So…your pup is coming with you to San Diego and you need a pet-friendly place to stay, preferably one with quick exits to the outdoors for you-know-what. There’s no end of choices in San Diego, whether you prefer to stay in the historic Gaslamp Quarter or somewhere closer to the beach.
On the no-fee end of the scale: Hotel Indigo in the Gaslamp Quarter is a Kimpton brand that never charges extra for pets. Take the elevator up to the Level 9 Rooftop Bar for cocktails with a view, ask about pet packages before you go, and request a dog-friendly hiking/activities/attractions guide at the front desk.
The Kimpton Solamar and Kimpton Hotel Palomar likewise roll out the canine red carpet with no fees. Add to the no-fee list The Pendry, well located in the Gaslamp Quarter close to dog-friendly parks, restaurants and breweries; and the Hotel Andaz, billing itself as a “lifestyle boutique for the creative and progressive traveler.”
At Hotel Republic San Diego, a boutique property decorated in “California cool” style, dogs are welcome 24/7, while on Thursdays, you and yours can enjoy Yappy Hour with dog treats and homemade broth they call “puppy beer.” Ask about “pooch packages” with amenities for your dog. Also centrally located, the Westin, Manchester Grand Hyatt and Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter also welcome pets for a fee.
Looking for something more budget-friendly? No problem. Dogs are welcome at many Best Western, La Quinta, Hampton Inn, Comfort Inn, Motel 6 and other chain properties throughout San Diego. Find DogTrekker.com’s listings here.
Once you’re settled, San Diego has no shortage of places to take your dog. Balboa Park has miles of walking paths, and several off-leash dog beaches — including Dog Beach in Ocean Beach and Fiesta Island — let your pup run and splash to their heart’s content. The Gaslamp Quarter itself has plenty of restaurant patios where dogs are welcome, so dinner out doesn’t mean leaving your travel buddy behind.
One tip for overnight travel with your pet: If you’re driving, bring your own bedding and/or crate so your dog will feel more at home than they would sleeping on a provided dog bed loaded with unfamiliar smells. And if your dog is allowed on beds and furniture, please bring your own sheet (or ask for one) — the housekeeping staff will thank you.
