Planning on some surf, sea and sand for a family vacation? Don’t leave your pets behind this year! San Diego, CA is a pet-friendly paradise for summer vacations. Visit a few of the dog-friendly beaches, enjoy a gourmet meal and a craft beer, or take a tour of town with your best four-legged friend. This year-round playground averages temperatures of 75-degrees year round, with just enough humidity to keep you cool during the slightly warmer dog days of summer.
Pet-friendly Hotels
If you’ve been worried about finding pet-friendly hotels in San Diego, rest assured it won’t be a problem. Whether you’re looking at an upscale, ocean-front resort like Loews Coronado Bay Resort (which also features its own pet-friendly beach), or a charming boutique hotel like The Keating, there is something for everyone.
When planning your your pet-friendly hotel stay, keep in mind that some hotels require pet deposits and may have weight/size or other restrictions in place. Reserve your hotel ahead of time (they do sell out frequently during summer) and let them know you’re planning on bringing your dog(s) along with you. The best of the pet-friendly hotels offer plenty of pet-friendly amenities and will be thrilled to offer you and your dog luxurious accommodations!
Surf’s up for social animals
San Diego has a lot to offer, but perhaps the best is the beautiful Pacific ocean. If you’ve got a water-loving dog, give them a day to ride the waves.
For the experienced dog surfer, be sure to visit San Diego in summer during the Imperial Beach Surf Dog Competition is an annual event that takes place on Imperial Beach. If your dog isn’t riding the waves yet, you can relax at Imperial Beach Pier while the big dogs hang 20!
Dog-Friendly Breweries
It’s no secret that dog lovers share that same affinity for craft beer. If you’re interested in exploring a few pubs while you’re in San Diego, check out the dog-friendly pubs first. Most of the local pubs feature private tasting rooms and large outdoor, cantina-style patios where dogs are welcome to relax beachside.
- Mission Brewery is a favorite for San Diego Padres fans. Enjoy your beer in an historic 1894 building with a space of over 3,000 square feet to give you and your pet room to lounge.
- Societe Brewing Company features a large selection of Belgian-inspired brews. Relaxed and casual, it features an outdoor patio where you and your dog can soak up the sunshine.
Remember that beer is for humans, not dogs – so bring plenty of treats and keep your dogs on-leash. Be courteous with patrons and always give non-dog lovers <gasp!> the right-of-way. We want to keep San Diego pet-friendly!
Cruising with Dogs
Not only are dogs welcome on beaches, Hornblower Cruises offers a May Day speciality cruise you can enjoy together. If you love boating with pets, this is the place to be on May Day.
If you’re looking for some quiet time, charter your own boat for a day of fishing, or join in on one of the pet-friendly cruises that occasionally depart. Don’t forget – safety first when it comes to dogs!
Après-Surf & Sand
Don’t forget to swing by a speciality pet store after a long day at the beach. San Diego has some ultra luxurious, dog-centric stores where you can pick up some delicious dog treats and toys. A few of the pet stores with premium goods are:
- Muttropolis Solana Beach: 227 South Cedros • Solana Beach • CA • 92075
Stylish pet products, from unique collars to plush beds, and healthy, gourmet treats
- Dexter’s Deli: 3773 30th St • San Diego • CA • 92104
Each Dexter’s store is a neighborhood gathering place, celebrating every dog who comes to visit and offering the latest information about optimal nutrition for pets.
- The Original Paw Pleasers: 2818 University Ave • San Diego • CA • 92104
Surfer-shaped dog treats, pet birthday cakes & munchies for cats are available at this pet bakery
Whether you’re walking, flying or driving with pets – please take some extra precautions to keep your pets safe. If you’re not familiar with the region, you will need to plan for the occasional ultra-sunny day, which may mean hot sand and sidewalks. Pack some extra dog boots for hot days in the sun!
Remember to be considerate while navigating the many pet-friendly beaches and facilities in San Diego. Always carry extra doggy bags and don’t forget to take the camera. With a little planning, San Diego is a destination neither you nor your dog will ever forget!