Whether you’re a parent, student, teacher, or even the teacher’s pet, you’re likely counting down the days until you can get away from the classroom and relax on the beach, by the lake or maybe in a national park. Thankfully, spring break is right around the corner. This year, plan a getaway to a cozy, pet-friendly cottage and make memories with the whole family.
Dog-Friendly Cottage Rentals for Spring Break
Posted by Lauren Barker
Key West, FL
If Fido’s craving sunshine and a sea breeze, this two-bedroom Dreamworks Conch Cottage in Key West will have him wagging his tail to a Jimmy Buffett tune. The home is nestled in the heart of Old Town, just a few blocks from Clarence S. Higgs Beach Dog Park, the Southernmost Point of the continental U.S., and dog-friendly Cuban coffee shops, bars and restaurants like Banana Cafe. You and your pup can watch the world go by from the front porch, or grill out and enjoy a family dinner on the back deck surrounded by palm trees. If he’s itching for more ways to explore the Conch Republic, check out our dog-friendly guide to the Florida Keys.
Freeport, TX
Spending your spring break in Texas? Let your pup put her salty paws up at the Salty Poodle, a two-bedroom cottage just steps away from the beaches of Treasure Island. Enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico from the wrap-around deck, relax with your family around the outdoor fire pit, and let the kids play on the outdoor swing set or at the neighborhood playground. When you’re ready to venture out, beach towels and chairs are provided, along with fishing gear and a kayak perfect for the paddling trails at Galveston Island State Park, home to some of the best fresh and saltwater fishing in the South. Venture into Galveston to spend a day at dog-friendly East Beach or Stewart Beach Park, and enjoy dinner at Marina Bar & Grill, where Fido can order something delicious from the dog menu.
Folly Beach, SC
Just a short drive from historic Charleston, Folly Beach allows leashed pups to play from September 30 to May 1, making it the “pawfect” addition to a spring break in South Carolina. This fun beach cottage is a short walk to the ocean and close to dog-friendly shops and restaurants on Center Street, like Lost Dog Cafe and the Folly Beach Crab Shack. Guests can relax in the shared courtyard beer garden where kids will love playing yard games like giant Connect Four. If you’re bringing the extended family along on vacation and need more space, book the trio of cottages connected by the courtyard.
Lake Tahoe, CA
While we usually associate spring break with the beach, March and April are a great time to enjoy the stunning Sierra Mountains surrounding Lake Tahoe. Stay with Fido at Moondance Cottage in Carnelian and breathe in fresh mountain air from the spacious back deck, soak in the outdoor hot tub, or cuddle up with the family by the indoor fireplace. The open living area with large windows and partial lake views is ideal for family game nights. When you’re ready to get out and explore, spend a day skiing and sledding with your pup at Tahoe City Winter Sports Park, or take a hike through Skylandia State Park. When the weather permits, grab lunch in the sunshine at one of the picnic tables of the Old Post Office Cafe.
St. Simon’s Island, GA
Experience true southern living when you bring your family to this dog-friendly island cottage on the Georgia coast. Nestled in the live oaks and Spanish moss, you’ll feel like you’re worlds away from it all while being just a short walk to beaches that will allow Fido to run leash free in the months before Memorial Day. You’ll also be within walking distance to the aquatic fun park for the kids and the Kings Park Dog Run where Fido can get in his zoomies. Let your pup relax next to you on the screened-in porch while you sip your morning coffee and enjoy the sea breeze. If you’d prefer to dine out, head to dog- and kid-friendly Barrier Island Brewing.
Gulf Shores, AL
Plan a spring break trip to Alabama’s Gulf Coast and stay at this dog-friendly beach cottage nestled on a quiet, wooded lot just one block from the ocean. The home is stocked with everything you’ll need for a week away, but dog-friendly restaurants like The Beach House Kitchen and Cocktails are just a short drive away. Sunbathing pups will enjoy the large, wrap-around deck, and leashed dogs are welcome on the public beach as well as at nearby Fort Morgan Historic Site Bayside Beach. While you’re there, your pooch can join the family on a tour of Fort Morgan State Historic Park.
Bend, OR
You’ll have no trouble finding family- and pet-friendly activities during a delightful spring break in Bend, and this riverfront cottage provides the perfect homebase for your week away. French doors open from the kitchen to a large deck with an outdoor bar and dining set, so you can enjoy dinner overlooking the Deschutes River. Spring brings wildlife to the river including baby ducks, geese, osprey and eagles. The double-fenced backyard is safe for children and pets and features a fire pit surrounded by Adirondack chairs. After dinner, gather the family around to enjoy the complimentary s’mores kit. With backyard river access, your pup can splash in the water, and stand up paddle boards and kayaks are available for the whole family to enjoy. The location is walkable to many downtown shops and restaurants, like the dog-friendly McMenamins Old St. Francis School.
San Diego, CA
Beautiful weather is never guaranteed during spring break, but if you want a safe bet, escape to sunny San Diego and kick back at this Brighton Beach Cottage. The central location makes it easy to walk to dog-friendly restaurants like Daybreak Island Grill and Newbreak Coffee and Cafe. The home is just one block from one of the most popular canine hot spots in San Diego, the Original Dog Beach. But with a waterfront view from the front deck and a private backyard, you may never want to leave. Beach towels and chairs are available to use along with boogie boards and surfboards for the kids.
Dunedin, FL
The clear blue ocean water and white sand beaches make Florida’s Gulf Coast a favorite destination for spring breakers everywhere. Pink Flamingo in downtown Dunedin provides the ideal basecamp for a week of beach fun and relaxation. Located one block from Main Street, you can easily walk to dog-friendly stores like Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming and dine at restaurants like Sandpiper Cafe. After your meal, swing by Strachan’s Ice Cream and Desserts for the kids and pick up a doggie ice cream for Fido from Bark Avenue of Dunedin. The fenced backyard with a dining area and sunshade has room for the whole family to enjoy a home-cooked meal outside, or an evening in the hot tub. If Fido came for the beach, you’ll be just a short drive to the dog-friendly beaches of Honeymoon Island State Park and Clearwater North Beach.
Moab, UT
If visiting a national or state park with your family is on your agenda this spring break, book a stay at The Willow Cottage in Moab, UT. Centrally located near Arches National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park, the cottage offers plenty of opportunities for you and Fido to explore the area’s many natural wonders. Canine hikers will also enjoy a trek to Corona Arch, while pups who prefer to trot alongside their owners on a bike ride, can venture into town on the complimentary beach cruisers and have dinner on the patio of The Blu Pig. After a day of adventure, relax in the hot tub of the shared backyard and listen to the water feature while watching the night sky from Adirondack chairs.