We have stayed in numerous types of accommodations while traveling through the U.S. and Europe with our dog - everything from budget motels to vacation rentals to luxury hotels and castles. The TradeWinds Island Grand Resort on St Pete Beach in Florida is by far the most pet-friendly hotel we've come across so far. Our dog, Bodie, thoroughly enjoyed his stay and didn't want to leave!
What makes the Tradewinds Island Grand so pet-friendly? Many reasons! First, they allow up to two pets per room (dogs or cats). They also allow dogs up to 80 pounds which is rare (most hotels only allow small dogs). The resort also has special pet amenities that will make your dog's stay special including access to the Pet Accessory Center which has pet towels, bowls, and shampoo that all can be used for free during your stay.
What really makes the Island Grand stand-out though is the Pet Play Zone and the designated pet walk area. The Pet Play Zone is a fenced off area where your pet can run around leash-free to its heart is content. The Pet Play Zone also has tables and chairs for humans so you can picnic in the area, or just relax, while your dog frolics around. Our dog loved being able to play ball in a large area and didn't want to stop! The area is half grass and half brick and includes fire hydrants, a water bowl, and doggie poop bags. The tables have umbrellas and there are trees surrounding the area which helps block most of the sun.
The Island Grand's pet walk area loops around a section of the waterway, across a bridge and past the beach. Dogs aren't allowed on St Pete Beach, but the Island Grand has a sandy beach overlook area complete with hammock and chairs so you and your dog can relax together. It was behind the dunes but you can see the ocean. It was the first time our dog had been on such a sandy beach and he had a great time burying his ball and then digging in the sand to find it (see video below)!
And then of course there is the dog and cat room service menu! The Island Grand offers dog and cat-only meals including Mutt Meat Loaf and Kitty Kasserolle. Our dog chose the Fido's Fajitas, which were sauteed sirloin tips covered in gravy, for his dinner. When they brought it to our room (very promptly, I must add), he was thrilled that it was just all for him! They even serve the meal on a tray complete with a ceramic plate, silverware and salt and pepper! He devoured it all in just a few moments but we could tell he enjoyed every second of it. In fact, he licked his plate extra clean! (See video below for photos)
The resort doesn't just cater to pets but also to their humans of all ages. There are extensive kids club programs throughout the day with arts and craft activities, and even hermit crab races (with adoptions afterwards!). There are also plenty of pools including a designated adults-only pool that is close to the beachside bar, Salty's. The Island Grand also has multiple dining options including a Beef O Brady's, Pizza Hut Express and the Palm Court, an Italian restaurant. And of course there are also plenty of bar options including RedBeard's which features nightly entertainment. All together there are 15 restaurant and bars spread amongst the Island Grand and its sister property the Sandpiper Resort, which is just a few steps along the beach. Guests of each resort have charging privileges to the other which makes it very handy to explore both properties.
The Island Grand is the only TradeWinds property that is pet-friendly. There are 48 pet-friendly suites available, all located in the Allamanda building which is right next to the pet areas (see video for more information). Our suite was the gulf-front suite and it had two double beds, a living room area, a small kitchen with microwave, stove, fridge and freezer, and a bathroom. We also had two lounge chairs on our "porch" which overlooked the waterway and the beach. The other option for pet owners is resort view, which has a pretty view over the waterways on property.
If you are looking for a clean and comfortable resort where all the staff are friendly and where dogs and cats (and kids!) are welcome then look no further. Our stay at the TradeWinds Island Grand provided us with a great laid-back getaway from the daily grind. The beach was beautiful and the resort is very well kept. Our dog had the best time ever and we look forward to returning someday soon!
Fido's Fabulous Fall Adventure Package - a 2 night stay for you and your pet! Read more about this fall package here.
For more information:
TradeWinds Island Grand Beach Resort
AAA Four-Diamond Resort and Two Palm Certified Green Lodge
5500 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
(727)367-6461
Reservation/Information - toll free 800-360-4016
http://justletgo.com/
Pet Package - Enjoy a 2 night stay with your pet at the Island Grand. Includes Pet Fee and Resort Fee. Read more about their pet-friendly package here!
Pet fee is $30 per pet/per night. A copy of proof of rabies vaccination is required to be faxed to hotel prior to arrival. Read more about their pet policy here.
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