Vacations With Dogs In California – Delicious food, golden beaches and the feeling of endless summer: California is the perfect vacation spot for everyone, including your dog. No one should miss out on the holidays, but luckily, California is full of fun and dog-friendly places you can enjoy together. From the Golden State’s northern coast to the Golden State’s southern tip, you’ll find dog-friendly beaches, national parks, outdoor dining, and of course, vacation rentals that are perfect for your pet. Put on the appropriate sunglasses and relax on San Diego’s beaches or hike one of the trails along Lake Tahoe, the adventure is up to you.
Here’s our list of the most dog-friendly cities in California for you to get out and explore. Pack your suitcase and don’t forget Fido’s favorite toys: the fun starts here.
Vacations With Dogs In California
Consistently ranked among the most dog-friendly cities in the United States, San Francisco is full of sights, beaches, and parks that you and your pup can enjoy together. If you want to take Fido with you for the day, you can enjoy outdoor dining areas and relaxed shopping, not to mention the city’s Golden State Dog Park, which underwent a $2.4 million renovation and is open for play again.
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After leaving the city, head to the Presidio to hike 1,500 acres of scenic trails (on or off leash). If they want to play by the water, dog owners flock to Crissy Field or stroll along the waterfront at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Looking for a lakeside getaway that you and your dog will love? South Lake Tahoe is a great dog-friendly destination that not only offers plenty of activities, but also offers pet-friendly accommodations so you can stay together in comfort. Find a lakeside cabin near Camp Richardson or Tallaght Shoreline where you can relax on the beach with your dogs on a leash.
Shop for snacks at the Dog, Dog, Cat store, walk around the lake along the Tahoe Rim Trail, and cool off with a dip in the water. Take an evening nap by the fireplace with your dog.
Wild coastline, botanical gardens and wine country: what more could you want? Leave a pair of paw prints with you and pave your own way in Mendocino. Start your day at one of the many dog-friendly cafes, then head to the lush green forest of Mendocino Point Park. Spend the day playing at Mendocino Dog Park, taking in the sights at Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park, or taking a portable boat ride on the All Aboard Adventures Dog Charter Boat.
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Other must-see attractions include the Mendocino Marine Botanical Garden, the Fort Bragg Skunk Train, and Russian Canyon State Park, all of which welcome dogs on a leash. If you want to explore freely, head to Noyo Beach for some fun on the sand.
A stone’s throw from Irvine, the small town of Newport Beach accepts dogs. The beach itself allows four-legged friends on a leash until 10 a.m. and after 4:30 p.m., so you can start and end your day jogging with the tide or throwing a frisbee. For more water fun, head to Corona del Mar State Beach or take the pet-friendly ferry from Fun Zone Boat Company.
Don’t forget to visit the Newport Beach Dog Park to play with other dogs. When it’s time to eat and drink, you’ll have no problem finding an outdoor restaurant to relax in, whether it’s a beer bar, a barbecue or a beachside cafe.
The City of Angels is known for its Hollywood magic, celebrity luxury, fabulous beaches, and one of the most dog-friendly resorts in California. Live like a local and take your pup with you on any adventure, whether it’s shopping at an outdoor mall, soaking up the sun at Venice Beach, or stretching your paws at Griffith Park.
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Los Angeles is home to many outdoor dining options, from cafes to fine dining, so no matter what you’re craving, you’re sure to find a place to keep Fido company. Other favorite dog activities include taking pictures at the Hollywood Sign, walking the Santa Monica Pier, and having fun at Rosy Dog Beach.
Bring hiking shoes and a water bottle for two when you head out into the Big Bear Lake Mountains. Here you will find many pets enjoying outdoor adventures with their families. So there is no shortage of places to relax with dogs for a certain period of time. Whether you’re skiing, boating, hiking, or playing by the water, you’ll enjoy your time wagging your tail. All beaches along Highway 38 in Big Bear Lake are dog-friendly, so you can swim at the beach as much as you like.
In addition, Meadow Park is a popular dog park, perfect for new four-legged friends, and many shops along Big Bear Village are pet-friendly. Get some fresh forest air, visit downtown, and go kayaking with your pup (once he’s learned to sit and stay).
Get out or spend time with your pup in peaceful Southern California. In Oceanside, a dog-friendly town, it’s not uncommon to see the animals frolicking together. While you’re watching the tides, grab a bite by the sea, take a stroll around town with Wheel Fun Rentals or catch a surf at Cardiff State Beach. Poinsettia Dog Park and San Clemente Premium Outlets are also popular with dog owners.
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While there are plenty of dog-friendly parks and beaches, you can change up your plans with a wine tasting at Beach House Winery or a stop at San Diego’s Mikkeller Brewing (both dog-friendly spots). At the end of an exciting day, you can enjoy the sunset from the beach house or read a good book by the outdoor pool.
Surf or relax by the water at Southern California beaches like Coronado Dog Beach in Coronado, Huntington Dog Beach in Huntington Beach, Ocean Beach Dog Beach in San Diego, and Arroyo Bro Beach in Santa Barbara.
Bring your dog and spend the day at Northern California beaches like Crescent Beach in Crescent City, Noyo Beach in Fort Bragg, and Portugal Beach in Mendocino.
No need to hire a dog sitter. Take your four-legged friend on an unforgettable adventure with a dog vacation rental.
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List Your Property Owner Reviews Partners & HOAs Select Specialty Markets Long Term Management Resource Center Real Estate FAQs With beaches, parks and a foodie feast, the pet-friendly Golden State welcomes dogs for an unforgettable vacation with your dog. These nine dog-friendly places in California will create memories to last a lifetime.​
A tall, elegantly dressed woman walks her dog on the sidewalk in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Editorial credit: pbk-pg/Shutterstock.com
The name of this city exudes peace and is one of the friendliest cities to visit with your best friends. There are 39 pet-friendly hotels with a variety of amenities to suit any budget, ensuring you have a bright and relaxing beach vacation like a hotel with beautiful views.
Is another favorite for a classic comfortable interior behind a luxurious exterior. Known as one of the best beaches in the state, Carmel Beach is just as popular with pet owners as it is with people without pets. With the Carmel River running through Garland Ranch Regional Park, you can enjoy dogs in the water, hiking and shade in several off-leash areas. Spend your free time everywhere.
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Carmel River State Beach is popular for its trails to Ribera Beach and Point Lobos lookouts, while Mission Trail Park is known for its wide paths and the historic Flanders Mansion along the way. After a busy day, you can recharge your batteries at 23 dog-friendly restaurants across the city, including
The charm of dogs. The seating area is decorated with lush foliage and has a fireplace, and participating dogs receive cookies and bowls of water. Zones for the sale of dogs in the city include
Big Bear Lake is a popular ski resort among Los Angeles residents, but in the off-season it’s off the beaten path. During the warm season, there are countless fun things to do for dogs to have unforgettable solo adventures with your pet. There are 333 pet-friendly hotels in the area. You can settle in and escape to nature right from the front door. There is a beautiful lake shore here
The lake’s pet-friendly Alpine Pedal Beach is a paradise for active dogs, perfect for splashing in the surrounding scenic waters. After exploring the many hiking trails around the lake, there are nine dog-friendly restaurants where you can enjoy refreshing drinks and watch a wonderful sunset dinner. Winter brings skiing, ice skating on the lake and great sledding with your dog, an experience you’ll never forget.
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A woman hikes with her dog at sunset in Titus Canyon, Death Valley National Park, California. Editorial credit: Laurens Hoddenbagh/Shutterstock.com
Death Valley National Park is by far the coolest dog-friendly place in California. Known for its countless resources, trails, wildlife viewing and other natural wonders, it offers endless opportunities for a variety of activities. Many people camp there to keep the fun going
