Lakeland - all beaches

When we got a dog for our daughter's birthday, we didn't consider the dog-friendly beaches in Florida. Eventually, we discovered that most beaches don't permit dogs. Therefore, we began searching for nearby dog-friendly beaches. After a quick Google search, we came across Pass A Griller Dog Beach. We have visited this beach several times with our dog, and one of the main challenges we face is finding a parking spot. Due to its location in a residential area, parking is scarce. Sometimes, I drop off my family and dog and wait at the end of the road, where there is a curve. There is just enough space to pull over, and I wait until someone leaves before quickly grabbing that spot. Another issue we have noticed is that the beach area near the channel can be a bit dangerous for the kids to swim. There is a current, and if you venture about 10 feet out, the water becomes deeper. Hence, I always advise the kids to stay close to the water's edge. On occasion, I bring a fishing pole and catch fish at the beach due to the depth of the water and the presence of the channel. Overall, it's a great place for your dog to enjoy.

Visited the park to catch a glimpse of the Egmont Key lighthouse from the pier, and it did not disappoint. The pier was bustling with both people fishing and a variety of birds. There were so many birds of all different shapes and sizes. Fort De Soto Park is expansive, offering numerous trails and plenty of space. The beach was stunning and lively. Although the fort is small, it is rich in history.

The beach is an amazing spot to spend your day, whether you prefer to relax on the sand, fish from the jetty, or rent kayaks and JetSkis. With ample parking and a playground for children, complete with pavilions and grills, this location has everything you need. Additionally, there is a snack stand and bathrooms available, and several restaurants are located nearby. Wildlife is abundant in the area, with turtles on land and dolphins in the gulf frequently spotted.

We went to the beach in early February and it wasn't crowded at all. The parking fee is $5, which you can pay at the machines, and it allows you to park anywhere in the park until 9:00 pm. The park has fantastic bike paths that cover the entire area, and the views are absolutely stunning!