Dog walking in West Bradenton

Palma Sola

If you have a pup who enjoys a bit of fun in the sun, better known as a regular beach bum, make your way to Palma Sola, which is where you’ll find De Soto National Memorial Beach, a perfect place for your pup to pitter patter their paws across the soft sand, or tiptoe across the tides. Your pup pal will need to remain leashed, but that won’t stop you from having a good time as you walk side by side along the scenic location. Just be prepared to clean up after your pup, and you’re set for a furrific time!

West Bradenton

Next stop is in the westernmost sector of West Bradenton proper, which is where you’ll find the beautiful Robin Preserve, a scenic location where you and your canine companion will be free to hike any of the beautiful trails. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned hiker, you and Fido will love the trails of varying difficulties here! While there isn’t a lot of shade, you’ll enjoy basking in the sun as long as you and your pup keep hydrated. You’ll want to bring fresh water along -- even though there are water fountains in the parking lot, there are none in the actual hiking areas.

South West Bradenton

To allow your pup to have a bit of off-leash fun, make your way to the southern region of West Bradenton, home to Happy Tails Dog Park. As the name suggests, your dog will have a blast in this fenced in area, which features a separate area for small dogs. So whether your dog is a burly brute or a tiny terror, there’s a place for them to strut their stuff. There is also fresh drinking water provided, as well as plenty of benches for you to relax on while pup goes dog wild. Just clean up after yourselves!

Creekwood

For what some would call the doggone best dog park in the area, mosey on over to Creekwood in greater Bradenton. A beautiful neighborhood with scenic views, your dog will have a ball at Creekwood Canine Park. With an expansive fenced-in area for you and Sparky to roam, this park also features a separate area for small, elderly, or otherwise fragile dogs. You’ll be provided with clean drinking water, free doggy waste bags, and plenty of shady spots to sit while your dog pays with some of their new pals. Just be sure to bring lots of tasty treats.

South Holmes Beach

Last but definitely not least, be sure to grab a bite with your pup to wind down after a busy doggy day trip. You’ll want something tasty to eat, and nice scenery to boot, so you’ll be more than thrilled to settle in at Gulf Drive Cafe -- a little tiki hut style restaurant on the beach that serves raw oysters, lobster mac and cheese, and a number of other delicious entrees that are mainly seafood based. If you’re not into seafood, their chicken quesadillas can’t be beat. There’s a beautiful outdoor deck where you can watch the Florida sunset with Fido -- we can't think of a more pawfect way to end the day!