Pet policy and what to check before bringing a dog
Margaritaville Island Hotel is pet-friendly according to its own policy: the hotel charges a non-refundable pet fee per pet, per day and dogs are not allowed in the pool area. Before bringing a dog, confirm the current fee, any limits on number/size of pets, and rules about leaving dogs unattended — third-party sites conflict with the hotel policy, so call the hotel if you need certainty.
In this guide
What the hotel policy says
Margaritaville Island Hotel's official FAQ states the property is pet/dog-friendly and charges a non-refundable pet fee per pet, per day. The hotel also specifies that dogs are not permitted in the pool area at any time.
The policy additionally warns against leaving pets unattended for extended periods. The hotel page lists these items as part of its pet rules, but it does not publish every detail (weight limits, exact maximum number) in the FAQ text.
- Pet-friendly per the hotel's own FAQ
- Non-refundable pet fee charged per pet, per day (hotel-stated)
- Dogs are not allowed in the rooftop pool area
- Pets should not be left unattended for extended periods
| Policy point | Source in hotel FAQ |
|---|---|
| Property allows pets | Hotel FAQ |
| Non-refundable pet fee per pet per day | Hotel FAQ |
| No pets in pool area | Hotel FAQ |
Conflicting information you should check
Some third-party booking sites and aggregators list Margaritaville Island Hotel as not allowing pets, while other aggregators mention a maximum of two dogs and the same $50-per-night fee. Because sources disagree, call the hotel to confirm before you book.
Ask the front desk or reservations to email or log the pet allowance details for your reservation so there's a clear record if policies differ at check-in.
- Third-party sites sometimes say pets are not allowed
- Some aggregators list a max of two dogs and cite a $50/night fee (verify)
- Always request written confirmation from hotel reservations if pet access is essential
| What varies | Why to confirm |
|---|---|
| Whether pets are accepted | Some third-party listings contradict the hotel's FAQ |
| Maximum number or size | Aggregators may list limits not shown on the hotel FAQ |
| Exact non-refundable fee and taxes | Fees can change and may differ between direct and third-party bookings |
What to ask before you arrive
Call or email the hotel reservations to confirm the current pet fee (amount and whether tax applies), allowed number and maximum weight/size, and any paperwork required at check-in (vaccination records, proof of ID).
Also check whether the fee is charged per night or per stay, and whether it will be added to your reservation automatically or collected at check-in.
- Current non-refundable pet fee and whether it’s per night or per stay
- Maximum number of dogs allowed in a single room
- Any weight, breed or size restrictions
- Required documentation (vaccinations, ID, service/ESA paperwork if applicable)
- Policy on leaving dogs unattended in the room and applicable time limits
| Question to ask | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Is the pet fee $50 per pet, per night (and taxable)? | Confirm total cost before you book |
| Are more than two dogs allowed in one room? | Aggregators differ on maximums |
| Can I leave my dog alone in the room for short periods? | Avoid fines or potential removal |
Which rooms are most suitable for dogs
Margaritaville Island Hotel room types listed in hotel materials are Deluxe Room (1 King Bed) and Standard Room (2 Queen Beds). Neither room description in the published materials specifies pet-specific room outfitting.
If you want extra space for a dog to settle, ask if a particular room location is quieter (away from the elevator or event spaces) and whether any rooms have tile/kitchenette areas that are easier to clean after muddy paws.
- Deluxe Room (1 King Bed) — good to request if you prefer more bed/sofa layout space
- Standard Room (2 Queen Beds) — useful when traveling with family members and a pet
- Request a ground-floor or low-floor room if stairs or long walks with a dog are a concern (subject to availability)
| Room name | Beds |
|---|---|
| Deluxe Room | 1 King Bed |
| Standard Room | 2 Queen Beds |
Where dogs are and aren’t allowed on property
The hotel FAQ explicitly forbids dogs in the rooftop pool area and the pool itself. Other public spaces (restaurants, bars, spa, lobby) are not listed as pet-permitted in the official FAQ — assume dogs may be restricted from indoor dining and spa areas unless the hotel confirms otherwise.
The hotel sits inside The Island entertainment complex, which has outdoor public areas and walkways. Even in outdoor common areas, follow local leash laws and clean-up rules and keep dogs under control.
- Not allowed: rooftop pool area and pool (hotel-stated)
- Ask hotel whether dogs may be brought into Margaritaville Restaurant, Fins Bar & Chill, or Chill Bar — official FAQ does not detail indoor restaurant pet allowances
- On-property outdoor walkways and plaza areas are public — respect leash rules and The Island’s policies
| Area | Likely policy |
|---|---|
| Rooftop Pool & Chill Bar deck | Dogs not permitted in the pool area (hotel FAQ) |
| Indoor restaurants / spa | Not specified in FAQ — verify with hotel |
| Outdoor public walkways around The Island | Usually allowed with leash; follow local and property rules |
Practical packing and on-stay tips
Bring proof of vaccinations, a spare leash, poop bags, a familiar blanket or bed, and a collapsible water bowl. Pack cleaning supplies for any accidents and plan to keep dogs on a leash in public areas.
If you plan to leave the dog in the room for periods, verify the hotel’s expectations for unattended pets and consider booking a pet sitter or local dog daycare if you’ll be out for long stretches at attractions like Dollywood or the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Documents: vaccination records and ID
- Comfort items: bed, toys, blanket
- Supplies: leash, waste bags, cleaning wipes, bowl
- Daytime care plan: sitter, dog daycare, or limited outings if the hotel restricts unattended pets
| Item | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Vaccination records | Often requested at check-in or if a medical issue arises |
| Blanket/toy | Helps reduce stress in a new room |
| Cleaning wipes & bags | Quick cleanup prevents extra charges |
At check-in and check-out: how to avoid surprises
The lead guest must be at least 21 years old at check-in and present valid photo ID. Confirm the pet fee will be applied as documented and ask the front desk to note the reservation that a pet will be staying.
Ask whether the destination fee or other incidental-authorizations cover pet-related damage or whether a separate incidental hold is required on your card. If you find a discrepancy with what you were told when booking, request a manager to clarify and document the final terms.
- 21+ lead guest required for check-in (hotel policy)
- Request the reservation record show pet allowance and fee
- Ask about incidental hold or damage deposit related to pets
- Get contact info for on-property management in case of disputes
| At the desk | Ask/Confirm |
|---|---|
| Pet fee and how charged | Is it per night or per stay? Taxable? |
| Documented pet permission | Have hotel note the reservation |
| Any restricted areas | Confirm where the dog cannot go (pool, spa, dining) |
