Find California dog-friendly beaches, rivers and lakes blog stories.

DogTrekker dogs LOVE going to the beach! Check out our stories about dog-friendly beaches, rivers and lakes in California. We also have tips and tricks for staying safe while enjoying the salty air and surf! So go ahead, plan that trip – your pup will thank you! Happy trekking! 🐾🐕

Four-paw fun with a view at Little River Inn

To make summer memories on the California coast, book a stay at the iconic Little River Inn. This very dog-friendly jewel just south of Mendocino overlooks the majestic Pacific Ocean, and it’s a short walk from state beachfront and trails. The locally owned resort has extended a warm welcome to couples, families and four-legged companions for more than 80 years. Read more.

Welcome to summer events!

DogTrekker people at Bark in the Park, San Jose.

DogTrekker at Bark in the Park, San Jose.

Check out these events for a cause! If you missed California rescue/adoption events this spring, no worries, the summer season is just beginning. DogTrekker.com's event section is filled with a wide range of things to do with the entire family, including adoptathons, fundraisers, walks, costume contests, and opportunities for tasting and sipping. From Bark in the Park in San Francisco, to the D Read more.

Majestic, dog-friendly mountain towns

Let’s admit it. DogTrekkers are spoiled here in sun-kissed California. In the California mountains, you’ll find enchanting towns just waiting for people and pups who seek adventure on a grand scale. These communities are also home to charming and dog-friendly places to stay, dine, hike, swim, and play. We’ll explore a few mountain towns today, beginning our 5,000-foot-plus journey near Lake Read more.

Big fun in Big Bear Lake

a brown dog sitting in front of a body of water.

Big Bear Lake in San Bernardino County might be an under-the-radar destination for Northern Californians, but in SoCal, it’s been a dear-to-the-heart, dog-friendly summer vacation magnet for more than a century. Read more.

The dish on dog-friendly South Lake Tahoe

a dog that is standing on the side of the road in South Lake Tahoe.

Just as Tahoe City is the gateway to Lake Tahoe’s north shore, South Lake Tahoe is the hub for many travel adventures on the lake’s southern shore. Read more.

Delightful surprises in Tahoe City

A brown dog sitting in front of a sign in Tahoe City.

Tahoe City, set on the northwest shore of Lake Tahoe in Placer County, is a popular destination known for stunning natural surroundings, trails and water fun. Read more.

Placer County promises trails, thrills and tasty surprises

Welcome to Placer County, a 1,400-square-mile playground where dog-friendly fun is always in season. From cosmopolitan Roseville and Rocklin, to the serene Gold Country foothills, to rugged Sierra landscapes near North Lake Tahoe, Placer is the place to live life at its peak. A great place to start is the California Welcome Center in historic downtown Auburn for expert trip-planning advice. Read more.

Your dog deserves a vacation too!

Rosie at Little River Inn. Photo by Little River Inn.

The Little River Inn rolls out the red carpet for dog-lovers and their four-legged friends. They offer two fabulous packages: the Water Dog Sea Cave Package and the River Dog Package. Choose one or choose both! The Water Dog Sea Cave Package offers dog-friendly kayaking on the ocean off Van Damme state beach with sea cave tours. The River Dog Package offers a 3-hour dog-friendly, ultra-stable outr Read more.

Unleash the fun: Book now for Lake Tahoe’s best-in-show dog camp

a couple of people that are sitting on a dock.

Attention all dog lovers! Don't miss out on the tail-waggin' good time at Wild Blue Dogs' fall camp experiences in Lake Tahoe. Register now to secure your spot and treat yourself and your furry friend to six nights of all-inclusive fun, including training events, guided hikes, pet photography, and special surprises. With limited spaces available, it's time to plan ahead and create unforgettable me Read more.

Fort Bragg: Affordable and uniquely dog-friendly

Beachcomber properties blufftop long shot

Photo by Beachcomber Hotel Group.

Mendocino County in Northern California is a haven for dog-friendly adventures, with coastal Fort Bragg serving as an ideal hub. Enjoy affordable stays, minimal pet fees, and top amenities at Beachcomber Hotel Group's three properties. The Beachcomber Motel, Surf & Sand Lodge, and Beach House Inn all offer dog welcome kits and play areas, with proximity to outdoor dining, Glass Beach, Noyo He Read more.

Dreamy hotels for dogs and their families

Placer County activities promise a tail-waggin’ good time, of course. And when you’re ready to unwind, the area’s hotels, motels, B&Bs and vacation rentals offer welcoming options for travelers and … Continued Read more.

The splashy side of Placer County

Majestic mountains and Gold Rush heritage set Placer County apart. You’ll also find golden opportunities for fun on the water. Rafters can test their skills on the American River. For … Continued Read more.

Placer County promises trails, thrills and tasty surprises

a man and a woman sitting on a rock with a dog.

Noyo Harbor Inn is inviting you this spring and summer!

Photo by Noyo Harbor Inn.

Year after year, DogTrekkers tell us that the North Coast is their favorite California coastal getaway and Fort Bragg is a popular home base for enjoying spring and summer canoe routes, coastal trails, photo walks and Skunk Train rides. Welcome to the Noyo Harbor Inn where dog-friendly rooms overlook the tree-lined Noyo River. The inn features waterfront patio dining, spa services and auth Read more.

Ten best places in California to take your dog

California is a dream destination for dog owners, offering a variety of dog-friendly parks, beaches, and hiking trails to explore with your furry companion. From the sunny shores of Long … Continued Read more.

Embrace the charm of coastal Mendocino: a pawsitively perfect spring coastal getaway with your dog

A dog is sitting on a hill overlooking the ocean on the Mendocino Coast.

A journey along the Mendocino County Coast is a feast for the senses, where the rugged beauty of the Pacific Ocean meets the lush tranquility of the redwood forests. For … Continued Read more.

California dreamin’ with your dog: The top 11 pet-friendly vacation destinations

Marin County Located just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, Marin County is packed with dog-friendly parks, beaches, and hiking trails. Check out popular spots like Muir Beach, … Continued Read more.

Dog-approved adventures in California’s North Coast region

Frenchie hiking the redwood forests of the North Coast.

Our pups have discerning tastes: good sleeps, good eats and plenty of play. Just north of San Francisco, the ‘North of Ordinary’ counties of California – Lake, Mendocino, Humboldt and Del Norte – offer plenty of fun for both you and and your dog on the North Coast in Northern California. Read more.

A bird’s eye view for your pup in Del Norte County

dog looks out window from SkyTrail gondola

Pups can ride the SkyTrail gondola. Photo by Visit Del Norte County.

Del Norte County is known for its Redwood National & State Parks, sprawling beaches and two wild rivers with plenty of trail fun, but check out some of their most unique dog-friendly attractions, trails and lodging. Read more.

Wags and wine in Lake County

Lake County is known for its crystal clear lakes and explorable wineries. In fact, they have the most dog-friendly wine country in the U.S. with over 30 wineries that welcome your dog. Discover 3,000 acres of private trails at Six Sigma Ranch & Winery. There is plenty to sniff out, from grapevines and moss-covered oak trees to wild turkeys (and of course, wine for their people). Read more.