Dogs love chasing tides and catching currents in Mendocino. Lucky us, Little River Inn gives pet parents curated access to two of the coast’s most memorable water adventures: kayaking the sea caves off Van Damme State Park and gliding up Big River by dog-friendly outrigger canoe.
Post adventure, retreat to an ocean-view room and savor dinner in a heated cabana with a Pacific sunset as your backdrop. August is calling, September glows golden and your co-paddler is already waiting by the door!
Kayak the sea caves of Van Damme
Few experiences anywhere let you paddle in a sea cave with your dog aboard—and this one launches from Van Damme beach, just minutes from the inn. A local guide leads you beneath towering cliffs and into protected coves, with incredible views at every turn. Book the Water Dog Package at least three days ahead so the inn can confirm your adventure. Read more…
Take it easy on a Big River outrigger
Prefer flat water to ocean swell? Big River delivers. Climb into an ultra-stable outrigger canoe outfitted for dogs and paddle a redwood-lined estuary at the most relaxed pace on the coast. It’s made for first-time paddlers, older pups, kids and anyone who’d rather watch for wildlife than work up a sweat. Read more…
Paws up for more pet-friendly frolicking
The paddle is the main adventure, but the Mendocino County itinerary extras are just as compelling. A footpath runs from Little River Inn straight into Van Damme State Park—redwoods on one side, surf on the other, no car keys required. Add the flat, walkable miles of the Big River Trail and the shoreline at MacKerricher, and there’s plenty to see and do on dry land. Read more…
Dogs get star treatment
Plenty of hotels permit dogs. Little River Inn has 80 years of hospitality history with a penchant for pups. Treats appear at check-in, fireplaces glow in ocean-view rooms and five heated cabanas let the whole pack dine together above the Pacific. The Water Dog Package bundles the best of it through September 30. Read more…
