Dog-Friendly Activities in Nokomis, FL

The Legacy Trail (FL) is one of 1600 rail-trails supported by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, a nonprofit organization that is working to create a nationwide network of trails from former rail lines and connecting corridors. Previously an unused railroad corridor, this "rail-trail" is now a great place to walk Fido in Nokomis! The map below shows a parking area with convenient access to the Legacy Trail (FL). Rails-to-Trails Conservancy has generously provided map data for this trail to Bring Fido for informational purposes only. For more detailed trail information, please visit TrailLink.com.

Laurel Park is a pet-friendly community park in Nokomis, FL. Your leashed dog can join you for a relaxing stroll on the paved walkways, grilling out & picnicking at one of the shelters, hanging out on the spacious lawn, or watching a local sports game. This park also offers access to the 18.5-mile Legacy Trail.

Brohard Paw Park has a fenced dog play area featuring separate sections for small and large dogs, which leads to Sarasota County's only dog-friendly beach. Located in Venice, FL, pups are invited to enjoy a variety of park amenities, including drinking fountains and showers. There are also water fountains, picnic tables and benches. Please observe the posted signage stating where the dog beach ends.

Bayfront Park and Marina is a pet-friendly recreational area in Sarasota, FL. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you for a shaded stroll on the walking path around the bayfront. The park also offers picnic areas, restrooms, public art and more.

Red Bug Slough Preserve is a dog-friendly nature preserve on 72 acres in Sarasota, FL. There are several trails that you can enjoy with your pup, some of which afford views of a small lake. There are two picnic shelters were you can share a snack with Fido. Be aware that you may encounter alligators during your visit, so keeping your dog leashed is imperative. Please clean up after your pets to help protect the flora and fauna.

Sarasota Boat Tours offer dog-friendly charters for an unforgettable experience on the crystal clear waters surrounding Sarasota, FL. Step aboard the Sylvan Tritoon for a memorable excursion with Fido. Tours vary in length from a 2.5 hour sail at sunset to a 6 hour cruise. Sarasota Boat Tours will need to know the number and size of your dog(s) at the time of booking. Due to the warm climate, morning boat tours are recommended if bringing pets.

Shelf Indulgence Used Book Cafe is a dog-friendly, used bookstore and cafe in Sarasota, FL. Shop or enjoy a cup of coffee and bite to eat with Fido by your side! Dogs are welcome both outside at one of the bistro tables along the sidewalk, or inside the store. They offer a wide array of specialty coffee and tea drinks, along with a selection of pasties and fresh-to-order sandwiches and wraps with vegan options available. The shop buys and sells gently-loved books, and also offers free Wi-fi to customers.

Take Fido to Siesta Key Rum in Sarasota, FL, a family-owned and dog-friendly distillery that uses all-natural ingredients. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you in the tasting room as you try their selection of small-batch spirits, which include toasted coconut, coffee, spiced and special age-released rums.

Bring Fido for some off-leash exercise at the Arlington Park Dog Park! This fenced area is located at the Arlington Park & Aquatic Complex in Sarasota, FL, and features separate sections for large and small dogs to play.

Pets are welcome in the Old Prairie and Palmetto Ridge campgrounds at Myakka River State Park, a pet-friendly attraction in Sarasota, FL. This park also offers hiking trails, paddling, wildlife viewing, restrooms and more.

Lemon Bay Park & Environmental Center in Englewood, FL is pet friendly. This waterfront recreation area overlooks Lemon Bay and offers a range of activities for leashed pups and their owners to enjoy. Amenities of the park include paved and unpaved walking trails, a boat ramp, picnic areas, bathrooms, fishing, and more.

Leashed dogs are welcome at Bird Key Park, a pet-friendly park in Sarasota, FL. This park features a beach area, walking paths, pavilions, picnic tables, drinking fountains and more. Enjoy the view of the Sarasota Bay while you walk or sit with Fido!

Bay Street Park is a pet-friendly park in Osprey, FL. This 19-acre area features picnic facilities, restrooms, unpaved walking trails, and a one-acre, off-leash dog park. The dog park has two separate, fenced-in areas for large and small dogs to play. Both sections offer dog exercise equipment, water fountains and shaded seating for dog owners. Leashed dogs are welcome in all other areas of the park.

Spend a day on the water with your four-legged companion during an excursion with Old Salty Dog Boat Charters in Sarasota, FL. This pet-friendly boat tour agency invites guests to choose between a sightseeing cruise, sunset cruise or sand bar cruise. Captain Jonathan will tailor the tour to your desires, whether a three-hour exploration or a day-long outing celebrating something special. Dogs must be well-behaved.

Lakeview Paw Park in Sarasota, FL, features two acres of fenced area with separate sections for large and small dogs. Fido can enjoy some off-leash play with other canines and plenty of shade for rest breaks. Park amenities include benches and drinking stations.

St. Armands Circle is pet-friendly. Leashed dogs are welcome to wander around the outdoor sections of this shopping mall. Here, you'll find an array of shops, restaurants, salons and spas. St. Armands Circle is open every day of the week from 10am to 9pm.

Ann & Chuck Dever Regional Paw Park is a fenced dog park with a separate section for small dogs, water stations, waste bag stations and trash cans. Fido will enjoy the large, grassy area for some off-leash exercise, but please note there is limited shade. There are also dog-friendly trails outside of the fenced area where you and your leashed pup can go for a walk.

Dearborn Street at Olde Englewood Village is a dog-friendly shopping area in Englewood, FL. Leashed pups are invited to enjoy a stroll past historic buildings, antique stores, cafes and more. Many shops are pet friendly for well-behaved, leashed dogs, but it is best to check with your favorite stores in advance. Visit the Chamber of Commerce website for a list of special events held throughout the year along this popular main street.

Enjoy a variety of recreational activities and trails at pet-friendly Oscar Scherer State Park in Osprey, FL. Leashed dogs are allowed in the campground and visitor recreation areas of this 1,381-acre park. Several campsites are not pet friendly, so dog owners should call ahead before arriving. Pets are not allowed in buildings, on playground equipment, rental canoes, on the swimming beach or in the lake. Admission varies by vehicle occupancy and time of day.

Bring Fido to the dog-friendly Gillespie Park in Sarasota, FL. This fun recreation area has two basketball courts, a fitness trail, picnic tables, three tennis courts and an off-leash dog park! Your pup is welcome to join you but must be kept on a leash at all times except when in the fenced-in dog runs.