Top 10 Dog Friendly Destinations on the West Coast

dog friendly beach

Headed on vacation but don’t want to leave your dog? Don’t fret, with the number of dog friendly vacation rentals, restaurants, beaches and parks popping up, you’re furry friend can tag along. This time of year the West coast is gorgeous, with warm weather, breathtaking sunsets and plenty to do, you can’t go wrong. And there are tons of dog friendly destinations that provide the perfect spot for your next vacation. Here are our top 10 dog friendly destinations on the West coast and the dog friendly vacation rentals to stay in while you’re there.

Santa Cruz 

You and your dog will love exploring the dog friendly beaches of Santa Cruz. Its Beach on the Westside is a top choice, with miles of soft sand to run on and tons of waves to splash around in, there’s no better place for a game of catch. After you’ve tuckered yourselves out, head to Santa Cruz Mountain Brewery. They’ve got award winning beer for you and a dog friendly patio for your pup. Retreat to your dog friendly Mitchell’s Cove Beach House nearby after a day of fun.

Mitchell’s Cove Dog Friendly Beach House, Nestled in a quiet neighborhood setting with plenty of bike trails and endless walking opportunities - Mitchell's Cove Beach House is ideally located Westside of Santa Cruz.This dog friendly vacation home is near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, popular surf spots, and Downtown Pacific Street.

Aptos, California 

Nearby, Aptos California, just a couple miles south of Santa Cruz is another top dog friendly destination. Head to Rio Del Mar Beach or Seacliff State Beach, both dog friendly. If you're looking for a dried spot, then hiking at the forest of Nisene Marks may be just the thing for you and your dog. Head to the Hideout when you're through with your hike. This dog-friendly restaurant serves fresh local ingredients and speciality cocktails. Relax with your dog at one of the eight outdoor tables and enjoy the beautiful Aptos weather.  Explore more beaches here. And area shopping and restaurants here.

Welcome to the Million Dollar Ocean Views Beach House in Aptos! With 180 degree ocean views from the backside of this dog friendly beach house, enjoy relaxing in this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom beach house that sleeps up to 8 guests. Explore more Santa Cruz County dog friendly vacation rentals.

Leavenworth, Washington           

 There is plenty to do, see and explore in Leavenworth with a dog in tow. There are plenty of dog friendly restaurants to choose from in Leavenworth. Grab a spot at Der Hinterhof for BBQ and craft beers. The outdoor beer garden is perfect for dogs on leash, and you can catch live music on the weekends. If it's adventure you and your dog are looking for, explore Lake Wenatchee State Park. 

Stay at a serene, private and centrally located cabin in Leavenworth. Welcome to "Gone Fishin." This very private cabin is a fisherman's paradise. Locate just a couple miles down the road from the Lake Wenatchee State Park. This quaint and cozy cabin is the perfect home base for your family to have fun in the mountains, and of course you can bring the dog. 

Victoria, British Columbia 

There are a number of dog friendly activities in Victoria BC, you and your dog won’t be bored. Explore McCauley Point, Dallas Road Park and other dog friendly parks and beaches. Lido Waterfront Bar and Bistro is a relaxed Italian eatery with a huge patio perfect for enjoying views of the water and quality time with your dog.  

Enjoy your stay in this tranquil oasis, Morley 303, in a no-traffic alley surrounded by the hustle and bustle of Victoria's city centre Government Street, Bastion Square, Inner Harbour, Chinatown, and the design district are all in immediate walking distance. Come and indulge yourself in the comfort and quietness of this sophisticated small, pet friendly oasis surrounded by life, happenings and all major attractions of this beautiful city.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach is one of the most dog friendly places around. Play in the ocean or explore a walk in the woods nearby, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. After your outdoor adventure, go shopping at many of the boutiques and galleries that allow pups. After try the dog friendly Cannon Beach restaurants that offer outdoor patio seating and plenty of water bowls for your thirsty pup. In October, the Dog Show On the Beach is the place to be. All are welcome to participate and categories vary.

Bring your whole family with you on your vacation! Browse through these Oregon coast dog friendly rentals. Beach Pines Bungalow offers a quintessential beach experience in peaceful and quiet Arch Cape, near Cannon Beach. Presented by Starfish Vacation Rentals, this charming, classic cottage is located just steps from the sand and features ocean views from the dining nook, private backyard, and upstairs bedroom. It is a perfect destination for couples, families, and friends seeking to rejuvenate in a “home away from home.”

Cannon Beach dog friendly

Tahoe, California

Get outside and explore the beautiful outdoors with your dog in Tahoe. Check out dog friendly Kiva Beach. Here dogs can swim off leash and there is plenty of room to spread out since the beach isn’t usually very crowded. Patten Beach and Carnelion Beach are other great options too! Get a bite to eat at the Blue Agave and bring your dog, there’s tons of room for them on the Patio.

Stay at dog friendly Bennett Flat Family Lodge.After a day of fun, this well-appointed home is the perfect place to unwind.  Relax by the wood-burning fireplace, soak in the large hot tub or indoor spa, or cook up a family feast on our outdoor grill or in the gourmet kitchen.  The family lodge is great for families, including the family dog.

Mt. Hood, Oregon              

Hood River is a top spot for an active dog. Located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge,  45 minutes from Mt. Hood, this area has lots of dog-friendly trails, beaches, restaurants. Explore the Hood River Waterfront trail along the Columbia River. It’s easily accessible and welcome to off-leash dogs.


Unwind at the Cedar Creek Hideaway, this is the perfect cabin for a quiet retreat away from the city. Surrounded by tall cedars, two seasonal creeks and the Mt Hood National Forest, a visit to this unique geodesic dome mountain cabin will leave you refreshed and relaxed. And dogs are welcome to join! 

Lake Chelan, Washington 

 Explore beautiful Lake Chelan, where there is plenty of outdoor adventure. There's tons of dog friendly restaurants to choose from to! Local Myth Pizza and Lakeview Drive In to name a few. Search and discover the best dog friendly vacation rentals nearby from Sage Vacation Rentals.

San Diego, California

You and your dog will love Sand Diego, there is so much to see and do and it's extremely dog friendly. Head to Fiesta Island Off Leash Dog Park and explore the many hiking trails for dogs, or have some fun at the local dog parks. 

Seattle, Washington

Your dog is going to love Seattle! Put the Magnuson Dog Park and Kenmore Air on your list. Magnuson Park has an off leash dog area and 6 acres for your dog to run free! Your dog can swim in Lake Washington here and the park also has beach access. discover dog friendly hiking trails at Washington Park Arboretum, Seward Park, Elliot Bay and others. Westcrest Dog Park is another great option. 

Explore dog friendly rentals from Sea to Sky rentals.

You can't go wrong with a West Coast vacation with your dog. From beaches, parks, hiking and dog friendly restaurants and beer gardens, there's plenty of dog friendly destinations to explore on the West Coast.