8 Pet-Friendly Spots in Fort Myers & Fort Myers Beach Your Pup Will Love

Finding pet-friendly spots can be tricky when traveling, but not in Fort Myers Beach. Here, you’ll find plenty of beaches, parks, and restaurants that welcome your furry friend.

There’s nothing like including your furry friend in all your vacation plans. From the mountains of Tennessee to the sunny beaches of Florida, having your best friend share the fun and the beautiful moments each destination offers is simply pawfect!

If your vacation plans are taking you to Fort Myers Beach, you’re in for a treat. This sun-soaked haven offers endless outdoor activities, beautiful beaches, and lively wildlife to enjoy alongside your furry companion.

Here’s a sneak peek just for you:

1. Bonita Beach Dog Park: Off-leash beach for pups to swim, play on sandy bars, and enjoy shallow Gulf waters.

2. Mound House: Scenic historic grounds open to leashed dogs, with bay views and shady picnic spots.

3. Woof-A-Hatchee Dog Park: Fenced play areas for small and large dogs, with water stations and shady seating.

4. Koreshan State Park: Pet-friendly trails through oak hammocks and historic Koreshan Settlement grounds.

5. Lovers Key State Park: Dog-friendly trails like Black Island and Eagle Trail, with plenty of wildlife sightings.

6. Crazy Dingo Brewing Company: Farm brewery with shaded picnic tables, craft beers, and a relaxed, pet-welcoming vibe.

7. Estero Bay Preserve State Park: Rugged, scenic trails with wildlife, observation decks, and peaceful bay views.

8. Night Market (Alliance for the Arts): Pet-friendly monthly market with vendors, food trucks, live music, and treats for pups.
   
   

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.

In this guide, I’ve got you covered with top pet-friendly spots in and around Fort Myers Beach for endless tail-wagging adventures.

Ready? Let’s jump into the details!

1. Bonita Beach Dog Park

Off-leash park where dogs can splash in calm Gulf waters and roam sandy bars. 

Bonita Beach Dog Park, right by Lover’s Key State Park and a short drive from Fort Myers Beach, is a slice of paradise for pups. Here, dogs run free off-leash, splash in calm Gulf waters, and roam sandy bars surrounded by coastal beauty. It’s a favorite spot for both two-legged and four-legged beachgoers looking for fun in the sun.

Note: The beautiful Fort Myers Beach is also pet-friendly, but dogs must be on a leash at all times. Leashes should be no more than six feet long, and you should keep your companion under close control.

🐶 Highlights

• Off-leash beach where dogs can swim and play (best at low tide)

• Shallow waters with gorgeous Gulf views

• Sandy bars and coastal vegetation to explore together

• Shower stations to rinse off your pup after playtime

• Free parking and convenient restrooms

• Bring water for your dog; no glass containers or alcohol allowed

2. Mound House

Scenic grounds open for leashed dogs to enjoy scenic walks.

Perched on an ancient Calusa Indian Shell Mound along Estero Bay, the Mound House is Estero Island’s oldest standing structure. While the museum itself is off-limits to pups, the scenic grounds are open for leashed dogs. Just minutes from Fort Myers Beach Pier, it’s a peaceful spot to explore history, nature, and some of the island’s best views.

🐶 Highlights

• Scenic walks around the historic property with your leashed dog

• An Observation Pier perfect for fishing, wildlife spotting, or soaking up bay views

• Shady picnic spots on the museum’s grounds

• Educational programs inside the museum (for the humans in your group)

3. Woof-A-Hatchee Dog Park 

Off-leash space for your four-legged pal to run and make new friends.

Woof-A-Hatchee Dog Park is a local favorite where pups can run free and make new friends. With fenced sections for both big and small dogs, this green and welcoming spot is perfect for safe playtime. Shady seating and plenty of amenities make it just as enjoyable for humans as it is for their four-legged pals.

🐶 Highlights

• Separate fenced areas for small and large dogs

• Grassy play zones with shady trees

• Water stations to keep pups hydrated

• Waste disposal stations for easy clean-up

• Shaded chairs where owners can relax and chat while dogs play
  
  
  

4. Koreshan State Park

A haven for nature enthusiasts and their canine companions.

This historical gem is a mix of history and nature, just a short hop from both downtown Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach. Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, so you and your pup can enjoy the sights together. Between the lush landscapes and the quirky history of the Koreshan Unity Settlement, it’s a spot that’s as interesting as it is scenic.

🐶 Highlights

• Miles of shaded trails winding through oak hammocks, woodlands, and open fields

• Pet-friendly paths where leashed dogs can explore by your side

• Historic structures and artifacts from the Koreshan Unity Settlement

• Outdoor tours that let you admire the history without leaving your pup behind

• A mix of natural beauty and cultural intrigue all in one stop

5. Lovers Key State Park

Beautiful coastal preserve for dog owners seeking outdoor adventure.

Lovers Key State Park is a stunning coastal preserve just minutes from Fort Myers, perfect for dog owners craving more adventure. While pups can’t romp on the beaches, leashed dogs are welcome on the scenic trails that wind through forests, estuaries, and hidden wild corners. With miles of paths and plenty of wildlife to spot, it’s a refreshing way to enjoy the outdoors together.

🐶 Highlights

• Miles of dog-friendly trails with diverse ecosystems to explore

• The Black Island Trail (2.5 miles) with secluded estuaries and native plants

• The Eagle Trail through a shady maritime hammock

• Wildlife sightings, including snakes, lizards, and the endangered gopher tortoise

• Peaceful, natural settings ideal for a hike with your pup
  
  
  

6. Crazy Dingo Brewing Company

Spacious shaded patio welcoming pets.

Set on a working family farm in Fort Myers, Crazy Dingo Brewing Company is more than a spot for a cold pint. It’s where craft beer meets wide-open spaces, friendly vibes, and plenty of room for your pup to tag along. With a “farm-to-pint” concept and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a local favorite for both beer lovers and dog owners.

🐶 Highlights

• Relax with a flight of small-batch craft beers brewed on-site

• Spread out at picnic tables shaded by old oaks

• Stroll the farm grounds and say hello to the resident animals

• Enjoy a casual, community vibe that feels like a backyard hangout

7. Estero Bay Preserve State Park

Incredible backgrounds for you and your leashed pet to enjoy together. 

Tucked away on Estero Island, Estero Bay Preserve State Park is a wild slice of Southwest Florida where you and your pup can roam free. With trails winding through mangroves, oak hammocks, and coastal scrub, it’s the kind of place that makes you forget about your phone and tune into nature instead. Keep your eyes open—you might spot a gopher tortoise lumbering by or a heron swooping overhead. Two observation decks overlook the marshes, perfect for catching your breath and soaking in the view.

Local tip: Just don’t forget sturdy shoes, bug spray, and plenty of water, since parts of the trails can get a little rugged and occasionally flood in summer.

🐶 Highlights

• Scenic trails through mangroves, pine flatwoods, and oak hammocks

• Wildlife sightings from birds to gopher tortoises and lizards

• Observation decks with peaceful views of Estero Bay

• Seasonal changes bring everything from tropical blooms to winter greenery

• Great spot for an active walk with your leashed dog

8. Night Market

Pet-friendly market featuring great local produce and vibrant energy.

On the second Wednesday of each month, Fort Myers gets a lively boost when the Night Market sets up shop at the Alliance for the Arts. It’s the perfect excuse to head out with your pup, mingle with locals, and soak up the festive vibe without spending a thing. From live tunes to tasty aromas drifting from food trucks, this is a midweek tradition that feels like a mini celebration.

🐶 Highlights

• Pet-friendly atmosphere. Dogs on leashes are welcome (and some vendors even hand out treats!)

• Local vendors offering baked goods, crafts, plants, and fresh finds

• Food trucks serving up snacks and drinks

• Live music creating a fun, upbeat soundtrack

• Picnic tables and plenty of space to relax with friends, family, and furry companions
  
  

Extra Tips for a Successful Dog-Friendly Visit to Fort Myers & Fort Myers Beach 

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit with your pet, here are some tips:

• Check Pet Policies: Confirm that your lodging is pet-friendly and understand any specific rules they may have.
  
  
• Bring Essentials: Pack your pet’s essentials, including food, water, bowls, medications, toys, and bedding.
  
  
• Stay Hydrated: Florida’s weather can be hot, so ensure your pet stays hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.
  
  
• Follow Local Regulations: Be aware of leash laws and any pet restrictions in public areas.
  
  
• Clean Up After Your Pet: Always carry waste bags and clean up after your pet to keep public spaces clean and enjoyable for everyone.
  
  
• Plan Ahead: Research pet-friendly spots and activities in advance to make the most of your trip.

The Most Pet-Friendly Spots in Fort Myers & Fort Myers Beach 

With the tips above, you’re sure to have a memorable and enjoyable time with your furry friend in Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach. Just remember to follow the rules, watch your pup’s behavior closely, and clean up after them for a stress-free experience. By ticking all these boxes, you’re more than ready to enjoy beautiful beaches, scenic parks, trails, and much more in these Florida gems side by side with your best pal.

Wondering where to stay during your visit to Fort Myers Beach?

Our resort-style vacation rentals in Fort Myers Beach cater to all tastes and budgets. Whether you choose to explore the sights or stay indoors, you’ll find everything you need to make yourself feel right at home.

And guess what? You can bring your dog along! We offer beautiful pet-friendly homes on Fort Myers Beach.

To experience the highest quality in amenities, decor, and cleanliness, book your stay with Sun Palace Vacations. We guarantee you’ll have the most enjoyable and relaxing vacation ever!