For millions of Americans who enjoy traveling with their pets, nothing could be better than a sunny Florida beach vacation in a cozy seaside cottage with all the comforts of home. Choose one with access to an off-leash ocean beach and get the best of all worlds. Finding well-located pet-friendly owners' vacation cottages through a reputable website prior to contacting the owner about your pet requirements is the best approach.
It would be challenging to think of a more relaxed beachfront destination than the Florida Keys. A two-bedroom tropical cottage with a sandy beach in Key Largo reflects the laid-back life. If your dog loves the water, you may spend hours dangling a line into the water off a 100-foot dock. Watch for pelicans and manatees or bring a boat, as dockage and fishing equipment are provided. See photographs and check availability via Vacation Home Rentals.
Located in Juno Beach, Palm Beach County, is a pretty, pink 1940s immaculately restored seaside bungalow, complete with a carriage house for additional accommodation. A 50-yard walkway leads directly to the Atlantic Ocean, where the private beach is off-leash for dogs. While your canine has a swim or meets new friends, ponder which of the seven restaurants in the old town might be right for the next meal out. For dining in, the grocery store is less than a mile away, and the garden table and chairs under the palms is inviting. This cottage is listed on the HomeAway website.
With an unbeatable Gulf of Mexico location, HomeAway's beach cottage is in Siesta Key, known for its gorgeous west-facing sunsets. The two-bedroom cottage is renovated, tidy and well equipped, right down to good Internet access. Bikes are provided for quick jaunts into town, just five minutes away on foot. Kids and dogs appreciate the backyard for playing tag under the trees and some plain old running around. For larger family groups, a rental cottage that sleeps four is available from the same owner.
Destin makes a strong showing on any list of America's top beaches. VRBO's Windsong by the Sea is a pet-friendly three-bedroom cottage set behind a white picket fence in Destin's seaside neighborhood called Crystal Beach. The two-block walk to the beach is a shady one and after a day by the emerald-tinted gulf water, your dog may be eager to enjoy the fenced-in yard and private swimming pool. The cottage's owner suggests firing up the patio grill for an at-home evening or walking into town to a nearby seafood restaurant.
