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5 Dog-Friendly Beaches Near Sarasota, FL in 2024: On & Off-Leash Places

Written by: Nicole Cosgrove

Last Updated on March 22, 2024 by Nicole Cosgrove

5 Dog-Friendly Beaches Near Sarasota, FL in 2024: On & Off-Leash Places

Despite being a medium-sized city with miles of white sand beaches, Sarasota has very few dog-friendly beaches. The city of Sarasota operates just a couple of places that are friendly for pet owners, which can be discouraging for locals and tourists alike. However, there are some hidden gems scattered around the area if you know where to look. Many of these places require a short drive out of the city or adherence to local regulations, but they have a lot to offer.

The options include a beach designated specifically for dogs and their people and a federally operated national memorial with a small nature-filled beach. There might not be very many options for dog-friendly beaches in and around Sarasota, but the ones that are available are each interesting and beautiful in their own special ways.

Sarasota and Sarasota County are strict about dogs being on public beaches. There are lots of heavily enforced leash laws, so be sure to check the rules before you bring your dog anywhere. You don’t want to have your day trip or vacation ruined by a fine or by being barred from your final destination. As long as you follow all posted rules and signs, you will have no trouble having fun with your pups in Sarasota. Florida.

Here are five amazing dog-friendly beaches in and around Sarasota that you can bring your dog to today.

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Top 5 Dog-Friendly Beaches Near Sarasota, Florida

1. Brohard Paw Park

️ Address: 1850 Harbor Dr. S, Venice, FL 34285
Hours: 6 AM – 12 PM
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes, in marked area
  • Beach specifically marked off for dogs
  • Off-leash is allowed in fenced areas, including on the beach itself
  • Play between dogs is possible and encouraged; just watch the mess!
  • One of the only dog beaches in the region where dogs are allowed to swim and play freely
  • Gorgeous views of Florida’s Gulf Coast and tranquil waters

2. De Soto National Memorial

️ Address:  8300 Desoto Memorial Hwy, Bradenton, FL 34209
Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: No
  • National monument overlooks a small dog-friendly beach
  • Dogs must be leashed at all times when in the park, but the walking trails are worth checking out
  • Conveniently located between Sarasota and St. Petersburg
  • Check out the educational material, visitor center, and monument for some local history and culture
  • Run by the federal government, so it is not beholden to restrictive county rules regarding dogs (but don’t violate the park’s rules when you are there)

3. Indian Mound Park

️ Address: 210 Winson Ave, Englewood, FL 34223
Hours: 6 AM – 9 PM
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: No
  • Enjoy a small beach with plenty of nature and history for you and your dog to take in
  • A public boat ramp is available if you want to bring your boat
  • Dogs must remain leashed when in the park, so don’t forget to bring one
  • Trails, docks, pavilions, and restrooms are available for use daily
  • Be sure to catch the vibrant sunsets over the water

4. Blackburn Point Park

️ Address: 800 Blackburn Point Rd, Osprey, FL 34229
Hours: 6 AM – 9 PM
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: No
  • Small beach but there is plenty of waterfront to splash around in
  • Walk along the numerous docks and boardwalks with your (leashed) pup
  • Plenty of amenities like a fishing pier, restrooms, pavilions, and picnic tables are available year-round
  • Boat ramps and kayak ramps are available for public use, making this a perfect place to launch your kayak with your canine
  • View the local wildlife, nearby bridges, stunning sunsets, and tranquil waters from sunrise to sunset daily

5. Bayfront Park

️ Address: 5 Bayfront Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
Hours: 5 AM – 11 PM
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: No
  • One of the most famous areas of Sarasota, with plenty to do and see within walking distance
  • Check out a number of dog-friendly restaurants in the area where you can take in the sights
  • Public beach available for daily use with views of the Sarasota waterfront
  • Be sure to observe all rules and regulations when in and around the park; this is a well-populated area
  • Leash laws are frequently enforced, so read the rules before you pack out

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Conclusion

Sarasota is a beautiful area that can be explored with your favorite furry friend. Sarasota is not the most dog-friendly city in the area, but there is still plenty to see and do if you know where to look in the areas surrounding Sarasota. Just remember to brush up on the rules and follow them when you are out and about. If you do, there is plenty of fun to be had right around the corner.


Featured Image Credit: Denise coyle, Pixabay

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