Pet Friendly Places in Sarasota Florida: A Complete Guide
Sarasota, Florida, offers an amazing range of options for travelers with furry companions. From beachside resorts to casual eateries, you’ll find plenty of pet friendly places in Sarasota Florida. Whether your dog is adventurous or enjoys being pampered, Sarasota has activities to suit every type of dog owner. Wet noses and sandy paws are always welcome because the best vacations are the ones shared with your closest friend.
Bring Your Pet Along in Sarasota FL
Yes, Sarasota is extremely pet-friendly. You and your pet can enjoy dog parks, hiking trails, wildlife areas, and pet-friendly dining spots. Always pack water and waste bags to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Popular spots are designed to accommodate leashed pets, making it easy to explore the city together.
Top Outdoor Destinations for Dogs
Red Bug Slough Preserve
This 72-acre park, just 10 minutes from Burns Square, offers trails, a butterfly garden, and a fishing dock. Dogs must remain on a leash to protect local wildlife. Facilities include parking, picnic areas, restrooms, and a small playground.
Celery Fields
Birdwatchers love this marsh, about 20 minutes from Burns Square. Dogs of all sizes are welcome on leashes. Enjoy a 60-foot hill for panoramic views, longer trails for exercise, and activities like fishing and picnicking. Sunset here is spectacular.
Florida’s Myakka River State Park
About 30 minutes from Burns Square, this 37,000-acre park features wetlands, prairies, and pine forests along the Myakka River. Most pathways allow leashed dogs. Keep pets on a six-foot leash due to wildlife hazards like alligators and snakes. Amenities include parking, a café, restrooms, and a gift shop. Entry costs $4–$6 per vehicle.
Popular Dog Parks in Sarasota
Brohard Paw Park
The only dog-friendly beach in Sarasota, 40 minutes from Burns Square, offers a fenced play area, off-leash beach access, water fountains, dog showers, fire hydrants, and benches. Free parking is available.
17th Street Paw Park
Ten minutes from Burns Square, this large park offers shaded areas, fountains, picnic tables, and a dog obstacle course. Open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Arlington Paw Park
Located near Arlington, this park offers water stations in both small and large dog areas. Shade is limited, so plan shorter play sessions during hotter months. Nearby restrooms add convenience.
Venetian Waterway Park
This scenic park connects to the Legacy Trail and Caspersen Beach. Dogs are allowed on leashes along the 10-mile paved trail. Watch for wildlife like alligators and turtles while walking safely.
Lago Street and Lakeview Paw Park
About 20 minutes from Burns Square, this shady dog park offers water stations, seating, and picnic tables. Lakeview Park is nearby for leashed strolls.
Canine Club at Gillespie Park
Near North Osprey Avenue and 10th Street, this park has two gated areas, a pond, outdoor fitness stations, and tennis courts. Leashed pets are welcome outside the club.
Bayfront Park
Just five minutes from Burns Square, Bayfront Park is fully shaded and lakeside. Watch dolphins while strolling. O’Leary’s Tiki Bar welcomes dogs alongside playgrounds, bathrooms, and splash areas.
Payne Park
A five-minute drive or 20-minute walk from Burns Square, Payne Park has shaded paths, hills, a lake, playground, skate park, disc golf, bathrooms, and food options.
Bird Key Park
Ten minutes from Burns Square, Bird Key Park offers fishing, sunset views, picnic tables, and two pavilions. Dogs must be on a leash.
Pet-Friendly Restaurants in Sarasota
Outdoor seating is common in Sarasota, and many cafes welcome dogs. Top picks near Burns Square include:
- O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill – Beachside drinks, seafood, and unique Floridian fare.
- Mandeville Beer Garden – Over 80 beers, pub fare, and dog-friendly outdoor seating.
- JDubs – Outdoor games like cornhole and giant Jenga for you and your leashed dog.
- Big Top Brewing Company – Spacious backyard with pet-friendly areas and many beer options.
- The Fountain – Italian restaurant with covered patio seating for dogs.
- Burns Court Café – European-style sidewalk seating, umbrellas, water dishes, and live music.
- Owen’s Fish Camp – Pet-friendly terrace, seafood, and homey atmosphere.
- Amore – Italian and Portuguese dishes, happy hour, live music, and pet-friendly terrace.
- Fresh Start Café – Israeli-inspired breakfast, lunch, baked goods, and shaded patio for pets.
Savor Sarasota’s Dog-Friendly Vibe
From hotels to doggie spas, beaches, and tours, Sarasota offers endless pet-friendly activities. Keep your pet hydrated and comfortable, especially in hot weather. A portable water bowl is essential for sunny days.
FAQ
1. Can I bring my dog to Sarasota?
Yes, Sarasota welcomes pets in many parks, beaches, and restaurants, making it perfect for travelers with dogs.
2. Are there leash rules in Sarasota parks?
Most parks require dogs to be on a leash no longer than six feet for safety and wildlife protection.
3. Where is the only dog-friendly beach in Sarasota?
Brohard Paw Park is the only dog-friendly beach in the area, featuring off-leash areas and fenced play zones.
4. Which parks are best for small and large dogs?
Celery Fields, 17th Street Paw Park, and Bird Key Park accommodate dogs of all sizes.
5. Are there pet-friendly restaurants downtown?
Yes, places like O’Leary’s Tiki Bar, Mandeville Beer Garden, and Burns Court Café welcome leashed pets outdoors.
6. Can I hike with my dog in Sarasota?
Yes, trails in Red Bug Slough, Myakka River State Park, and Venetian Waterway Park are perfect for leashed dogs.
7. Are water and shade available for pets?
Many parks and dog-friendly spots provide water fountains, shaded areas, and picnic tables.
8. Is parking available at pet-friendly parks?
Yes, most parks such as Myakka River State Park, Red Bug Slough, and Brohard Paw Park have parking facilities.
9. Are there dog obstacle courses?
Yes, 17th Street Paw Park offers small dog obstacle courses for fun and exercise.
10. Who can I contact for more pet-friendly Sarasota tips?
Mark Kaiser at The Mobile Home Dealer provides recommendations and insights for traveling with pets.
Final Thoughts
Sarasota, Florida, is a premier destination for pet lovers. From dog-friendly beaches and parks to restaurants, cafes, and outdoor activities, the city ensures pets are part of the adventure. Remember to stay hydrated, follow leash rules, and enjoy the Sunshine State with your furry companion. Exploring pet friendly places in Sarasota Florida promises unforgettable memories for both you and your dog.
This guide is brought to you by Mark Kaiser with The Mobile Home Dealer, helping mobile home buyers and sellers reach a better place in life.