We loved that the hotel was right on the marina of the Anna Maria Sound, so we got to watch all the boats and take in all of the stunning sights. The best part was that the Neal Preserve was right next door! We were in walking distance to epic trails through mangrove forests and coastal marsh habitats.

And there are plenty of other trails and adventures for dogs to explore like the Robinson Preserve, Bradenton Riverwalk and Joan M. Durante Park. Just remember, you need to keep your owners on a leash at all times. I think it’s so we make sure that they don’t drink too many margaritas or something. You know how it is…

We aren’t allowed on most beaches – bummer, I know. But, you can go to De Soto National Memorial Beach instead! It’s the best! There were tons of other dogs to sniff and meet. It’s a gorgeous spot too, right where the Manatee River meets the Gulf of Mexico. So the views are awesome! Palma Sola Causeway Park is another great beach where dogs are allowed. I met many new friends there, too.

There’s also the Happy Tails Dog Park at G.T. Bray Park. It’s kind of like the parks I’m used to at home, but it’s the only place where we can play off-leash here, which is always a blast. They have fenced in areas, and a separate section for small dogs, because sometimes they get a little overwhelmed by us big guys.