If you’re looking for information on some of the best dog friendly beaches in Sarasota, then you’ve come to the right place!
We’ll also introduce you to some of the top dog parks in Sarasota, as well.
Let’s start at the beginning, shall we?!
Oh, and before we forget, if you’re looking for dog friendly beaches farther north in Florida, then be sure to check out our fantastic guide to the best dog beaches in Pensacola – it’s not to be missed!
Estimated reading time: 16 minutes
Table of contents
- Introduction To Sarasota Dog Friendly Beaches
- Top Sarasota Dog Beaches Overview
- Brohard Paw Park: A Pet Paradise
- Bayfront Park: Scenic and Dog-Friendly
- Ken Thompson Park
- Bird Key Park
- De Soto National Memorial
- Indian Mound Park – A Stunning Dog Beach in Sarasota
- Blackburn Point Park
- Maxine Barritt Park
- Conclusion About Dog Friendly Beaches in Sarasota
- Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Friendly Beaches in Sarasota
- Related Articles
Introduction To Sarasota Dog Friendly Beaches
Are you looking for an awesome destination to take your dog out? Then look no further than Sarasota!
This stunning city in southwest Florida has some of the best beaches and is also pet-friendly. That means that there are plenty of opportunities for Fido to have a great day in the sun.
From parks where pooches can splash around, swim areas they can enjoy or sandy shorelines where they can relax – we’ve got it all covered here when it comes to fun things in Sarasota for dogs.
So why not come down with your furry friend today and let them get back in touch with their wild side at one of these beautiful spots?
Discover the top spots for taking your pup to the beach in Sarasota, Florida. From Brohard Beach and Paw Park, to Bayfront Park, swimming spots and more.
Top Sarasota Dog Beaches Overview
Sarasota is an awesome place to spend a day outdoors with your pup thanks to its many dog-friendly beaches!
From north to south, you’ll find something that will make both of you happy. Whether it’s a private beach or one where they can swim along with their people, there are loads of options for everyone.
Visiting Sarasota County with your pup is such a great idea! And not just because its tranquil waters, white sand and gentle waves make it an ideal spot for relaxation. There are also plenty of dog beaches that you can take advantage of.
Ken Thompson Park overlooks beautiful Sarasota Bay and is a great place to take your pooch.
Then there’s Bird Key Park, which offers fabulous play opportunities for on-leash pets.
De Soto National Memorial is a gorgeous hidden Sarasota gem. It’s located at the mouth of the Manatee River.
Indian Mound Park in Englewood offers a small beach with lots of nature to explore.
Blackburn Point Park in Osprey is another lesser-known Sarasota spot. But don’t let that put you off. This small dog-friendly beach in Sarasota has great facilities, and there are plenty of waterfront areas for you and your pup to explore.
More Fabulous Dog Friendly Sarasota Beaches
Then there are the more famous spots. The ones that are synonymous with Sarasota.
Brohard Beach and Paw Park, located in Venice, is a fantastic place to take your furball. Brohard is quite possibly THE best Sarasota beach that allows dogs.
And then there’s Bayfront Park, just minutes away from downtown Sarasota. With its fantastic amenities and a gorgeous sandy beach area, Bayfront is a pup paradise!
So, as you can see, with plenty of fabulous dog beaches, Sarasota will be a surefire winner with your pup!
Now get ready for some unforgettable adventures alongside your furry companion this weekend. Come and try out these top recommended dog beaches in Sarasota County!
Brohard Paw Park: A Pet Paradise
Address: 1850 Harbor Drive South, Venice, FL 34285
Also known as Venice Dog Beach, Brohard Beach and Paw Park is an incredible beach located in Sarasota County, Florida.
It promises a perfect pet paradise for dog owners. With lush green grass all around and plenty of space to run free and socialize with other doggy friends, it’s the ideal spot for furry fun!
Whether you’re looking to take your pup swimming or play some fetch on the shoreline, there are myriad activities available at this paw park.
The main feature here has to be its 1/2 mile long fenced-in beach. There is enough room here for pups of all sizes to run off-leash and have fun together, or just relax while their owners take a breather.
Not only that, but there are designated shallow swimming areas. Plus lifeguards during peak times too!
In addition to public restrooms, Brohard provides picnic tables as well as benches for seating. You’ll also find waste disposal bags, plus an outdoor shower area, so pets can be rinsed off after enjoying time in the water.
Dogs Can Play and Swim Freely at Brohard Beach in Florida
Venice Dog Beach offers stunning views of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Your pup is allowed off-leash in the fenced areas, including the beautiful beach. In fact, the beach has been specifically designed for dogs.
Brohard Beach is one of the very few dog beaches in Sarasota County where dogs are permitted to play and swim freely.
The crystal clear turquoise ocean waves are a gorgeous backdrop to the glistening white sand.
Brohard Paw Park truly is the perfect pup paradise!
Park hours here are daily, from 6am to 10pm.
Come check out why so many consider Brohard Beach and Paw Park to be Sarasota’s go-to destination if you want an unforgettable experience with your favorite pooch. It’s both relaxing and exciting all at once. Who knows what new adventures await?!
Website: Brohard Paw Park in Venice, Florida
Bayfront Park: Scenic and Dog-Friendly
Address: 5 Bayfront Drive, Sarasota, FL 34236
Bayfront Park is one of the top dog-friendly beaches in Sarasota, Florida.
Located right downtown, it boasts a waterfront boardwalk with stunning views over the bay and city skyline.
And there are plenty of amenities on offer. From designated pet areas equipped with benches, fire hydrants and waste stations, to boat launch facilities for canoes or kayaks.
Parking at Bayfront Park is free of charge for the first 3 hours.
Breathtaking Views of Sarasota Bay and the Ringling Causeway
Bayfront Park in Sarasota affords breathtaking views of Sarasota Bay and the Ringling Causeway. On one side of the park is the Gulf of Mexico and on the other, a gorgeous marina.
Watching that incredible sunset while enjoying an evening stroll along the shoreline should be enough to convince anyone this place rocks!
The best part though is its proximity to the hustle & bustle of downtown Sarasota. This allows locals & visitors alike easy access without having to leave town.
Bayfront Park Has A Fantastic Dog Beach In Sarasota
And if you’re after a bite to eat in Bayfront Park, the popular O’Leary’s Tiki Bar and Grill is right on your doorstep! This fabulous waterside restaurant welcomes dogs on its spacious patio.
The Blue Sunshine Patio outside deck area at nearby Marina Jack is also doggie friendly. They just ask that you keep your pup on a leash whilst you’re there.
Their varied Patio Menu includes appetizers, salads, soups, tacos, sandwiches and wraps.
Ultimately, Bayfront Park offers unbeatable beauty combined with canine friendliness. This makes it an ideal spot, whether you’re looking to take your pooch out on some water fun, or just lazing together under starry skies……totally worth checking out!!
Website: Bayfront Park in Sarasota, Florida
Ken Thompson Park
Address: 1700 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236
The beautiful Ken Thompson Park is located just a short 15 minute drive from downtown Sarasota. The park is in City Island, in the far northeastern corner of Lido Key.
And it incorporates the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, where there are over 20 diverse marine research programs.
This wonderful Sarasota park is named in honor of Ken Thompson. Ken was the City Manager of the City of Sarasota from February 1950 to February 1988.
Great Facilities in the Park
There are great facilities in the park. There’s a pavilion, picnic tables, a drinking fountain, a playground, and restrooms that are open daily from 7am to 8pm.
Many people come here for the excellent canoeing and kayaking, and there are some great walking trails as well.
Ken Thompson Park is dog friendly and allows dogs all year round. You just have to make sure that your pup is kept on a leash at all times.
If you’re looking for somewhere in Sarasota to watch the sun set, then Ken Thompson Park is the perfect location!
Website: Ken Thompson Park in Sarasota, Florida
Bird Key Park
Address: 200 John Ringling Causeway, Sarasota, FL 34236
Bird Key Park in Sarasota is a fabulous place to take your pooch.
It’s located at the northern end of Bird Key, a barrier island in Sarasota Bay. You can access the park just before you exit the south side of the John Ringling Causeway.
Like Ken Thompson Park, Bird Key Park also has great facilities. There are two pavilions here, along with picnic tables, a drinking fountain and good parking.
There’s A Lovely Walking Path at Bird Key Park in Sarasota
You’ll also find a public restroom in the park.
The well-maintained walking path takes you right alongside the clear waters of Sarasota Bay.
Bird Key Park is open from 5am to 11pm, every day of the year. And dogs are permitted here all year round – just remember to keep Fido on a leash.
Website: Bird Key Park in Sarasota, Florida
De Soto National Memorial
Address: 8300 De Soto Memorial Highway, Bradenton, FL 34209
De Soto National Memorial is a gorgeous hidden Sarasota gem. It’s located just outside of Bradenton, Florida, where the Manatee River spills out into the Gulf of Mexico at the southern edge of Tampa Bay.
It’s a wonderful place to explore and a truly beautiful spot to take your dog. In fact, lots of people bring their dogs here for a great relaxing walk.
De Soto National Memorial is a haven for wildlife and there are plenty of animals and birds to see here. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a bald eagle here. They can occasionally be observed fishing offshore in the Manatee River.
And brown pelicans can also be seen offshore throughout the year.
And there’s lots of history here, as well. The national memorial is named after Conquistador Hernando de Soto. In May 1539, de Soto and his army of soldiers, hired mercenaries, clergy, and craftsmen, made landfall in Tampa Bay.
Popular Sarasota Dog Beaches
De Soto National Memorial is dog-friendly. The beaches in the park are very popular with dog owners and the park trails are ideal for fabulous walks with your pup.
The memorial contains some of the best dog friendly beaches in Sarasota.
You can bring Fido here all year round, but note that your dog must be kept on a six-foot fixed leash at all times. And you are, of course, expected to clean up after your pet.
The park grounds are open from dawn to dusk every day. However, note that the gates of the parking lot close daily at 5pm.
De Soto National Memorial is closed each year on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Website: De Soto National Memorial in Bradenton, Florida
Indian Mound Park – A Stunning Dog Beach in Sarasota
Address: 210 Winson Avenue, Englewood, FL 34223
Indian Mound Park, also known as Paulsen Point, is located in Englewood in southern Sarasota County.
The land in which the park sits is of great historical and archaelogical importance. The contoured landscape is a direct result of native American habitation.
Indigenous populations were attracted to this spot by the abundance of seafood in Lemon Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
If you’re interested in the indigenous history of the area, then check out the website of the Trail of Florida’s Indian Heritage.
One Of The Many Sarasota Beaches That Allow Dogs
In Indian Mound Park, you’ll find a boat ramp, a canoe and kayak launch, a shelter, picnic facilities and restrooms.
There’s also an unpaved trail and a small, but beautiful beach. The beach is quiet and fairly secluded. It’s a fine example of one of the many Sarasota beaches that allow dogs.
So if you fancy a bit of peace and quiet with your pup, then go and visit Indian Mound Park in Englewood, Florida.
This beautiful Sarasota park permits leashed dogs all year round. The park is open daily from 6am to 10pm.
Website: Indian Mound Park in Englewood, Florida
Blackburn Point Park
Address: 800 and 421 Blackburn Point Road, Osprey, FL 34229
Blackburn Point Park is in Osprey, just 20 minutes south of downtown Sarasota on US Highway 41.
It’s a gorgeous 15-acre dog friendly waterside park in Sarasota County.
The park has been improved over the past few years and now provides shady parking areas, numerous fishing piers, picnic areas and a huge, well-maintained restroom.
Blackburn Point Park is a Great Spot for Nature-Watching
There are also boat and kayak launches, a pavilion and an unpaved trail.
And Blackburn Point Park is a great spot for nature-watching. Eagles and ospreys can sometimes be seen in the park and if you’re really lucky, you might even see a manatee or a mullet leaping out of the water.
This wonderful little Sarasota park permits leashed dogs all year round. The park is open daily from 6am to 10pm.
Website: Blackburn Point Park in Osprey, Florida
Maxine Barritt Park
Address: 1800 Harbor Drive South, Venice, FL 34285
Update on January 11, 2024: Unfortunately, dogs are no longer allowed on the sandy beach or the beach access boardwalk. So we’ve updated this entry accordingly. We’ve decided to keep this entry in for the time being (until we create a new article, with information on dog parks in Sarasota), as dogs ARE still permitted within the parking areas and on the walking paths in the park. Shame about the beach though.
Maxine Barritt Park enjoys a very pretty location on the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a small area, nestled between Sharky’s On the Pier and Brohard Dog Park Beach.
Covering 7 acres of beautiful waterfront real estate, this park is full of great amenities.
With large picnic pavilions, grills and good restrooms, it’s ideal for a family day out. And with a half mile paved walking trail, it’s also the perfect place to take your dog.
One Of The Best Places In Sarasota To Bring Your Dog
The park allows leashed dogs all year round. It is open daily from 6am to 10pm, and there’s plenty of parking here.
With a beautiful paved walking trail, Maxine Barritt Park is a wonderful place to while away the time with your favorite furball.
And when you and your pup have had your fill of this place, head next door to South Brohard Beach Paw Park to continue the fun. Or head into Sharky’s for some liquid refreshment and a bite to eat!
Website: Maxine Barritt Park in Venice, Florida
Conclusion About Dog Friendly Beaches in Sarasota
If you’re looking for great places in Sarasota to bring your dog, then there are plenty of dog friendly beaches and dog friendly parks.
Lots of Sarasota spots require you to keep your pup on a leash at all times, but don’t let that put you off. There are some real gems here that are DEFINITELY worth visiting!
And if it’s off-leash fun you’re after, then Brohard Beach and Paw Park in Venice, Florida, is hard to beat. It’s located just 30 minutes south of downtown Sarasota.
Whatever type of place you’re looking for, Sarasota County in Florida is sure to provide lots of outdoor fun for both you and your dog!
If you’ve enjoyed finding out all about the wonderful beaches in Sarasota that allow dogs, then take a look at our comprehensive round-up of some of the best dog beaches in the US
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Friendly Beaches in Sarasota
No, dogs are not permitted on Caspersen Beach in Florida. However, Brohard Beach and Paw Park is super dog-friendly. And it’s just 1 mile north of Caspersen Beach, along Harbor Drive and Harbor Drive South.
No, unfortunately dogs and other pets are not allowed at Siesta Key Beach in Florida. This is in order to keep those beaches clean, healthy and safe for the abundant wildlife that can be found there. Try Bayfront Park instead, which is just a 15-minute drive away.
No, Lido Key Beach is not pet-friendly. But there are several lovely beaches in the area that allow dogs. Try Bayfront Park, Bird Key Park or Ken Thompson Park instead. All 3 are less than a 10-minute drive away from Lido Key Beach.
