Welcome to DogTrekker.com, fun for dogs and the humans who follow. We've checked out the best dog-friendly places in Northern and Central California for you and your pup to stay, eat, hike, swim and play. Please explore our site, sign up for our weekly newsletter… and be sure to take us along on your next DogTrekking adventure.
San Mateo County’s “Coastside” communities are all about fresh air, open space and a full range of creature comforts, from simple seaside cafes to full-on, five-star hotels. Whether you snuggle down in a resort community or stay on the move, it’s a great slice of California to visit with your four-legged friend.
Puppy at Sharp Park beach, Pacifica. Photo Janet Fullwood
Sprawled along the six miles of coastline just over the hills from San Francisco International Airport, the once working-class community of Pacifica has morphed into a haven for well heeled commuters. It’s also a haven for DogTrekkers who relish fresh air, wide-open scenery and thousands of acres of roam-worthy public lands. Oh, and did we mention prices that won’t break the bank?
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Dogs on the beach in Half Moon Bay - Photo Dave Kendrick
Dog-friendly
Half Moon Bay, at the heart of the region locals call “Coastside,” is part resort, part classic California surf town. Beaches and bluffs are what it’s all about for visitors with dogs, and while off-leash opportunities are few, there are many ways to engage with the scenery. In fact, it’s hard to know what to do first: explore the pristine beaches, scarf up some succulent seafood, ogle the surfers or window shop in the boutique-rich downtown.
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Dogs by the firepit at Moss Beach Distillery. Photo courtesy Moss Beach Distillery.
Fresh-air activities are major draws on the San Mateo coast, and we all know how ocean-scented breeze and exercise work up an appetite in both man and beast. Fortunately, many eateries along the coast welcome four-legged guests, so long as there’s a two-legged companion on the other end of the leash. Here are four worth barking about.
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Every home that celebrates Christmas needs a Christmas tree, and there’s nothing like choosing and cutting your own to ensure fresh scent throughout the house all season long. Santa’s Tree Farm, a fixture in Half Moon Bay since 1972, encourages four-legged family members to wander the rows and to help choose the Monterey pine; redwood; or Douglas, Monterey, white, noble or grand fir that will make the perfect statement. And what would a tree farm be without a Santa’s Village? At this one, Indoor and outdoor activities include stocking decorating, treasure hunts, holiday characters, a Santa Express ride, seasonal sweets and, of course, a gift shop. Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves love dogs but do request that they be leashed. more »
When pet parents are away, the pups can play. We DogTrekkers love to travel with our four-legged friends; that’s what we’re all about. But there are times when we have to go places Max and Bella can’t go. That’s where
Wag Hotels comes in. Founded with the goal of providing pets with the best possible care and pet owners with total peace of mind, Wag’s stay-and-play, resort-style boarding centers offer supervised doggie day care, a variety of overnight accommodations and a professionally trained and caring staff.
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