If you’re staying at BeachPoint Cottages and looking for a nearby spot to enjoy with your dog, you’re in luck! Sarasota County is incredibly dog-friendly, with over 80 parks that either welcome leashed dogs or feature off-leash “Paw Parks.”
Although dogs are not allowed on any Siesta Key beaches, the island is very welcoming to dogs. Numerous restaurants and shops in the village welcome your dog. There are numerous neighborhoods and streets nearby to walk your dog. Bu if you want more space and dog interactions, there are several beautiful parks just a short distance from the cottages where both you and your dog can get some exercise and fresh air.
Here are just a few of the nearby parks… Some feature off-leash dog areas and others welcome your leashed dog for walks.
Arlington Park
- Approx. Distance from BeachPoint Cottages: 5 miles
- Address: 2650 Waldemere St., Sarasota, FL 34239
- Features: Off-leash dog park with separate sections for large and small dogs, water stations, and shaded seating.
- More Information: Arlington Park
17th Street Paw Park – This park offers doggie drinking fountains, separate fenced areas for small & large dogs, and plenty of waste disposal bags and trash cans.
- Approx. Distance from BeachPoint Cottages: 6 miles
- Address: 2521 17th St., Sarasota, FL 34234
- Features: Off-leash dog park with separate sections for large and small dogs, water stations, and shaded seating.
- More Information: 17th Street Paw Park
Lakeview Paw Park – A 16-acre neighborhood park located east of I-75 between Bee Ridge Road and Proctor Road. In addition to the paw park, there is a playground, picnic area, and canoe/kayak access to the lake.
- Approx. Distance from BeachPoint Cottages: 6 miles
- Address: 4000 S. Beneva Road, Sarasota, FL 34233
- Features: A two-acre off-leash dog park with separate sections for large and small dogs, benches, and drinking stations.
- More Information: Lakeview Paw Park
Bayfront Park and Marina – A very popular park on the bay in downtown Sarasota. Leashed dogs are welcome to walk with their owners through the grassy areas and the paved path that runs along the bay. There’s also a playground and splash pad for children and a public sculpture garden. O’Leary’s Tiki Bar is a waterside restaurant in the park that allows dogs on its outdoor patio. visit the website
- Approx. Distance from BeachPoint Cottages: 7 miles
- Address: 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, FL 34236
- Features: Leashed dog-friendly park with picnic areas, restrooms, public art, and a walking path around the bayfront.
- More Information: Bayfront Park and Marina
Bird Key Park
- Approx. Distance from BeachPoint Cottages: 7 miles
- Address: 240 S. Bird Key Drive, Sarasota, FL 34236
- Features: Small leashed dog-friendly park with a beach area, walking paths, pavilions, picnic tables, and drinking fountains.
- More Information: Bird Key Park
Keep in mind that dogs must always be on a leash no longer than 6 feet unless visiting an off-leash park. And of course, be sure to pick up after your dog so everyone can enjoy the space. (Please avoid areas like playgrounds or athletic fields, as they are not designated for pets.)
Dogs are not allowed on the beach, but these parks offer a great variety of dog-friendly spaces for you and your pet to enjoy. Don’t forget to keep your dog cool by carrying bottled-water and a travel water dish while enjoying the Florida sun.
Pay close attention to the pavement —if it’s too hot for the back of your hand, it’s too hot for your dog too!
See the details about visiting BeachPoint Cottages with your dog here.