Nestled next to Florida’s sparkling Gulf Coast, the resort town of Fort Walton Beach is easily one of the most tropical vacation spots in the state. Although there is plenty to do year-round, summer is the busiest month, thanks to the city’s emerald green waters, sunny blue skies, and miles of powdery white-sand beaches. For this reason, Fort Walton Beach is truly a slice of outdoor paradise – for humans and for pets.
But before you hit the beaches, (and be sure to check out these 5 dog-friendly beaches in Florida) you’ll need to find a place to stay that allows pets. Between Fort Walton Beach and the neighboring Okaloosa Island, you’ll find plenty of beach homes and condominiums where you can stay during your visit. Many of these places are pet-friendly, so you won’t have to leave your furry companion behind when going on vacation.
The following list of rentals are all pet-friendly, although it’s important to read the specific policies for bringing your pet as each rental home has defined its own set of rules. You should also consider the outdoor space when looking for rentals, as many homes have their own fenced-in yard that’s perfect for dogs to run around or hang out in.
Pack your sunscreen and your beach towel because we’re diving headfirst into the top eight pet-friendly Airbnb rentals in Fort Walton Beach.
1. Two-Bedroom Apartment With Loft and Waterfront Views
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: No
This modern apartment has some of the best views in all of Fort Walton Beach. Located on the second floor of a detached house, this two bedroom, two bathroom rental has unobstructed views of the waterfront from the panoramic living room windows. There’s also an outdoor balcony where you can soak in the sound of the ocean while also enjoying the fresh sea breeze. Trust us, the apartment is worth renting just for the views alone!
The main floor of the apartment has a small kitchen, plush seating area, and a king-sized bed with an en-suite bathroom. The second bedroom, is a lofted space above the main area, so it offers a bit of privacy from the other guests. Besides the bedroom in the loft, you’ll also find a pull-out sleeper sofa that can accommodate two more guests. Nearby, you’ll definitely want to take your pooch to visit Destin dog park. The Fort Walton dog park has 2 sections, for large or small dogs. It also offers waste bags, water fountains, and hand sanitizer stations.
2. One Bedroom Condo Near Dons Bayou
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: No
This cozy one bedroom condo was recently renovated with beautiful wooden floors, and newly installed kitchen cabinets. You’ll notice that the owners of this Fort Walton, pet-friendly Airbnb paid extra attention to all the small details that will make your stay extra comfortable.
The unit sits on the ground floor and has a small patio and seating area that looks out towards the water. There’s also a small grass area, although it’s not fenced, your pup will have some space to run and play. Unique to this Airbnb stay in Fort Walton Beach, Don’s Bayou doesn’t get as much boat traffic as others, so it’s a great place to go canoeing or kayaking.
3. Canal-Front Home with Fenced-In Yard
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: Yes
This canal-front home is one of the more unique places to stay in Fort Walton Beach. Right outside the back door, you’ll find the beautiful Lake Earl canal, where you can go boating, swimming, or rafting from the properties own private dock. In the backyard, you’ll also have a dining area, lounge, BBQ grill, and several hammocks, where you can spend the day relaxing in the sun. The yard is also completely fenced. Perfect for Fido!
Inside this two bedroom, two bathroom home, there’s an open kitchen, cozy living room with stone fireplace, and a laundry room with washer and dryer. Prefer a night out? Check out Tijuana Flats! It’s a dog-friendly restaurant just a quick drive from nearby Liza Jackson dog park.
4. Okaloosa Island Home with Community Pool and Tennis Courts
Fees: $150 non-refundable fee per stay.
Policies: Dogs must be crated and restricted to the sun-room.
Fence: No
Located just across the street from the beach, this spacious home on Okaloosa Island is the perfect getaway for large families. With 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this home can accommodate up to 8 guests. There is a dining room and separate breakfast nook, where you can share meals before spending a day out on the sand. The master bedroom features a private stone fireplace.
Besides being so close to the beach, this rental also comes with a few extra amenities. Guests will have access to the community pool, gym, hot tub, and tennis courts. You’ll also get private beach access as well as a discounted rate on beach chairs and umbrellas.
5. Renovated Cottage Near Uptown Station Boat Launch
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: No
Despite just have two bedrooms, this cozy cottage actually has enough room to sleep up to eight people. There’s a master suite with a queen bed, a second bedroom with four bunk beds, and a pull-out sleeper sofa in the living room. Everything inside has been newly remodeled, including the kitchen and full bath. Even the bedrooms have been outfitted with brand new mattresses and linens, so you’ll have no problem getting a good night’s rest during your stay.
This pet-friendly airbnb is located in the heart of Fort Walton Beach near Uptown Station. If you’re planning on doing a bit of boating during your stay, you’ll be happy to know that the home is just one block from the boat launch. Once you’re in the water, you can easily explore Crab Island and Destin Harbor, both of which are located less than 10 miles from the launch.
6. Luxurious Beachfront Home with Gulf and Bay Views
Fees: $150 per stay.
Policies: Pet must be approved beforehand.
Fence: Yes
It doesn’t get much more luxurious than this stunning beach-side home across from Emerald Grande Beach This spacious 2,600 square foot home has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, as well as a fully-stocked kitchen, master suite with soaking tub, and a separate den with kitchenette. On the bottom floor, you’ll find a 550 square foot screen-in porch, which is perfect for those super sunny Florida days. On the second floor, there’s a large 1,000 square foot wraparound deck with lounge chairs and a dining area. And don’t forget the fenced-in backyard, which has a grill, fire pit, and sandbox for the kids.
Although the home is centrally located near the beach, you won’t have to leave the home to enjoy the dramatic ocean views. From the main living area, you’ll see the Gulf and the Bay right outside your window. Other guests have said that you’re so close to the ocean, that you’ll be able to hear the waves crashing onto the shore.
7. Eclectic, Pet-Friendly Airbnb Home in Fort Walton, Florida
Fees: $50.
Policies: Dogs must be approved beforehand.
Fence: Yes
This eclectic 4 bedroom 3 bathroom vacation rental has all the living comforts of home anyone could want! The hardwood floors and bright windows bring beautiful natural light, filling each room with a warm and cozy atmosphere. On the main floor, you’ll find an intimate seating area, coffee bar, and full-sized chef’s kitchen (with two ovens), while the lower level has the master suite and TV room.
The beautiful outdoor space is also one of the biggest selling points. Besides the open, grassy lawn, you’ll find a fire pit, two BBQ grills, and a large table where you can enjoy meals outdoors. Herbs and fruits also grow on the property, which the owner will happily share with you if you need something fresh to add to your cooking.
8. Beach Access Abode with Bunk Beds!
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: No
This ultra-charming 2 bedroom 1 bathroom condominium unit is the ideal rental for small families or couples traveling with pets. While the open living room and kitchen area isn’t the biggest, it has everything you need for a comfortable stay. There’s a full-size fridge, stove, and washer and dryer unit, as well as a 55-inch TV and high-speed Wi-Fi. However, you probably won’t be spending so much time at home because you’ll be just a few steps away from the sparkling beaches on Okaloosa Island. The boardwalk that leads to the ocean is located directly behind this condo unit.
In addition to the beach, this pet-friendly Airbnb is within walking distance to many restaurants and shops in the area. Stewbys Restaurant and Market is literally next door! And Aj’s Oyster Bar (a popular hangout spot with live music and happy hour deals) is also close by. Between the plethora of restaurants and the white-sand beach, you can’t go wrong with this Okaloosa Island condo.
More Pet-Friendly Stays Nearby
- 12 Pet-Friendly Airbnb Rentals in Sarasota, Florida
- 10 Key West Pet-Friendly Airbnb Rentals
- 10 Cozy Pet-Friendly Airbnb Cabins in Florida
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