The Ultimate Pet Friendly Guide to Miami, Florida [2023]

Bodhi The Wiener, The Dog Vacation, Travels, Paddleboarding in Miami
The ONLY guide you'll need if you are traveling to Miami with a dog. We've got you covered on the best places to stay, eat and dine with your dog!

Miami is an incredible tourist destination known for its world-class attractions, with its sub-tropical climate, pristine beaches, and laid-back vibe making it truly iconic. Did you know that Miami is the only city in the United States that was founded by a woman? It’s true! Over 14 million tourists flock to Miami each year, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

What’s even more fascinating is that Miami has the warmest winter weather in the United States, with average temperatures ranging from 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit / 18-24 degrees Celsius.

With its unique history and impressive statistics, Miami is truly a city with many interesting facts to discover. And to top it off, it’s one of the most dog-friendly destinations in the nation! And here’s a fun fact: sun tan lotion was actually invented in Miami! 🧴

🎒Preparation and What to Bring

Before you and your dog jet off to Miami, it’s important to make sure you’ve got all the essentials covered! We’ve got a list of must-have items we recommend bringing for your furry friend to ensure a paw-some trip for the whole family. Check out our recommended Amazon products below for travel dog essentials that’ll have your pup wagging their tail with excitement.

And to make your journey completely stress-free, don’t forget to prioritize travel insurance, we recommend World Nomad Travel Insurance as they are the best and it’s very easy to request a quote. Travel insurance is very important so you’re protected against unexpected expenses. Embark on your Miami adventure with peace of mind. Happy travels with your furry companion!

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to take screenshots or pictures of your pet’s vaccination records: ensure your dog’s health and safety by bringing along their up-to-date vaccination records. Bodhi actually had to see a vet in Miami due to a stomach bug so good thing we had all his information handy! 

☀️ Insider Tips on Miami

Pro tip: renting a car in Miami is a must. Everything is quite spread out, and it’ll save you a bunch of money compared to taking Ubers everywhere. We found a stellar deal on DiscoverCars.com that saved us over $500 in Uber rides.

When it comes to parking around Miami Beach in general, it can be quite challenging. My suggestion is to try and find a parking garage beforehand to save yourself the hassle. You can also check out this handy parking lot finder provided by the City of Miami Beach, which gives you information on public parking lots, parking rates, and even electric vehicle charging stations.

grey white mini dachshund doxie puppy dog walking in miami
white grey mini dachshund, dog travel miami, things to do with dog in miami, dog vacation miami

🏠 Where to Stay

Miami is the purrfect destination for a getaway with your furry companion. With an abundance of pet-friendly accommodations, from AirBnb to hotels, you’ll have no trouble finding a spot that will welcome your four-legged friend with open paws. 

If you’re looking to experience Miami like a local (just like we did), we recommend staying a bit further outside of the main downtown area. Not only is it more budget-friendly, but you’ll also have more space for your pup to play! We actually found some amazing deals on VRBO for charming houses located outside of Downtown Miami, so be sure to check them out!

To save you some time and stress, we’ve fetched a list of our top-rated pet-friendly stays in Miami, featuring a range of prices to suit any budget.

Vrbo

💰- Budget Friendly
    • SpringHill Suites by Marriot-Miami Downtown/Medical Center –1311 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, Florida 33136 USA
      This pet-friendly hotel is in downtown Miami near cool places like Wynwood/Design District, Port of Miami, LoanDepot Park, FTX Arena, and the University of Miami Hospital. Wake up with a free hot breakfast, relax by the pool, or exercise in their fitness center. They have a really nice restaurant called 13Eleven restaurant with a great outdoor terrace. On-site parking is $28.06 per day. Pets are allowed but they only allow one per room. There is a non-refundable fee of $150 per stay for bringing your pet.
    • Embassy Suites by Hilton Miami International Airport – 3974 NW S River Dr, Miami, FL 33142
      The Embassy Suites by Hilton is conveniently located just three miles from Miami International Airport. It’s an ideal spot for travelers looking to explore Miami, with PortMiami and Dolphin Mall within a 20-minute drive and downtown Miami just 12 minutes away by car. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities including an outdoor pool, a complimentary breakfast, evening reception, and fitness center. The hotel is also pet-friendly, welcoming dogs or cats in designated rooms, with a maximum of two pets allowed per guest. However, a non-refundable $75 deposit is required for pets, with fees varying depending on the length of stay. Additionally, the hotel offers on-site parking for a fee of $24 per day or valet parking for $26, as well as EV charging options for electric vehicles.
    • The Meridian Hotel – 418 Meridian Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
      The Meridian Hotel is a super cool place to stay in Miami Beach! It used to be an old building from the 1930s, but now it’s modern and fancy. They have comfy rooms, a sweet pool, and bikes you can use to explore Miami Beach. Plus, they have a super popular place to hang out at night called Minibar. The hotel is very pet friendly, but there is a $50 fee per day for pets. The hotel offers valet parking for $45 a night with in and out privileges all day. And if you need help getting around town, just ask the front desk and they’ll set up a service to help you out. The pool is on the second floor and you can swim from 8am to 7pm.
💰💰 – In-Between
    • The Standard, Miami Beach – 40 Island Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
      The Standard, Miami Beach is a spa hotel with rooms located on Belle Isle. It’s really close to South Beach. The rooms are peaceful and have private terraces. Some of them even have outdoor soaking tubs. Guests can use the indoor and outdoor hydrotherapy playground for free. The hotel also has a café, gym, boutique, nail salon, and indoor bar. They also pull out all the stops here for your pet by providing a pet blanket, water bowl and treats. The best part, your pet gets to stay here for FREE! Up to 2 dogs allowed per guest and your pet are allowed everywhere on the property (just not in the pool or spa).
    • Sentral Wynwood – 51 NW 26th St, Miami, FL 33127
      Experience the ultimate combination of convenience, connection, and comfort with their designer apartment communities that redefine what it means to feel at home. Whether you’re looking to stay for a night, a month, or a year, their flexible lease options allow you to be wherever you want, whenever you want. They have oversized floor plans which feature fully-equipped kitchens and high-end finishes, and you can choose between designer-furnished or unfurnished residences. Plus, with resort-style amenities like a pool and fitness center, community spaces, work from home upgrades, and speedy WiFi, this will certainly be yours and your dog’s home away from home! The property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 per room). There’s a fee of $75 per pet, per stay. Service animals are exempt from fees.
    • Marriott Stanton South Beach – 161 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
      The Marriott Stanton South Beach is a hotel that’s great for families and pets. It’s right on the beach in Miami Beach, on the famous Ocean Drive. The hotel is decorated in a cool, modern style that feels relaxed and casual. When you arrive, you can check in at the lobby, which is inspired by the infamous Art Deco style. There are outdoor pools to swim in, a spa to relax in, and a gym to work out in. Your room will have a balcony and an amazing view of the ocean. You can also spend time on the white sandy beach, which is right in front of the hotel. If you’re hungry, there are two restaurants to choose from: Lolo’s Surf Cantina for Mexican food, or Azabu for Japanese cuisine, including sushi from a Michelin Star-rated sushi counter called The Den. They limit a maximum of 2 pets per room, must be under 30 pounds and there is a non refundable $150 pet fee.
the standard hotel in miami beach florida, beautiful clear blue skies with palm trees lining the retro yet modern hotel
💰💰💰 – Luxury/High-End
  • The Four Season Miami – 1435 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131
    The hotel is situated above the popular Brickell Avenue, offering a blend of urban excitement and tropical relaxation. Guests are greeted by a lobby with a stylish and modern design that complements the hotel’s lifestyle-inspired theme. Visitors can indulge in the flavorful and enjoyable dining experiences, and enjoy the sunny and tranquil atmosphere of the two-acre sanctuary by taking a swim or lounging in a hammock. The hotel provides a spectacular view of Miami’s skyline, with its vibrant art, dining, and entertainment scenes located just a short distance away.The hotel welcomes four-legged companions that weigh 15 pounds or less. Guests need to inform the hotel beforehand about their intention to bring their pets. In-room services such as pet treats, a plush pet bed, and a bowl of Evian water are available upon request. Additionally, the Concierge Team is available to provide dog-walking service.

  • The Setai Miami Beach – 2001 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
    The Setai Miami Beach is a unique and alluring destination where the East and West meet. Positioned on the coveted Collins Avenue oceanfront, it offers an irresistible blend of luxury and tranquility, attracting discerning travelers seeking distinctive experiences and Asian-inspired ambiance. Its privileged location on Collins Avenue at 20th Street puts guests within easy walking distance of Miami Beach’s renowned shopping, fine dining, cultural venues, and legendary nightlife. Here, small pets weighing up to 25 pounds are welcome without charge. However, the hotel’s public areas are off-limits to furry friends. Each lodging can only accommodate one pet.

  • The Ritz-Carlton, Bal Harbour – 10295 Collins Ave, Bal Harbour, FL 33154
    The Ritz-Carlton, Bal Harbour is a five-star hotel located on a private peninsula in North Miami Beach, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The resort offers luxurious accommodations with renovated multi-room suites that provide privacy and stunning ocean views. Guests can enjoy a day at the semi-private beach with a luxury cabana, and the Exhale spa offers head-to-toe wellness services and signature yoga classes. The resort is pet-friendly, providing food and water bowls, disposal bags, homemade treats, and connections with local groomers and vets for canine guests. Well-behaved dogs and de-clawed cats are welcome, with a maximum weight limit of 35 pounds and a non-refundable $250 pet fee per stay. The hotel also features a new dog park with plenty of grass, winding pathways, palm trees for shade, and views of the Atlantic Ocean.

wynwood walls in miami florida, beautiful artist paint large murals of many different colors like bright reds, blues, yellow and greens cover 8 feet walls. huge influence by urban culture and people

🍔 Where to Eat

Miami, the land of sun, surf, and savory eats! But if you’re a devoted dog parent, leaving your fur baby at home while you indulge in a yummy meal just won’t cut it. We’ve sniffed out some tail-wagging, good-dining spots that are pup-friendly. Chow down with your four-legged pal by your side at these top-notch eateries, and don’t forget to brush your dog’s teeth afterwards. After all of Bodhi’s food adventures, we make sure to use Bark Bright’s Toothpaste kit and dental chewers. Your fur baby will thank you, and you can enjoy your Miami dining adventures knowing your pup’s dental health is taken care of.

Something to note as well is that most of Miami spots are very dog-friendly even if it states online or on Yelp that they do not allow dogs. However we always recommending double checking with staff beforehand!

  • Crazy About You – 1155 Brickell Bay Dr #101, Miami, FL 33131
    This highly sought-after destination in Brickell is known for its upscale ambiance and pet-friendly atmosphere. Its warm decor and picturesque waterfront dining make it a favorite among pet owners who love to dine with their furry companions. The restaurant offers a good deal with a free appetizer when ordering an entree from the dinner or brunch menu. In addition, they have Crazy Wednesdays with all-day happy hour, offering 50% off drinks and 25% off bar food.

  • 1-800-Lucky – 143 NW 23rd St, Miami, FL 33127
    If you’re looking for a place to enjoy Asian food with your furry friend, you’ll be happy to know that 1-800 Lucky is pet-friendly (outside area only). However, you should be cautious as the inside can get very crowded. This 10,000 sq ft food hall located in Wynwood, is modeled after a trendy Asian market and features both indoor and outdoor seating, playing hip hop music. There are seven vendors selling a range of Asian food such as ramen, Vietnamese sandwiches, poke dishes, bubble tea, sushi, ceviche, Thai cuisine, and more. The dining room is open and surrounded by two bars and a karaoke lounge. You can enter through the record shop and enjoy various Asian cuisines, live music, and karaoke without needing a reservation.
1800 lucky sign; a bright blue sky behind the 1800 lucky street sign to signal walkers to come here to eat and take shade away from the hot sunny day
beautiful large graffi paintings providing so much culture to the design district. bright red and yellows smiley faces and flowers encompass the entire wall with a bright pink bench next to it
    • Cielito Artisan Pops – 2750 NW 3rd Ave Suite 20A, Miami, FL 33127
      After a long day at Wynwood Walls, visitors can cool down with a paleta from Cielito. These frozen desserts are similar to popsicles and can be dipped in milk, dark or white chocolate and dressed up with endless toppings, including edible flowers. Cielito also offers unique dietary-friendly doggy pops for pet owners to share with their furry friends.
    • OFF SITE Nano Brewery – 8250 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33138
      For pet owners seeking a relaxed afternoon with their furry companion, the industrial microbrewery and restaurant located in Little River is an excellent option. The menu offers a limited selection of enhanced American favorites such as house-smoked wings, Cuban sandwiches, brisket and short-rib burgers, and jumbo hot dogs. These can be paired with a variety of lagers, IPAs, amber, and blonde ales.
    • The Lido Bayside Grill – 40 Island Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
      Good news for pet lovers! Lido Bayside Grill not only offers delicious Mediterranean cuisine and drinks on its bayside deck at The Standard, but it’s also a pet-friendly spot. So, you can bring your furry friend along to enjoy the ambiance and have a paw-some time! Even better, they cater to all dietary needs, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, making it a great place for all kinds of foodies. Lido’s emphasis on locally-sourced, fresh, and clean ingredients highlights the vibrant flavors of their dishes, including line-caught seafood to reduce bycatch and promote sustainability. And if you need a little pick-me-up, their coffee is roasted and sourced right here in Miami.
    • Momosan – 415 NW 26th St, Miami, FL 33127

      If you’re a dog lover looking for a great spot to grab some delicious sushi and ramen dishes, I highly recommend Momosan Wynwood! You can bring your furry friend inside with you, which is a huge plus. The menu features amazing appetizers like tuna pizza and pork gyoza, as well as a variety of sake, beer, and wine options. Whether you’re looking to catch up with friends at the bar or enjoy a group meal, Momosan Wynwood has something for everyone!

beautiful bright cotton candy pink and blue skies dance across the top roof surface of the musuem garage in miami florida. the pink ground contrast perfectly against the setting orange, blue, purple pink sky
bright yellow arches, fendi with beautiful model holding a bag postered next to the yellow arches

🥾 Attractions/Things To Do

Miami offers a plethora of activities to keep you occupied, but for those of us who are inseparable from our furry companions, fret not! This list is tailored exclusively for those who are obsessed with taking their four-legged friends wherever they go.

Instagram Photos Places

Local Attractions
    • Fairchild Garden – 10901 Old Cutler Rd, Coral Gables, FL 33156
      The gardens itself is not pet friendly (service animals allowed) but they do have designated pet-friendly events called Dog Dates (full calendar here). Dog owners can bring their furry companions to explore the lush tropical gardens. Along with the opportunity to take a leisurely walk with their pups, Fairchild also organizes various activities that cater to dogs, such as DOGA, a Dog Bazaar, Pet Portraits, and Glow night. Dog Dates is the perfect way to break your routine and spend quality time with your four-legged friend in a serene environment.

    • The Dogs and Cats Walkway and Sculpture Garden – 1025 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
      As of February 11th you and your furry friend can now experience, the joy of 52 oversized aluminum sculptures of our feline and canine companions – that’s 26 cats and 26 dogs, folks! This one-acre garden is not just for show, it also features native plants, palm trees, hibiscus, and perennial flowers, providing the perfect backdrop for you and your fur baby’s Instagram photoshoot. And the best part? It’s completely free and pet-friendly! So, bring your paw-some pals and enjoy the sights and smells of this furbulous new attraction. Let’s just hope your pooch doesn’t try to mark their territory on one of the sculptures!

    • Miami Design District – 4000 NE 1st Ave, Miami, FL 33137
      Miami Design District is a great place to visit for pet owners looking for dog-friendly activities. This area boasts luxury fashion designers like Fendi, Dior, Cartier, and Alexander McQUEEN, as well as art galleries, outdoor sculptures, and celebrity-chef restaurants. Visitors can also find many Instagrammable photo spots in the district. It’s important to bring water for dogs and stay in the shade to avoid the heat. Parking at the Museum Garage at 90 NE 41st St, Miami, FL 33137 is recommended, as it offers affordable rates and convenient access to the area.

    • Berry Farm – 13720 SW 216th St, Miami, FL 33170
      If you’re going in the fall and willing to venture out of Miami then you must check out this gorgeous place. The Berry Farms is a highly recommended destination for pet owners, who are also interested in exploring colorful fields. There is an entire sunflower field that provides picturesque opportunities for photography. Visitors can expect a display of fresh produce, but the main attraction is the vibrant sunflowers. The farm attempts to keep the sunflowers in bloom as much as possible, with regular sunflower season occurring between October and May. Visitors are advised to check the farm’s website for updates on blooming sunflowers before visiting. To avoid photo-bombers in the background of shots, weekdays are recommended. The Berry Farms is pet-friendly, making it an ideal destination for pet owners seeking to explore colorful fields with their furry friends.

    • Haulover Beach Park – 10800 Collins Avenue, Miami, FL
      Haulover Beach Park is a popular destination in Miami-Dade County, known for its pristine white sand shores, open ocean surf, and beautiful coastal vegetation. Visitors can enjoy swimming in lifeguarded areas and access to recreational activities. The park also has a clothing-optional beach section that is family-oriented and staffed by volunteers. Concessions, picnic areas with tables and grills, and shelters are available for visitors. For boating needs, Haulover Park hosts Bill Bird Marina and Haulover Marine Center. The park is also pet-friendly, with a bark park open year-round and a designated beach area for dogs accessible through parking lots #3 and #4.

    • Little Havana – Southwest 8th Street, better known as Calle Ocho
      Little Havana is a vibrant neighborhood in Miami known for its Cuban culture. Its main street, Calle Ocho, is packed with Latin-inspired restaurants, bakeries, cigar shops, and more. The famous Domino Park is a popular gathering spot for locals to play dominoes and discuss politics. Visitors can also admire the street art, including murals and portraits of Cuban legends like José Martí and Celia Cruz. Food is a highlight of the neighborhood, with classic dishes like the Cuban sandwich and strong, sweet coffee available at family-owned restaurants like Versailles. These eateries have a casual, friendly atmosphere and even feature ventanitas where you can order pastries like guava and cheese pastelitos on the go. Little Havana is a pet-friendly destination, welcoming furry friends to join in the cultural experience.

    • Nikki Beach – 1 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
      Nikki Beach is a popular destination for visitors and locals who come to enjoy a great lunch, creative cocktails, or a glass of rosé while soaking up the sun and fresh air. Guests can dine under palm trees or relax on a daybed to the beats of resident DJs. The menu features fresh salads, innovative sushi rolls, locally caught seafood, and slow-roasted rotisserie chicken. Please note that the restaurant has an upscale beach chic dress code and may refuse entry to guests who don’t follow the policies. Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome, but they must stay close to your seat and avoid the walkway. Pets are not allowed to eat from restaurant dishes.
happy dog owner smiling with dog. dog is grey white and brown mini dachshund weighing no more than 15 pounds with his tongue out happy to be here
dog owner picking up dog looking at the bright cotton candy pink and blue skies as the sun is setting. dog is looking at camera smiling with its tongue out

NYC Sightseeing Pass

Unique Dog Events to the Area
  • Miami Dog Fashion Week – SLS South Beach Miami, 1701 Collins Avenue Miami Beach, FL 33139
    Get ready to party with your furry best friend at Miami Dog Fashion Week! That’s right, you and your pup can strut your stuff in the heart of Miami Beach and have a barkin’ good time. They’ve got music, special guests, and even a surprise art piece to unveil. Plus, there will be lots of contemporary art and fashion designers to admire. So bring your A-game, pups! And humans, you gotta dress to impress too, so no shorts allowed. Pups can’t be larger than 15-20 lbs, no exceptions. We don’t want any pups getting squished or feeling left out.

  • Monthly Movie Night with Your Pups at the Barnacle – The Barnacle Historic State Park, 3485 Main Hwy, Miami, FL 33133
    Happens every month at the Barnacle’s Barkyard Theatre Series for a monthly movie night with your pups! All proceeds go towards The Historic Barnacle’s roof repairs. Gates open at 6:30 PM, movie starts at sunset. Admission is $15 per adult, $7 for kids under 10. Bring up to two well-behaved dogs with current rabies vaccination and license. Snacks available for purchase, or bring your own. Parking available on the street or at a nearby lot.

  • Hair of the Dog Brunch – WOB Bar & Kitchen Doral (Doral)
    Taking place on Saturday Apr 15 2023 at 08:00 am to 12:00 pm. A dog brunch extravaganza and get a FREE World of Beer dog bandana (while supplies last) for your furry companion. They’ve got a special menu for your pup and a human treats menu for you, including new brunch items and cocktails.

  • Woofstock – 3485 Main Hwy, Miami, FL 33133
    You know that event where you get to dress up your furry best friends and show them off to the world? Yep, you got it! Woofstock! Happens every year in Florida, and it’s the pawfect opportunity for your dog to show off their skills at the dog agility course and compete in the doggie costume contest. There’s also a whole bunch of dog-related vendors selling everything from dog food to doggie spa treatments. There are plenty of food and drink options for you too! And what’s a good festival without some live music and entertainment? Woofstock’s got you covered! And if that wasn’t enough, 2023’s event featured an Air K9z Frisbee show and Wiener Dog Races! Regular admission is $2 and children under 6 enter for free.

  • Annual Fur the Love Pet Fest – Las Olas Oceanside Park
    FUR THE LOVE PET FEST, hosted by Teddy and his mom Ana. Join the festivities, including training, balloon artistry, circus performers, selfie stations, face painting, live music, games, contests, and more! Dress up your furry friend for the costume lounge, and indulge in circus-themed food and drinks.
    •  

We hope that our guide has helped you and your furry pal plan a vacation that will have tails wagging! Just remember, dogs rely on us humans to lead the way, so we hope you’ll be able to show them all the pup-tastic adventures Miami has in store!

Peace out,
Bodhi The Wiener 🐶

Our website employs demographic data, email opt-ins, display advertising, and affiliate links, which may earn a commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you. The listed prices and attraction details may have changed since our visit and initial publication. Please refer to our Privacy Policy & Disclaimer for more information. Thank you for your support.

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Disclaimer: All views and opinions expressed in this blog article are our own and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. Our website employs demographic data, email opt-ins, display advertising, and affiliate links, which may earn a commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you. The listed prices and attraction details may have changed since our visit and initial publication. Please refer to our Privacy Policy & Disclaimer for more information. Thank you for your support.
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