Known for its beautiful beaches, year-round tropical climate, boundless wetland preserves, (and possibly alligators), it’s a no-brainer why the Sunshine State is one of the top travel destinations in the country, and it’s also a great place to take your pooch.
Whether you’re looking to put those toes or paws) in the sand, swim in crystal clear springs, or explore the wild nature of the Everglades with your canine companion, there are endless activities for you and your fur baby to enjoy, and wherever you are in Florida, you’re never more than 60 miles from the nearest body of saltwater.
As a popular tourist destination, places to stay in Florida are abundant and many of them are willing to accommodate four-legged friends too.
Luckily, we’ve done the dirty work for you. WIthout further ado, here are 9 of the best pet-friendly cabins to stay at while exploring the vast nature of real Florida with your canine companion.
1. Huge Lodge on the Santa Fe River
Why you should stay: Rustic family stay
- Pet Fees: $100 per stay
- Pet Policies: Up to 2 dogs less than 50 lbs
- Pet Amenities: Fenced yard
Located on the banks of the Santa Fe River in rural Florida, the Big Cypress Lodge is the perfect rustic escape for a big family, including your canine kids of course. This 5-bedroom lodge sleeps up to 14 and has everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay. The property is completely fenced so you’ll never have to worry about your furry friend wandering too far.
Spend your days exploring the river in one of the lodge’s three kayaks or cozy up around the fire pit while you watch boats go by. The lodge also gives a key to the TREPO parks, giving you access to nine beautiful parks for you and your canine companion to roam.
2. Riverfront House with Private Boat Dock
Why you should stay: You can dock your boat out front
- Pet Fees: Not listed
- Pet Policies: Up to 3 dogs allowed – must be flea treated and crated if left alone in the house
- Pet Policies: Fenced yard
This homey 3-bedroom riverfront home located on the Santa Fe River has everything you need for a relaxing getaway. Enjoy your morning coffee on the sprawling back deck watching the wildlife in the garden or boats floating down the river. The property even has one acre of fenced yard for your pooch to run free. But I hope your pup likes water too because there’s so much to see from the river right out back.
Situated in a great location of the Santa Fe, just around a bend from the Ichetucknee River, the crystal clear water is perfect for swimming, tubing, canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, and boating. If you have your own boat, you can even tie it up to the property’s private dock and explore at your leisure. Alternatively, the property has a canoe and four kayaks you can use during your stay to explore nearby Ichetucknee Springs State Park, home to some of the most pristine springs in the state.
3. Log Cabin on the River
Why you should stay: For a rustic romantic getaway
- Pet Fees: Not listed
- Pet Policies: Pets allowed, contact host for more info
Situated on the tranquil banks of the Withlacoochee River, this cozy 1 bedroom log cabin in Brookesville is the ultimate hideaway for a bit of nature, relaxation, and maybe even a little romance. The property includes amenities like kayaks and fishing gear for you to use during your stay and boasts a fully stocked kitchen for the at-home chef.
During your stay there are countless dog-friendly activities for you and your pup to enjoy. On land, you can fish from the dock, cozy up next to the toasty fire, or adventure by foot through the wilderness on the Withalacoochie trail. Alternatively, explore the area by water wandering down the river via kayak to Madison Blue Spring State Park.
Related read: 12 Indoor Dog Parks Active Pups Absolutely Love
4. Private Ranch in Lake County
Why you should stay: 7 private acres of peace and tranquility
- Pet Fees: Not listed
- Pet Policies: Up to 4 dogs less than 50 lbs
- Pet Amenities: Fenced yard and dog bed
Sitting on 7 private acres, The Green Cabin Ranch is the ultimate country retreat. This charming 2-bedroom log cabin in Lake County is complete with all the modern amenities you’ll need to feel like you’re at home, yet still completely secluded in nature. The expansive grassy landscape, encircled by majestic live oak trees is the most serene setting for total relaxation. The entire property is completely fenced giving your canine friends freedom to run and play.
If you do choose to explore outside the property, there are many lakes nearby for a day of fun in the sun with your furry friend. Venture out into acres upon acres of preserves for a taste of real Florida nature, and for some city life and entertainment, Orlando is just 35 minutes away.
5. Oceanfront A-Frame Cabin in Vilano Beach
Why you should stay: Steps to the ocean
- Pet Fees: Contact host for cost of fee
- Pet Policies: Pets allowed
Nestled in the dunes of Vilano Beach, this cozy 2 bedroom A-frame overlooking the ocean is a total dream. While petite in size, this home has everything you’ll need for the perfect beach getaway with your pooch, not to mention the views of the ocean from inside and out are unbeatable.
Only steps to the white sands of Vilano Beach, you and your beach baby can enjoy long days in the sand and the sea. Visit nearby St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city where you’ll find an abundance of restaurants, museums, shops, and entertainment.
6. Luxury Cabin in Homosassa
Why you should stay: A luxury stay
- Pet Fees: Not listed
- Pet Policies: Pets allowed, contact host for more info
Sitting on five private acres, this luxury log cabin in Homosassa provides the ultimate country stay with premium amenities. Equipped with a hot tub, huge wrap-around deck, fire pit, a chef’s kitchen, and the plushest beds, you may never want to leave.
Located nearby to all the best attractions in Florida’s original fishing village, take your pup for one of the many dog-friendly activities like kayaking with the manatees, hiking in nature preserves, swimming in natural springs, or scalloping for your dinner.
7. Boat House on Lake Dora
Why you should stay: The location
- Pet Fees: $100
- Pet Policies: Up to 2 cats or dogs less than 50lbs
Located on Mount Dora’s Famous Boat House Row, this quaint boat house is perfect for a relaxing retreat right on the lake. Wake up every morning to panoramic views of the lake and enjoy colorful sunsets every evening from the cozy porch.
If your four-legged friend doesn’t have his sea legs yet, the boat house is just a few steps away from downtown Mount Dora, a charming little town full of history and best known for its antiquing and year-round festivals. When it’s time for a little exercise, take your pup to Mount Dora Dog Park, a large off-leash dog park where your fur baby can run and play.
8. The Secluded Nature House
Why you should stay: Getting off the grid
- Pet Fees: $200 per pet per stay
- Pet Policies: Pets allowed with written approval, aggressive breeds are not allowed
The Nature House, a gorgeous home nestled in the great outdoors of Hernando, is the ultimate dream for those who want to be completely secluded in nature. Featuring expansive floor-to-ceiling windows you can look out into stunning views of the yard and the massive oak tree veiled in Spanish moss.
While secluded, The Nature House isn’t far from the area’s best sights and attractions. Located on a canal leading to the Withlacoochee River, you and your pup can reach many of Florida’s best springs by one of the house’s two two-seater canoes.
9. Family Cabin on Cedar Key
Why you should stay: Quiet island getaway
- Pet Fees: $50
- Pet Policies: 1 dog less than 50 lbs
Located on the quiet island of Cedar Key on the Gulf Coast of Florida, this rustic 3-bedroom cabin boasts a waterfront locale and stunning sunset views. The cabin itself has a rich family history with every item in the home only adding to its story.
Take one of the house’s three provided kayaks and explore this quaint island by water with your salty sea dog or wander on foot into town and see all that Cedar Key has to offer. While in town, take a walk with your pup through the natural trail at Cedar Key Museum State Park to take in the wildlife and nature of old, natural Florida.
Find More Nearby Stays
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