Best Hotels for Dog Friendly Vacations in California
Planning a dog-friendly vacation in California? Whether you're exploring the coast, mountains, or cities, you'll find many dog friendly destinations throughout the Golden State. If you're in search of the perfect spot to call home base on your next trip, here’s my list of some of the best California hotels that welcome dogs.
But before you go, make sure to pack for your pooch!
Amazon Packing List When Traveling with Your Dog:
(This packing list contains links to products I recommend based on my personal experience. As a member of the Amazon Associates Program, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases that I refer to my readers.)
Best Hotels for Dog Friendly Vacations in California
San Diego
Lakehouse Resort San Marcos
Why It's Great: If you're looking for an affordable getaway in the San Diego area, the Lakehouse Resort is welcoming to four-legged guests. Located inland, this hotel is situated on a man-made lake in a residential community. We thoroughly enjoyed our waterfront room and the relaxing atmosphere. We were greeted with a dog welcome package, complete with water bowls, treats, and a dog bandana. We found plenty of outdoor space for a short walk or a quick potty break when needed. The convenient parking lot allowed us to park right by our room for easy access to our car.
What To Do: We loved the convenience of the little coffee shop, which was a great place to grab our morning coffee. Even though dogs are not allowed in the outdoor seating areas around the pool and hot tub, you have your own individual outdoor patio right outside your room. As far as dining options, the lakefront restaurant offered patio seating by the bar where we could sit with our dogs. You can also take a walk on the walking trail at Lakeview Park and hike several trails in the San Marcos area. There are also dog parks at Montiel Park and Hollandia Park.
Palm Springs
Ace Hotel, Palm Springs
Why It's Great: Known for its trendy and laid-back vibe, Ace Hotel in Palm Springs welcomes pets and has an open and relaxing atmosphere. Their pet package includes dog-friendly patio rooms at a discounted rate plus a complimentary dog toy. Dogs must be under 25 lbs and daily pet cleaning fees apply.
What To Do: The outdoor areas are perfect for dogs to roam, and there are plenty of nearby dog-friendly hiking trails and parks.
Orange County
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Why It's Great: This upscale, luxurious oceanfront resort welcomes pets with open arms, offering pet-friendly rooms with ocean views. The Ritz-Carlton also provides pet amenities such as food and water bowls, a bed, and a special welcome treat. Well-mannered pets may be left unattended in rooms. They provide pet menus for room service and a grassy pet relief area.
What To Do: The hotel is located near scenic dog-friendly beaches, perfect for long walks and playtime.
The Inn at the Mission, San Juan Capistrano
Why It's Great: This beautiful hotel located near the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano is pet-friendly, offering special pet amenities. Some of their amenities include:
Welcome Wag Bag at Check-in.
Complimentary Inn at the Mission Bandana for your pup to wear.
Complimentary dog beds and food/water bowls.
What To Do: This hotel is located near a variety of dog-friendly outdoor spaces, and the nearby beach offers plenty of room for your dog to play. Keep in mind the pool deck, spa, and indoor food and beverage spaces are not dog-friendly.
Los Angeles
The Hoxton, Downtown Los Angeles
Why It's Great: The Hoxton is a stylish, modern hotel in downtown LA that is pet-friendly and allows dogs up to 40 pounds. The hotel’s design is contemporary, and there’s an emphasis on comfort for both pets and owners. Food and water bowls are provided in the room.
What To Do: You’ll be close to dog-friendly areas like Grand Park and the LA River Walk.
Shutters on the Beach, Santa Monica
Why It's Great: A luxurious beachfront property, Shutters on the Beach allows well-behaved dogs up to 25 pounds.
What To Do: There’s a dog-friendly beach just steps away, perfect for beach walks with your pup.
Santa Barbara
Palihouse, Santa Barbara
Why It's Great: Palihouse rolls out the red carpet for canine companions. It's Pawlisociety program makes it one of my favorite dog-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara. They greet your furry friends with organic treats, comfy dog beds, plush toys, and fancy ceramic bowls. Courtesy bags are readily available for dog walks. For an additional cost, the front desk can arrange dog-walking services.
What To Do: We frequently visit Santa Barbara for the day or for a weekend away. From dog-friendly beaches to dog-friendly parks, coffee shops, and dining spots, there are many pet-friendly places for dog owners in Santa Barbara. You can walk State Street, enjoy wine tastings at the Funk Zone, or visit all the Waterfront has to offer. One of our favorite day trips is Hendry's Beach (Arroyo Burro Beach). This is a popular spot among pet owners where dogs can be off-leash. Make sure to walk up for lunch at the Boathouse restaurant. It's the perfect place for a casual oceanfront lunch without leaving the beach.
Cambria
Whitewater, Cambria
Why It's Great: This quaint lodge on Moostone Beach is our favorite spot along California's Central Coast. Although dogs are not allowed in the lobby, it's a great spot to enjoy a relaxing evening cocktail or morning coffee. The rooms have comfy beds, robes, and luxury Aesop bath amenities. Each morning, it's such a treat to be greeted with a basket of pastries and a thermos of coffee.
What To Do: We loved the expansive beachwalk right outside our door for a coastal hike with spectacular views. The lodge has a relaxing atmosphere that comes to life each night with a fire pit and tiki torches around the property.
Carmel
L'Auberge Carmel, Carmel-by-the-Sea
Why It's Great: This charming and upscale hotel in the heart of Carmel offers a pet-friendly atmosphere. Although Carmel is a dog-friendly town, they have a limited number of dog-friendly rooms. Inform the reservations department prior to your arrival if you plan to travel with a dog.
What To Do: Carmel is one of the most dog-friendly towns in California, and L'Auberge is within walking distance of dog-friendly beaches and restaurants.
Cypress Inn, Carmel-By-The-Sea
Why It's Great: This quaint boutique inn is located in the heart of Carmel makes it easy to travel with four-legged friends. In the courtyard, You’ll find doggie pick-up bags and a spot to wash off your pet after a romp on the beach in the Courtyard at Cypress Inn. A pet blanket is provided for your in-room use. While dogs may not be left unattended in rooms, a list of approved pet sitters is available at the front desk.
What To Do: Dogs can run leash-free on Carmel Beach. Take a walk on leash throughout the dog-friendly village where you’ll often find water bowls and doggie treats along the way.
San Francisco
Hotel Nikko, San Francisco
Why It's Great: One of the most pet-friendly hotels in the city, Hotel Nikko includes a dedicated outdoor pet terrace area for four-legged friends. They provide thoughtful amenities such as snuggly beds, food and water bowls, and healthy treats.
What To Do: The hotel is located in a prime area for dog-friendly activities, including nearby parks and the waterfront. Visit San Francisco's iconic attractions, such as:
Golden Gate Bridge
Union Square
Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39
Historic Cable Cars
Chinatown
North Beach / Little Italy
Ocean Beach
The Fairmont, San Francisco
Why It's Great: A luxury hotel with a long history, The Fairmont allows dogs that are on a leash at all times. Dogs must also not be left unattended in the room.
What To Do: The hotel’s prime location gives you access to some great dog-friendly walks and parks like Golden Gate Park.
Napa Valley
Bardessono Hotel and Spa, Yountville
Why It's Great: A luxurious, eco-friendly hotel in the heart of Napa Valley, Bardessono allows dogs and provides pet-friendly amenities such as dog beds, water bowls, and treats. The Cabernet Canine Package is the ultimate luxury escape. You’ll enjoy:
Welcome gifts for your pup
Waste bags
Complimentary bottle of local Cabernet Sauvignon
One complimentary item for your pup from the “Barkessono” menu at Lucy Restaurant
Yappy Hour reservation for two guests and their furry family member at Lucy Restaurant and Bar
What To Do: The hotel’s location is perfect for exploring local wineries and vineyards, many of which allow pets.
Things to Keep in Mind When Booking a Dog-Friendly Hotel in California:
Fees and Restrictions: Many hotels charge a pet fee, and some may have weight or breed restrictions. Always check the hotel's specific pet policy when making a reservation.
Dog-Friendly Amenities: Look for hotels offering amenities like pet beds, bowls, treats, and pet-friendly outdoor areas or nearby walking trails.
Local Regulations: Some regions and towns in California have specific rules about pets in public spaces, so always research local pet policies to ensure a smooth stay.