Venice Florida Dog Parks and Trails: A Complete Local Guide

by Hunt Brothers Realty

Venice Florida is one of the Gulf Coast’s most dog friendly cities. Whether your dog enjoys running off leash at the beach, meeting other pups in a fenced park, or walking alongside you on a scenic trail, this city offers plenty of options. From the unique off leash beach at Brohard Paw Park to the beautiful Legacy Trail, this guide highlights the best dog parks and trails in and around Venice.

Best Dog Parks in Venice Florida

Woodmere Paw Park

Location: 3951 Woodmere Park Blvd, Venice, FL 34293
Woodmere Paw Park is a clean and safe off leash park with separate fenced areas for small and large dogs. Double gated entry, water fountains, shaded benches, and waste bag stations make it a favorite for local pet owners.

Brohard Paw Park and Dog Beach

Location: 1600 Harbor Drive S, Venice, FL 34285
Brohard Paw Park is the only off leash dog beach in Sarasota County. It features a fenced yard that leads directly to the Gulf of Mexico, where dogs can run and swim leash free. Amenities include restrooms, dog showers, picnic tables, benches, and water fountains.

Other Off Leash Parks Nearby

Sarasota County also maintains additional dog friendly parks including

Bay Street Paw Park in Osprey
Lakeview Paw Park
17th Street Park
Arlington Park
Ann and Chuck Dever Regional Paw Park in Englewood

Dog Friendly Trails Around Venice

Venetian Waterway Park

This 9 mile paved trail runs along both sides of the Intracoastal Waterway. It connects downtown Venice with Caspersen Beach and offers a scenic route for leashed dog walks, jogging, and biking.

Legacy Trail

Stretching 18.5 miles from Venice to Sarasota, the Legacy Trail follows a former railroad corridor. Dogs on leash are welcome. The trail includes shaded rest areas and connects to Shamrock Park and Oscar Scherer State Park.

Shamrock Park and Nature Center

This park offers 2.3 miles of trails with a mix of paved and natural surfaces. There are picnic areas, playgrounds, and educational programs. Dogs on leash are welcome.

Rollins W Coakley Railroad Park

This is the starting point for the Legacy Trail. It features open grassy areas, picnic benches, and a convenient place to start a leashed walk.

Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

Located near the Myakka River, this preserve has unpaved trails through natural Florida landscapes. Dogs on leash are welcome and visitors enjoy spotting local wildlife.

Curry Creek Preserve

An 80 acre preserve with a mix of mangrove forests, tidal marshes, and boardwalk trails. Dogs on leash are welcome. The area is home to river otters, birds, and native Florida wildlife.

Quick Guide to Venice Dog Parks and Trails

Woodmere Paw Park: Fully fenced off leash park with separate areas for small and large dogs and shaded seating areas
Brohard Paw Park and Dog Beach: The only off leash dog beach in Sarasota County
Venetian Waterway Park: Paved scenic trail along the Intracoastal Waterway
Legacy Trail: 18.5 miles of paved trail from Venice to Sarasota
Shamrock Park: Paved and unpaved trails with picnic areas
Sleeping Turtles Preserve North: Natural unpaved riverside trails for leashed dogs
Curry Creek Preserve: Boardwalk trails through marsh and mangrove habitats

Best Times and Local Rules

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid heat and crowds
Dogs must be licensed and on leash except in designated off leash areas
Always bring water, waste bags, and sun protection for yourself and your dog

Plan Your Dog Friendly Day in Venice

From the off leash beach at Brohard to the shaded paths of the Legacy Trail, Venice offers excellent opportunities for your dog to explore. Whether you are looking for a community that welcomes pets or a property near dog friendly parks, Hunt Brothers Realty can help.