Naples might be known for it amazing beaches, but if you’re looking for a dog beach, Naples Florida doesn’t offer many to choose from.
So how exactly is Naples dog friendly? Well, in a lot of ways.
Because of the year round great weather in Naples, there are lots of fun things to do and places to bring your dog in Naples and enjoy the great outdoors.
But just because you can’t bring them to most beaches in Naples doesn’t mean they’re not welcome, or there aren’t things to do with your dogs in Naples.
Wait…did she just say you can’t bring your dog to most beaches in Naples? I did — good catch!
There are a number of cool places to take your dog while you’re here including parks, breweries, restaurants, and YES a couple of beaches too — some of the best in the area, as a matter of fact!
Ready to find out where you can find the best places to visit Naples with your dog?
FYI — for the purpose of this post, we’re assuming you’re just interested in bringing your dog. We can’t speak to snakes, armadillos, iguanas or the like — come to think of it, we already have them here so why bring your own.
As for cats, if they’re anything like ours, I can’t even imagine putting them on a leash and taking them for a fun little day trip around southwest Florida!
Table of Contents
(Click to Jump Ahead)
Dog Parks Naples Florida
Dog Friendly Beaches Naples Florida
Dog Friendly Things to Do
Dog Friendly Breweries in Naples
Dog Friendly Restaurants in Naples
Pet Friendly Hotels in Naples
Are Naples Beaches Dog-Friendly?
Many visitors to Naples Florida may not know that dogs are not allowed on any Collier County beach, the county seat of government in Naples and Marco Island.
It can be confusing at times, since Naples is one of those places where parts of the city are governed by Collier County and other parts by the City of Naples.
But both government entities generally agree on one important issue: Dogs are not allowed on Collier County beaches or City of Naples beaches including:
Collier County: Barefoot Beach Access and Preserve, Bluebill Access, Vanderbilt Beach and Garage, Clam Pass, North Gulfshore Access, Tigertail Beach, and South Marco Beach Access.
City of Naples: The Naples Municipal beach and Naples Pier, and Lowdermilk Park.
Why Aren’t Naples Beaches Dog Friendly?
So why aren’t Naples beaches more dog-friendly? Well for several reasons.
First, because dogs on beaches can be very disruptive to the natural ecosystem, including shore birds, sea turtle nests, and other animals that make the beach their home.
Second, there’s the issue of humans also swimming in the water, something that most visitors to Naples look forward to doing.
While it may be tempting to think dog waste can simply wash away with the tide, there is really no way to remove dog waste from the water.
Dog Parks Naples Florida
While most beaches in Naples and Marco aren’t open to dogs, they are allowed in Collier County Parks, and in nearby Bonita Springs. Here are two good dog parks Naples Florida and Bonita Springs have to offer.
Naples Dog Park
The 1.35 acre Naples Dog Park has fenced, lush green landscaping anddog-friendly mulch.
The South section allows large dogs to run freely on one acre, while the North section is composed of .35 acres and is dedicated to small dogs.
In the center of the park is the Palmer House, a lovely shade structure that has benches, drinking fountains for each of you, and a picnic area.
Location: 99 Riverside Circle, Naples, FL
Parking: FREE. 43 parking spaces are located to the North where the Park connects to the Greenway.
Park Hours: Dawn to Dusk
DogPark Pass Registration and Dog Tag required
All dogs must be up-to-date with shots and license with Collier County. For more info on how to register your dog, visit their website.
Registrations are dog specific
Dog tags are non-transferrable between dogs and/or owners
Each dog requires a separate dog tag
Bonita Springs Bark-N-Play Park
The Bonita Springs Bark-N-Play Park is a wooded, spacious park that covers approximately six acres.
There are three fenced areas for small, medium, and large dog breeds.
The Park also features a covered pavilion, dog washing station, picnic tables, benches, and an asphalt multi-use path.
Leitner Creek also winds through the park, adding serenity and beauty for guests.
The park is solely an off-lead play area, but your dog must be leashed within the parking areas and when entering or exiting off-leash areas of Bark-N-Play Park. 11071 E Terry St, Bonita Springs, FL
Parking: FREE. For more information visit the Bonita Springs Dog Park website.
Location: 14436 Bonita Beach CSWY, Bonita Springs, FL
Park Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Dog Friendly Beaches Naples Florida
Bonita Beach Dog Beach / Naples Dog Beach
If you or your dog is longing to break free and frolic at the beach, this watery dog park may become the stuff of both your dreams!
Despite the fact it’s located in Bonita, this is what some locals (from Naples) call the Naples Dog Beach, a lovely strip of beach that sits at the outer edge of Lover's Key State Park — not far from Naples but still in Bonita on your way to Ft. Myers Beach.
It’s the perfect place to watch the sunset in Naples or Fort Myers Beach with your dog!
The “park” itself is an off leash beach to let your dog run free in the shallow, calm water of the Gulf of Mexico — no fences, leashes, or worries.
We know people who visit this beach who don't even have dogs (we were among them before we got our new pup), but they come just to enjoy watching the dogs run and play in the water.
The water here is mostly ankle-to-knee deep. The beach is part of the tidal flats area of Big Hickory and Lover’s Key State Park, so the tides change continuously.
During high tide you may have to wade through some water to get to it so be prepared.
Though you can't see Dog Beach from the main road, follow the signs around the trees and a clearing will open up to Dog Beach.
No license is required at Dog Beach — There are no restrooms at Dog Beach other than a portable toilet.
No running water so remember to bring some for your pet.
But there are doggie shower stations to rinse your dog before leaving the park.
No glass containers or alcohol allowed.
This is an unsupervised facility. You are responsible for yourself, your dog and its behavior. Please pick up their waste when you’re done.
Parking: FREE. For more information visit www.leeparks.org.
Location: 14436 Bonita Beach CSWY, Bonita Springs, FL
Park Hours: Dawn to Dusk
DogPark Pass Registration and Dog Tag required
A Word About Your Dogs and Alligators
Alligators are found throughout southwest Florida in fresh and brackish water. Though it’s rare, they can occasionally be found in saltwater. Just be on the lookout and always diligent if you’re unsure which is which.
For more information, check out our Naples Alligator Guide.
Keewaydin Island
Although none of the beaches in Naples or Marco Island allow dogs, ironically, canines on a leash are welcome on Keewaydin Island, and if you had to pick the most pristine beach in all of Naples — probably one of the most pristine dog friendly beaches in Florida — this would be it.
The kicker is, this beautiful eight-mile-long barrier island between Naples and Marco Island is accessible only by boat — one big reason for it’s unspoiled landscape.
Take the Naples Water Taxi, a Naples boat tour that allows dogs (call ahead), or ask a friend with a boat — or rent your own for the day — and head to Keewaydin one day with your dog!
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
Because it’s a Florida State Park, Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is one of the dog friendly beaches Naples Florida gets to claim.
Well-behaved pets are welcome to explore the park on a six-foot, hand-held leash.
And while they’re not allowed on the beach itself, there is a nature trail which runs the length of the Park which is dog-friendly!
There’s a picnic pavilion, restroom facilities, wildlife viewing, and geo-seeking, and dogs can accompany you as your explore.
Owners must bring bags to clean up after their pets. Delnor-Wiggins State Park is open from 8am to sundown, year-round.
Admission: $6 per car
Dog Friendly Things to Do in Naples
Dog Days at Naples Botanical Garden
The Naples Botanical Garden is open to pets several days each week.
Dog walking days are Sundays and Tuesdays from 9 -11am and can explore the gardens and pathways as you explore.
If this is your dog’s first visit, you will need to fill out a dog form prior to arrival.
One dog per adult. No retractable leashes are permitted.
Top Dog Kitchen
Your best friend is gonna love these yummy treats that have truly gone to the dogs!
Top Dog Kitchen sells human grade, 100% pure meat single ingredient dog treats. These dog treats are made in the USA with USDA meats that are gluten and grain-free.
In addition, they also make their own corn, wheat & soy free freshly baked dog treats made at our kitchen in Naples, Florida.
On Saturday mornings, you’ll find Top Dog Kitchen at the 3rd Street Farmer’s Market, or online too — for when you get home and your dog is hound-ing you for more.
Doga at BKS Yoga Studio
Of course, DOGA. Your dog loves yoga! You didn’t know that?
BKS Yoga Studio Doga in Naples is super pet-friendly and offers Doga, the art of yoga with your dog. Breathe deep, stretch together, and relax with the help of a highly trained instructor.
Doga can be done with a dog of any size in a private yoga lesson with you both, plus and the instructor and her dog.
They’ll even arrange a meeting time before the scheduled private session where both dogs can meet to ensure a fun and happy class. 2900 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, FL
Cost: $30 for a single session, 4 sessions for $112, and 7 Sessions for $182.
Dog Friendly Breweries in Naples
When you’re in the tropics with your dog, there’s no better way to kick back than at a local brewery, with like-minded souls looking to relax. Am I right?
That’s why we listed these dog-friendly Naples breweries first, ahead of restaurants.
All of these places are perfect for enjoying a cold beer on a hot day with your dog. Or enjoying your dog on a hot day with a beer. Or your dog enjoying a beer on a hot day with you….and your own beer and hot dog!
Riptide Brewery - 987 3rd Ave N, Naples, FL
Bone Hook Brewing Co. - Pet-friendly outdoor tables. 1514 Immokalee Rd, Naples, FL
Ankrolab Brewing - 3555 Bayshore Dr, Naples, FL
Dog Friendly Restaurants in Naples
Don’t let its well-heeled reputation fool you — Naples is super dog-friendly when it comes to dining out!
And since the weather is nice here all year round, many Naples restaurants and cafes have outdoor patios, or at least a half dozen tables where you can dine al fresco.
In that case, most every restaurant you visit will accommodate your well-behaved dog no matter what size.
Some owners and waitstaff even go out of their way to make pet owners feel welcome with a bowl of water and some treats — not for you, for your dog!
Here are a few of our favorite dog-friendly restaurants in Naples, Bonita, and Isle of Capri.
Bayshore Arts District
The Real Macaw - Plenty of outside dining where dogs are welcome. 3275 Bayshore Dr, Naples, FL
Market 360 - Dogs allowed on outside patio. They even have water bowls and treats for your four-legged friends. 2891 Bayview Dr, Naples, FL
Celebration Food Truck Park - Dogs are welcome at the food truck park on a leash. 2880 Becca Ave, Naples, FL
3rd Street South
Ridgway Bar & Grill - Pet friendly seating on the porch or in the garden having a fabulous Naples brunch. 1300 3rd St S, Naples, FL
Barbatella - Dogs are welcome at twenty five outdoor tables. 1290 3rd St S, Naples, FL
Jane’s Cafe on 3rd — Dogs are welcome at several outdoor table. 1209 3rd St S, Naples, FL
Tommy Bahama Restaurant - This lively restaurant famous for their nightlife is also dog-friendly with seating on the outside patio. 1220 3rd St S, Naples, FL
5th Avenue South
Chops City Grill - Dog friendly outside seating. 837 5th Ave S, Naples, FL
Captain & Crewe - One of Naples’ best seafood restaurants has 5 pet-friendly outdoor tables. 629 8th St S, Naples, FL
Caffe Milano - dog-friendly outdoor patio seating. 800 5th Ave S, Naples, FL
Park Shore
Kunjani Coffee House - welcomes dogs and their owners in the outdoor seating area. 780 Seagate Dr, Naples, FL
Cafe Luna - Dogs are welcome at eight outdoor tables. 1100 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, FL
M Waterfont Grille - This long-running Naples eatery has several outdoor tables overlooking Venetian Bay, and they’ll even offer your pooch water and treats. The Village on Venetian Bay, 4300 Gulf Shore Blvd N, Naples, FL
The Village Pub - Over a dozen dog-friendly outdoor patio tables overlooking Venetian Bay. The Village on Venetian Bay, 4360 Gulf Shore Blvd N, Naples, FL
Rte 41 / North Naples
The Capital Grille — Located in Mercato, there are five-six dog-friendly tables outside. 9005 Mercato Dr, Naples, FL
Joe’s Diner - More than ten outdoor tables. 9331 Tamiami Trl N, Naples, FL
Fit and Fuel Cafe — Seating at front umbrella tables are dog-friendly. 819 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples, FL
Miller’s Ale House - Eleven dog-friendly tables on the outside patio. Across from Lowe’s, 6320 Hollywood Dr, Naples, FL
Naples Bay
The Dock at Crayton Cove - Dogs are welcome on the outdoor deck overlooking Crayton Cove. 845 12th Ave S, Naples, FL
Bleu Provence - Dogs are welcome at tables on the outdoor patio. 1234 8th St S, Naples, FL
The Boathouse - Outdoor seating area is dog friendly. 990 Broad Ave S, Naples, FL
Bayfront and Tin City
EJ’s Bayfront Cafe - Outdoor seating welcomes dogs. 469 Bayfront Pl, Naples, FL
Pinchers Crab Shack - Outdoor patio with lots of pet-friendly waterfront seating. Tin City, 1200 5th Ave S, Naples, FL
Bonita
DeRomo's Gourmet Market & Restaurant — Plenty of outdoor seating at the Promenade, 26811 S Bay Dr, Bonita Springs, FL
The Brass Tap - Well-behaved dogs are welcome at front and side outdoor tables. 28010 Race Track Rd, Bonita Springs, FL
Isle of Capri
Pelican Bend - Outdoor water-view seating is dog friendly. 219 Capri Blvd, Naples, FL
The Island Gypsy - A lovely tropical beach bar where leashed dogs are welcome on the spacious deck seating area. 292 Capri Blvd, Naples, FL
Capri Fish House - Their outdoor tiki bar welcomes well-behaved dogs. 203 Capri Blvd, Naples, FL
Pet Friendly Hotels in Naples
Edgewater Beach Hotel
When it comes to loving your dog as much as you do, it’s hard to beat the Edgewater Beach Hotel in Naples.
Their OPAL Collection Paws Sit, Stay & Play program will welcome your furry canine companions (30 pounds or less) in style.
They’ll even set your pooch up with a gift bag outfitted with waste bags and dental stick treats at no additional charge to ensure everyone has a chic stay!
Guests will be charged a non-refundable fee of $75 per night, per dog.
How is this for the De-luxe Doggie treatment? Guests bringing canine companions will also be outfitted with a plush Opal Paws dog mat and food and water bowls to ensure your dog’s vacation is as great as yours. You can take these home with you, for an additional $30 fee.
The hotel has plenty of pet-friendly areas for your best friend to explore: Guest room, hallways & lobby.
Leash Policy: Please keep your pet on a leash at all times. Pets are not permitted in Coast Restaurant, on the pool deck or beach.
Gulf coast Inn Naples
Gulf Coast Inn Naples is one of the best dog-friendly hotels in Naples. And if you love a good time, Harold’s Place at the Gulf Coast Inn has one of the most fun pool tiki bars in town!
One dog up to 50 lbs for an additional fee of $25 per night.
Guests with dogs will be assigned to rooms on the ground floor near the parking lot.
Crated dogs may be left unattended in rooms.
An on-site grassy relief area with pet station.
The Inn of Naples
Accepts up to two pets of any size for an additional fee of $50 (for stays of 1 to 4 nights) and $100 (for stays of 5 nights or more).
Naples Bay Resort & Marina
Welcomes two pets up to 40 lbs for an additional fee of $75 per stay. Only King Superior Rooms and Suites allow pets. Cottages are not pet friendly.
Both dogs and cats are accepted, and well-behaved pets may be left in rooms unattended. Pets are not permitted in the pool area or club. There are areas for pet relief on the property.
With so many dog-friendly places in Naples and fun places to take your dog, you’re sure to make your Naples vacation one you’ll both enjoy!
Things to Do
Lori Sorrentino
pet-friendly, dog-friendly, dog beach, beaches, Naples, parks, NaplesFL1
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