Florida, with its sunny beaches, lush nature trails, and vibrant cities, is a dream destination for travelers and their furry companions.
From the Gulf Coast’s white sands to the Atlantic’s vibrant shores, the Sunshine State offers pet-friendly vacation rentals that cater to families, couples, and solo adventurers who can’t leave their pets behind.
In 2025, as pet travel rises by 22% according to the Florida Tourism Board, pet-friendly rentals are in high demand for their flexibility and amenities like fenced yards and proximity to dog-friendly beaches.
This blog post highlights five top pet-friendly vacation rentals in Florida, each under $300/night, offering comfort, convenience, and fun for you and your pet, based on recent traveler reviews and industry insights.
Why Choose Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals in Florida?
Pet-friendly vacation rentals provide the freedom to travel with your dog or cat without sacrificing comfort or breaking the bank.
Unlike hotels, these rentals offer home-like amenities—kitchens, private yards, and spacious living areas—ideal for pets and their owners.
Located in destinations like St. Augustine, Anna Maria Island, and Destin, these properties ensure easy access to pet-friendly beaches, parks, and attractions.
With many rentals charging minimal or no pet fees, they’re budget-friendly, averaging $100-$300/night for a family or couple.
The rentals below are selected for their pet policies, guest ratings, and proximity to pet-friendly activities, ensuring a memorable Florida getaway for all.
Benefits of Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals
- Pet-Welcoming Policies: Many allow dogs and cats of any size, often with no extra fees.
- Home-Like Comfort: Fully equipped kitchens, fenced yards, and private pools enhance relaxation.
- Affordable Rates: Rentals under $300/night suit tight budgets.
- Pet-Friendly Locations: Near dog-friendly beaches, parks, or trails for outdoor fun.
- Flexible Stays: Options for short weekend trips or extended vacations.
Below are five top pet-friendly vacation rentals in Florida for 2025, each offering unique features, welcoming vibes, and excellent value for travelers with pets.
1. Driftmark Cabin (St. Augustine)
Price: From $200/night
Location: St. Augustine, Florida
Pet Policy: Dogs of any size welcome; no additional fee. Cats by request.
Key Features: Private pool, RV-friendly, steps from the beach
Amenities: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, hot tub, Wi-Fi, beach gear
EAT Criteria: Efficient (quick booking via Airbnb, near beach), Accurate (4.98/5 rating, 112 reviews for cleanliness), Trustworthy (verified host, transparent policies)
Description:
Nestled in historic St. Augustine, Driftmark Cabin is a renovated 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom Airbnb just steps from the Atlantic coast.
This luxurious retreat welcomes dogs of any size with no extra fee, and cats may be allowed by request.
The private pool and hot tub, surrounded by lush turf landscaping, create a pet-friendly oasis. The modern interior includes a fully equipped kitchen, streaming TV, and beach supplies like chairs and umbrellas.
Located near Vilano Beach, a dog-friendly shore, it’s perfect for morning walks or sunset fetch sessions. Reviews praise the clean, spacious layout and responsive host, making it ideal for families or couples with pets.
Why It’s Great for Pet Owners:
The proximity to dog-friendly Vilano Beach and the private pool area ensure pets have space to play. The RV-friendly lot and free beach gear add convenience for road-trippers.
St. Augustine’s historic district, with pet-friendly cafes like The Floridian (~$15/meal), is a 10-minute drive away.
Pet-Friendly Activities Nearby:
- Stroll Vilano Beach with your dog (leash required).
- Visit Castillo de San Marcos (pets allowed in outdoor areas, ~$15 entry).
- Walk the pet-friendly St. Augustine Historic District (free).
- Dine at pet-friendly restaurants like O.C. White’s (~$20/meal).
Tips:
Book 2-3 months in advance for summer savings. Arrive early at Vilano Beach for parking (~$10/day). Store pet treats in airtight containers for up to 5 days. Check Airbnb for seasonal discounts.
Estimated Cost for 4 Nights: ~$800-$880
Contact: www.airbnb.com (search “Driftmark Cabin”)
Nutritional Tip: Pack homemade pet treats (~$5 for ingredients at Publix) for a healthy, budget-friendly snack.
2. The Beach Bungalow (Siesta Key)
Price: From $220/night
Location: Siesta Key, Florida
Pet Policy: Up to 2 dogs of any size; no additional fee. Cats by request.
Key Features: Renovated beach house, private pool, near Siesta Beach
Amenities: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, hot tub, ping pong table, Wi-Fi
EAT Criteria: Efficient (5-minute walk to beach, easy booking), Accurate (matches advertised amenities), Trustworthy (high guest ratings, professional cleaning)
Description:
Located on Siesta Key, The Beach Bungalow is a 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom vacation home that blends old Florida charm with modern comforts.
Welcoming up to two dogs of any size with no extra fee, it features a private pool, hot tub, and a screened lanai perfect for pets to lounge safely.
The outdoor area includes a grill and ping pong table, while the interior offers a smart TV and a wine/coffee bar.
Just 500 yards from Siesta Key Beach, a dog-friendly shore during off-peak hours, it’s ideal for beach-loving pets. Reviews highlight the spotless condition and proximity to Siesta Village’s pet-friendly dining (~$15-$20/meal).
Why It’s Great for Pet Owners:
The fenced pool area and nearby dog-friendly beach ensure pets have ample play space. The bungalow’s location near The Village offers easy access to pet-friendly cafes like Another Broken Egg (~$12/meal). The spacious layout suits families or groups traveling with multiple pets.
Pet-Friendly Activities Nearby:
- Walk Siesta Key Beach (pets allowed before 9 AM/after 7 PM).
- Visit Selby Gardens (pets welcome in outdoor areas, ~$20).
- Explore Southside Village’s pet-friendly patios (free).
- Kayak with pets at Lido Key (~$30/rental).
Tips:
Book via Destination Paradise for deals. Bring a leash for beach walks (required). Store pet food in reusable containers for 4-5 days. Visit in spring (April-May) for lower rates.
Estimated Cost for 4 Nights: ~$880-$960
Contact: www.nextdestinationparadise.com
Nutritional Tip: Buy local fish treats (~$5) at Siesta Key markets for a protein-packed pet snack.
3. Coastal Empress (Seacrest Beach)
Price: From $250/night
Location: Seacrest Beach, Florida
Pet Policy: Dogs of any size welcome; no additional fee. Cats by request.
Key Features: Private pool, golf cart included, near 30A beaches
Amenities: 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, heated pool, Wi-Fi, beach gear
EAT Criteria: Efficient (4-minute drive to beach, online booking), Accurate (verified amenities, high reviews), Trustworthy (transparent pet policy)
Description:
Coastal Empress, a 4-bedroom, 5-bathroom home in Seacrest Beach along the 30A corridor, is a luxurious pet-friendly rental that welcomes dogs of any size with no extra fee. Cats may be allowed by request.
The open-concept home features a private heated pool, a 6-seat golf cart for beach trips, and a spacious living area that sleeps up to 16. Just a 4-minute drive from dog-friendly Rosemary Beach, it’s perfect for coastal adventures.
Reviews praise the modern amenities, cleanliness, and included beach gear like chairs and umbrellas, making it a top pick for pet owners seeking luxury on a budget.
Why It’s Great for Pet Owners:
The golf cart and proximity to dog-friendly 30A beaches make outings easy for pets. The large, fenced pool area offers a safe space for dogs to play, and the home’s size suits multi-pet families or group trips. Nearby Alys Beach has pet-friendly dining options (~$15/meal).
Pet-Friendly Activities Nearby:
- Explore Rosemary Beach (pets allowed on leashed paths).
- Visit Camp Helen State Park (dog-friendly trails, ~$4/vehicle).
- Dine at pet-friendly 30A cafes like The Big Bad Breakfast (~$12).
- Bike the 30A trail with pets (~$10/bike rental).
Tips:
Book via FloridaRentals.com for discounts. Confirm pet approval before booking. Store pet treats in airtight containers for up to 5 days. Visit in fall (September-October) for lower rates.
Estimated Cost for 4 Nights: ~$1,000-$1,100
Contact: www.floridarentals.com
Nutritional Tip: Grab natural pet treats (~$5) at Publix for a healthy reward.
4. Cozy Cottage (Indian Rocks Beach)
Price: From $180/night
Location: Indian Rocks Beach, Florida
Pet Policy: Dogs of any size welcome; $125 non-refundable fee.
Key Features: Compact cottage, 3-minute walk to beach, quiet neighborhood
Amenities: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, Wi-Fi, off-street parking, patio
EAT Criteria: Efficient (short walk to beach, simple booking), Accurate (consistent with guest feedback), Trustworthy (clear pet fee policy)
Description:
Cozy Cottage in Indian Rocks Beach is a charming 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom rental perfect for solo travelers or couples with pets. Located just 350 yards from the Gulf beach, it welcomes dogs of any size for a $125 non-refundable fee.
The elevated cottage features an open floor plan, modern kitchen, and a small patio for relaxing. The quiet neighborhood, away from Gulf Boulevard’s traffic, ensures a peaceful stay, while the nearby public beach allows leashed dogs.
Reviews highlight the clean, updated space and easy beach access, making it a budget-friendly gem for pet owners.
Why It’s Great for Pet Owners:
The cottage’s compact size and proximity to dog-friendly Indian Rocks Beach make it ideal for small groups with pets.
The off-street parking accommodates trailers or watercraft, perfect for pet owners who enjoy boating. Nearby eateries like Crabby Bill’s (~$15/meal) welcome pets on outdoor patios.
Pet-Friendly Activities Nearby:
- Walk Indian Rocks Beach (leashed pets allowed).
- Visit Largo Central Park’s dog park (free, 10-minute drive).
- Kayak with pets at Caladesi Island (~$20/rental).
- Dine at pet-friendly Guppy’s on the Beach (~$18/meal).
Tips:
Book early for winter (January-March) to secure rates under $200. Bring a crate for pets, as the cottage is elevated (15 steps). Store pet food in reusable containers for 4-5 days. Check www.petswelcome.com for updates.
Estimated Cost for 4 Nights: ~$720-$800 + $125 pet fee
Contact: www.petswelcome.com
Nutritional Tip: Buy grain-free pet snacks (~$4) at Indian Rocks’ CVS for a light treat.
5. Seaside Pet-Friendly Townhouse (Anna Maria Island)
Price: From $250/night (winter rates ~$5,400/month)
Location: Anna Maria Island, Florida
Pet Policy: Dogs of any size welcome; no additional fee. Cats by request.
Key Features: Beachfront, shared pool, near dog-friendly beach
Amenities: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, heated pool, hot tub, Wi-Fi
EAT Criteria: Efficient (steps to beach, easy access), Accurate (matches listing details), Trustworthy (verified by FLARBO)
Description:
The Seaside Pet-Friendly Townhouse on Anna Maria Island is a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom rental steps from the white sands of the Gulf.
Welcoming dogs of any size with no extra fee, it offers three balconies with ocean views, a shared heated pool, and a hot tub.
The open layout includes a modern kitchen and beachy decor, perfect for families or groups. Located near dog-friendly Holmes Beach, it’s ideal for pet walks or dolphin-spotting.
Reviews praise the quiet location and pet-friendly amenities like beach toys and a nearby dog park, making it a top choice for coastal escapes.
Why It’s Great for Pet Owners:
The townhouse’s beachfront location and no-fee pet policy make it a standout. The shared pool area is pet-friendly, and Holmes Beach’s dog-friendly shores are a short walk away.
Anna Maria’s laid-back vibe and pet-friendly cafes like The Donut Experiment (~$5) enhance the experience.
Pet-Friendly Activities Nearby:
- Stroll Holmes Beach with pets (leash required).
- Visit Robinson Preserve’s dog-friendly trails (free, 10-minute drive).
- Dine at pet-friendly Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe (~$10/meal).
- Kayak with pets at Palma Sola Bay (~$25/rental).
Tips:
Book via FloridaRentalByOwners.com for direct owner deals. Visit in fall for lower rates. Store pet treats in airtight containers for up to 5 days. Confirm cat approval before booking.
Estimated Cost for 4 Nights: ~$1,000-$1,100
Contact: www.floridarentalbyowners.com
Nutritional Tip: Pick up natural pet chews (~$5) at Anna Maria’s Publix for a healthy treat.
Tips for Choosing Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals
To ensure a seamless trip with your pet, consider these strategies:
- Verify Pet Policies: Confirm size/breed restrictions and fees (e.g., Cozy Cottage’s $125 fee vs. Driftmark’s no-fee policy). Contact hosts directly via Airbnb or FLARBO.
- Book Early: Reserve 3-6 months ahead for peak seasons (winter, summer) to secure rates under $300/night.
- Check Amenities: Look for fenced yards, pools, or proximity to dog-friendly beaches (e.g., Siesta Key, Holmes Beach).
- Read Reviews: Use Airbnb, Vrbo, or BringFido for recent guest feedback on pet-friendliness and cleanliness.
- Pack Smart: Bring a leash, crate, and pet bed (~$20) for comfort. Store pet food in airtight containers for 4-5 days.
- Stay Safe: Stick to pet-friendly beaches and parks; keep pets leashed in public. Note vet contacts (e.g., St. Augustine’s Animal Emergency Hospital, ~$100/visit).
- Plan Activities: Prioritize free pet-friendly spots like trails or beaches to save money.
Essential Pet Travel Gear
Affordable gear for a Florida trip with pets includes:
- Collapsible Water Bowl: For hydration (~$5).
- Leash and Harness: For beach walks (~$10).
- Portable Pet Bed: For comfort (~$15).
- Pet Sunscreen: For sensitive skin (~$8).
- Travel Crate: For small rentals (~$20).
Check Petco, Walmart, or Amazon for budget gear, or borrow from friends to save costs.
Budgeting for Your Pet-Friendly Trip
For a 4-night trip for two with one pet:
- Accommodation: $720-$1,100 (based on above rentals).
- Pet Fees: $0-$125 (varies by property).
- Food: $40-$80 (human meals ~$10-$20/day, pet food ~$5/day).
- Activities: $0-$50 (free beaches, paid rentals like kayaks).
- Transport: $50-$100 (gas or airport shuttles).
- Total: ~$810-$1,300, excluding airfare.
Save by choosing no-fee rentals like Driftmark or Coastal Empress, cooking in rental kitchens, and sticking to free activities.
Where to Find Affordable Supplies
- Supermarkets: Publix or Winn-Dixie for pet food and human snacks (~$5-$10).
- Pet Stores: Petco or Petsmart for treats and gear (~$5-$15).
- Local Markets: Buy fresh produce or pet-safe snacks at St. Augustine’s Saturday Market (~$5).
- Online: Amazon delivers pet essentials like leashes or bowls quickly.
Use store apps for coupons or buy in bulk for longer stays.
Enhancing Your Pet-Friendly Getaway
To make your trip memorable, try these ideas:
- Plan Beach Days: Visit dog-friendly beaches early to avoid crowds (e.g., Siesta Key before 9 AM).
- Explore Nature: Take pets on trails like Robinson Preserve or Camp Helen (free-$4).
- Dine Outdoors: Choose pet-friendly patios like The Donut Experiment or Crabby Bill’s (~$10-$15).
- Capture Memories: Use a smartphone or disposable camera (~$10) for pet-and-beach photos.
- Relax Together: Enjoy pool time or quiet evenings in your rental’s yard with your pet.
Sample Itinerary (Driftmark Cabin, 4 Days)
Day 1: Arrive in St. Augustine, check into Driftmark Cabin (~$200). Walk Vilano Beach with your dog (free). Dinner at The Floridian (~$30 for two).
Day 2: Visit Castillo de San Marcos (pets in outdoor areas, ~$15). Swim in the private pool with your pet. Grab takeout from O.C. White’s (~$20).
Day 3: Explore St. Augustine Historic District (free). Picnic with pet treats (~$5). Relax in the hot tub.
Day 4: Morning beach walk, depart by noon.
Total Cost: ~$850-$900 for two with one pet.
Conclusion
Florida’s pet-friendly vacation rentals, from the historic charm of Driftmark Cabin to the beachfront bliss of Seaside Townhouse, offer the perfect blend of comfort, affordability, and pet-welcoming amenities.
With rates under $300/night, no or low pet fees, and proximity to dog-friendly beaches and parks, these rentals make it easy to enjoy the Sunshine State with your furry friend.
Plan ahead, pack smart, and embrace Florida’s sun, sand, and pet-friendly adventures for an unforgettable 2025 getaway!