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San Diego County Blog

A yellow dog and a brown dog stand next to each other on sand at the water’s edge. Blue water stretches in front of them, while behind, rows of houses climb gentle hills dotted with trees. The scene shows a typical Southern California shoreline beneath a bright, cloudless sky.

Guide to the best dog parks in Southern California

Runyon Canyon Park, Los Angeles Southern California is a canine playground like no other—a sun-soaked region where city sidewalks quickly give way to sandy beaches,…

A wooden sign at the entrance reads "Rosie's Dog Beach, City of Long Beach" with a graphic of a dog. Tall palm trees stand along the edge of the sandy beach, and a small building is visible nearby. The beach occupies several acres next to Ocean Boulevard and provides an off-leash area where dogs can run and swim freely under an open sky.

These 7 California beaches let your dog run completely free

California’s premier off-leash dog beaches: The complete field guide After three decades of exploring every beach, trail and hidden cove along California’s 1,100-mile coastline, we…

This illustrated map of California highlights dog-friendly destinations across the state. The coastline features beaches where people and their dogs play in the surf and run along sandy stretches. Forests in the north show hikers with leashed pets on shaded trails beneath redwoods and pines. In the mountains, skiers navigate snowy slopes alongside dogs fitted with boots or jackets. Major landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Hollywood sign, Yosemite’s Half Dome, and Lake Tahoe are marked with small groups: travelers accompanied by their dogs exploring city parks or pausing at scenic lookouts. The map uses bold colors to distinguish natural regions—blue for ocean areas, green for forests, white for mountain peaks—and includes labeled icons indicating popular pet-friendly activities throughout California’s diverse landscape.

California’s top tail-wagging destinations: Adventure awaits

Traveling with my dog has always transformed ordinary trips into unforgettable adventures. California, with its wealth of scenic beauty and dog-loving communities, offers some of…

Desert days & mountain stays

From alpine meadows to starry desert skies, glamping in California’s mountains and deserts is a dream for adventurous pet parents.

A visit with your dog to a home or venue in La Jolla might lead you to a modern kitchen adorned with marble countertops and wooden cabinetry. The kitchen features a sleek faucet that adds an element of sophistication. Near this space, there's a cozy nook where plush blue cushions invite relaxation. This area is illuminated by natural light streaming through a large arched window, surrounded by well-stocked bookshelves that hint at intellectual journeys waiting to be embarked upon. Throughout the space, you'll notice carefully curated wine bottles and decorative pieces from Orli, creating an atmosphere of elegant charm and inviting style for both you and your four-legged companion to enjoy together.

Orli La Jolla

Orli La Jolla offers a boutique hotel experience that embodies the charm of the upscale coastal community in which it resides. Situated in the heart…

Season of Giving: Support animal welfare organizations in California

As the season of giving unfolds, the DogTrekker team turns our hearts and pocketbooks towards those rescue/adoption organizations that make lives more joyful and meaningful…

A contented dog rests beside a gleaming trophy on a lush, green lawn. Sunlight filters through the trees overhead, casting gentle shadows in this serene outdoor setting. The image captures a moment of triumph and happiness, ideal for highlighting pet-friendly stays at California hotels where canine companions are celebrated.

Award-winning California Hotels that Welcome Four-Legged Guests

California is home to some of the finest dog-friendly hotels in the country, and 2024 has brought accolades to several standouts. Whether you're venturing into…

A small dog, wearing a blue harness, lounges peacefully on a sandy beach. Its tan coat glows softly in the warm light of the setting sun. Nearby, ocean waves gently roll onto the shore, and the distant coastline stretches out along the horizon, completing this picturesque moment.

Sunset Travel Awards showcase California’s coastal jewels

Because DogTrekker focuses mainly on California travel, we always look forward to the annual Sunset Travel Awards. The 2024 winners

A golden retriever runs through the shallow water at a California beach, a blue ball clamped in its mouth. Waves roll and crash behind the dog, whose wet fur suggests it has been swimming. The background features churning surf and a distant horizon.

California coasting with your dog

Summer in California means sandcastles, swimming, shoreline walks, and patio dinners at sunset – all with your dog in tow. As we look ahead to…

A person with a backpack and a pet carrier walks through the sunlit lobby of one of California's top five dog-friendly hotels. The modern space features floor-to-ceiling windows and stylish furniture. Nearby, a golden retriever strolls past, while another person stands next to a large plant in the background. Sunlight casts varied shadows on the floor.

Top five dog-friendly hotels in California

When traveling in California with your dog, finding a truly dog-friendly hotel can make your trip much more enjoyable. Here are some tips, questions to…

A black and white dog trots along a sandy path open to dogs, tongue lolling as it moves. The trail winds through low hills dotted with houses. Overhead, the sky is blue with thin strands of cloud. Far ahead, the Hollywood sign stands out against the hillside.

Top 5 dog parks in California

Dog-friendly California unfurls its varied landscapes like a grand tapestry, from craggy coastlines to serene valleys, tailor-made for the joy of dogs and their human…

A tan corgi stands on a sandy beach close to the shoreline, facing right with its tongue lolling out. Gentle waves and blue ocean stretch out behind the dog beneath a clear sky. The setting is open and welcoming for dogs, offering space for running or playing near the water.

The South Coast: Pedigreed fun for pups

Huntington Beach boasts miles of Pacific swells and beaches, including a 1.5-mile off-leash segment. This South Coast community hosts the