Dog Friendly

31 May 2026Updated last time

10 best places for Dog Friendly Weekend Getaways Southern California

Dog Friendly Weekend Getaways in Southern California

This Southern California getaway is designed for travelers who want sunshine, scenic views, and plenty of places where dogs are welcome too. From iconic beaches like Huntington Dog Beach and Coronado Dog Beach to coastal favorites such as Santa Monica Beach and La Jolla Cove, the trip blends ocean breezes, long walks, and relaxed time outdoors. Inland adventures add variety with places like Joshua Tree National Park, Runyon Canyon Park, and Sequoia National Park, giving you a chance to swap sand for trails, desert landscapes, and towering trees.

The itinerary also includes unique stops with character, such as Calico Ghost Town and Leo Carrillo State Park, making the journey feel less like a checklist and more like a real exploration of Southern California’s personality. Whether you want a beach day, a scenic hike, or a quiet place to unwind, this route offers a balanced mix of activity and relaxation. It is a great option for dog lovers who want memorable experiences without leaving their pets behind, with enough variety to turn a simple weekend into a fun and refreshing escape.

Recommended Activities

1
Huntington Dog Beach
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Huntington Dog Beach is a haven for dogs and their owners, offering a wide stretch of sandy beach where dogs can run, play, and even swim in the ocean. It's a great place to socialize your furry friend and enjoy a day in the sun together.
2
La Jolla Cove
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La Jolla Cove is a picturesque destination known for its stunning coastal views and abundant marine life. It's a wonderful place to visit with your dog, as you can take leisurely walks along the cliffs, spot seals and sea lions, and even go snorkeling or kayaking together.
3
Calico Ghost Town
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Calico Ghost Town is a unique historical attraction that transports you back in time to the Wild West era. While dogs may not be allowed inside the buildings, you can explore the town's streets and outdoor areas with your furry companion, learning about its fascinating history and experiencing an authentic ghost town atmosphere.
4
Santa Monica Beach
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Santa Monica Beach is a popular destination known for its beautiful sandy shoreline and lively atmosphere. It's a dog-friendly beach where you can take your furry friend for a walk, play fetch, or simply relax under the warm California sun. The beach is also surrounded by various dining and shopping options, making it a great place for a leisurely day out with your dog.
5
Runyon Canyon Park
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Runyon Canyon Park is a must-visit for dog owners looking for outdoor adventure. The park offers scenic hiking trails with stunning views of Los Angeles. It's a great place to exercise with your dog, as the trails vary in difficulty, allowing you to choose the one that suits your and your furry friend's fitness level. Plus, you might even spot some celebrities hiking with their pets!
6
Coronado Dog Beach
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Coronado Dog Beach is a hidden gem for dog lovers. Located on the picturesque Coronado Island, this beach welcomes dogs to run off-leash and enjoy the sand and waves. The beach is spacious and clean, and there are even doggie bags available for easy cleanup. Additionally, nearby Coronado has charming shops and eateries, so you can make it a complete day trip with your furry companion.
7
Leo Carrillo State Park
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Leo Carrillo State Park is a coastal gem with stunning cliffs, tide pools, and sandy beaches. It's an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and their canine companions. You can explore the numerous hiking trails, have a picnic by the beach, and even camp overnight with your dog. The park is known for its dog-friendly policies and scenic beauty, making it a perfect getaway for nature-loving dogs and their owners.
8
Joshua Tree National Park
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Joshua Tree National Park is a unique desert landscape that offers endless opportunities for adventure with your dog. You can hike on the various trails, enjoy panoramic views from the top of the rock formations, and stargaze at night. Dogs are allowed on most of the trails as long as they are on a leash. This national park is a great place to experience the rugged beauty of the desert while bonding with your furry friend.
9
Sequoia National Park
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Sequoia National Park is home to the famous giant sequoia trees, and it's a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. While dogs are not allowed on the park's trails, you can still explore the scenic drives and picnic areas with your furry companion. The park's majestic trees, beautiful meadows, and towering mountains provide a peaceful and awe-inspiring setting for a leisurely day trip or a weekend getaway with your dog.
10
Laguna Beach Dog Park
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Laguna Beach Dog Park is a haven for dog owners and their furry friends. This dedicated off-leash park offers a safe and spacious environment for dogs to socialize and play. The park features separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as agility equipment for added fun and exercise. Enjoy watching your dog make new friends while taking in the beautiful ocean views. It's a great place to let your dog run freely and enjoy a day of outdoor fun in Laguna Beach.

Restaurants

The Magic Castle
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The Magic Castle
Located in Hollywood, The Magic Castle is a unique fine dining experience combined with world-class magical performances. This members-only club offers an enchanting atmosphere and delectable cuisine, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an extraordinary night out.
Dinner in the Sky
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Dinner in the Sky
For a dining experience like no other, check out Dinner in the Sky in Los Angeles. Suspended 160 feet in the air, this high-flying restaurant provides breathtaking views of the city skyline while you enjoy a gourmet meal.
The Hobbit
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The Hobbit
Located in Orange County, The Hobbit is a renowned restaurant that offers a unique multi-course dining experience inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Hobbit.' From the whimsical decor to the carefully crafted dishes, every detail transports you to a magical world.
Moonshadows
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Moonshadows
Perched atop a cliff in Malibu, Moonshadows offers more than just a delicious meal. With stunning ocean views and a picturesque outdoor patio, this restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic sunset dinner.
The Reef
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The Reef
Located in Long Beach, The Reef is a one-of-a-kind restaurant situated on a floating barge. With its waterfront location and panoramic views of the city skyline, it provides a unique dining experience that's perfect for special occasions.
The Pirate's Dinner Adventure
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The Pirate's Dinner Adventure
Embark on a swashbuckling adventure at The Pirate's Dinner Adventure in Buena Park. This interactive dinner show features live entertainment, thrilling stunts, and a pirate-inspired feast, making it a fun dining experience for the whole family.
Clifton's Republic
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Clifton's Republic
Step back in time at Clifton's Republic in Los Angeles. This historic cafeteria-style restaurant boasts multiple themed floors, whimsical decor, and a mesmerizing forest-themed centerpiece, creating a truly unique dining atmosphere.
The Airplane Restaurant
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The Airplane Restaurant
Located in Costa Mesa, The Airplane Restaurant is exactly what its name suggests - a restaurant inside a real Boeing 747 airplane. Enjoy delicious American cuisine while seated inside the aircraft, for an unforgettable dining experience.

Hotels

The Queen Mary
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The Queen Mary
Docked in Long Beach, The Queen Mary is a unique hotel experience aboard a historic ocean liner. Stay in a luxurious stateroom and explore the ship's rich history, including its eerie haunted past.
The Madonna Inn
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The Madonna Inn
Located in San Luis Obispo, The Madonna Inn offers whimsical and extravagantly themed rooms. Each room has its own unique design, making every stay a truly enchanting experience.
The Wigwam Motel
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The Wigwam Motel
Experience a blast from the past at The Wigwam Motel in Rialto. This iconic motel features teepee-shaped rooms reminiscent of the historic Route 66 era.
The V Palm Springs Hotel
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The V Palm Springs Hotel
Located in Palm Springs, The V Palm Springs Hotel offers a retro-chic design and features the world's largest vinyl record-shaped swimming pool. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Palm Springs culture at this stylish and unique hotel.
The Madonna Inn
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The Madonna Inn
Located in San Luis Obispo, The Madonna Inn offers whimsical and extravagantly themed rooms. Each room has its own unique design, making every stay a truly enchanting experience.
The Madonna Inn
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The Madonna Inn
Located in San Luis Obispo, The Madonna Inn offers whimsical and extravagantly themed rooms. Each room has its own unique design, making every stay a truly enchanting experience.

Local Events & Happenings

Fontaines DC w/ Been Stellar
Fontaines DC w/ Been Stellar
The event will take place at The Fox Theater-Pomona in Pomona.
The Fox Theater-Pomona in Pomona (1.62 mi)
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Visit Website
D.R.I. LIVE IN CONCERT AT THE FLYWAY IN POMONA
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The event will take place at Flyway in Pomona.
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J. Holiday
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The event will take place at The Canyon-Montclair in Montclair.
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Led Zepagain
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The event will take place at The Canyon-Montclair in Montclair.
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Visit Website
Micromania Midget Wrestling
Micromania Midget Wrestling
The event will take place at The Canyon-Montclair in Montclair.
The Canyon-Montclair in Montclair (3.89 mi)
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Visit Website
Evelyn Champagne King
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The event will take place at The Canyon-Montclair in Montclair.
The Canyon-Montclair in Montclair (3.89 mi)
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Gary Puckett
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The event will take place at The Canyon-Montclair in Montclair.
The Canyon-Montclair in Montclair (3.89 mi)
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Visit Website

Travel Gems from Reddit

Welcome to /r/orangecounty, the Reddit community for all things related to Orange County, California. This is your one-stop-shop for discussions, news, events, and local happe...
Suggestions for Weekend Getaways (with dog; driveable)
Welcome to /r/orangecounty, the Reddit community for all things related to Orange County, California. This is your one-stop-shop for discussions, news, events, and local happe...
/r/LosAngeles
View on Reddit
Message me if interested weve done some fun doggy trips out there. ... So many staycations. Many good ones suggested here.laguna Beach is also great with pets. ... Ocean Beach...
Where should I go on a 2-night getaway with my dog?
Message me if interested weve done some fun doggy trips out there. ... So many staycations. Many good ones suggested here.laguna Beach is also great with pets. ... Ocean Beach...
/r/orangecounty
View on Reddit

Weir Canyon would probably be a really pretty hike this time of year since its green. Carbon Canyon has a trail that leads to redwoods that is super pretty. Huntington Dog Bea...
Suggestions on fun dog friendly things to do in the area
Weir Canyon would probably be a really pretty hike this time of year since its green. Carbon Canyon has a trail that leads to redwoods that is super pretty. Huntington Dog Bea...
/r/orangecounty
View on Reddit
The national forest is dog friendly, though some parts arent so you have to do some research. Its really beautiful though, and great for a few days camping! ... Last weekend's...
Whats your favorite place to take your dog within a few ...
The national forest is dog friendly, though some parts arent so you have to do some research. Its really beautiful though, and great for a few days camping! ... Last weekend's...
/r/AskLosAngeles
View on Reddit
Budget restrictions? ... La Quinta Inn and suites on state street is dog friendly and had a recent remodel. Henry's beach is the off leash dog beach here- as you arrive o...
Recommendations for beach weekend with dog?
Budget restrictions? ... La Quinta Inn and suites on state street is dog friendly and had a recent remodel. Henry's beach is the off leash dog beach here- as you arrive o...
/r/SantaBarbara
View on Reddit
Im sorry about your baby. Huntington Beach has the dog beach. Leashed dogs are allowed at Laguna Beach early in the mornings and late evenings in the summer. Theres lots of do...
Suggestions for our last dog getaway trip
Im sorry about your baby. Huntington Beach has the dog beach. Leashed dogs are allowed at Laguna Beach early in the mornings and late evenings in the summer. Theres lots of do...
/r/orangecounty
View on Reddit
BLM, national forest, and many less-popular beaches allow dogs but find a spot where theres no one else around. Kinda hard on the weekends honestly its worth doing your hikes ...
Camping with dog in CA
BLM, national forest, and many less-popular beaches allow dogs but find a spot where theres no one else around. Kinda hard on the weekends honestly its worth doing your hikes ...
/r/socalhiking
View on Reddit
Does anyone know the best map of areas that you dont need any permit at all to tent camp in California? ... Campsite Recommendations?! ... Alamitos Beach is getting clever wit...
ISO Dog-Friendly Waterfront Campsites in SoCal
Does anyone know the best map of areas that you dont need any permit at all to tent camp in California? ... Campsite Recommendations?! ... Alamitos Beach is getting clever wit...
/r/socalhiking
View on Reddit
Another option is santa barbara, ... DOG FRIENDLY and amazing. Take your dog on a road trip up Pismo Beach/Cambria area, or Carmel is the most dog friendly town around....
pet-friendly weekend getaway
Another option is santa barbara, ... DOG FRIENDLY and amazing. Take your dog on a road trip up Pismo Beach/Cambria area, or Carmel is the most dog friendly town around....
/r/orangecounty
View on Reddit
Day 1: LA to Santa Barbara -- super dog friendly, great downtown / eateries, beautiful beaches (Hendry's Beach is a lovely dog beach). We always camp at El Capitan State Beach...
Any great 4-5 day road-trip suggestions for my dog and I in ...
Day 1: LA to Santa Barbara -- super dog friendly, great downtown / eateries, beautiful beaches (Hendry's Beach is a lovely dog beach). We always camp at El Capitan State Beach...
/r/AskLosAngeles
View on Reddit

10 best places for Dog Friendly Weekend Getaways Southern California

Dog Friendly Weekend Getaways in Southern California

Recommended Activities

Huntington Dog Beach

La Jolla Cove

Calico Ghost Town

Santa Monica Beach

Runyon Canyon Park

Coronado Dog Beach

Leo Carrillo State Park

Joshua Tree National Park

Sequoia National Park

Laguna Beach Dog Park

Restaurants

The Magic Castle

The Magic Castle

Dinner in the Sky

Dinner in the Sky

The Hobbit

The Hobbit

Moonshadows

Moonshadows

The Reef

The Reef

The Pirate's Dinner Adventure

The Pirate's Dinner Adventure

Clifton's Republic

Clifton's Republic

The Airplane Restaurant

The Airplane Restaurant

Hotels

The Queen Mary

The Queen Mary

The Madonna Inn

The Madonna Inn

The Wigwam Motel

The Wigwam Motel

The V Palm Springs Hotel

The V Palm Springs Hotel

The Madonna Inn

The Madonna Inn

The Madonna Inn

The Madonna Inn

Local Events & Happenings

Fontaines DC w/ Been Stellar

Fontaines DC w/ Been Stellar

D.R.I. LIVE IN CONCERT AT THE FLYWAY IN POMONA

D.R.I. LIVE IN CONCERT AT THE FLYWAY IN POMONA

J. Holiday

J. Holiday

Led Zepagain

Led Zepagain

Micromania Midget Wrestling

Micromania Midget Wrestling

Evelyn Champagne King

Evelyn Champagne King

Gary Puckett

Gary Puckett

Travel Gems from Reddit

Suggestions for Weekend Getaways (with dog; driveable)

Where should I go on a 2-night getaway with my dog?

Suggestions on fun dog friendly things to do in the area

Whats your favorite place to take your dog within a few ...

Recommendations for beach weekend with dog?

Suggestions for our last dog getaway trip

Camping with dog in CA

ISO Dog-Friendly Waterfront Campsites in SoCal

pet-friendly weekend getaway

Any great 4-5 day road-trip suggestions for my dog and I in ...