Where to Take Your Dog for Spring Break in Southern California: The Best Pet-Friendly Destinations

Spring break is the perfect time to get away and enjoy the great outdoors—especially if you're a dog owner who doesn’t want to leave your furry friend behind. Fortunately, Southern California is one of the most dog-friendly regions in the country, offering a wide variety of pet-friendly destinations for you and your pup to enjoy together. Whether you're looking for relaxing beach days, scenic hiking trails, or lively outdoor spots, there’s something for every dog and owner. Here are some of the best places to take your dog for spring break in Southern California.

1. Dog-Friendly Beaches

Southern California is known for its beautiful coastline, and many of its beaches are not only dog-friendly but also offer areas specifically for your pup to roam free.

• Rosie's Dog Beach – Long Beach
  If your dog loves the sand and surf, Rosie's Dog Beach in Long Beach is a must-visit. It’s one of the few off-leash dog-friendly beaches in the area, where your dog can run freely and splash in the waves. Just make sure to keep an eye on your pup, as it can get busy during spring break.

• Fido’s Beach – Huntington Beach
  Huntington Beach, also known as "Surf City USA," offers Fido's Beach, a designated area where dogs can run off-leash. It’s a great spot for your dog to meet other pups while you soak in the sun or stroll along the beach. There are plenty of dog-friendly cafes nearby where you can grab a bite to eat with your furry companion.

• Coronado Dog Beach – Coronado
  Coronado Dog Beach is another fantastic spot for your dog to enjoy the sand and surf. Located on the northern end of Coronado Island, it features miles of beach where your dog can roam off-leash and play in the gentle waves. After a fun day at the beach, you can take a walk around the scenic Coronado village or stop at one of the dog-friendly cafes.

2. Hiking Trails and Outdoor Adventures

Southern California is home to a wealth of hiking trails, many of which are dog-friendly. If your dog loves to hike, spring break is the perfect time to hit the trails together and explore the stunning natural beauty of the region.

• Runyon Canyon – Los Angeles
  Runyon Canyon is a popular hiking destination in Los Angeles with spectacular views of the city. This 160-acre park allows dogs on leash, and it’s a great spot to get in a good workout with your dog. The trail is relatively easy and offers plenty of opportunities for your dog to explore. Be sure to bring water, as the weather can get warm, even in early spring.

• Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve – San Diego
  For those near San Diego, Torrey Pines is a must-see. The reserve offers a variety of scenic trails, many of which are dog-friendly, providing you and your pup with sweeping ocean views. The trails range from easy to moderate, and the coastal cliffs and unique Torrey Pine trees make it a beautiful spot for both hiking and photography.

• San Bernardino National Forest
  If you and your dog are looking for a more rugged adventure, the San Bernardino National Forest offers numerous trails where dogs are welcome on leash. The forest offers a mix of serene lakes, mountain views, and shaded forest paths, making it a great choice for a spring break hiking trip. Some trails are more challenging, so be sure to choose one that suits you and your dog’s fitness levels.

3. Pet-Friendly Hotels and Resorts

Many hotels in Southern California are welcoming to pets, offering amenities like dog beds, treats, and even pet-sitting services. If you’re planning to stay for a few nights, these pet-friendly accommodations will ensure both you and your dog are comfortable during your spring break getaway.

• The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
  Located along the coast in Dana Point, The Ritz-Carlton offers a luxurious pet-friendly experience. They offer a special pet program that includes in-room dining for dogs, a bed, and a pet amenities package. The hotel is close to several dog-friendly beaches and trails, making it an ideal spot for you and your dog to enjoy a relaxing spring break.

• Hotel Del Coronado – Coronado
  One of Southern California’s most iconic beachfront hotels, Hotel Del Coronado, offers pet-friendly accommodations and is located near Coronado Dog Beach. The hotel provides a “Pawsitively Pet-Friendly” package, which includes special amenities like a dog bed, bowls, and gourmet dog treats. With stunning views and plenty of pet-friendly options nearby, it’s a great base for your spring break getaway.

• Loews Coronado Bay Resort – San Diego
  Loews Coronado Bay Resort is another pet-friendly gem in San Diego. This resort offers a dog-friendly environment, including special pet packages and access to a private dog park. It’s located near several pet-friendly beaches and trails, making it perfect for active dog owners looking to enjoy some time in the sun.

4. Pet-Friendly Parks and Outdoor Spaces

Southern California is home to numerous parks and outdoor spaces where dogs can run and play freely. If your dog loves to socialize with other pups, these parks offer the perfect environment for fun and relaxation.

• Balboa Park – San Diego
  Balboa Park is a sprawling urban park that offers not only beautiful gardens and cultural institutions but also a dog park where your pup can play off-leash. There are also plenty of grassy areas and walking paths where you and your dog can enjoy a leisurely stroll.

• Griffith Park – Los Angeles
  Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, and it offers many dog-friendly areas. You can take your dog on a hike up to the Griffith Observatory for a great view of Los Angeles or visit the dog park for some playtime. The park is also home to many scenic trails, making it a great place to spend time with your dog during spring break.

• Civic Center Dog Park – Santa Monica
  This small but popular dog park in Santa Monica is a great place for your pup to run and socialize with other dogs. It's conveniently located near the beach, so after some playtime, you can take a relaxing stroll along the shore with your dog.

5. Pet-Friendly Restaurants and Cafes

After a long day of outdoor adventures, you'll want to treat yourself and your dog to a relaxing meal. Southern California is packed with dog-friendly restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a bite to eat while your dog rests at your feet.

• The Patio on Lamont – San Diego
  This pet-friendly restaurant in the Mission Hills neighborhood is known for its welcoming atmosphere and outdoor seating. They offer a special dog menu featuring treats like doggie meatballs and chicken skewers. It’s a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

• Urth Caffé – Santa Monica
  Urth Caffé is a dog-friendly cafe that offers delicious organic coffee, pastries, and meals. It has several locations, including one in Santa Monica, where you can sit on the outdoor patio with your dog and enjoy a meal. The cafe even has a special “pup cup” of whipped cream for your dog.

• Dog Haus – Pasadena and other locations
  If you’re craving gourmet hot dogs, Dog Haus is a great spot to bring your pup. This dog-friendly restaurant offers outdoor seating and even provides dog-friendly bowls of water and treats. It’s a perfect casual spot to enjoy a tasty meal with your dog by your side.

• 6. More Dog-Friendly Beaches

  • Leash-Free Laguna Beach – Laguna Beach Known for its stunning coastal views, Laguna Beach offers several dog-friendly spots, including the off-leash area at Thousand Steps Beach. Though the beach is a bit more secluded, it’s a perfect place for dogs to explore, run, and enjoy the waves without the crowd. Just be prepared for the steep descent down to the beach.

  • Doheny State Beach – Dana Point Just south of Laguna Beach, Doheny State Beach is another dog-friendly beach in Orange County. While dogs must remain on a leash, the long stretch of beach offers a relaxing atmosphere for walks with your dog by your side. It's a great spot to enjoy the ocean breeze and beautiful surroundings.

  • Montrose Dog Beach – Santa Monica Montrose Dog Beach in Santa Monica is an off-leash beach where your dog can run freely and enjoy the surf. It's a great option for dogs who love the water, and since it’s less crowded than some of the more famous beaches in LA, your dog can have more space to enjoy themselves.

  7. More Hiking Trails

  • Eaton Canyon – Pasadena The Eaton Canyon trail in Pasadena offers a beautiful, dog-friendly hike, especially if you want a moderate challenge. The trail leads to a stunning waterfall and offers a mix of shade and sun. Dogs are allowed on leash, so it’s a great option for those who want to explore nature with their dog while enjoying scenic views of the San Gabriel Mountains.

  • The Backbone Trail – Malibu The Backbone Trail in Malibu offers a series of interconnected trails that stretch through the Santa Monica Mountains. The trail has several access points, and many parts of it are dog-friendly, making it a great choice for more adventurous pups and their owners. With spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and lush landscapes, this trail is perfect for an energetic spring break hike with your dog.

  • Mount Baldy – San Bernardino Mountains For experienced hikers, Mount Baldy offers a challenging adventure with breathtaking panoramic views. While the trail is more strenuous, it’s a great option for active dog owners looking to tackle something more rugged. Be sure to check weather conditions before heading out, as the trail can get quite steep and icy in spring months.

  8. More Pet-Friendly Hotels and Resorts

  • The Langham Huntington – Pasadena This luxurious hotel in Pasadena is known for its pet-friendly services and beautiful, expansive grounds. It’s a great option for dog owners who want to enjoy high-end amenities while traveling with their dog. The Langham offers pet beds, bowls, and even a "pet concierge" to assist with special requests for your dog.

  • Best Western Plus – Lake Arrowhead If you’re looking for a cozy, lakeside retreat with your dog, the Best Western Plus in Lake Arrowhead offers a pet-friendly stay with easy access to nearby parks, trails, and the lake. The hotel’s outdoor patios are perfect for a relaxing evening with your pup after a day of adventure.

  • The Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows – Santa Monica Another pet-friendly gem in Santa Monica, The Fairmont Miramar welcomes dogs of all sizes and offers a luxurious stay close to the beach. The hotel is a great base for those looking to explore the local dog-friendly beaches, parks, and nearby attractions. They even offer pet amenities such as beds, bowls, and treats.

  9. Dog-Friendly Parks and Open Spaces

  • Griffith Park Off-Leash Dog Park – Los Angeles Griffith Park is a massive urban park with multiple dog-friendly areas, but the Griffith Park Off-Leash Dog Park is a perfect spot for dogs who enjoy playing with other dogs. The park is expansive and well-maintained, giving your pup plenty of space to run and play. Afterward, you can stroll along the park's scenic trails or visit the nearby Los Angeles Zoo.

  • Lake Balboa Park – Van Nuys Lake Balboa Park, located in the San Fernando Valley, is a popular destination for dog owners. The park has a large off-leash dog park where your pup can socialize with other dogs, along with miles of walking paths where you and your dog can enjoy a relaxing stroll around the lake. The park also has beautiful gardens and grassy areas perfect for picnics.

  • Petco Park Dog Days of Summer – San Diego While San Diego’s Petco Park is known for hosting baseball games, they also offer an annual "Dog Days of Summer" event where fans can bring their dogs to watch a Padres game. During the event, dogs can participate in a pre-game parade, enjoy dog-friendly amenities, and socialize with other dogs. It's a fun experience for both you and your pet!

  10. Pet-Friendly Breweries and Dining

  • Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Escondido Stone Brewing in Escondido features a beautiful outdoor beer garden that’s dog-friendly, where you and your pup can relax while enjoying craft beers and delicious food. Dogs are welcome in the beer garden, and they even have special dog treats on the menu for your furry friend.

  • The Dog Haus Biergarten – Old Pasadena Dog Haus Biergarten in Old Pasadena has a great outdoor patio that welcomes dogs, offering gourmet hot dogs, sausages, and craft beers. It's a perfect spot to hang out with your pup while enjoying delicious comfort food.

  • Dog Haus – Various Locations Known for its gourmet hot dogs, Dog Haus has several locations across Southern California that offer outdoor seating for dogs. They provide water bowls for your pup and even offer dog-friendly treats, making it a great stop for a meal after a day of exploring.

  11. More Dog-Friendly Attractions and Events

  • The Wild Animal Park – Escondido Located just outside San Diego, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (formerly known as the Wild Animal Park) is a large, open-air wildlife sanctuary where dogs are allowed in some outdoor areas on leash. This is a unique and exciting experience for pet owners looking to enjoy a day out in nature while surrounded by wildlife.

  • LA’s Farmers Markets – Various Locations Southern California’s farmers' markets, including those in Santa Monica, Hollywood, and Downtown LA, are a fantastic way to explore local produce and artisan products while enjoying the company of your dog. Many markets have outdoor seating where you can sit with your pup, and some are even pet-friendly.

  • Dog-Friendly Wine Tasting – Temecula Valley If you’re a wine lover, why not bring your dog along for a day of wine tasting in Temecula Valley? Several wineries, such as Ponte Winery and South Coast Winery, welcome dogs in their outdoor areas, allowing your dog to relax while you enjoy local wines.

Southern California offers a wealth of exciting and pet-friendly destinations perfect for a spring break getaway with your dog. Whether you’re relaxing on dog-friendly beaches, hiking in scenic parks, or dining at outdoor cafes, there’s something for every dog and owner. So pack up your pup and head out on an unforgettable spring break adventure in sunny Southern California!