A Wellness-Obsessive’s Guide to Southern California, Dog in Tow
For those of us who live and breathe longevity—not just for ourselves, but for our beloved four-legged companions, too—Southern California offers the rare opportunity to truly travel well. Simply put, SoCal just gets it.
We like to scope out spots that mirror our lifestyle: whole-food menus, access to nature, and low-stress environments. Luckily, the West Coast offers an embarrassment of riches for dog parents like myself.
STAY HERE
The Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara
Dog-friendly suites open up to private terraces with ocean views, and the staff—who have clearly received a crash course in doting—are endlessly attentive to canine guests. My dog was greeted by name (yes, really) and treated to organic, grain-free biscuits upon arrival. Don’t skip out on a sunset walk along the bluff-side trails that wrap around the property.
The Surfrider in Malibu
A low-key but stunning boutique hotel perched across the PCH from Surfrider Beach. Dogs are welcome in select rooms, and the rooftop bar serves the kind of dangerously sippable cocktails and seasonal bites that make visiting humans feel like locals. Ask for a dog-friendly beach guide.
Ojai Valley Inn in Ojai
Ojai is magical. Its most famous property is dog-friendly without ever compromising the elegance of its 220 acres of citrus groves, lavender fields, and Spanish Revival architecture. They offer pet-specific in-room dining (woof to wild-caught salmon bowls), and the on-property walking trails are shaded, meditative, and perfect for gentle morning movement.
The Proper Hotel in Downtown LA
For the city traveler, the Proper is chic, artsy, and refreshingly open-minded when it comes to pets. They’ll set you up with hypoallergenic pet beds upon request, plus you're steps away from Grand Central Market’s pet-friendly patios and cool, early morning walks.
Rosewood Miramar Beach in Montecito
Rosewood Miramar doesn’t just allow dogs—it celebrates them. My dog was offered a plush bed, a silver water bowl, and organic treats before we even checked in. We wandered the private beachfront at sunrise, and yes, he was welcome on the terrace at Caruso’s, where the staff brought out a special menu just for him.
The Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles
Iconic, old-Hollywood luxe, and so very pink—this place is classic LA. The Polo Lounge patio is beloved for many reasons, but the one that stole my heart is that your pup will be served Evian in a custom monogrammed bowl.
The Alila Marea Beach Resort in Encinitas
Dogs are welcome throughout the property, and there’s even a dog-friendly happy hour in the evening. It’s my favorite place to reconnect—salt air in lungs, paws in sand.
The Pendry in Los Angeles
Perfect for pups who prefer polished floors over forest trails. The staff is sincerely dog-savvy, offering curated walks, dog massages (there’s a whole pet wellness menu), and a pet-friendly rooftop with city views that make magic hour extra so.
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Hike & Hydrate
Start your day at Runyon Canyon (go early to beat the heat and crowds). It’s LA’s answer to both a workout and social hour, but the energy is upbeat, and the views over the city are rewarding. Dogs can be off-leash in designated areas—a rarity in most cities.
Chill & Nourish
Recharge at The Butcher’s Daughter in Venice. While you sip on a chlorophyll elixir and scoop a coconut yogurt parfait, your dog can lounge at your feet in the shade with a bowl of filtered water and organic treats from the hostess stand.
Beach Time
Head to Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach, the only off-leash dog beach in LA County. For a more tranquil alternative, Hendry’s Beach (also called Arroyo Burro) in Santa Barbara is a dog-lover’s dream—ocean bliss without the chaos.
Sunset Rituals
Book an oceanfront dinner at Geoffrey’s Malibu, where dogs are welcome. Ask for a corner table on the terrace and bask in the sunset glow.
Materials and other information provided on our Futureproof Pet website are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute medical or other professional advice. We provide no warranty and accept no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or the completeness of the information and materials contained in this website, including the personal opinions published in views, blog posts, opinion pieces or articles that comprise opinion pieces. The information provided by this website is not intended to address the specific circumstances of any particular individual or animal, sometimes links to external sites over which we have no control, and is not necessarily comprehensive, complete, accurate or up-to-date. Website materials should never be a substitute for conferring directly with professionals with respect to your particular situation.
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