Are you heading on a trip and looking for the best pet-friendly spots? Curious about what your hometown has to offer for you and your pet? We did the searching and hit the town with our pets to see what’s worth checking out. This month, we explored sunny San Diego’s top pet-friendly places that are worth a visit.
San Diego is synonymous with beaches, and they’re not just for humans! You have plenty of no-leash beaches to choose from up and down San Diego’s coast.
A personal Yummernaut favorite is Fiesta Island Beaches at Mission Bay, which has been ranked the top dog park in the United States. Designated as a leash-free zone, your dog can play in the sand dunes or go for a swim in the calm bay. With bonfire rings around the island’s shore, it’s the perfect spot for an evening on the beach with your pup.
Another popular choice is the original Dog Beach located in Ocean Beach, one of the first official leash-free beaches in the United States. It’s a special place where people, pets, beach lovers, and surfers soak up the sun while making special memories. Other great choices to check out include Del Mar Dog Beach and Coronado Dog Beach.
The Dog Society is a space for pups and their humans to relax and socialize, no membership needed! From boarding and grooming to a beer garden and espresso bar (plus an outdoor game area), there’s something for every pup and their parent. They even offer a menu just for dogs! Don’t forget to check out their fun events that switch out every month.
San Diego’s ever-changing, always amazing, 1,200-acre Balboa Park offers an abundance of natural beauty with never-ending adventures to explore. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors with your dog. If the sprawling grounds aren't enough to keep your pup busy, they also have three different off-leash dog parks for even more extra-not-ordinary fun.
Puppy Picnic Co. is the original dog-friendly pop-up pupnic™ and event company for celebrating with furry friends, complete with complimentary dog treats and a variety of fun add-ons like dog wine, pup-approved buses, and original pupcuterie™ boards. With a store located in Encinitas and play-packed events all over San Diego, they offer something for everyone.
Several times a season, Petco Park hosts Bark at the Park, a chance to enjoy a San Diego Padres game from Gallagher Square with your pup. You can also visit any home game with your pup in one of their semi-private Barkyard viewing areas, with amenities like a designated entrance, a pet drinking fountain, and special artificial turf with umbrellas to protect your pet’s paws. Make sure you book your tickets in advance, there are 5 Barkyard suites available.
With the (almost) year-round sunny weather, most dining locations in San Diego offer a patio space where your pup can join you (we recommend calling ahead to confirm, just in case).
Some fun choices are Lazy Dog Restaurant, Pizza Port, and Sally’s Fish House and Bar. Looking to try out one of San Diego’s famous breweries? Many of them are dog-friendly too! Stone Brewing has multiple locations across San Diego, offering their very own Stone Bones dog treats. Prefer wine? San Diego also offers a selection of wineries and wine-tasting rooms that are dog-friendly. To name a few, Domaine Artefact, Orfila Vineyards, and Caruth Cellars welcome on-leash pups.
It’s not only about the beaches — San Diego also offers countless dog parks and beautiful hikes to help you and your pup get the most out of the sunny weather. From small neighborhood parks to larger, more-populated spots, there’s something for every dog. For hiking, check out Mission Trails Regional Park, Tecolote Canyon Natural Park, and San Elijo Lagoon Trail.
If you like your coffee with a side of cat cuddles, you’re in for a treat at Cat & Craft Cafe and The Cat Café. Both kitty lounges serve delicious beverages and fresh local pastries and snacks plus special events like movie night and cat yoga. Looking for an adult beverage? Whiskers & Wine offers a full cocktail and wine menu. Whatever spot you visit, make sure to leave your own feline at home, as these lounges are for hanging out with adoptable cats only.
Pet-Friendy Stays
Located in the heart of Downtown San Diego, you and your pet can enjoy everything San Diego has to offer with a stay at Hotel Indigo. Treat your pet to their VIP (Very Important Pet) package that includes food and water bowls, extra cozy pet beds, and crave-worthy treats they’ll love. The best part? They welcome pets of all weights, breeds, and sizes — plus there is no pet limit and they can wander anywhere within the hotel with no added fees!
Experience the luxury of La Valencia with your best friend! Get greeted with a welcome tote bag, leash, water bottle, healthy dog treats, and a VIP collar accessory. While you’re there, you can watch the sunrise and sunset with your pet and enjoy the panoramic views of the Pacific coastline and beautiful La Jolla Cove. End the day with a tasty meal al fresco that includes a $25 dining credit for you and your pet.
The Dana on Mission Bay is an amazing choice for your furry companion’s next vacation. Upon your arrival, your pup will be greeted with treats, food and water bowls, plus plenty of courtesy bags for your outdoor activities! The Dana has water-front walking paths that give your dog plenty of room to sniff and enjoy the outdoors. Located adjacent to Mission Bay Aquatic Park, there are endless adventures for you and your pup to explore. Before you visit, don’t forget to check out The Dana’s extra special pet-friendly packages that help make every day together extra-not-ordinary.