Our DogTrekker writers know dog-friendly California like your pup knows the treat jar—intimately and enthusiastically. Whether sniffing out beaches in San Diego, dog-friendly wineries in Sonoma, hiking trails in the Sierra, or cozy mountain cabins near Big Bear Lake, we're your trusted guides for dog travel. From bustling cities to hidden wilderness gems, we fetch reliable tips, insights, and local secrets to make traveling with your four-legged friend effortless. Trust DogTrekker to lead you and your pup to tail-wagging dog travel adventures across dog-friendly California.

Four-day Yosemite Mariposa County dog-friendly itinerary

This four-day itinerary covers the best of dog-friendly Yosemite Mariposa County, from historic Mariposa town strolls and paved valley hikes to hidden gems like the Wawona Meadow Loop Trail and the dramatic granite-walled reservoir at Hetch Hetchy.

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Is the dog park California’s new dating scene?

Tired of dating apps? California dog parks are becoming a popular, low-pressure way to meet fellow pet lovers. We weigh the pros and cons of finding romance while your pup plays fetch.

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Support animal welfare organizations in California

This holiday season, support California's dog rescue and adoption organizations. From Napa Humane to Rocket Dog Rescue, here are our favorite groups working to give every pup a loving home.

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Camping and hiking with your dog in California deserts

Desert camping with your dog requires extra care, from hydration and paw protection to tent safety and wildlife awareness. Here are practical tips for enjoying California's desert landscapes with your pup. California's deserts are a world apart — wide-open spaces…

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2024 Go California Photo Contest winners

Hundreds of entries poured in for DogTrekker's 2024 Go California Photo Contest, and thousands voted for their favorites. Meet the winning pups, including two Pomeranians waving from Glacier Point and a sidecar-riding dog cruising through Carmel-by-the-Sea.

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Best-in-show travel pix: 2024 Go California Photo Contest winners

DogTrekker's 2024 Go California Photo Contest drew hundreds of entries showcasing pups across the Golden State. The top prize went to two Pomeranians at Glacier Point, while voters chose a sidecar-riding dog in Carmel.

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Condé Nast Traveler readers’ top Northern California hotel picks

Four Northern California hotels from the Conde Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards stand out for dog lovers. The Stanford Inn, Harbor Court, Stanford Court and Inn at the Presidio all warmly welcome pups.

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Design and nature harmonize at Sea Ranch Lodge

Sea Ranch Lodge on the remote Sonoma Coast blends eco-friendly design with stunning ocean views. Dogs are welcome in most room types and can join you on six trails and beaches, including the scenic Blufftop Trail.

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Soak up historic charm at Cavallo Point Lodge

Cavallo Point Lodge in Sausalito sits on national park grounds with Golden Gate Bridge views and green spaces to explore with your pup. The curated Eco Luxe Pups program includes organic treats and artisan dog bowls.

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Check into Berkeley’s classic Claremont Club & Spa

The historic Claremont Club and Spa in the Oakland Hills pampers dogs of all sizes with fluffy beds, treats and sweeping Bay Area views. Nearby East Bay Regional Parks offer 120,000 acres of trails to explore.

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Sustainability star, The Stanford Inn by the Sea

The Stanford Inn by the Sea on the Mendocino coast has welcomed pets for over 45 years. Nearly all rooms are dog-friendly, and the inn serves organic treats made in-house alongside its acclaimed plant-based cuisine.

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Ventura loves dogs

Ventura is an ultra-dog-friendly surf town with beaches for splashing, trails for hiking, breweries with big patios and a walkable downtown. Pet-friendly lodging ranges from coastal hotels to vintage glamping trailers.

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Santa Barbara County calls

Santa Barbara offers a stunning coastal escape for dogs and their people, with off-leash beaches like Arroyo Burro, dog-friendly wine tasting rooms, waterfront hotels and the open spaces of Douglas Family Preserve.

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Slowdown in SLO CAL

San Luis Obispo County stretches 100 miles along Highway 1, with off-leash beaches, dog-friendly wineries and charming towns from Cambria to Pismo Beach. Stay at coastal lodges or the Michelin Key-awarded San Luis Creek Lodge.

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Canines reign supreme in Carmel

Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of America's most dog-friendly towns, with loose leash laws, an off-leash beach, pet boutiques and patio dining galore. More than half of the village's 40-plus hotels welcome four-legged guests.

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Surf and sand in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz pairs legendary surf breaks with towering redwoods and 17 dog-friendly beaches along its 29-mile coastline. Add wineries, breweries and a walkable downtown, and you have the perfect pup-friendly getaway.

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Award-winning California hotels that welcome four-legged guests

From Palm Springs resorts to Bay Area landmarks, California's best dog-friendly hotels earned major accolades in 2024. Here are award-winning properties that treat your pup like a VIP guest. California is home to some of the finest dog-friendly hotels in…

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Condé Nast and Sunset agree on Healdsburg

Both Conde Nast Traveler and Sunset named Healdsburg a top wine destination in 2024. This Sonoma County town offers dog-friendly tasting rooms, fenced parks, pet boutiques and hotels that roll out the red carpet for pups.

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