The Davis Island beach on the island’s southern edge is predominantly known for one thing—that it is dog-friendly. Anyone with canine friends can bring them to this 200-foot-long strip of soft sand in Davis Islands Park and let them roam as they please. Leashes are not required within the fenced-in dog beach area, and many of the dogs take the opportunity to play in the water as well as on the sand.

Davis Island is largely residential in nature. Most of the coastline is lined with private homes, and there aren’t many beaches to speak of. It’s largely the proximity to downtown Tampa that attracts residents to the island neighborhood. There’s also the attractive appeal of its Mediterranean Revival-style buildings, the shops and restaurants along East Davis Boulevard, a long pedestrian trail that features benches and water fountains, and the dog-friendly Davis Island Beach. There aren’t many Tampa beaches that are dog-friendly, so dog owners who are looking to enjoy some fun on the sand with their four-legged pals are especially encouraged to keep the beach in mind.

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There isn’t much in the way of facilities at Davis Island Beach. Rinse stations, bags for picking up after the animals, garbage cans, and drinking water are available. Complementing the beach at the Davis Islands Park is a dry area where dogs and their owners can play. Other features in the immediate area include a small airport and a marina.

As for getting to Davis Island Beach, the downtown exit for the bridge to the island itself is found off Bayshore Boulevard near the point where said boulevard meets South Magnolia Avenue. Once on the island, drivers find themselves on Davis Boulevard, which extends to the island’s southern area. From there, head east on Martinique Avenue, which connects to Severn Avenue and the beach parking lot. Nearby hotels include downtown Tampa hotels such as the Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk, Hyatt Regency Tampa, and Tampa Marriott Waterside. There’s also the Westin on neighboring Harbour Island.