SWFL Loves Dogs

Posted on Apr 5, 2016

Southwest Florida loves dogs. Dogs ARE a family member for most people, and this community understands that. From shops to beaches, many areas welcome the presence of man’s best friend in a variety of different ways. Not only will you love it in the Sunshine State, but your dog will too!

Here are some SWFL places that cater to dogs’ needs and allow them to roam free and have fun in the sun right alongside you!

Dog Parks

Wagging Tails Dog Park | Rotary Park, Cape Coral
This is a spacious dog park that offers separated areas for small and large dogs; it is the only dog park in Cape Coral. For Cape Coral residents, it’s a $15 yearly fee to play in the park. This park includes several benches and shaded areas for owners to sit, relax, and socialize, while their pups have fun.

Central Bark| Riverside Circle, Naples
This dog park is 1.35 acres in size so your pup has plenty of room to frolic freely. It is also known as City of Naples Dog Park. It has separate areas for large and small dogs. Owners can enjoy a seat in one of the park’s benches. Dogs can get a drink beside their best friends (other dogs and humans) at the water fountains in the park. Other conveniences include: dog-washing stations, a shaded structure (The Palmer House), pet-waste dispensers, and trash cans.

K-9 Corral Dog Park | Estero Park, Estero
This large dog park is 2 acres with separate areas for large and small dogs so your pups can play safely. There is a dog-washing station, drinking water, and plenty of shade. This park is even open late (10 p.m.) to cater to people with varying life schedules.

Dog-Friendly Beach

Bonita Beach Dog Park | Lover’s Key State Park, Bonita Springs
Why not enjoy the beach with your best friend? This dog-friendly beach area is a strip of land on the outside edge of Lover’s Key State Park. This is an off-leash beach for your dog to frolic in the sand and water of the Gulf of Mexico. This park is free.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants

These places let your dog accompany you at an outdoor table or bar!

Cape Coral Brewing Company | Cape Coral
Fathoms Restaurant and Bar | Cape Coral
RumRunners | Cape Coral
Stevie Tomato’s Sports Grill | Cape Coral
The Monkey Bar | Cape Coral
The Shell Factory | Fort Myers
Nervous Nellie’s | Fort Myers Beach
The Parrot Key Caribbean Grill | Fort Myers Beach
Terra Nostra | Fort Myers Beach
The Dock at Crayton Cove | Naples
Survey Café | Bonita Springs
Fred’s Food, Fun & Spirits | Naples

Dog-Related Events

Yappy Hour | Fort Myers and Cape Coral
In partnership with the Gulf Coast Humane Society, Fathoms Restaurant with The French Press Café in Cape Harbour host Yappy Hour during the last Saturday of each month in 2016. At this restaurant, the event is held from 5 to 7 p.m. and the restaurant provides beer, wine, and a DJ. In Fort Meyers, the Bell Tower Shops host Yappy Hour from 6 to 8 p.m. on Fridays. Cold refreshments are served alongside live music. Drinking bowls are left outside the stores. Both events are free and proceeds benefit the humane society.

Dog-Friendly Businesses

Lowe’s | Cape Coral
Home Depot | Cape Coral
Ace Hardware | Cape Coral
Coconut Point Mall | Estero
Bell Tower Shoppes | Fort Myers

Moving to SWFL with a Dog

As you can see, there are plenty of places for you to bring your dog in SWFL. Whether you want to grab a bite to eat or lay on the sand, your best companion can be right by your side. To learn more about dog-friendly places in SWFL, contact Kim Amarasimowicz at 239-214-1039. She is not only a realtor, but she loves dogs, too!