Key West is on many traveler’s bucket lists, and it’s also one of the most dog-friendly vacation destinations. While this island paradise offers a ton of fun for you and your four-legged friend, it’s important to plan ahead for the heat. Dogs and hot weather don’t mix, so be sure to take that into consideration when planning your activities. Now, here’s a look at some of the best places to go and things to do with your dog in Key West!
Sun and Fun at Stock Island
If you’re traveling to Key West with a four-legged friend, Stock Island should be at the very top of your list. There’s no shortage of places that will welcome your dog here (just be sure to mind the temperature). They can burn off some energy at the Stock Island Marina Village Dog Park or take a leisurely stroll through the Key West Botanical Gardens, where leashed dogs are welcomed.
Does your dog love the water? Lazy Dog Adventures has you covered. You can paddle with your pup in a variety of ways, from kayaks to paddleboards, and they always have plenty of treats on hand! If your dog is more of the seafaring type, check out Casual Monday Charters. Offering a number of fun day trips that welcome dogs, Fido can accompany you on a swim at the sandbar, a dolphin-watching tour, or a sunset cruise.
After a day of adventure, head over to one of Stock Island’s dog-friendly restaurants like Hurricane Hole or Hogfish Bar and Grill. You and your pup can relax and grab a bite to eat on their shaded dog-friendly patios while you listen to live music and watch the sunset.
Take a Stroll Down Duval Street
The beating heart of Key West, Duval Street is full of historic sites, restaurants, shops, art galleries, museums, and more. While simply strolling down Duval Street offers plenty of entertainment (look out for random roosters running around and juggling street performers), many of the businesses located there are also very dog-friendly.
From cafes and coffee shops to bars and breweries, there’s no shortage of places to grab a coffee, cocktail, or bite to eat with your pup on Duval Street. Many shops also welcome dogs, even putting out water and treats for them.
Since Duval Street is so busy, you’ll want to keep your dog’s temperament in mind when visiting. For easy-going, social dogs that love to be part of the action, Duval Street can be a fun outing. For anxious dogs that aren’t particularly social, it can be a sensory overload. It’s also important to mind the temperature. At times, it can be way too hot for your four-legged friend.
Splash and Play at Key West Dog Beach
If you have a dog that loves to swim, play in the sand, and chase waves — head to Key West Dog Beach. It’s small, but dogs that love the beach and can play well with others will enjoy it. Just be sure to keep an eye on the temperature and don’t let your dog get overheated. During the hotter parts of the year, beach outings are better left for the early morning or later afternoons.
Once beach time is over, Louie’s Backyard, which overlooks the beach, offers a nice patio dining area where dogs are welcome to join their owners for a post-beach meal or cocktail.
Cool Down at Papa’s Pilar Rum Distillery
A distillery might not sound like the kind of place you can visit with your dog, but Papa’s Pilar Rum Distillery does things a little bit differently. Here, your four-legged friend can accompany you while you cozy up to the bar, sample rums (none for Fido, though), and peruse their collection of Ernest Hemingway art and memorabilia.
While visiting a distillery may not be what you had in mind as a dog-friendly activity, it’s one of the few places in Key West to allow dogs indoors, and more importantly — with air conditioning! So, when you need a place to cool off after an activity or are just looking for a safe outing for your pup on a hot day, Papa’s Pilar is perfect.
Catch the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square
Brimming with dog-friendly restaurants, bars, and shops, Mallory Square is a great place to unwind with your four-legged friend at the end of the day. As cool evening breezes move in and the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico, offering breathtaking views, the square comes alive with street performers, artists, and musicians. The nightly Mallory Square Sunset Celebration has been a Key West staple since the 1960s.
You can snag a spot on the seawall overlooking the water for the best views or grab a table at one of the dog-friendly patio restaurants. The square can get quite crowded, so, just like Duval Street, it’s better for more social, laid-back dogs. After all, social and laid-back is the Key West lifestyle!
