Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

6 Top Dog-Friendly Beaches in Fort Myers, FL (2025 Update)

black and white french bulldog at the beach

Want to catch some sun and sand? Fort Myers, Florida is famous for its beautiful beaches. But if you’re in the area with a four-legged friend, you’ll have to find dog-friendly places to visit. Luckily, we’ve done that extra digging for you! Whether you’re looking for a morning jog or a day playing in the surf, these beaches are sure to please.

Note: Since Hurricane Ian, some of these beaches may be temporarily closed. Please check with local authorities for an updated opening status.

Dogster divider_v2_NEW_MAY_24_

The 6 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Fort Myers, FL

1. Bonita Beach Dog Park

️ Address: 8800 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 34134   
Open Times: Sunrise to sunset
Cost: Free (On-site parking $2/hr)
Off-Leash: Yes
  • Great place to splash and play free!
  • Only off-leash beach in Fort Myers
  • Least crowded in the early morning hours
  • It’s protected against rough waves and full of friendly pups
  • Includes on-site showering station

2. Newton Park

️ Address: 4650 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931   
Open Times: 5 AM–7 PM
Cost: Free (Parking $3/hr)
Off-Leash: No
  • Enjoy playing in the sand and relaxing in the shade of a grass canopy at this beach
  • Popular beach, with parking that fills up fast
  • Make sure to keep your dog leashed and clean up any messes

3. Sanibel Causeway Islands Park

️ Address: 19931 Sanibel Causeway Rd. Sanibel, FL 33957   
Open Times: 7 AM–8 PM
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: No
  • Two artificial islands link Sanibel Island to the mainland in a long, skinny beach
  • A great place to hunt for shells with your pooch
  • Better for walking, not relaxing

4. Gulfside Beach

️ Address: 2001 Algiers Lane Sanibel, FL 33957
Open Times: Sunrise–Sunset
Cost: $6 Island entry toll (On-site parking $2/hr before 7 PM)
Off-Leash: No
  • Beautiful, sheltered sandy beach
  • Great place for nature walks! But keep your pup on an 8-foot leash or shorter.
  • Wash stations, restrooms, and picnic tables available
  • Gulfside Beach is home to endangered turtles and shorebirds—help your pup leave nests alone
  • Stay hydrated—doggy water fountains are available.

5. Bowman’s Beach

️ Address: 1700 Bowman’s Beach Rd. Sanibel, FL 33957
Open Times: Sunrise–Sunset
Cost: $6 Island Entry Toll (Parking $5/hr)
Off-Leash: No
  • Perfect for swimming, hiking, and picnics
  • Bring plenty of water—this beach doesn’t have drinking fountains!
  • Splash and play in the warm water

6. Lighthouse Beach Park

️ Address: 110 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL, 33957
Open Times: 24 Hours
Cost: $6 Island Entry Toll (Parking $5/hr)
Off-Leash: No
  • A dynamic, rugged beach perfect for adventurers
  • 32 acres of shoreline and hiking
  • One of the less-crowded beaches in Fort Myers

Dogster divider_v2_NEW_MAY_24_

Conclusion

If you and your furry best friend are in Fort Myers, we hope you check out one of these beaches! Whether you enjoy the off-leash fun at Bonita Dog Beach or have some leashed fun in the sun on one of the other beautiful beaches, there is always something to do! No matter where you go, don’t forget to stay hydrated, be respectful, and clean up after any messes.

See Also:


Featured Image Credit: Gabriella Clare Marino, Unsplash

Want content like this delivered to you?

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

News, insights, expert advice, and everything dog

* By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

How Smart Is a Pitbull? Facts & FAQ

Affectionate and friendly when socialized as a puppy, the Pitbull is an amazing dog. Many who own Pitbulls praise them for their devoted...

Can Dogs Get Lice From Humans? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

You might have experienced the discomfort and annoyance of dealing with lice at some point in your life. These tiny, flat, and wingless...

How Much Crude Protein Should Be in Dog Food? Vet-Verified Facts & Advice

Finding out how much crude protein should be in dog food, as it turns out, is not an easy question to answer. Let’s...

Things to Do Before Putting Your Dog Down: 12-Vet Approved Tips to Make It Bearable

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the toughest things to go through. If you find yourself faced with making this...

More related

How Long Can You Leave a Dog Alone at Home? (Facts & FAQ)

Dogs are social creatures that love to spend time with their humans. Even though most dog parents would spend every possible moment with...

Can Dogs Eat Beans? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts, Tips & Risks

Unlike their feline counterparts, dogs are omnivores and are adapted to derive nutrients from consuming both plant materials as well as animal tissue....

Safe Paw Ice Melter Review 2025: A Pet-Friendly Way to De-Ice

Icy sidewalks and excited dogs do not mix. Another thing that typically doesn’t go well together? Pets and ice melt products. Even products...

How to Become a Dog Trainer in 12 Easy Steps

It’s a good time to get started in the animal care business. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the animal trainer...

Keep reading

Kirkland vs Blue Buffalo Dog Food Comparison 2025: Which Is Better?

Choosing the right food for your dog should be simple, right? We get it—with countless brands, endless ingredient lists, and ever-evolving advice on what’s best for each dog, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. What’s truly healthy for our furry friends?...

Dogster_Dog Food Kirkland VS Blue Buffalo

10 Best Non-GMO Dog Foods in 2025: Reviews & Top Picks

There are so many different types of dog foods on the market. From “grain-free” to “holistic” to “human-grade,” how do you choose the best one for your canine pal? Many marketing terms are used on dog food labels nowadays, and...

Gizmo white fluffy dog with Ollie dog food box

Can Dogs Eat Bacon? Vet-Reviewed Health Facts & FAQ

If there’s an aroma guaranteed to get dogs drooling and gazing up at you with big, pleading eyes, it’s the smell of bacon cooking. As much as you may want to indulge your pooch, it’s wise to hold off on...

Can Dogs Eat Bacon

How Much Should a Dachshund Eat in a Day? Adult & Puppy Feeding Guide

Like every dog breed, the Dachshund requires proper nutrition to grow healthy and strong and to stay that way throughout their life. Poor nutrition could lead to serious health problems, lower quality of life, and even a shorter lifespan. Fortunately,...

Black Dachshund dog guarding and eating food

Can Dogs Eat Walnuts? Vet-Verified Facts & Safety Tips

Dogs can eat many foods that humans eat, and you can enjoy sharing a variety of snacks with your dog. However, in most cases, dogs should refrain from eating nuts and seeds, including walnuts. While walnuts in themselves aren’t toxic...

Can Dogs Eat Walnuts

How to Add Grain to a Grain-Free Dog Food: 5 Vet Approved Tips

Over the last decade or so, grain-free and gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular for humans, and by extension, that popularity has trickled down into canine diets, too. However, as with the human population, provided the balance of nutrients is...

Weimaraner eating dog food

Organ Meat for Dogs: Vet-Verified Safety & Preparation Tips 

Organ meats from animals that are raised properly and safely, such as farmed chickens, turkeys, ducks, cows, and sheep, can be a healthy and nutrient-rich treat for your dog. However, while dogs can technically eat organ meat, it’s crucial that...

Cooked chicken livers and gizzards in hot cast iron pan

7 Golden Rules for Feeding Your Dog: Vet-Verified Advice & Info

As a dog owner, you know the key to your pup’s good health is proper nutrition. Navigating the different types of dog food out there can be confusing. You want to make sure they are getting what they need, but...

Dog Feeding Schedule