Dog Parks and Beaches

Dog Parks in Sarasota, and Charlotte County


Dog parks and beaches are providing an excellent opportunity to socialize with other people and other dogs. These are perfect places where people and their dogs can play together or where dogs can play with other dogs. Although the amenities of the dog parks vary widely, most of them (but not all) offer at least dogs off-leash play areas, shade providing trees, drinking water, parking, and restrooms. Some have special fenced areas to divide the "good guys" from the "bad guys." Some even provide picnic tables and grills.

About "Beach Boys" and "Beach Dogs."


You have heard about "Beach Boys," right? Those guys are having fun on the beach. Have you ever heard about "Beach Dogs"? In general, Dogs are not allowed to visit public beaches in Florida. So how and where on earth can they have fun on the beach?

Yes, there is an exception to that rule, like always - or sometimes. Not everything is written in stone, therefore, the local government in Venice decided to designate one portion of the beach to dogs. 

Now there is a place like heaven where you can introduce your dog to the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. There he can swim with you and nobody is yelling at you and your furry friend. 

Click Here for more Information about Venice Dog Beach

If your dog doesn't like the beach - don't go there


Besides that dog beach, there are numerous parks for your dog in case your dog is afraid of water or feels sea sick by watching the waves. Those parks are not only for dogs but there you are allowed to take your dog with you as well. But, dear dog owners, please be aware that there are rules when entering a dog park or any park where dogs are permitted to enter.

Always be courteous to other dog owners and their furry friends. Make sure that your dog is getting along with other dogs. Aggressive behavior needs immediate attention and picking up after the dog should be an uncontested fact. All other dog owners and non-dog owners want to enjoy the park, too.

Best Dog Beaches and Parks

Ann & Chuck Dever Regional Park, features 5 miles of hiking trails. Public dog park with small dog, big dog area. Very large fenced areas for dogs to run.

Lemon Bay Park in the Sarasota County Section of Englewood, close to Dearborn Street. 

Englewood Sports ComplexDog friendly, but leash required.

Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park is tranquil and nature pure. Leash required.

Blue Heron Park a new park off River Road with fenced dog areas for large and small dogs, shade and walking trails.

Oak Park with scenic trail along the Creek and old Oak Trees.

Hounds on Henry Street, with fenced off areas for larger and smaller dogs. Shaded sitting areas. 

  • Woodmere Dog Park, 
  • Brohard Beach Park and Dog Park
  • The Venetian Waterway Park  a 9.3-mile hike and bike trail along the Intracoastal Waterway
  • Blue Heron Park has walking trails and fenced in areas for small and large dogs.

  • Hart’s Landing and Tony Saprito Pier, 420 John Ringling Causeway
  • Indian Beach Park, South end of Bayshore Rd
  • Island Park at Marina Jacks, US 41 and Ringling Blvd
  • Ken Thompson Park/ City Island, 1700 Ken Thompson Pkwy
  • Lakeview Dog Park, 7150 Lago St

  • Bird Key Park, John Ringling Causeway
  • Canine Academy (open to the public on Sat till 12:00), 3825 Sarasota Golf Club Blvd.
  • Centennial Park and Boat Ramp, 1059 N Tamiami Trl
  • Cohen Park, 1900 Myrtle St
  • Fruitville Rd Park, 400 N Beneva Rd
    • Gillespie Park, 710 N Osprey

    • Indian Beach Park, Southend of Bayshore Rd
    • Island Park at Marina Jacks, US 41 and Ringling Blvd
    • Ken Thompson Park/ City Island, 1700 Ken Thompson Pkwy
    • Orange Avenue Park, 1822 N Orange Ave