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.

A guide to pet-friendly Autumn lodging in Yosemite Mariposa

Yosemite Mariposa County is packed with pet-friendly lodging, from luxury tents at AutoCamp to rustic cabins near the park. Leashed dogs can enjoy paved trails, campgrounds and the B.A.R.K. Ranger program.

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Sunset Travel Awards showcase California’s coastal jewels

The 2024 Sunset Travel Awards spotlight three dog-friendly coastal California hotels: Timber Cove Resort on the Sonoma Coast, Laguna Surf Lodge in Orange County and the charming Orli La Jolla near San Diego.

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Condé Nast readers go all-in for the Bay Area

A MarketWatch study ranked San Francisco the most dog-friendly city in America, and Conde Nast readers agree. Three Bay Area hotels stand out for pup-loving travelers, including two in the scenic Presidio.

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Palm Springs tops the Condé Nast Traveler awards

Two Palm Springs hotels landed on Conde Nast Traveler's 2024 list of the 10 Best Hotels in the World. Hermann Bungalows and Colony Palms Hotel both welcome dogs and offer upscale desert retreats. window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []}; googletag.cmd.push(function()…

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The Stanford Inn: Eco-minded, perfect for pups

The Stanford Inn by the Sea on the Mendocino coast is a dog-friendly gem run by a family of animal lovers. Gorgeous grounds, plant-based dining, and ocean views make it a top pick for pups.

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Yosemite Mariposa County

Spend four pet-perfect days in Yosemite Mariposa County exploring historic towns, hiking dog-friendly paved trails in the valley, and venturing to quieter spots like Wawona Meadow and Hetch Hetchy. This detailed itinerary covers lodging, dining, and scenic drives for every…

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Sea breezes and sand on the San Francisco Peninsula

Half Moon Bay on the San Francisco Peninsula is a natural getaway where dogs can romp on beaches, dine at patio restaurants with special pet menus and stay at seaside lodges right along Highway 1.

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Bask in San Francisco’s fall sunshine

Fall brings San Francisco's sunniest weather, making it the perfect time to explore the city with your dog. From off-leash Fort Funston to the Presidio's bay-view trails, here are our favorite spots.

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Unleash the fun at Muir Beach

Muir Beach is a dog-friendly Marin County cove just 12 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Pups can play off-leash or under voice control on the beach, and nearby hotels in Mill Valley and Sausalito welcome pets.

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Dog-friendly delights in Dillon Beach

Dillon Beach sits between Bodega Bay and Tomales Bay with an off-leash public beach perfect for well-behaved dogs. Stay in chic tiny home cabins at Dillon Beach Resort or historic waterfront cottages at Nick's Cove.

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Winter pet-friendly activities in Yosemite Mariposa County

Yosemite Mariposa County is a wonderful winter destination for dogs and their people. Leashed pups can enjoy paved trails past iconic landmarks, snowy forest hikes, and cozy pet-friendly lodging at spots like Tenaya Lodge and AutoCamp Yosemite.

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Five things to know before a California dog trip

Planning a California trip with your dog involves more than finding pet-friendly hotels. Beach rules, dramatic climate swings, wildlife hazards, transit policies, and accommodation fees all vary by region and require advance research to keep your trip smooth and your…

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Sample fresh flavors in Sacramento

Sacramento, America's Farm-to-Fork Capital, is a standout dog-friendly destination with miles of trails, dozens of parks, and patio restaurants serving field-fresh cuisine. Follow Highway 50 east to the Apple Hill wine trail, where many family wineries welcome pups on their…

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Mendocino County wineries warmly welcome dogs

Mendocino County's Anderson Valley is one of the most dog-friendly wine regions in California. Nearly a dozen Highway 128 wineries welcome pups with treats, water bowls, fenced play areas and resident winery dogs.

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Five things you probably didn’t know about dogs

Dogs are endlessly fascinating creatures with abilities that surprise even devoted owners. From a third eyelid and the power to smell time to unique nose prints, here are five things you probably did not know about your pup.

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Stanford Inn: #1 for the environment

The Stanford Inn on the Mendocino coast has championed sustainability since the 1980s with organic gardens, plant-based cuisine, biodiesel vehicles and free EV charging. It proves that eco-friendly travel can also be luxurious.

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Stanford Inn: #1 for health and happiness

Happiness and health are woven into every stay at the Stanford Inn on the Mendocino coast. Expect plant-based dining at Ravens Restaurant, wellness workshops, ocean views and four state parks within two miles.

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Stanford Inn: #1 for dogs

The Stanford Inn has welcomed dogs since its earliest days, with no size or breed restrictions. Pups get welcome treats, in-room dog sheets, stainless steel bowls and 10 acres of trails and gardens to explore.

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