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Dog-friendly Vacations In Southern California – With the support of readers. When you make a purchase through a link on our site, we may earn a free affiliate commission from you. Learn more.
If sun, sand and surf sound like your idea of a good time, Southern California is here. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, you’ll find a great beach to spend the day on. The good news for dog lovers is that many of these beautiful beaches accept pups to play off-leash. Here are the 10 best dog-friendly beaches in Southern California.
Dog-friendly Vacations In Southern California
When you and your dog enjoy one of Southern California’s 10 beaches, respect those who share the space. Not everyone likes to be approached by their dog, so keep your puppy on a leash or on a leash at all times. Pack water, snacks, dog sunscreen, and an extra bag to keep you safe before heading to the beach. Remember that dogs can get hot, so keep an eye on the weather and give them plenty of breaks in the shade if needed.
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A lifelong lover of animals of all sizes, Nicole has dedicated her career to helping them do what they love best: learning, writing and sharing their knowledge with others. She is the mother of two dogs, a cat and a human. With a degree and 15+ years of writing experience, Nicole is passionate about helping parents and pets around the world live happier, safer, and healthier lives. Delicious food, golden beaches and that endless summer feeling. California is the perfect vacation spot for everyone, including your dog. No one should miss a vacation, but California is full of fun activities and places that the two of you can enjoy together. From the North Shore to the southern tip of the Golden State, find dog-friendly beaches, parks, outdoor dining, and of course, pet-friendly vacation spots. Put on matching sunglasses, relax on the beach in San Diego, or hike the trails along the shores of Lake Tahoe. the adventure is up to you.
Here’s a list of the most beautiful cities in California so you can get out and explore. Pack your suitcase and don’t forget Fido’s favorite toys. this is where the fun begins.
Often ranked as one of America’s best dog-friendly cities, San Francisco offers plenty of attractions, beaches, and parks for you and your pup to enjoy together. If you want to bring Fido with you all day, you’ll enjoy outdoor dining and convenient shopping, not to mention the city’s Golden State Dog Park, which is open and ready to play after a $2.4 million renovation.
Just outside of town, head to the Presidio and hit 1,500 acres of scenic trails (both paved and off-road). To play closer to the water, dog owners flock to Chrissy Field or stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf.
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Looking for a beach vacation you’ll love and cherish? South Lake Tahoe is a one-of-a-kind vacation destination for dogs, not only with the number of activities to enjoy, but also to dine together. Find a lake house at Camp Richardson or Tallac Beach where you can relax on the dog beach but still need a bag.
Take a refreshing dip on the Tahoe-Rome Trail while enjoying dog, dog and cat bites around the lake. Spend an evening cuddling with your dog by the fireplace.
Wonderful beaches, botanical gardens and wine country. what more could you ask for? Go on your own adventure in Mendocino with two trails near you. Start your morning at one of the dog-friendly cafes before hitting the lush trails of Mendocino Headlands State Park. Play in the afternoon at Mendocino Dog Park, enjoy the view from Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park, or try dog sledding at All Aboard Adventures.
Must-sees in the area include Mendocino Ocean Botanical Garden, Fort Bragg Skunk Train, and Russian Gulch National Park, all of which accept dogs on leashes. For a no-nonsense adventure, head to Noyo Beach and enjoy some sandy feet.
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Welcome to Newport Beach, just a short throw from Irvine’s sandy beaches. The beach itself allows four-legged friends until 10 a.m. and after 4:30 p.m., so you can start and end your day chasing the water or throwing a frisbee. For more fun on the water, visit Corona Del Mar State Beach or take a boat tour with Fun Zone Boat Company.
Walk to the Newport Beach Dog Park to play with other dogs. When it’s time to eat, you’ll have no trouble finding an outdoor restaurant, brewery, grill, or beachside cafe where you can relax.
The City of Angels is known for its Hollywood magic, legendary luxury, beautiful beaches, and reputation as one of California’s best vacation spots. Live like a local and take it with you on any adventure, whether it’s shopping at open-air malls, soaking up the sun on Venice Beach, or stretching your legs in Griffith Park.
From coffee shops to delis, Los Angeles is home to outdoor restaurants, so no matter what you’re craving, you’re sure to find a place where Fido can hang out with you. Among other dog-friendly activities, don’t forget to take a photo together at the Hollywood Sign, stroll along the Santa Monica Pier, and jump on Rosie’s Dog Beach.
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Pack your hiking boots and water bottles for two as you head out into the mountains of Big Bear Lake. Here you’ll find pets that have joined their families, so calling home for a while isn’t enough for a dog vacation. Whether you’re skiing, boating, hiking, or just relaxing by the water, there’s always time to get your tail dirty. All the beaches along Highway 38 in Big Bear Lake are dog-friendly, so you can jump on the beach as much as you want.
Additionally, Meadow Park is a popular dog park for meeting new furry friends, and many of the shops in Big Bear Village are pet-friendly. Breathe in the fresh forest air, explore downtown, and take your kids kayaking (if they can sit, that is).
Relax or have fun with your pup in Southern California. The dog-loving city of Oceanside is no stranger to seeing pets. Get dirty on the beach, ride around town with Wheel Fun Rentals or catch a wave at Cardiff State Beach while watching the lake roll in. Poinsettia Dog Park and the Mall of San Clemente are also popular spots for dog owners.
While there are plenty of dog parks and dog beaches to explore, round out your plans with a wine tasting at Beach House Winery or a bite to eat at Mikkeller Brewing San Diego (both dog-friendly spots). At the end of an exciting day, watch the sunset from your beach house or curl up with a good book by the outdoor pool.
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Catch a wave 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 Burro Beach in Santa Barbara.
Take your dog for a day at the beach at Northern California beaches like Crescent Beach in Crescent City, Noyo Beach in Fort Bragg, and Portuguese Beach in Mendocino.
No need to hire a dog sitter. Take your four-legged friend on a trip to remember at a dog-friendly vacation home.
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10 Delightful Dog Friendly Day Trips In Southern California
Living in Phoenix and having family in Southern California means we have a lot of travel to our belt. We have family in several cities in Southern California and visit as often as possible. We love taking the dog with us and even though we have family there, sometimes we need more space than they offer or the dog may not do well with us for long periods of time. Finding a dog shelter can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some top tips for traveling to California with the whole family (including the dog), including where to stay, what to pack and what to do.
Bringing a dog often means we can plan more vacations because we can’t find a sitter at home. Hotels are often the best option for long-term stays, so I did a lot of research on dog-friendly vacation homes. We found them perfect