If you’re visiting or living in Bradenton, FL, you may wonder where you can take your dog to play in the surf and sand. Although Bradenton does not have many dog-friendly beaches, we located some in the surrounding area. It’s best to bring a leash because some beaches do not allow off-leash dogs, and all of the sites on our list require you to keep your pet leashed until you enter a designated off-leash area.
The Top 5 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Bradenton, Florida
1. De Soto National Memorial Beach
| ️ Address: | 8300 Desoto Memorial Hwy, Bradenton, FL, 34209 |
| Open Times: | Sunrise to sunset |
| Cost: | Free |
| Off-Leash: | No |
- Nice quiet trails to walk your dog
- Gorgeous views
- May not be off-leash in most areas of the beach
- Friendly people and dogs
- Close to Tampa Bay
2. Pass a Grille Dog Beach
| ️ Address: | 1199 Pass a Grille Way, St. Pete Beach, FL, 33706 |
| Open Times: | Sunrise to sunset |
| Cost: | Limited paid parking |
| Off-Leash: | In some areas |
- Off-leash in some areas of the beach
- Limited parking
- Dogs are not allowed on the Gulf side of the beach
- Many places nearby have outdoor pet-friendly seating
- Two inns that welcome dogs as guests nearby
3. Fort DeSoto County Park
| ️ Address: | 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715 |
| Open Times: | Daily |
| Cost: | Small fee to enter |
| Off-Leash: | No |
- 1,136-acre park
- 15 picnic shelters, fishing piers, and playgrounds for humans
- Several trails for people and pets of all skill levels
- Separate areas for small and large pets
- Contains water fountains
4. Fort DeSoto Dog Beach Park
| ️ Address: | 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33715 |
| Open Times: | Daily |
| Cost: | Free |
| Off-Leash: | In some areas |
- Separate fenced areas for small and large dogs to run off-leash
- Has dog showers
- Rest of the park allows dogs on leashes
- Has a Paw Playground for canines
- Overnight camping and other fun amenities
5. Sarasota Boat Tours
| ️ Address: | 7660 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL, 34231 |
| Open Times: | By request |
| Cost: | Pricing varies by tour |
| Off-Leash: | Yes |
- 5-to 6-hour cruises available
- Morning tours are recommended for pets
- Stunning views
- Must mention the size of your pet when booking a tour
- Boat tours charge extra for multiple pets
Conclusion
While there aren’t that many dog-friendly beaches in Bradenton, there are quite a few in the surrounding areas. Before setting off on your trip, remember to bring food, water, towels, and poop bags for your pet. Although a few beaches have water fountains, it’s best to bring your own supplies. Taking your dog to the beach is an exciting adventure, but try to respect the other beachgoers and clean up after your pet.
Featured Image Credit: Andrew Pons, Unsplash
