walking trails on either side of the Intracoastal Waterway offer quiet, peaceful paths where you may spot a native Florida scrub jay, gopher turtles or even alligators.

Accessible Walking Trails in Sarasota

Take paved paths through scenic parks, nature preserves and waterfronts, perfect for your daily dog walk. Designed to accommodate a variety of mobility needs, these welcoming trails make it easy for visitors and their canine companions to enjoy the outdoors together.

Legacy Trail

Enjoy one of the top pet-friendly attractions in Sarasota, offering miles of paved pathways through scenic landscapes. Leashed dogs can join their owners for walks and jogs along this popular recreational trail. With shaded rest areas, natural surroundings and convenient access points, The Legacy Trail provides an enjoyable way to experience Sarasota County with your fur baby.

Urfer Family Park

Urfer Family Park in Sarasota is a popular dog-friendly spot featuring paved walking paths that make it easy to explore with your pet. The park offers shaded trails, open green spaces and a peaceful natural setting ideal for daily walks or casual strolls. It's a great option for visitors looking to enjoy Sarasota's outdoor beauty while keeping their dog comfortable and active on-leash.

Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center

Find a scenic escape along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Leashed dogs are welcome on Lemon Bay Park’s nature trails, where visitors can explore coastal habitats, native wildlife and beautiful bay views. With shaded walking paths through the manicured grounds, it’s a local favorite for sunny day walks.

Bird Key Park

For those seeking dog-friendly paths, Bird Key Park provides a peaceful setting along the waterfront. Leashed dogs are welcome to explore the grassy areas and walking paths while owners enjoy spectacular views of Sarasota Bay and the city skyline. Popular for picnics, sightseeing and sunset watching, the park offers a unique view of the natural beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Dog-Friendly Accommodations in Sarasota County

Planning a pet-friendly vacation in Sarasota County? Choose from a range of dog-friendly accommodations designed to help both you and your pup feel at home. Enjoy easy access to beaches, walking trails, outdoor recreation and other pet-friendly attractions.

Coastal Retreats

Visitors planning a dog-friendly beach vacation in the Sarasota area will find several coastal accommodations that welcome both pets and their owners. Lido Beach Resort offers a beachfront location with dog-friendly accommodations (with specific weight limits and nightly fees) and easy access to outdoor walking areas. Luxury travelers can enjoy a stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, which welcomes dogs and provides upscale amenities. 

On Siesta Key, Turtle Beach Resort and Tropical Breeze Resort provide pet-friendly lodging near beaches, restaurants and scenic areas perfect for daily walks with your canine companion.

Airport Hotels

Travelers flying into Sarasota will find several convenient dog-friendly hotels near Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) that make visiting with pets simple and comfortable. Residence Inn Sarasota Bradenton offers spacious suites and extended-stay amenities ideal for guests traveling with dogs. 

Nearby, Home2 Suites by Hilton Sarasota Bradenton Airport and Homewood Suites by Hilton Sarasota provide pet-friendly accommodations with in-room kitchens and green spaces for walking dogs. Hampton Inn & Suites Sarasota Bradenton Airport also welcomes pets, making airport-area stays easy for dog owners.

Downtown Getaways

Those visiting Sarasota with dogs will find downtown accommodations that blend comfort, style and pet-friendly amenities. voco Sarasota welcomes pets and offers convenient access to nearby outdoor spaces for daily walks. Aloft Sarasota is known for its modern, pet-friendly environment and social vibe. The Sarasota Modern provides a boutique atmosphere with relaxed outdoor areas, while The Westin Sarasota delivers upscale guest suites and scenic views, making downtown Sarasota a premier destination for dog-friendly travel.

Inland Stays

For a quieter Sarasota vacation with your dog, inland accommodations offer space, convenience, and pet-friendly hospitality. Sun Outdoors Sarasota stands out for its resort-style setting with open green areas perfect for pets. Homewood Suites by Hilton Sarasota Lakewood Ranch provides suite-style lodging designed for longer stays with dogs. EVEN Hotel Sarasota-Lakewood Ranch focuses on wellness and comfort while welcoming pets, and Hibiscus Suites Sarasota Hotel offers budget-friendly accommodations with easy access to inland parks and walking paths.

Pet-friendly Dining in Sarasota

Sarasota’s dog-friendly dining scene makes it easy to enjoy a meal with your furry sidekick. From waterfront restaurants to casual cafes with outdoor seating, pet-friendly eateries welcome visitors and their dogs while showcasing the flavors of Florida's Gulf Coast.

Farmers Markets

Exploring local farmers markets is a favorite activity for dog owners in Sarasota County. The downtown Sarasota Farmers Market offers a lively outdoor atmosphere where leashed pets can accompany their owners while discovering fresh produce, handmade products and local specialties. 

Similar pet-friendly experiences await at the Venice Farmers Market, Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market and Siesta Key Farmers Market. These open-air markets provide plenty of space for walking, socializing and experiencing the local culture with your canine companion by your side.

Downtown Spots

Downtown Sarasota is a great destination for travelers exploring the city with their dogs, thanks to its variety of pet-friendly restaurants and outdoor dining options. Popular choices include Owen’s Fish Camp, known for its welcoming backyard seating and Old Florida atmosphere, and Lefty's Oyster House's shaded outdoor patio—named after "Lefty," the owners' three-legged rescue dog. 

Dog owners can also enjoy sidewalk seating at Patrick’s 1481, Mattison’s City Grille, C’est La Vie, Clasico Italian Chophouse and 99 Bottles Taproom & Bottle Shop, making downtown Sarasota a favorite destination for pet-friendly dining.

Breweries & Beer Gardens

Those seeking dog-friendly breweries near Sarasota will find plenty of places where pets are just as welcome as their owners. Dog Bar Sarasota offers a one-of-a-kind setting with off-leash play areas and alcoholic beverages and tasty foods for humans. Meanwhile, Big Top Brewing Co. features a spacious outdoor gathering area under giant oak trees and a shaded tent—perfect for keeping the dog cool on a hot, sunny day. 

Visitors can also enjoy sampling local craft beer at Sun King Brewing's pet-friendly patio in Sarasota, as well as beer gardens at Good Liquid Brewing Company in Waterside Place and 3 Bridges Brewing in Venice.

Island Locales

The islands and keys surrounding Sarasota offer plenty of opportunities for dog-friendly dining with waterfront views. Visitors can enjoy a meal alongside their pets at The Old Salty Dog, which appropriately welcomes dogs at its outdoor seating areas at its City Island, Siesta Key and Venice locations. Other popular options on Siesta Key include Sun Garden Cafe and The Cottage, while Venice offers scenic dining at Dockside Waterfront Grill and Blu Island Bistro. On Lido Key, pretty much every restaurant on St. Armand’s Circle offer European-style sidewalk seating, so pet-friendly dining is not hard to come by. 

Dog Spas & Wellness in Sarasota 

Sarasota is a welcoming destination for pet owners seeking dog-friendly wellness services that support relaxation, grooming and care during their stay. Local favorites include Wet Noses Sarasota, which offers grooming and spa-style services designed to keep dogs comfortable and refreshed. 

At Bayside Pet Resort, dogs enjoy daycare, boarding and enrichment activities in a safe environment. Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming provides grooming and healthy pet treats, while Doggy Resort SRQ and Paws n’ Rec offer daycare, play areas and wellness-focused care for dogs visiting Sarasota.