Statewide
Pet-Friendly Hotels and Cabins on the California Coast
Dog-friendly hotels and cabins on the California coast in Mendocino, Carmel, Santa Barbara and San Diego, plus off-leash beaches and pet fee tips.
By Alex Khachigian · Updated September 2026 · 3 min read
This guide lists coastal hotels that welcome dogs, region by region, with nearby beaches and trails that allow them.
Pet policies change often, so confirm weight limits and fees before you go.
In This Guide
- How to Choose a Pet-Friendly Hotel on the Coast
- Dog-Friendly Hotels in Mendocino
- Carmel-by-the-Sea: The Most Dog-Friendly Town on the Coast
- Pet-Friendly Hotels in Monterey and Pacific Grove
- Santa Barbara and the Central Coast With a Dog
- Dog-Friendly Stays in Orange County and San Diego
- Pet-Friendly Cabins, Rentals and Campgrounds
- When to Book Pet-Friendly Rooms
- FAQ
How to Choose a Pet-Friendly Hotel on the Coast
Big dogs do better in a cottage than a hotel room, while small, calm dogs settle in anywhere. Check weight limits, number of pets, whether dogs can be left alone, and whether the fee is nightly or one-time.
Dog-Friendly Hotels in Mendocino
The Stanford Inn sits above Big River just south of Mendocino village, with gardens, an indoor pool, a vegan restaurant and canoe rentals, and dogs get beds, bowls and treats. Little River Inn, an oceanview property with a golf course a few miles south, allows dogs in many rooms.
Mendocino Headlands State Park allows leashed dogs on its bluff trails.
Carmel-by-the-Sea: The Most Dog-Friendly Town on the Coast
Carmel Beach allows dogs off-leash under voice control. Cypress Inn, once co-owned by Doris Day, allows dogs in the lobby and bar, and many Ocean Avenue shops and patios welcome dogs.
Pet-Friendly Hotels in Monterey and Pacific Grove
Portola Hotel & Spa in downtown Monterey is next to Fisherman’s Wharf and the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. Leashed dogs are allowed on the path to Cannery Row and Pacific Grove.
Kimpton Mirador opened in Pacific Grove in early 2026, with no pet fee or size limit. It’s a 15 minute walk to Lovers Point, and the patio has a dog menu.
Santa Barbara and the Central Coast With a Dog
Kimpton Canary in Santa Barbara has no pet fee. Dogs can run off-leash at Arroyo Burro Beach (Hendry’s), east of the creek mouth.
In Cambria and Cayucos, a few rooms at lodges and cottages take dogs and book first. Fiscalini Ranch Preserve allows leashed dogs on its bluff trail.
Dog-Friendly Stays in Orange County and San Diego
Montage Laguna Beach takes dogs within a size limit and sits on the coastal bluff walk. In San Diego, Loews Coronado Bay Resort and Kimpton Solamar in the Gaslamp Quarter take dogs.
- Huntington Dog Beach: off-leash, along PCH
- Rosie’s Dog Beach: off-leash zone in Long Beach
- Ocean Beach Dog Beach: off-leash at all hours
- Coronado Dog Beach: north end of Coronado Beach
Pet-Friendly Cabins, Rentals and Campgrounds
For big dogs or two dogs, rent a cottage with a fenced yard and hard floors, and ask the host about size and breed. Many coastal state park campgrounds allow leashed dogs, usually not on trails; see my car camping guide.
When to Book Pet-Friendly Rooms
Pet rooms sell out first. Book two to three months ahead for summer weekends and call to confirm the room is flagged pet-friendly.
My Pacific Coast Highway road trip links most of these towns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which California beach town is the most dog-friendly?
Carmel-by-the-Sea, with an off-leash beach and dog-friendly shops and hotels. Huntington Beach, Ocean Beach and Mendocino are also good.
Can I bring my dog to California state beaches?
It depends on the park. Check the park page first.
Do pet-friendly hotels in California charge extra fees?
Many charge a cleaning or nightly fee. Kimpton hotels generally don’t.
Are dogs allowed off-leash on Carmel Beach?
Yes, under voice control. Keep dogs leashed in the village.
Are dogs allowed at Point Lobos?
No, dogs are not allowed on Point Lobos trails.
