Fort Lauderdale has quickly earned a reputation as a haven for pet-loving travelers. With sunny beaches, scenic canals, and endless outdoor activities, it’s a destination designed for both humans and their furry friends. The wide variety of pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale ensures you never have to compromise on comfort or convenience.
From luxury resorts to affordable stays, these hotels provide thoughtful amenities that make traveling with pets simple and stress-free. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top hotels, the best times to visit, and essential tips for planning the ultimate Fort Lauderdale getaway with your pet.
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Why Visit Fort Lauderdale With Your Pet
Fort Lauderdale stands out as a premier pet-friendly destination for numerous compelling reasons. The city’s pleasant year-round climate makes outdoor activities with your pet possible in any season, while its 23 miles of golden beaches offer ample space for exploration and play. Many of these beaches have designated pet-friendly areas where your dog can enjoy the surf and sand alongside you, particularly the popular Canine Beach at Sunrise Boulevard.
Beyond the coastline, Fort Lauderdale boasts an impressive network of parks and trails perfect for pet outings. Snyder Park features a dedicated 5-acre dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs, while Hugh Taylor Birch State Park offers scenic walking paths beneath a canopy of tropical foliage. The city’s famous Riverwalk, often called “Florida’s Most Beautiful Mile,” welcomes leashed pets for leisurely strolls along the New River with plenty of outdoor cafes and water stations along the route.
Pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale have embraced this pet-positive culture, creating a seamless experience for travelers and their animal companions. Many establishments have gone beyond simply permitting pets to actively welcoming them with specialized amenities, dedicated relief areas, and knowledgeable staff who can direct you to the best pet-friendly attractions in the area. The city’s walkable downtown and Las Olas Boulevard areas make it easy to include your pet in shopping, dining, and sightseeing adventures, with many restaurants offering pet-friendly patios where your furry friend can join you for meals.
Hotel Features & Amenities
When booking pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale, you’ll discover that accommodations in this coastal city often go above and beyond the standard pet offerings found elsewhere. Many properties provide plush pet beds, food and water bowls, and welcome treats upon arrival—all designed to make your pet feel immediately at home. Some higher-end hotels even offer specialized pet menus created by hotel chefs, ensuring your companion enjoys the same culinary quality as human guests.
The practical aspects of traveling with pets are thoughtfully addressed as well. Most pet-friendly accommodations feature dedicated relief areas on their properties, often landscaped with pet comfort in mind and equipped with waste stations for convenience. Many hotels have partnered with local pet services, providing guests with access to professional dog walkers, pet sitters, and even mobile grooming services perfect for those times when you might want to enjoy a non-pet activity.
Location plays a key role in Fort Lauderdale’s pet hotel experience. Waterfront properties often offer direct access to pet-walking paths along the Intracoastal Waterway, while downtown hotels typically sit within easy walking distance of pet-friendly parks and green spaces. Some beach-adjacent properties have implemented special “sandy paws” stations where pets can have sand gently brushed and paws rinsed after beach excursions before returning to your room.
Pet concierge services have become increasingly common at upscale Fort Lauderdale hotels, with dedicated staff members who can arrange pet-friendly tours, recommend veterinary services, or organize special experiences like “yappy hours” where pets and owners can socialize. The city’s warm climate has also led many hotels to create outdoor lounging areas specifically designed for guests with pets, featuring shade structures, comfortable seating, and sometimes even shallow wading pools where dogs can cool off during warmer months.
Best Travel Seasons & Booking Schedule
Timing your visit to Fort Lauderdale requires careful consideration when traveling with pets, as the climate significantly impacts animal comfort. The ideal months for pet travel to this sunny destination are November through April when temperatures typically range from 65°F to 80°F—perfect for outdoor adventures without risking heat exhaustion for your furry companion. During these months, pets can comfortably enjoy longer walks, beach time, and outdoor dining experiences without the extreme heat of summer.
The summer and early fall months (June through September) bring higher temperatures and humidity levels that can be challenging for pets, especially breeds with thicker coats or brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs. If you must travel during this period, plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening hours and ensure your pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale choice includes air-conditioned accommodations and shaded outdoor areas.
From a pricing perspective, booking patterns for pet-friendly accommodations follow the general tourism trends in Fort Lauderdale. Peak season (December through April) brings higher room rates and reduced pet-friendly availability, making advance booking essential—typically 3-4 months ahead for the best selection. The shoulder seasons of October-November and April-May offer an excellent balance of pleasant weather and more competitive rates, with greater availability of pet-friendly rooms.
To secure the best deals on pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale, consider booking midweek stays rather than weekends when possible, as many properties offer lower Sunday through Thursday rates. Additionally, many hotels cap the number of pet-friendly rooms available at any given time, so booking directly with the hotel (rather than through third-party sites) often yields better results for pet travelers. When making reservations, always specify your pet’s breed, size, and any special requirements to ensure the property can accommodate your specific needs and to avoid any surprises upon arrival.
Top 10 Pet Friendly Hotels Fort Lauderdale
1. W Fort Lauderdale
The W Fort Lauderdale stands as one of the most luxurious pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale has to offer, combining contemporary elegance with exceptional pet amenities. This oceanfront property welcomes pets with their signature P.A.W. (Pets Are Welcome) program that includes plush pet beds, food and water bowls, toys, and special treats upon arrival. The hotel’s prime location on Fort Lauderdale Beach provides easy access to morning beach walks before the heat of the day, while the property’s spacious grounds include designated pet relief areas with waste stations.
What truly sets the W apart is their pet concierge service, which can arrange pet sitting, dog walking, or even pet massages during your stay. The hotel’s “Woofie Walks” program offers guided morning strolls along the beach with other pet guests, creating a social experience for both animals and owners.
- Pet policy: Dogs and cats welcome
- Fees: $150 non-refundable fee per stay
- Weight limits: No weight restrictions
- Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, waste bags, pet concierge services
- Nearby attraction: Hugh Taylor Birch State Park (1.5 miles away)
Price Range: from $350/night
Traveler Rating: 4.5/5
The W Fort Lauderdale offers a true luxury experience for pets and their owners, with attentive service that keeps both two-legged and four-legged guests returning year after year.
2. Kimpton Goodland Hotel
The Kimpton Goodland Hotel Fort Lauderdale stands out among pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale for its “pets stay free” policy and genuine enthusiasm for animal guests. This boutique property, located just minutes from the beach in the North Beach Village neighborhood, welcomes pets of all sizes, types, and breeds without additional charges a rare policy in luxury accommodations. Upon arrival, your pet receives a personalized welcome amenity including treats, toys, and information about local pet-friendly attractions.
The hotel’s staff pride themselves on knowing pet guests by name, often keeping track of preferences and special needs for return visits. The property features dedicated pet relief areas with waste stations and offers pet beds, bowls, and mats in rooms upon request. The hotel’s open-air courtyard provides a pleasant spot for pets to relax with their owners while enjoying the Florida sunshine.
- Pet policy: All pets welcome with no restrictions on type, size, or number
- Fees: No pet fee
- Weight limits: No weight restrictions
- Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, waste bags, pet-friendly staff directory
- Nearby attraction: Bark Park at Sunrise (1 mile away)
Price Range: from $249/night
Traveler Rating: 4.7/5
With its genuinely pet-loving atmosphere and zero-fee policy, the Kimpton Goodland offers exceptional value for travelers with animals, combining upscale accommodations with truly pet-inclusive hospitality.
3. Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal
Perfect for extended stays with your pet, the Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal combines spacious suite accommodations with comprehensive pet amenities. This waterfront property features rooms with full kitchens and separate living areas, making it ideal for pet families seeking a home-like environment. The hotel’s location on the Intracoastal Waterway provides scenic walking paths directly from the property, while the dedicated pet relief area includes a small agility course to help active dogs burn energy.
What distinguishes this property from other pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale is its extended-stay focus, with staff trained to provide recommendations for local pet services, including groomers, veterinarians, and pet supply stores for guests staying multiple nights. The hotel’s spacious suites allow pets and owners to maintain comfortable routines, with enough room for pet beds and play areas without feeling cramped.
- Pet policy: Dogs and cats welcome
- Fees: $150 non-refundable fee per stay
- Weight limits: 50 pounds maximum, two pets maximum per room
- Amenities: In-room pet beds available, designated relief areas, walking paths
- Nearby attraction: Bayview Dog Park (2 miles away)
Price Range: from $225/night
Traveler Rating: 4.3/5
For travelers planning an extended Fort Lauderdale visit with their pet, the Residence Inn offers the perfect blend of homey comfort and hotel conveniences in a pet-welcoming environment.
4. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Fort Lauderdale Tamarac
Budget-conscious pet parents will appreciate La Quinta’s longstanding reputation as one of the most consistently pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale offers. This property in the Tamarac area welcomes two pets per room without weight restrictions and most notably without pet fees, making it an exceptional value. Though located away from the beach area, the hotel’s position provides easy access to several local dog parks and the extensive trail system of nearby Fern Forest Nature Center.
The property features basic but clean accommodations with all the necessities for traveling pet owners, including ground-floor rooms for easy access and grassy areas for quick relief walks. While the amenities aren’t as luxurious as some beachfront options, the combination of no pet fees, free breakfast, and comfortable accommodations makes this an excellent choice for travelers on a budget.
- Pet policy: Two pets per room welcome
- Fees: No pet fee
- Weight limits: No weight restrictions
- Amenities: Ground floor rooms available, designated pet relief areas
- Nearby attraction: Fern Forest Nature Center (2.5 miles away)
Price Range: from $119/night
Traveler Rating: 4.0/5
La Quinta delivers reliable, pet-friendly accommodations without breaking the bank, making it a popular choice for road-trippers and cost-conscious travelers with pets in tow.
5. The Dalmar, Fort Lauderdale
The Dalmar represents modern luxury among pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale, with its contemporary design and exceptional downtown location. This stylish property welcomes pets with a sophisticated approach, offering custom pet beds, elevated food and water bowls, and a special pet room service menu featuring locally-sourced organic options. The hotel’s central location places it within walking distance of Flagler Village and the Riverwalk, both offering extensive pet-friendly walking paths.
What sets The Dalmar apart is its rooftop pool and lounge area, Sparrow, which permits leashed pets during designated “Yappy Hour” events where both human and canine guests can socialize. The hotel also partners with local pet boutiques to offer in-room pet amenity deliveries for special occasions or just because.
- Pet policy: Two pets per room welcome
- Fees: $150 non-refundable fee per stay
- Weight limits: 50 pounds maximum per pet
- Amenities: Custom pet beds, elevated bowls, pet menu, “Yappy Hour” events
- Nearby attraction: Peter Feldman Park (0.3 miles away)
Price Range: from $289/night
Traveler Rating: 4.4/5
The Dalmar offers a sophisticated urban retreat for style-conscious travelers who won’t compromise on luxury accommodations when traveling with their pets.
6. Pelican Grand Beach Resort
For travelers seeking a beachfront experience with their pet, the Pelican Grand Beach Resort stands out among pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale for its prime location directly on the Atlantic Ocean. This elegant property combines Old Florida charm with modern amenities, welcoming pets to enjoy the ocean views from pet-friendly rooms that include private balconies. The hotel provides pet beds, bowls, and a welcome treat bag, along with waste bags for beach walks.
What makes this property exceptional is its location on a quieter stretch of Fort Lauderdale Beach, offering more relaxed morning and evening beach walks with your pet (during permitted hours). The hotel’s verandah features rocking chairs where you and your leashed companion can enjoy ocean breezes, and the property has partnered with a local pet care service that can provide in-room pet sitting when needed.
- Pet policy: Dogs only, two maximum per room
- Fees: $125 non-refundable fee per stay
- Weight limits: 50 pounds maximum per pet
- Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, waste bags, pet-sitting service referrals
- Nearby attraction: Canine Beach at Sunrise Boulevard (1 mile away)
Price Range: from $299/night
Traveler Rating: 4.3/5
The Pelican Grand offers a classic beach resort experience that doesn’t exclude your four-legged family member, combining oceanfront luxury with thoughtful pet amenities.
7. Home2 Suites by Hilton Fort Lauderdale Airport-Cruise Port
For travelers with pets arriving by air or departing on cruises, the Home2 Suites provides excellent convenience among pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale. This all-suite property welcomes pets with spacious accommodations featuring fully equipped kitchens, separate living areas, and flexible workspace perfect for guests mixing business with leisure travel. The hotel’s location near both the airport and cruise port makes transfers simple, while still providing access to pet-friendly attractions like Secret Woods Nature Center.
The property features an expansive grassy pet relief area and offers complimentary breakfast for human guests. What distinguishes Home2 Suites is their long-term stay policy that doesn’t increase pet fees for extended visits, making it ideal for guests needing temporary housing with pets during relocations or extended business trips.
- Pet policy: Two pets per room welcome
- Fees: $75 non-refundable fee per stay (not per night)
- Weight limits: 50 pounds maximum per pet
- Amenities: In-suite kitchens, separate living spaces, extended stay accommodations
- Nearby attraction: Secret Woods Nature Center (3 miles away)
Price Range: from $159/night
Traveler Rating: 4.2/5
For travelers with pets arriving by air or planning pre-cruise stays, Home2 Suites offers the perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and pet-friendly policies.
8. The Atlantic Hotel & Spa
The Atlantic Hotel & Spa represents luxury pet travel at its finest among pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale. This all-suite oceanfront property welcomes pets with exceptional amenities including plush beds, premium food and water bowls, and a special welcome package containing treats, toys, and detailed information about local pet services and attractions. The hotel’s spacious suites include kitchenettes and separate living areas, providing ample space for both you and your pet to relax in comfort.
What truly distinguishes The Atlantic is its “Pet Pampering Program,” which includes optional add-ons such as in-room pet massages, gourmet pet meal delivery, and professional photography sessions to capture vacation memories with your companion. The hotel’s location on Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard provides easy access to permitted pet walking areas along the beach during morning and evening hours.
- Pet policy: Dogs only, two maximum per room
- Fees: $150 non-refundable fee per stay, plus $25 per night pet fee
- Weight limits: 100 pounds maximum combined weight
- Amenities: Luxury pet beds, premium bowls, welcome package, pet pampering services
- Nearby attraction: Canine Beach at Sunrise Boulevard (1.2 miles away)
Price Range: from $375/night
Traveler Rating: 4.5/5
For pet parents seeking a truly indulgent beach getaway with their four-legged family members, The Atlantic delivers unmatched luxury and attentive service.
9. Aloft Fort Lauderdale
The Aloft Fort Lauderdale brings modern, vibrant accommodations to the list of pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale with its signature ARF (Animals R Fun) program. This stylish property in downtown Fort Lauderdale welcomes dogs with a special bed, bowl, and complimentary treat and toy. The hotel’s urban location places it within walking distance of Flagler Village and the NSU Art Museum, with several pet-friendly restaurants and cafes nearby.
What makes Aloft stand out is its contemporary, loft-inspired design with concrete floors that are both stylish and practical for pet travelers, minimizing concerns about accidents or scratches. The hotel’s vibrant social spaces, including the WXYZ Bar, welcome leashed pets, allowing them to remain part of your vacation experience even during evening social time.
- Pet policy: Dogs only, two maximum per room
- Fees: No pet fee (rare among downtown hotels)
- Weight limits: 40 pounds maximum per pet
- Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, toys, pet-friendly social spaces
- Nearby attraction: Flagler Village Dog Park (0.4 miles away)
Price Range: from $179/night
Traveler Rating: 4.1/5
Aloft offers an urban, design-forward option for pet travelers seeking a vibrant downtown experience without the typical pet fees found at comparable properties.
10. Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort
Completing our list of top pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale is the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, an all-suite beachfront property offering spacious accommodations with balconies overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This upscale resort welcomes pets with comfortable beds, premium food and water bowls, and a welcome package including locally-sourced treats and waste bags. The property’s location provides easy access to morning and evening beach walks during permitted hours.
What distinguishes the Hilton is its exceptional “Paws in Paradise” program that includes a detailed pet guide to Fort Lauderdale upon arrival and partnerships with local pet services including mobile grooming, dog walking, and pet sitting. The resort’s multi-bedroom suites are ideal for families traveling with pets, providing separate living spaces that allow for privacy and comfort.
- Pet policy: Dogs only, two maximum per room
- Fees: $125 non-refundable fee per stay
- Weight limits: 75 pounds maximum combined weight
- Amenities: Premium pet beds, bowls, welcome package, local pet service referrals
- Nearby attraction: Hugh Taylor Birch State Park (1.7 miles away)
Price Range: from $309/night
Traveler Rating: 4.4/5
The Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort combines premium accommodations with thoughtful pet amenities, creating an upscale beach experience that welcomes your four-legged family member.
Traveler Tips & Alternatives
When planning your stay at pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale, packing strategically can significantly enhance the experience for both you and your pet. Always bring your pet’s medical records and vaccination certificates, as many hotels require proof of current vaccinations at check-in. Pack portable food and water bowls for excursions, a favorite blanket or bed for familiar scents, and waste bags for walks. Consider bringing a pet first-aid kit with basics like bandages, antibiotic ointment, and any medications your pet regularly takes.
Before finalizing your reservation, take time to confirm specific pet policies directly with the hotel. While third-party booking sites may list properties as pet-friendly, they often lack details about weight limits, breed restrictions, or areas of the hotel where pets are permitted. A quick phone call can prevent unpleasant surprises upon arrival. Ask about undocumented policies like whether pets can be left unattended in rooms (many hotels prohibit this) or if housekeeping services require pets to be absent.
For tech-savvy travelers, several apps can enhance your Fort Lauderdale pet vacation. BringFido helps locate additional pet-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and attractions, while AllTrails can identify suitable walking paths based on difficulty level and terrain. The Sniffspot app connects you with private yards and spaces available for rent by the hour perfect for letting your dog exercise safely off-leash when needed.
Beyond traditional Fort Lauderdale pet-friendly lodging options, consider vacation rentals, which often offer more space and fewer restrictions than hotels. Many beachfront condos and homes in neighborhoods like Lauderdale-by-the-Sea and Pompano Beach welcome pets and provide yards or private outdoor spaces. Pet-friendly vacation rentals near Las Olas Boulevard combine urban convenience with homey comforts, often at competitive prices compared to luxury pet-friendly hotels.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When booking pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale, travelers frequently make several avoidable mistakes that can impact their vacation experience. One of the most common errors is assuming a hotel’s “pet-friendly” designation means all pets are welcome. In reality, many Fort Lauderdale properties restrict certain breeds, set weight limits, or only accept dogs while excluding cats and other pets. Always verify specific pet acceptance policies before booking to avoid disappointment or scrambling for last-minute accommodations.
Another frequent oversight is failing to account for pet fees in the vacation budget. While the room rate might seem competitive, pet fees in Fort Lauderdale hotels can range from $0 to $150 per stay, with some properties adding daily charges between $25-50. These fees can significantly impact your overall budget, especially for longer stays, so factor them into your comparison shopping.
Many travelers mistakenly book rooms on high floors without considering their pet’s bathroom needs. Requesting a ground-floor room or one near exit doors and pet relief areas can save considerable time and stress, especially for older pets or those accustomed to frequent outings. Related to this, some guests fail to research the hotel’s immediate surroundings for suitable walking areas, only to discover their property is surrounded by busy streets with little green space.
Perhaps the most serious mistake is not understanding a hotel’s policy about leaving pets unattended in rooms. Many pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale prohibit leaving pets alone, even in crates, which can severely restrict your ability to enjoy non-pet-friendly attractions or dining. Before booking, confirm whether the property allows unattended pets and under what conditions, or research pet sitting services that can fill the gap when needed.
Hotel Etiquette & Maintenance Tips
Maintaining proper pet etiquette at pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale ensures these accommodations remain available to future travelers with animals. Start by thoroughly cleaning up after your pet both inside and outside the hotel. Bring pet wipes to clean muddy paws before entering the building, and immediately address any accidents with appropriate cleaning supplies that you’ve packed. Many experienced pet travelers bring a small carpet cleaner for emergencies.
Noise control represents another crucial aspect of pet hotel etiquette. If your pet tends to bark when left alone or reacts to hallway noises, consider using a white noise machine or leaving the television on at low volume to mask external sounds. When possible, schedule housekeeping for times when you can remove your pet from the room, reducing stress for both your animal and the cleaning staff.
Always respect leash rules in common areas, even with the most well-behaved pets. Fort Lauderdale hotels typically require pets to be leashed in all public spaces, including lobbies, elevators, and outdoor hotel grounds. This policy protects both your pet and other guests who may have allergies or fear of animals.
Maintaining your room’s condition protects both your wallet and the hotel’s willingness to welcome pets. Use provided pet blankets on furniture, bring sheets to cover beds if your pet will be sleeping with you, and consider portable barriers to block access to areas with valuable items or extensive wiring. A quick daily wipe-down of surfaces your pet contacts helps prevent buildup of hair and dander.
These etiquette practices contribute significantly to hotels’ willingness to maintain pet-friendly policies. As accommodation costs rise and competition for rooms increases, properties evaluate whether pet programs remain financially viable. By demonstrating responsible pet ownership during your stay at pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale, you help ensure these properties continue welcoming four-legged guests for years to come.
Conclusion
Fort Lauderdale has truly established itself as a premier destination for travelers who refuse to leave their beloved pets behind. From luxury beachfront resorts to practical extended-stay properties, the city offers accommodations to suit every budget and preference. The warm climate, abundance of outdoor activities, and growing number of pet-welcoming businesses make it an ideal location for creating lasting memories with your four-legged family member.
Throughout your planning process, remember that successful pet travel requires thoughtful preparation confirming specific pet policies, packing appropriate supplies, and researching pet-friendly attractions near your chosen accommodation. The extra effort results in a significantly enhanced experience where both you and your pet can fully enjoy all that Fort Lauderdale has to offer, from scenic beach walks to outdoor dining along Las Olas Boulevard.
Ready to plan your getaway? Compare prices and book your stay at the best pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale today.
FAQs
What are typical pet fees at Fort Lauderdale hotels?
Most pet friendly hotels Fort Lauderdale charge between $50-150 per stay as a one-time fee, though some add daily charges of $25-50. Budget-friendly options like La Quinta and certain Kimpton properties may waive pet fees entirely.
Are there weight restrictions for pets at Fort Lauderdale hotels?
Weight restrictions vary widely, with luxury properties often being more flexible. Many hotels cap weight at 40-50 pounds per pet, while others like W Fort Lauderdale and Kimpton Goodland have no weight restrictions.
What pet-friendly attractions are near Fort Lauderdale hotels?
Popular attractions include Canine Beach at Sunrise Boulevard, Snyder Park’s 5-acre dog park, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park’s walking trails, and the pet-friendly Riverwalk. Many outdoor cafes along Las Olas Boulevard also welcome leashed pets.
Can I leave my pet alone in the hotel room in Fort Lauderdale?
Policies vary significantly between properties. Many luxury hotels prohibit unattended pets, while extended-stay properties may allow crated pets alone for limited periods. Always confirm the specific policy before booking.
What special pet amenities do Fort Lauderdale hotels typically offer?
Common amenities include pet beds, food and water bowls, welcome treats, and waste bags. Higher-end properties may offer pet room service menus, walking services, pet concierge assistance, and specialized bedding options.
