Pet-Friendly Hotels to Book for a Trip to California

Editor’s Pick: Montage Healdsburg

Why We Chose It

A short drive from downtown Healdsburg’s tasting rooms, shops, and restaurants, this exclusive wine country resort combines spacious accommodations with exceptional service for a relaxing and luxurious retreat.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort fee: Yes, $50 per night
• Room rates: $$$$

Notable amenities

10 Tesla charging stations, house Cadillac shuttle, two outdoor pools

Hotel description

Ranging from a nearly 600-square-foot king to a three-bedroom, 4,635-square-foot guest house, Montage Healdsburg’s 130 guest rooms and suites bring the outside in with floor-to-ceiling windows, hardwood floors, and organic materials like stone and wood. The pet-friendly property even has a canine ambassador, Beau, a truffle hunter who greets guests and poses for photos in the lobby.

“Dive-in” movies, poolside games like putt-putt golf, fireside s’mores, and daily craft activities will keep kids entertained, but adults can find plenty to do as well, especially with the aid of Montage’s babysitting service. Try the five-course chef’s tasting menu at the French-influenced restaurant Hazel Hill or get a couple’s treatment at the tranquil spa.

Loews Coronado Bay Resort

Why We Chose It

Situated on a private 15-acre peninsula, this luxury resort has a standout spa and outdoor activities for the whole family, including pets.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes 
• Resort fee: Yes, $35 plus tax per day
• Room rates: $$$

Notable Amenities

Indoor/outdoor spa, babysitting services, daily fitness classes

Hotel Description

With a dedicated doggy dine-in menu, extensive walking trails nearby, and even personalized tags and welcome treats, this outpost of the North American luxury brand lives up to its motto, “Loews Loves Pets.” Dogs under 40 pounds are welcome in many of the 440 rooms and 40 suites, which feature contemporary furniture, vibrant textiles, and large marble bathrooms with soaking tubs.

Take the complimentary resort shuttle to downtown Coronado, where pups can romp in the sand at the Coronado Dog Park. Or book the hotel’s dog walking service while the whole family swims in one of three heated outdoor pools, cycles along the scenic waterfront, or surfs in the bay’s gentle, beginner-friendly waves.

Harbor Court Hotel

Why We Chose It

An unbeatable location in San Francisco’s Financial District and amenities like a modern Japanese restaurant and complimentary bicycles make this intimate hotel a top choice for business and leisure travelers alike.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort fee: Yes, $36 per night
• Room rates: $$

Notable Amenities

Daily wine hour, free morning doughnuts, Malin+Goetz bath products

Hotel Description

Housed in an eight-story brick building from 1926 that was formerly an Army-Navy residence, the waterfront Harbor Court Hotel is just minutes from the bustling Ferry Building Marketplace. In 2018, the property renovated its 131 guest rooms, which have a distinctly urban-cool vibe; think charcoal and chestnut hues, leather-backed chairs, and high-tech features like Soundfreaq radio alarm systems.

All sizes of dogs are permitted, and if you skip housekeeping service, the hotel will donate a portion of revenue from your stay to Muttville, a local senior dog rescue organization. Walk your dog along the famed Embarcadero or take a stroll in the bayside Rincon Park. After indulging in the extensive sushi and sake menu at Harbor Court’s modern Japanese restaurant, borrow one of the hotel’s complimentary bicycles to explore San Francisco in style.

Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego

Why We Chose It 

Like the other pet-friendly hotels in the boutique brand’s portfolio, Kimpton’s San Diego outpost welcomes animals of all types and sizes while delivering warm service and top-notch amenities.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes, for IHG members 
• Resort fee: Yes, $25 per day
• Room rates: $$

Notable Amenities

Daily happy hour, complimentary bicycles, rooftop pool

Hotel Description

Traveling with a furry, or even scaly, companion? All sizes and species are permitted with no added fees at the modern boutique Kimpton Hotel Palomar in downtown San Diego, a city known for its outdoor lifestyle and pet-friendly atmosphere. The small but bright 200-plus rooms and suites will undergo an update and refresh in the fall of 2022, but for now they feature neutral palettes, floor-to-ceiling windows, and amenities like Italian Frette bed linens and Atelier Bloem bath products.

While its location a block north of the Gaslamp Quarter, rooftop pool, and bustling restaurant make this a popular destination for young travelers, the Palomar’s proximity to Balboa Park and Petco Park make it a great option for families, too.

San Diego Mission Bay Resort

Why We Chose It

This luxury resort with a serene spa and private beachfront on San Diego’s Mission Bay makes a perfect home away from home.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort fee: Yes, $36 per night, plus tax
• Room rates: $$

Notable Amenities

High-end salon and spa, waterfront pool, free fitness classes

Hotel Description

Both families and their dogs experience exceptional service at this laid-back yet luxurious property on one of Southern California’s best beaches. Dogs 75 pounds and under are permitted at the resort, which has modern and airy accommodations ranging from 365-square-foot rooms with private patios or balconies to nearly 1,500-square-foot suites with separate living and dining areas — perfect for those with kids and large pets who want to spread out and relax.

Adults will appreciate the private cabanas, as well as the sophisticated seafood dishes and local wines at Covewood, one of four resort restaurants. Little ones and families can splash in the wading pool, play a round of beach volleyball, or enjoy s’mores by a fire pit.

Solage Resort

Why We Chose It

With spacious bungalow-style suites with private outdoor patios and easy access to pastoral hiking paths, Solage is a tranquil retreat, indoors and out.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort fee: Yes, $60 per day
• Room rates: $$$$

Notable Amenities

Spa with geothermal pools, complimentary bicycles, use of house Mercedes-Benz

Hotel Description

Named one of Travel + Leisure’s Top 15 Resorts in California, this 22-acre Napa Valley property boasts a picturesque location and plenty of amenities for guests and their four-legged companions. Dogs receive complimentary bedding and bowls at check-in, and all sizes and breeds are allowed in the 15 secluded suites and 85 spacious studios, all of which have private, furnished patios decorated with topiaries.

Walk leashed dogs on the property’s vineyard-adjacent paths or let them roam while hiking the nearby 8-mile Oat Hill Mine Trail. Dogs can even join their owners on the outdoor patio at the resort’s renowned restaurant, Solbar. Add in Wednesday wine tastings with local vintners, private poolside cabanas, and experiences ranging from pizza-making with the house chef to meditative sound baths, and Solage is the perfect location for a detox-retox.

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Why We Chose It

Pets and people are equally pampered at this Tuscan-inspired Napa Valley resort, which features wine tastings, a spa, and a dog park.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort fee: Yes, $35 per night
• Room rates: $$$

Notable amenities

Welcome champagne, lounge with bowling alley, heated outdoor pool

Hotel description

The Meritage is located on a private 9-acre vineyard with walking trails and its own dog park. Its 322 guest rooms and suites feature striking, Tuscan-inspired interiors complete with dark wooden furniture, dramatic canopied headboards, and jewel-hued accents.

Pamper your pet with plush bedding and yourself with a hot stone massage at the award-winning Spa Terra, which is housed in the underground Estate Cave with whirlpools and steam grottoes. Combine complimentary yoga and Pilates classes, French-influenced fare at the Village Bistro, and exclusive tastings with local brewers and winemakers, and a stay at this picturesque resort is one for the books.

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

Why We Chose It

From the brand’s peerless service to unparalleled amenities and recreational activities, this luxury resort is a go-to for active travelers in all four seasons.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort fee: Yes, $55 per day
• Room rates: $$$$

Notable amenities

Full-service spa, ski valet, heated pools and whirlpools

Hotel description

Looking for luxury with a side of adrenaline? Opt for a stay at the stunning, mid-mountain Ritz-Carlton, which offers ski-in, ski-out access in winter, plus an exclusive beachside club with a private boat pier in summer. Decorated in warm woods and textured gold and rust-toned fabrics, the pet-friendly hotel has rooms ranging from standard 455-square-foot kings to larger two- to four-bedroom residences, all with floor-to-ceiling windows, gas fireplaces, private balconies with pool or mountain views, down comforters, and marble bathrooms with soaking tubs.

Those traveling with children can play at the on-site arcade or snack on s’mores and hot chocolate at outdoor firepits. With several on-site restaurants, ranging from fine dining to barbecue, and a cozy lounge serving up aprés-ski toddies, the hotel makes a perfect home base for outdoor lovers.

Alila Ventana Big Sur

Why We Chose It

This all-inclusive, adults-only haven is one of the state’s most breathtaking hotels, pairing rugged outdoor experiences with luxury amenities like Japanese hot baths.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort fee: Yes, $94; waived for World of Hyatt members
• Room rates: $$$$

Notable amenities

Complimentary hiking equipment, morning movement classes, heated pools

Hotel description

Immerse yourself in nature at the Ailia Ventana Big Sur. Perched on a hill overlooking the Pacific, it has 59 secluded rooms and suites with rustic-chic decor, soaking tubs, and expansive balconies. Dogs receive bedding and bowls at check-in and can join their owners for hikes around the wooded 160-acre property. They’re also welcome for dinner on the patio at the relaxed yet refined Sur House, which serves a menu of mostly sustainable local food along with small-production Central Coast wines.

For those wanting a romantic getaway, Alila Ventana Big Sur’s spa offers couples massages complete with soaking baths in a private outdoor cabana. The resort can also arrange for scenic bicycle tours of majestic Big Sur and vintage car rentals for a cruise along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. 

Montage Laguna Beach

Why We Chose It

Perched high on a bluff above the Pacific Ocean in artsy Laguna Beach, this 30-acre sanctuary boasts stellar amenities like a 20,000-square-foot spa and outdoor pool.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort fee: Yes, $55 per night 
• Room rates: $$$$

Notable amenities

Chauffeur service with a house Cadillac, full-service spa, outdoor pools

Hotel description

With a prime oceanside location, stunning landscaping, and activities for the entire family, this Southern California luxury resort has it all. Featuring craftsman-style architecture and museum-quality art, each of the 258 large guest rooms and suites have modern furnishings in neutral hues and marble bathrooms with separate tubs and showers. Ground floor rooms are reserved for those traveling with dogs and cats 45 pounds and under and have private patios and balconies, giving animals ample space to relax and roam.

Soak in sweeping ocean views and dramatic rocky cliffs while walking your dog on the expansive manicured grounds. And keep little ones entertained with children’s activities like crafts and games while you sip cocktails and listen to live music in the elegant Lobby Lounge or enjoy a dinner for two at the on-site, seafood-forward restaurant, the Loft.

The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows

Why We Chose It

For a retro-cool retreat with a heated pool and full-service spa, stay at this intimate, adults-only property in buzzy downtown Palm Springs.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort fee: Yes, $45 per night
• Room rates: $$

Notable amenities

Heated outdoor pool, complimentary weekend yoga, Le Labo bath products

Hotel description

A multimillion dollar refresh in 2021 transformed this 1930s-era property into a vibrant, adults-only enclave. Located on 3 lush acres in downtown Palm Springs, the 57-room resort effortlessly combines Art Deco glamour — vintage lighting, velvet furniture, and a moody cocktail lounge — with modern amenities like Italian Frette sheets and robes and updated bathrooms with Kallista faucets and rain showerheads.

The animal-loving staff provides dogs under 40 pounds with bedding, bowls, and plenty of attention, while the grounds have a relief station and beautiful gardens for strolling. Rooms with soaking tubs and cozy fireplaces, indulgent spa treatments, and open-air dining at the modern restaurant the Colony Club make this a great spot for a romantic retreat.

Rosewood Miramar Beach

Why We Chose It

One of Southern California’s best beachfront hotels, the five-star Rosewood combines impeccable service and family- and pet-friendly activities with luxury amenities like a full-service spa and a house car.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort fee: Yes, $61.73 per night
• Room rates: $$$$

Notable amenities

House car, babysitting services, bocce courts

Hotel description

With a prime oceanside location and grassy lawns, the Rosewood Miramar Beach is the essence of laid-back luxury. Stay in one of its 123 airy rooms or 35 suites, decorated in crisp whites and serene blues; many have private furnished courtyards and calming ocean views.

Those traveling with children can take advantage of beach butler service and equipment rentals for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding or enjoy the family-friendly poolside cabanas while dining on kid-approved treats like hot dogs and ice cream. Adults will appreciate the full-service spa and on-site dining options like a 13-seat sushi bar. Rosewood also provides curated picnics, including the RuinArt experience, which serves Ruinart champagne to go with a self-guided tour of the property’s 500-piece fine art collection. 

Four-legged family members will get pampered here as well. The resort offers dog walking, an afternoon “pet’s trek,” and a customized in-room canine dining menu.

Carmel Valley Ranch

Why We Chose It

With stunning vistas and experiential activities like falconry and beekeeping, this low-key yet upscale resort is the perfect home base for an active getaway with pets and children.

Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes
• Resort fee: Yes, $55 per day
• Room rates: $$$$

Notable amenities

Complimentary fitness class, Pete Dye-designed bent-grass golf course, three outdoor saltwater pools

Hotel description

Immerse yourself in the great outdoors at the idyllic 500-acre Carmel Valley Ranch, just 10 miles from Monterey and adjacent to the Garland Ranch Regional Park. Renovated in 2019, the luxury resort’s 177 spacious suites are decorated in muted blues and earth tones and equipped with smart-room technology, fireplaces, bath amenities made from lavender harvested on the property, and private decks with valley and vineyard views.

Pets of all sizes are pampered with bowls, beds, treats, and even a separate dine-in menu; leashed dogs can join their owners for strolls on nearby hiking and walking paths. A children’s splash pad, pickleball and tennis courts, and unique activities like archery, falconry, and beekeeping will keep young guests entertained. 

The lush setting and experiences like a couple’s massage with essential oils, wine tastings in the on-site vineyard, and indoor-outdoor dining at the elegant Valley Kitchen restaurant make Carmel Valley Ranch a go-to for nature-loving couples as well.

​​Paséa Hotel & Spa

Why We Chose It

Right on Huntington Beach, Paséa has a superb SoCal setting and provides a long list of dog amenities to ensure that pets are adequately pampered.

 Key Specs

• Free Wi-Fi: Yes 
• Resort fee: Yes, $38 plus tax per day
• Room rates: $$$

Notable Amenities

Dedicated in-room fitness channel, house-made dog treats, dog park, outdoor pool with ocean views, 24-hour fitness studio, complimentary beach bikes

Hotel Description

Paséa is regularly touted as one of the best dog-friendly hotels in the U.S., and it’s easy to see why. Dogs are allowed just about everywhere except the pool; there’s a 1,100-square-foot dog park complete with lifeguard station-shaped doghouse; and hotel restaurant Tanner’s creates a dedicated doggo menu offering everything from protein bowls to a Puppy Parfait. If you opt to venture off-property, Paséa is just a six-minute drive from Huntington Dog Beach, named one of the best in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

Don’t worry, though — Paséa doesn’t forget about its human guests. Soothing sand-and-sea hued rooms have balconies overlooking the ocean and legendary Pacific Coast Highway, and the on-site Aarna Spa features a couples suite, indoor and outdoor treatment spaces, and Balinese and Polynesian-influenced massage. Guests can dine on contemporary coastal cuisine at the pet-friendly Tanner’s or grab small plates and a craft cocktail while listening to a DJ set at the (also pet-friendly) rooftop Treehouse Lounge.