Florida Travel Planning: Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Sunshine State
Continuing our Florida travel plan, we’re shifting focus to explore the west coast, heading back north. Along this picturesque route, we’re honing in pet-friendly beaches, activities, and dining spots that promise unforgettable Florida experiences for both human and furry companions.
If you’re just joining us, you can catch up on the first two parts of our trip here: Florida Road Trip – Part1 and Florida Road Trip – Part2
11. Back to North
After three days spent in the deep south of Florida and with many fun water activities, we are heading back to the north. Our next overnight stop was Cape Coral, but we stepped first at the Ochopee Post Office, officially the smallest in the US. It’s in a building not much bigger than an outhouse, and a single postal worker works there every day, frequently selling postcards to tourists and answering questions from tour bus riders.
Don’t miss the opportunity to stop and take a picture of your dog with the smallest US Post Office. Check out our video on Zen’s working day as a postman!
12. More Beaches
As part of my Florida travel plan, I venture further north, where the roads diverge with many options. Upon reaching Bonita Springs, I opted for the coastal route in search of more dog-friendly beaches. The first stop on this journey is a must-visit: Lee County Dog Beach or Bonita Beach Dog Park, nestled along the shores of Lover’s Key State Park in Fort Myers Beach. This off-leash haven allows dogs to frolic freely in the gentle, shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico. As there are no fences, keeping a close eye on your furry companions at all times is essential.
Fort Myers Beach, Florida, boasts numerous pet-friendly beaches, except the northernmost one. This area suffered significant damage from Hurricane Ian, and efforts to restore the buildings are ongoing. Nevertheless, there are plenty of pristine stretches of white sand where you can pause for a brief respite.
Another enticing option is Bowman’s Beach Park. Situated on the western side of Sanibel Island, this stunning and secluded beach beckons with its turquoise waters, abundant seashells, and miles of soft white sand. You will discover spectacular shells, whether combing the shoreline or wading in the water. And, best of all, your four-legged friend is welcome to accompany you! Access to the beach entails a leisurely quarter-mile stroll from the parking lot.
13. Fort Mayers and Cape Coral
The brick-paved streets of Fort Myers are known for their rich history, flavorful restaurants, and eclectic shops. This charming town boasts the most historic buildings in all of Southwest Florida.
The Lodge is a pet-friendly restaurant in Fort Myers. It offers a Southern-style barbecue and a “self-tap” beer wall. Dogs are welcome to join you at outdoor tables on the front patio. Another downtown option is Twenty-Five, a family-owned & operated eatery serving made-from-scratch pub food, craft cocktails, beer, and wine. Dogs can join you at umbrella-cast shade tables while you enjoy your meal.
Fathoms at Cape Harbor offer water views, tasty food, and live entertainment from its outdoor patio, which overlooks the river.
Two dog-friendly restaurants in Fort Myers Beach are Matanzas Inn, which offers stunning views of the bay, and Parrot Key, which offers excellent food and cocktails.
Cape Coral is known for its 400 miles of canals, which some call a “Waterfront Wonderland” because it has more canals than anywhere else.
Victor Park is a large, forested park with a boardwalk that leads through the forest to a lake, and a nature trail goes deeper into the forest. A tall observation tower is located near the Center of the forest.
14. Sarasota
Located near downtown Sarasota, Bayfront Park is a 32-acre peninsula with breathtaking vistas of Sarasota Bay and the Ringling Causeway. Leashed dogs are welcome to stroll with their owners.
The Old Salty Dog has three locations, and they love it when customers dine alongside their dogs. Best of all, your dog can get dog biscuits when eating here. In addition to its delicious food, Café L’Europe has a great patio seating area where you can hang out with your dog. Owen’s Fish Camp is located in historic Burns Court, allowing you to dine in one of Sarasota’s most colorful districts. Best of all, they allow dogs on the outdoor patio.
For a quick beachside break, we made a pit stop at the quaint Bird Key Park, offering a brief stroll and a secluded spot for water access.
Alternatively, consider visiting Brohard Paw Park near Venice Municipal Airport. Here, you’ll find a fenced dog play area leading to the sole beach in Sarasota County, where furry friends are welcome. Be sure to heed the signs marking the boundaries of the dog beach. The park also provides dog waste bags, showers, benches, and drinking fountains for humans and their canine companions.
As we journeyed northward, we continued our route toward the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
If time permits, consider a detour to De Soto National Memorial Park. It’s near Robinson Preserve and across the Manatee River from Emerson Point. This federally managed park features well-groomed trails with life-size cutouts of historical figures and informative quotes. De Soto National Memorial Park welcomes furry companions. Visitors can explore its beaches and trails with leashed pets.
15. Sunshine Bridge and Petersburg
Follow US19 and proceed onto the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. As part of your Florida travel plan, ensure not to overlook the chance to visit one of the most picturesque rest areas along the highway. Positioned approximately midway across the bridge, this rest stop leads you to a beach often bustling with windsurfers and kitesurfers. Immerse yourself in the vast blue panorama and relish the spectacle of these enthusiasts mastering their aerial feats.
Continue to downtown St. Petersburg, a vibrant urban center in Pinellas County, Florida. It is home to various shops, restaurants, museums, and cultural institutions, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. You can start at the end of Central Avenue before you go to Demen’s Landing Park, the famous St. Pete Pier, the spaces at Bayshore Drive, and the restaurants along Beach Drive.
There are many dog-friendly restaurants around. Our recommendations are: Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro is a laid-back dockside spot serving global eats & drinks with bay views. Cassis American Brasserie is a spacious restaurant with a great outdoor sitting area and good food. 400 Beach Seafood & Tap House is a culinary destination with relaxed coastal cuisine that serves from seafood to steaks. Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille St. Pete Pier offers outside seating with views of downtown St. Pete and Tampa Bay. You can enjoy the sea breeze with Doc Ford’s Mojitos and Yucatan Shrimp.
16. Tampa and Around
Enjoy the beautiful waterfront views and warm sun along the Tampa Riverwalk. The 2.6-mile walk runs along the Hillsborough River to the Garrison Channel. Start your journey at the bustling Heights Market at Armature Works, stop along at the vibrant Curtis Hixon Park, and continue until you reach Sparkman Wharf.
Sail & Big Ray’s Fish Camp is Tampa’s sole 360-degree open-air waterfront bar on the Riverwalk. This urban sanctuary delights patrons with delectable cuisine and refreshing drinks amidst breathtaking water vistas. Whether you arrive on foot, by car, or even by boat, you’re in for a treat. Another gem is Columbia Cafe, a cherished family establishment for over a century. Unwind outdoors on their waterfront patio and bar, sheltered by a canopy, and enjoy sangria or mojitos. For a unique culinary experience, consider dining at the Romanian restaurant Chanta, where the Chanta family warmly welcomes guests to their home, offering authentic European fare.
For more dining options, check Tampa Dining Options.
Looking for more pet-friendly beaches in this part of Florida? Nestled at the southern tip of Davis Islands, just a stone’s throw away from downtown Tampa, you’ll find Davis Island Beach. This charming park boasts a cozy beach area, an off-leash dog zone, a picturesque picnic spot, a convenient canoe launch, and boat ramps. Adjacent to the Davis Island Yacht Club and the Davis Island Seaplane Basin, the beach offers a scenic backdrop for leisurely outings. Surrounding the area, you’ll discover an array of restaurants and shops, adding to the allure of this waterfront destination.
Ybor City
Ybor City is a historic neighborhood just northeast of downtown Tampa. It was founded in the 1880s by Vicente Martinez-Ybor and other cigar manufacturers and populated by thousands of immigrants, mainly from Cuba, Spain, and Italy Flori. It offers many dining options.
Gaspar’s Grotto serves savory Cuban and American food. El Puerto Restaurant & Grill is a casual eatery that serves a variety of delicious fare. Tampa Bay Brewing Company is another pet-friendly establishment in Florida, where dogs are welcome to join at an outdoor table and order off the dog menu.
Just minutes from downtown Tampa, Hillsborough River State Park offers a refuge from city life with seven miles of nature trails and excellent wildlife viewing. Visit a breathtaking oasis of natural and historical significance. Stroll along the river rapids, enjoy camping, explore historic structures, share a picnic, or view scenic landscapes. Visitors can view Class II river rapids, rare in Florida, and canoe or kayak along the scenic Hillsborough River.
17. Clearwater
If you have enough time, include a trip to Clearwater, Florida, in your travel plan, which has more pet-friendly beaches. Leashed dogs are allowed only on Clearwater North Beach’s north section, which starts at Somerset Street in Clearwater. You can bring your dog for a stroll along the sand and in the surf, as long as it is well-behaved and cleaned up after. Although there’s no parking north of Somerset, public meter parking can be found on Mandalay Ave, south of Somerset.
Coco’s Crush Bar & Grill offers tiki vibes, great food, and signature Orange Crush drinks. Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar is a casual beach seafood restaurant and bar that overlooks award-winning Clearwater Beach and the Gulf of Mexico.
18. Dinosaur World
Take a short break from the beaches in Florida and visit pet-friendly Dinosaur World in Plant City. This dog-friendly adventure features over 150 life-size dinosaurs in an expansive outdoor museum. In Central Florida’s picturesque landscape, Dinosaur World invites visitors to explore interactive exhibits. You can also partake in a Fossil Dig experience, where aspiring paleontologists can unearth ancient treasures.
Your canine companions are welcome to join in the family fun. Traverse the dinosaur walk, explore Deinonychus Island to encounter the raptors, stroll through the Skeleton Garden, or brave the Carnivore Boardwalk. Leashed dogs can accompany you throughout the park and gift shop on your self-guided tour. However, access to the museum building is restricted.
On our way back from Florida, we found more dog-friendly places in Georgia and South Carolina. You can also check out our DESTINATIONS to learn more about our travel plans and destinations. Whether you dream of serene beaches, vibrant cities, or breathtaking landscapes, we have travel recommendations for you.