6 Top Dog-Friendly Beaches in Fort Myers, FL (2023 Update)

black and white french bulldog at the beach

Want to catch some sun and sand? Fort Myers, Florida is famous for its beautiful beaches. But if you’re in the area with a four-legged friend, you’ll have to find dog-friendly places to visit. Luckily, we’ve done that extra digging for you! Whether you’re looking for a morning jog or a day playing in the surf, these beaches are sure to please.

Note: Since Hurricane Ian, some of these beaches may be temporarily closed. Please check with local authorities for an updated opening status.

The 6 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Fort Myers, FL

1. Bonita Beach Dog Park

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🗺️ Address:	📍8800 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 34134
🕐 Open Times:	Sunrise to sunset
💲 Cost:	Free (On-site parking $2/hr)
🐕 Off-Leash:	Yes

Great place to splash and play free!
Only off-leash beach in Fort Myers
Least crowded in the early morning hours
It’s protected against rough waves and full of friendly pups
Includes on-site showering station

2. Newton Park

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🗺️ Address:	📍4650 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
🕐 Open Times:	5 AM–7 PM
💲 Cost:	Free (Parking $3/hr)
🐕 Off-Leash:	No

Enjoy playing in the sand and relaxing in the shade of a grass canopy at this beach
Popular beach, with parking that fills up fast
Make sure to keep your dog leashed and clean up any messes

3. Sanibel Causeway Islands Park

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🗺️ Address:	📍19931 Sanibel Causeway Rd. Sanibel, FL 33957
🕐 Open Times:	7 AM–8 PM
💲 Cost:	Free
🐕 Off-Leash:	No

Two artificial islands link Sanibel Island to the mainland in a long, skinny beach
A great place to hunt for shells with your pooch
Better for walking, not relaxing

4. Gulfside Beach

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🗺️ Address:	📍2001 Algiers Lane Sanibel, FL 33957
🕐 Open Times:	Sunrise–Sunset
💲 Cost:	$6 Island entry toll (On-site parking $2/hr before 7 PM)
🐕 Off-Leash:	No

Beautiful, sheltered sandy beach
Great place for nature walks! But keep your pup on an 8-foot leash or shorter.
Wash stations, restrooms, and picnic tables available
Gulfside Beach is home to endangered turtles and shorebirds—help your pup leave nests alone
Stay hydrated—doggy water fountains are available.

5. Bowman’s Beach

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🗺️ Address:	📍1700 Bowman’s Beach Rd. Sanibel, FL 33957
🕐 Open Times:	Sunrise–Sunset
💲 Cost:	$6 Island Entry Toll (Parking $5/hr)
🐕 Off-Leash:	No

Perfect for swimming, hiking, and picnics
Bring plenty of water—this beach doesn’t have drinking fountains!
Splash and play in the warm water

6. Lighthouse Beach Park

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🗺️ Address:	📍110 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL, 33957
🕐 Open Times:	24 Hours
💲 Cost:	$6 Island Entry Toll (Parking $5/hr)
🐕 Off-Leash:	No

A dynamic, rugged beach perfect for adventurers
32 acres of shoreline and hiking
One of the less-crowded beaches in Fort Myers

Conclusion

If you and your furry best friend are in Fort Myers, we hope you check out one of these beaches! Whether you enjoy the off-leash fun at Bonita Dog Beach or have some leashed fun in the sun on one of the other beautiful beaches, there is always something to do! No matter where you go, don’t forget to stay hydrated, be respectful, and clean up after any messes.

Featured Image Credit: Gabriella Clare Marino, Unsplash