Kara Franker and her pooch Ponce on the beach at Costa d'Este in Vero Beach. Photo by Kara Franker for VISIT FLORIDA
Calling all dogs and well-behaved owners! Don't leave the furriest member of your family at home! Pamper your pooch with a vacation to one of these three luxurious dog-friendly hotels in Florida.
VERO BEACH
With an impressive beachfront location, celebrity-owned Costa d'Este Beach Resort & Spa is a boutique hotel that has it all -- rejuvenating spa, waterfront pool and fine-dining. Not only is this hidden jewel in Vero Beach pet-friendly, there are no extra fees for dogs, and no weight limits.
A great option for couples looking for a romantic escape, the beachfront cabana rooms are perfect for the two of you and, of course, Fido. Sliding doors open out onto a private cabana area with lounge chairs shaded by tropical palm trees. Walk just five steps and you're on a shell-laden stretch of gorgeous golden beach, complete with couple's cabanas and waitstaff to bring you fresh fish tacos and colorful cocktails.
Elway and Ponce relax in the shade of a cabana on the beach at Costa d'Este in Vero Beach. Photo by Kara Franker for VISIT FLORIDA
Pet Package
The "Partly Like a Pup Star" package includes a cabana room with king-size bed, welcome mojitos, beach chairs for two, an array of dog treats and toys from a local boutique, a plush doggie bed and valet parking.
Where to Dine
Located at the resort, The Wave Kitchen & Bar, is an oceanfront restaurant offering a menu directly sourced from local farmers, fishermen and artisanal purveyors.
Nearby
Browse the local boutiques and shops along Ocean Drive, including The Lazy Daisy, The Beach Shop and The Dashing Dog Store.
Relax in Humiston Park, which sits directly on the ocean, or visit Riverside Park where you'll find the Vero Beach Museum of Art and the Riverside Theatre.
WINTER PARK
Ponce checks out the canine goody basket at Alfond Inn in Winter Park. Photo by Kara Franker for VISIT FLORIDA
With its brick-laden streets lined with grand oak trees, al fresco cafés and trendy boutiques, Winter Park is one of the most dog-friendly towns in Florida. Located within walking distance to Park Avenue, the stylish and exquisitely designed Alfond Inn welcomes four-legged family members with wide open arms and a small fee ($75 per night).
The hotel has an impressive, 100-plus-piece contemporary art collection, personally curated by Barbara and Theodore Alfond (Rollins College alumni and generous donors who funded the construction of the hotel -- hence the name). Another unique aspect of this property: Profit from the hotel directly funds Rollins College's scholarship program -- so the money you spend on your vacation is going towards helping students.
Pet Package
The "Very Important Pup" package includes a classic room, specialty dog bowl, a variety of doggie treats and toys (including a tennis ball!), personal dog walk and a donation to Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando.
Where to Dine
Located within walking distance to the hotel, Prato offers a range of mouth-watering Italian dishes in a rustic-meets-modern atmosphere.
Nearby
Shop along Park Avenue and browse local boutiques like The Doggie Door and Lilly Pulitzer.
Visit the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens and the Cornell Fine Arts Museum at Rollins College.
Furry friends are welcome at the Atlantic Hotel in Fort Lauderdale. Photo by Kara Franker for VISIT FLORIDA
Situated on bustling Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard, across from one of Florida's most popular stretches of white sand, The Atlantic Hotel & Spa is located in the heart of all the action. Be prepared for jaw-dropping ocean views from both the spacious rooms (they're huge -- about twice as big as average hotel rooms) and the pool deck.
This beachfront boutique hotel is known for it's over-the-top friendly staff and service -- plus they love furry friends ($125 fee, total per stay). There's a hidden stash of doggie treats at the concierge desk and every pup that prances through the door is lavished with attention.
Pet Package
While there isn't currently a specific pet package (hint, hint -- they should create one), if you call to make your reservation, hotel staff will leave a special goodie bag in your room, chock full of dog treats and toys.
Where to Dine
Located at the hotel, Beauty & The Feast Bar | Kitchen offers a scrumptious combination of small plates and family-style platters, with something for everyone's palate.
Nearby
The beach boardwalk that runs along the boulevard is a great place to get some exercise, or head over to Las Olas Boulevard and visit the Pampered Pooch Salon.
Visit the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, located within walking distance to the hotel.
Your pooch will love the view from the Atlantic Hotel in Fort Lauderdale. Photo by Kara Franker for VISIT FLORIDA
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