San Diego, California is located in sunny southern California. About two hours away from Los Angeles, California but with a totally different vibe! You still get the bright sunny skies and warm weather that Los Angeles is known for, but you will get a more relaxed feel and slower pace of life here in San Diego. It is a beautiful town to experience with your dog!
San Diego has the most ideal climate with temperatures averaging 70 degrees Fahrenheit or 21 degrees Celsius. San Diego also produces the most avocados, so be sure to try one here if you’re not allergic! 🥑
🏠 Where to Stay
There are many pet friendly options to stay in San Diego. Wether you choose an Airbnb, or hotel — there are many options out there for you and your furry friend. To help you narrow it down, below is a few of our favorite pet friendly stays with different price options.
💰- Budget Friendly
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Diego (Mission Valley) – 7450 Hazard Center Dr, San Diego, CA 92108
The hotel is located just five minutes away from Fashion Valley mall and the trendy dining options in Mission Valley. Many of San Diego’s top attractions, including the zoo, Balboa Park, Old Town, and SeaWorld, can be reached within a fifteen minute drive. The Gaslamp Quarter and beautiful beaches are also just twenty minutes away. Guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor pools during their stay. A warm chocolate chip cookie is provided upon arrival to make guests feel welcome. The hotel is pet friendly, and charges $125 for their pet fee (good for duration of the stay), and is due at check-in. - Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Diego North – 5975 Lusk Blvd, San Diego, CA 92121
This convenient hotel is located in Sorrento Valley, making it a easy choice for both families and business travelers. The hotel is approximately 20 minutes away from San Diego’s sandy beaches, as well as popular attractions such as SeaWorld San Diego and the San Diego Zoo. For those on business, the hotel is near numerous corporations such as Qualcomm, Samsung, and Google. The hotel offers a free shuttle service to nearby businesses and flexible meeting venues. Guests can enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast in the morning and snacks from the Inn Case Market throughout the day. The hotel also features an outdoor pool, business center, and fitness center. Non-refundable pet fee of $75 due at check-in. Only doggos allowed. - Town and Country – 500 Hotel Cir N, San Diego, CA 92108
At Town and Country Resort, guests can experience the best of San Diego while enjoying the hotel’s mid-century charm and friendly service. The resort offers modern guest rooms, delicious dining options, and a large pool complex for relaxation and fun. Situated in the heart of Mission Valley, the hotel is near shopping, golf, the airport, and many popular attractions such as beaches and hiking trails. After undergoing a recent multimillion-dollar renovation, Town and Country is ready to create new memories for guests and welcome them to their own slice of happiness. Dogs are permitted in the hotel; however, they must weigh less than 30 pounds and there is a fixed fee per pet, per stay ($75 non-refundable deposit).
💰💰 – In-Between
- Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa – 9700 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
This pet-friendly resort in San Diego, California is a beautiful hacienda-style boutique hotel nestled between La Jolla and Del Mar. It has 210 guest rooms and suites with casual elegance, set on 10 acres of lush gardens and courtyards. The resort has won awards for exceptional service and offers world-class amenities, full-service spa, and dining options. What’s really cool is that they offer a special dog menu with breakfast, dinner, and organic snacks for their four-legged guests. The hotel accepts all pets, regardless of size, weight, or breed, and has grassy areas for pets to enjoy. There is a non-refundable pet fee of $150 per pet charged during registration. - Kona Kai Resort & Spa – 1551 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
Kona Kai is the perfect place to relax and unwind while enjoying the natural beauty of San Diego’s waterfront. This pet friendly resort is not located in the center of San Diego but rather near the marina docks where you’ll see lots of yachts. The vibe here is very chill and laid back with a tropical essence. However, it’s still close by the Gaslamp District (~20 minutes away). We loved staying with Bodhi here! Click here to watch our video review on it. They just implemented a new pet program which allows guests to bring up to two dogs, weighing up to 65 lbs. There is a non-refundable fee of $100 for up to 3 nights or $150 for 4-7 nights. They also offer an amazing hosPETality service for your furry friends, which includes special amenities for dogs upon arrival, a restaurant menu that’s dog-friendly, and even activities for dogs in the surrounding area. They also have a new Spa + Paws menu at SpaTerre, which is just for dogs! - Hilton San Diego Bayfront – 1 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
The Hilton San Diego Bayfront is a beautiful resort located in a prime location, with the San Diego Bay just a stone’s throw away. The resort offers stunning views of the bay and the surrounding area, with every guest room designed to maximize natural light and provide a bright and welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a range of relaxing amenities, such as a full-service spa and outdoor pool, and the hotel’s dining options showcase the best of locally-inspired cuisine. With its proximity to the Gaslamp Quarter and Petco Park, guests can easily explore the city and take in all that San Diego has to offer. You can bring your furry friend along with you for an additional non-refundable fee of $50. Please note that the maximum weight limit for pets is 75 pounds.
💰💰💰 – Luxury/High-End
- L’Auberge – 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014
Rated the top 3 hotel in all of Southern California, it’s no wonder this fancy and fun hotel is loved by everyone in Del Mar. It’s near the ocean and people call it the heart of the town. Del Mar is a small village in San Diego County, California, with beautiful beaches and a charming downtown area full of shops and restaurants. It’s located about 20 miles north of downtown San Diego. L’Auberge Del Mar is a place where you can bring your furry friends! You can bring up to two dogs per reservation, but there will be a charge of $200 per stay. If you are bringing your dogs, you will need to sign a waiver during check-in to show that you have read and understand their Pooch Policy. - Shore House at The Del / Hotel del Coronado – 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
This iconic hotel is on a beautiful island community located in San Diego County, California. This hotel is considered a legendary resort that has welcomed guests from around the world for more than a century. Coronado also boasts a charming downtown area filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes. The island’s stunning beaches and mild weather make it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as surfing, sunbathing, and bike riding. Visitors can also take a stroll along the famous Coronado Bridge, which offers breathtaking views of the San Diego skyline and bay. Hotel del Coronado welcomes pets with a non-refundable charge to cover deep cleaning costs: $125 per stay for Hotel del Coronado accommodations; $200 per stay for Beach Village at The Del accommodations (+ $50 for each additional connecting room). To comply with their pet policy, guests must sign a waiver during check-in. They accept up to 2 pets per guest room, weighing 40 pounds or less. Pit bulls, pit bull mixes, Dobermans, Rottweilers, Chows or Chow mixes are not permitted. - The Lodge at Torrey Pines – 11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
A really nice hotel that looks like an old-fashioned house. It’s by a famous golf course and you can see the ocean from there too. The hotel has great food, a spa where you can relax, and it’s a really nice place to stay. You can play golf at the course nearby, too. When you check in, the staff will help you have a great time and make your stay special. This hotel is located in La Jolla which is a stunning coastal town located in San Diego, California. It is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, fine dining, and upscale shopping districts. Visitors can engage in outdoor activities, explore cultural attractions, or enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene. The Lodge is pet friendly, allowing one housebroken dog per guest room weighing 50 lb. or less, or two smaller dogs (with a combined weight of 75 lb. or less). Guests with dogs are subject to a non-refundable cleaning fee of $150 on the day of check-in. Dogs must be leashed at all times outside of the guest room and guests are asked not to leave their dog unattended. Guide, signal, or service dogs have the cleaning fee waived. Emotional support and comfort dogs are allowed, but associated cleaning fees will not be waived.
🍔 Where to Eat
There are many places here to eat in San Diego but if you don’t want to leave your furry friend at home, below are a few options that are dog friendly!
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar – 1202 Camino Del Rio N, San Diego, CA, 92108
This place serves American cuisine with prices around $10-25 per item — and even have great happy hour deals! They are open 7 days a week and stay open late (12am) – which can be a great spot to grab any midnight munchies! We recommend the bacon candy!
Queenstown Public House – 1557 Columbia St, San Diego, CA 92101
A New Zealand themed restaurant that is great for brunch with an awesome bar area. The staff here is very sweet and provide great service. The price is a bit more on the pricey side ($20-30 per item) but the food portions here are pretty big so sharing is an option! We recommend the French Toast or Poutine.
Cocina 35 – 1435 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
This Mexican restaurant is VERY dog friendly place to have a meal! The chilaquiles are amazing (we recommend!) and serves breakfast, brunch and lunch. However, we would recommend having breakfast here instead of lunch or brunch. Price ranges around $10-30 per item.
The Joint Sushi & Tapas – 4902 Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107
Of course we had to include sushi (as this is our favorite food!). This place gives off Dive Bar vibe which makes you feel like a local. The service here is great and the place has an outside patio where you can sit with your dog. This place has plenty of vegetarian options with classic and unique rolls. Great spot for date night!
Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens (Liberty Station) – 2816 Historic Decatur Rd, San Diego, CA, US, 92106
A great place where you can bring your furry friend to enjoy some tasty beer and food. They care about the environment and making beer in a special way. You can sit outside with your dog and choose from a menu of delicious food that comes from local sources and different cultures around the world. They have appetizers, soups, salads, main courses like Stone Barbecue Duck Tacos, Crispy Skinned Salmon, and Spicy Lamb Sausage Rigatoni, sandwiches, and desserts like Chocolate-Hazelnut Tart, Spiced Carrot Cake, and Stone Brownie Sundae. Please note that this place is open at different times throughout the week – so double check the times!
🥾 Attractions/Things To Do
There are a million things to do here if you are not with your dog, but for those of us who love to bring our dog everywhere, this list is for you all!
Instagram Photos Places
- Scripps Pier in La Jolla Beach – 8650 Kennel Way, La Jolla, CA, 92037
- Harbor Island – 1875 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA, 92101
- Pigment (store) – 3801 30th St, San Diego, CA, 92104
- Farmer Market at Little Italy – W Date Street, from Kettner Blvd to Union Street, CA, 92101
- Favorite Colors Wall (mural) – 7596 Eads Ave, La Jolla, CA, 92037
- Seaport Village – 849 West Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA, 92101
Local Attractions
SeaWorld – 500 Sea World Dr., San Diego, CA 92109
The park itself is not dog friendly but you can check your pet into the dog kennel service. For a $25 fee you can keep him in a 4 ft x 8 ft kennel. Bring your own food and bowls but water is available. First come basis so arrive early.
Little Italy Dog Park – 254 W Date St, San Diego, CA 92101
Little Italy is filled with patio cafes, restaurants, pubs, shops, art galleries, hotels and more. This place is very modern and clean and a great time to walk around and shop with your dog. There are many food options here as well if you want to grab coffee, or sit down for a meal with your dog. The dog park is open 7 days a week, from sunrise to sunset.
Balboa Park – 1549 El Prado. San Diego, CA 92101
Please note: Dogs must be leashed and under the control of the owner at all times throughout the park, including trails and canyons. This park is also the largest urban cultural park in the nation (USA)!
Rooftop Cinema – Manchester Grand Hyatt, 1 Market Pl, San Diego, CA 92101
The offer designated “Wooftop” movie screening events for you and your dog to enjoy! Be sure to check out their website and look for that puppy icon that would designate if it’s a “Wooftop” screening or not.
Sunset Cliffs National Park – Ladera St, San Diego, CA 92107
It is 68 -acre resource-based park that stretches along the Pacific Ocean and borders the western edge of Point Loma. This place is a must see during the sunset, as many weddings occur here every year. Make sure to use the restroom first before, as there are no public restrooms here.
The Original Dog Beach – 5156 W Point Loma Blvd, San Diego, CA, 92107
This is one of the most popular areas to bring your dog as they are allowed off leash here. Located on the northern end of the Ocean Beach so there is also a beautiful view for you to enjoy with your dog.
Nate’s Point Off- Leash Dog Park – 2500 Balboa Drive, San Diego, CA, 92103
This park is awesome and most popular dog park in San Diego because it is open 24 hours! It has 2 acres of land to run, play and walk on with shadier areas if you and your dog needs to get out of the sun to cool down. There are always many tennis balls here as well – a treat for your furry friend! Please note, there are no restrooms here so please plan accordingly.
Unique Dog Events to the Area
Doggie Street Festival – NTC Park, Liberty Station, San Diego, 92106
Taking place every November This is one of the biggest event in the Western region focused on supporting adoption for dogs, cats, and rescuing pets takes place every November. It’s a fun and free activity for everyone in the family! There will be free music, advice from vets, and a wide variety of pet products and services available for purchase. Plus, there’s a lot more to enjoy!
Fur Ball Gala – 5500 Gaines St, San Diego, CA 92110
Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 7, 2023! Last year, the Fur Ball Gala raised more than $1.1 million to help animals in need, and this year they hope to do even better. You and your furry friend can join in on the night of glitz and glamour at the fundraising event. You’ll both need to dress in your best formal attire! All the money they raise will go to support the San Diego Humane Society and their important work for animals in the area. The event features delicious food, great music, dancing, and an after-party that both humans and pets can enjoy. There’s also a cocktail reception and live and silent auctions. As long as your pet is on a leash, they’re welcome to join in for the entire evening. It’s a night you and your pet won’t forget!
Annual Pet Day on the Bay in San Diego – 1800 North Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA, US, 92101
This event is perfect for dog lovers and will take place on April 29, 2023, at City Cruises by Hornblower in San Diego, CA, US. The event is sponsored by City Cruises by Hornblower, and admission costs $35, with all proceeds going towards helping the animals at Helen Woodward Animal Center. During the event, you and your furry friend can take a cruise on San Diego Bay and enjoy doggie treats provided by Kahoots. There will also be snacks and drinks available for owners. You can even bring along a gently used blanket or towel to donate to the animals at Helen Woodward Animal Center. All dogs, regardless of their size and breed, are welcome to join in on the fun. Just remember, outside food and drinks are not allowed.
We hope this guide helped you and your fur baby plan a better vacation! Dogs only experience what we show them, so hopefully you are able to show them all that San Diego has to offer!
Peace out,
Bodhi The Wiener 🐶
Did this post help you sniff out some useful info for your furry friend?
If so, don’t be shy, give us a bark in the comments section! We love hearing from our fellow dog lovers on the go.
