Your Ultimate Pet-Friendly Guide to Fort Myers Beach
Plan the perfect pet-friendly vacation to Fort Myers Beach! Discover off-leash beaches, dog-friendly trails, tours, restaurants, and vacation rentals where pets are welcome.
Planning a vacation with your dog? Fort Myers Beach is a great place to bring your four-legged companion. With pet-friendly beaches, scenic trails, dog-welcoming tours, restaurants, and vacation rentals, this Gulf Coast town makes traveling with your pet feel simple and stress-free.
No matter where you’re heading to, snowy Colorado, leafy Tennessee, or right here in sunny Florida, traveling with your pet can turn a good vacation into a great one.
Here, you’ll find relaxed recommendations, practical tips, and a few lighthearted notes along the way (because let’s face it—traveling with pets doesn’t always go exactly to plan).
Here’s what we’ll cover:
Where pets are welcome on Fort Myers Beach (and where they’re not)
Off-leash beach fun at Bonita Beach Dog Park
Easygoing trails and nature walks perfect for pups
Pet-friendly boat tours, fishing charters, and waterfront dining
Vacation rentals that make traveling with your dog simple and comfortable
At Sun Palace Vacations, we offer stunning vacation homes in Fort Myers Beach. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront escape or a cozy retreat, we have the perfect place for you.
We consider ourselves Fort Myers Beach experts, and from the best shopping spots and top-notch restaurants to a comprehensive guide on fishing and hunting in the area, we’ve got you covered in our blog.
This guide highlights some of the best pet-friendly spots around Fort Myers Beach.
1. Are Pets Allowed on Fort Myers Beach?
Yes, they are. Fort Myers Beach, along with nearby Sanibel, is one of the more pet-welcoming spots along Florida’s Gulf Coast. While some coastal towns have restrictions, this area offers more freedom—and friendly attitudes—when it comes to bringing your pup along.
You’ll find beaches that allow dogs, restaurants with outdoor patios, and an overall vibe that makes it easy to travel with your pet.
Quick Highlights:
Designated pet-friendly beach areas
Plenty of dog-welcoming restaurants and patios
Laid-back beach-town atmosphere where pets are part of the crowd
2. Pet-Friendly Beaches & Trails
There are several places to explore the outdoors with your dog, whether you’re up for a short walk or an off-leash beach day.
Bonita Beach Dog Park
Just north of Bonita Springs, this off-leash dog beach is a favorite for visitors and locals alike. The water is shallow and usually calm, making it a gentle place for your pup to splash around.
Why You’ll Like It:
Dogs can roam off-leash and play freely
Calm waters are ideal for nervous swimmers
Welcoming, relaxed environment
Tip: Bring a towel for the ride home—tidal sand tends to travel.
Black Island Trail – Lover’s Key State Park
This scenic 2.5-mile loop is a great spot for a shaded walk with your dog. The trail winds through a coastal forest and offers a few benches along the way if you want to stop and take in the view.
What to Expect:
Shaded trails to beat the afternoon heat
Plenty of new smells and sights for curious pups
Coastal views and a calm, natural setting
Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve
A bit farther inland, this preserve is a good option if you want more space and a quieter pace. With boardwalks, wetland views, and wide trails, it’s a nice change of scenery.
Nice Features:
Separate east and west sections to explore
Picnic spots and open space for breaks
Wildlife viewing opportunities
3. Pet-Friendly Tours & Activities
Beyond the beach and parks, there are even ways to enjoy the water with your dog—yes, even boat tours.
Beach Buddy Tours
This local company offers shelling and dolphin-watching tours where pets are welcome onboard. Trips range from three to six hours and include a stop at the dog beach so your pup can stretch their legs.
Why It’s Great:
Dogs ride along for the full tour
Water bowls and waste bags provided
Relaxed, small-group atmosphere
Note: Some dogs love the boat ride. Others take a minute to adjust.
Fishing Buddy Charters
If you enjoy fishing, this is a good option where your dog can tag along while you spend a few hours on the water. It’s a low-key way to enjoy the Gulf and stay together.
4. Dining Out With Your Dog
Many local restaurants in Fort Myers Beach have pet-friendly patios. Whether you’re grabbing coffee or settling in for dinner, you’ll find a good number of places that welcome dogs.
A Few Favorites:
Parrot Key Caribbean Grill – Colorful, casual, and great for seafood
Nervous Nellie’s – Large outdoor seating area and live music
Ugly’s Waterside Bar – Upstairs spot with views and snacks
Fish House – Friendly and relaxed with a varied menu
Tuckaway Café – Tasty breakfast and coffee to start your day
Tip: Most places are happy to bring your pup a water bowl—just ask!
5. Travel Tips for Pet Owners
A little planning goes a long way when you’re traveling with pets. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Car Comfort: If your dog isn’t a fan of car rides, plan breaks along the way or talk to your vet about calming options.
Familiar Items: Bringing their bed or favorite toy can help your dog settle in a new place.
Rental Research: Look for homes with fenced yards, outdoor rinse stations, or nearby walking paths.
Beach vs. Pool: Not all dogs love the water—plan for their preferences, whether they’re swimmers or sunbathers.
6. Where to Stay: Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals
Instead of a hotel, consider a vacation rental with space for the whole family—pets included. Sun Palace Vacation Rentals has a number of pet-friendly homes across Fort Myers Beach, many close to the beach and offering outdoor areas for your pup to relax.
🔗 Browse Our Pet-Friendly Rentals
What You’ll Find:
Homes that welcome pets of various sizes
Options with private pools, fenced yards, or water access
ADA-compliant and accessible properties available
A small pet fee helps with extra cleaning
Here are some of our top picks:
Blue View
4 bedrooms; 3 full bathrooms; Sleeps up to 14 guests
This newly polished, airy home comes with a chef-ready kitchen (stainless appliances, island, breakfast bar), spacious living area and a wet bar. Spread across two levels, you’ll enjoy four lanais with stunning bay views.
Highlights:
- Four lanais overlooking the water
- Shared heated pool with bay views
- Ideal for large families or groups
- Pet‑friendly for dogs under 30 lbs (non‑refundable fee applies)
Bluewaters Beach House
3 bedrooms; 3 bathrooms; Sleeps up to 10 guests
This mid-island coastal gem boasts an open plan with an abundance of natural light. The airy vibe extends outdoors, featuring an outdoor dining area and a convenient second bathroom for pool days.
Highlights:
- Short walk to the beach (mid‑island location)
- Private pool with outdoor shower and pool bathroom
- Modern coastal design with stainless steel kitchen touches
- Pet‑friendly for the whole family
Citrus Sol
4 bedrooms; 2.5 bathrooms (2 full, 1 half); Sleeps up to 8 guests
A bright, cheerful coastal escape just steps from the sand. Relax poolside in the screened lanai or let everyone unwind in the in-house game room with pool and ping-pong tables.
Highlights:
- Private screened pool for chilled afternoons
- Game room with pool table and ping-pong for entertainment
- Short walk to beach access—around 431 yards to Mango Street
- Pet-friendly, making it great for families with four-legged members
Make Your Stay in Fort Myers Beach a Unique Experience
To experience the highest quality in amenities, decor, and cleanliness, book your stay with Sun Palace Vacations. We guarantee you’ll have the most authentic, enjoyable, and relaxing time ever.