2 min read

4 California Dog-Friendly Weekend Getaways

4 California Dog-Friendly Weekend Getaways

Where to stay, what to eat, and how to travel well with your pup in tow.


A good weekend escape doesn't have to involve complicated logistics. Sometimes all you need is a tank of gas, a pet-friendly hotel, and the right travel partner.

When you have the flexibility, travel can be spontaneous, stylish, and centered on shared experiences. Add a dog to the mix, and the right kind of getaway becomes even more rewarding.

These four dog-friendly spots in California are places we've actually stayed and loved. Whether you're planning your next trip for two (plus one furry friend), or just looking for low-key luxury and fresh air, these getaways make traveling feel easy, fun, and totally yours.


  1. Ace Hotel & Swim Club — Palm Springs, CA

    **Vibe:** Retro-cool with a desert backdrop and a fun pool scene.

    **Why we love it:** It’s designed for lounging, sunning, and eating well — with plenty of space to roam and relax. You'll see creatives, couples, and lots of well-behaved pups.

    **Dog perks:**
    - Pet-friendly rooms
    - Shaded outdoor lounges
    - Welcome kits for dogs

    **What to do nearby:**
    - Hike **Tahquitz Canyon**
    - Explore vintage shops along **Palm Canyon Drive**
    - Dine at **King’s Highway** (on-site) or **Workshop Kitchen + Bar**

    ---

    2. AutoCamp Yosemite — Midpines, CA

    **Vibe:** Stylish Airstreams and cabins nestled under the pines.

    **Why we love it:** It’s glamping done right — with plush interiors, modern amenities, and just the right amount of wilderness. Great for couples who love the outdoors but prefer not to rough it.

    **Dog perks:**
    - Select pet-friendly Airstreams
    - On-site walking trails
    - Dog bowls and welcome treats

    **Things to do:**
    - Take a scenic drive into **Yosemite National Park**
    - Stargaze from your deck
    - Grab a drink by the communal fire pit

    ---
    3. Harvest Inn — Napa Valley, CA

    **Vibe:** Elegant and relaxed — with vineyard views, fireplaces, and a slower pace.

    **Why we love it:** It’s romantic, peaceful, and conveniently close to some of Napa’s best dog-friendly wineries. Great for unplugging and sipping slowly.

    **Dog perks:**
    - Pet-friendly rooms with outdoor space
    - Dog-walking areas throughout the property
    - Vineyard paths perfect for morning strolls

    **Don’t miss:**
    - Dinner at **Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch**
    - Patio tastings at **Bouchaine Vineyards** and **Dutch Henry Winery**
    - Quiet afternoons by the pool

    ---
     4. Coachman Hotel — South Lake Tahoe, CA

    **Vibe:** Modern mountain lodge with fireplaces, fire pits, and a relaxed, outdoorsy energy.

    **Why we love it:** It’s steps from Lake Tahoe, near the slopes in winter, and perfectly cozy year-round. The design is stylish but unfussy, and dogs are treated like part of the crew.

    **Dog perks:**
    - Pet-friendly rooms
    - Easy access to lake trails and beaches
    - Plenty of room to roam

    **Local picks:**
    - Kayak at **El Dorado Beach**
    - Hike to **Eagle Falls**
    - Grab a drink and s’mores at the hotel fire pit
    ---
    Planning Your Own Dog-Friendly Weekend?

    Here’s what we always look for when planning a great couple’s trip with our pup:
    - Pet-friendly accommodations that feel like a getaway
    - Nearby nature, trails, or parks
    - Patio dining options or wineries
    - A destination within ~4 hours of home
    - A relaxed, couple-first vibe

    ---
    Over to You

    Do you have a favorite dog-friendly stay that fits the vibe?
    We’re always looking for our next weekend trip — let us know in the comments.

    And if you’re planning more travel with your partner and your pup:
    Follow us on Pinterest for new trip ideas and packing checklists.

This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you book through them — at no extra cost to you. We only recommend places we’ve personally stayed or researched.