If your idea of the perfect road trip includes salty air, cliffside views, and a very happy dog with their head out the window – this one’s for you. Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) with your pup is hands-down one of the most scenic dog-friendly road trips in the U.S. Stretching over 650 miles from San Francisco to San Diego, the PCH delivers epic coastal views, redwood forests, dog-friendly beaches, charming towns, and plenty of places where dogs are more than just tolerated- they’re welcome. Pro tip: It technically takes about 8 hours to drive Highway 1 nonstop. Don’t do that. This road trip is meant to be slow, scenic, and snack-filled (for both of you). As an Amazon affiliate, when you click on some of the links on this page and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission, at no cost to you! By using our affiliate links, you’ll find our favorite picks and support us at the same time. And we really appreciate your support! Dogs on Baker Beach San Francisco: A Dog-Friendly Road Trip Dream Start San Francisco consistently ranks as one of the most pet-friendly cities in the U.S., making it the perfect launch point. While dogs aren’t allowed on the Golden Gate Bridge itself, Baker Beach offers incredible bridge views and space to stretch those legs. Golden Gate Park features four off-leash areas, while Crissy Field is ideal for leashed walks with postcard views of the bridge, Marin Headlands, and Alcatraz. For serious dog joy: Fort Funston (aka Doggie Disneyland) offers towering sand dunes, ocean views, and off-leash freedom, if your dog responds promptly to voice commands. Where to stay: The Cartwright Hotel (Best Western Premier Collection) – dog-friendly and perfectly located. Big Sur Big Sur: Iconic Views & Dog-Friendly Stops Big Sur’s stretch of Highway 1 is pure drama- in the best way. Think winding roads, misty cliffs, and waves crashing far below. Sand Dollar Beach is a favorite for leashed dogs and beachcombing for you guessed it, Sand Dollars. For serious dog joy: Salmon Creek Falls Trail is one of the few dog-friendly hikes in Big Sur. It’s short (0.3 miles round-trip) and perfect for a quick adventure without committing to a long hike. Where to Stay: Alila Ventana allows two dogs and offers a dining experience for all, dogs are invited to join you outside for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on The Sur House Terrace. Pfeiffer Beach Pfeiffer Beach: Purple Sand & Coastal Magic Tucked at the end of a narrow dirt road, Pfeiffer Beach is famous for its purple-tinged sand and the photogenic Keyhole Arch. This is a quick stop as you head to Carmel-by-the-Sea. Leashed dogs are welcome daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., making it a must-stop for dog-friendly coastal scenery. Pro Tip: Be sure to have a 6 ft. sturdy leash with you whenever you travel. This seems to be the standard length when places require leashes. This way you’re always prepared. We found this leash that has a padded handle and an “o” ring to attach waste bags. Check it out on Amazon. Dog Sidecars- Mad Dogs & Englishmen Carmel-by-the-Sea: Dog-Friendly Perfection If dogs could design a town, it might look like Carmel-by-the-Sea. Thanks largely to Doris Day’s legacy, this charming village is famously welcoming to four-legged travelers. Dogs are allowed in many shops and galleries, Pet-friendly patios and some restaurants have dedicated dog menus. For serious dog joy: -Mad Dogs & Englishmen – rent bikes with dog sidecars (yes, really). Take an excursion off Highway 1 to experience Scenic Road in Carmel or the famed 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach on two wheels. -Lugano Swiss Bistro – dogs can order grilled steak, chicken, rice, and carrots -Carmel Beach – off-leash dogs, sugary sand, dramatic sunsets, and poop bags provided Where to stay: Cypress Inn – often called the most dog-friendly hotel in the country, and honestly, it earns that title. Before you leave on your trip read: Travel Hacks for Road Tripping with your Dog. Del Monte Beach Monterey: Del Monte Beach Less crowded and wonderfully relaxed, Del Monte Beach is perfect for leashed dogs, scenic walks, and a breather from busier stops. Another quick stop as you head down PCH, but well worth it for the views alone. Santa Barbara Botanical Gardens Santa Barbara: Wine Country with Your Pup Santa Barbara proves that wine tasting and dogs can coexist. For serious dog joy: -Golden Limo Santa Barbara offers a private tour in a limo as you visit pet-friendly wineries for tastings and sip complimentary champagne during the ride. -Arroyo Burro Beach (Hendry’s Beach) is a favorite dog hangout with an off-leash beach and self-service dog wash stations. -Santa Barbara Botanical Garden welcomes leashed dogs on scenic trails Where to Stay: Palihouse Santa Barbara- Pups are greeted with organic treats, luxurious beds, plush toys and ceramic bowls. Lee Carillo State Park Malibu: Classic PCH Beach Stops Malibu is one of the most recognizable stretches of Highway 1 and it still delivers. Malibu does have some great places to take your pup and is a great pit stop on your way to Long Beach. For serious dog joy: -Leo Carrillo State Park allows leashed dogs in specific areas on the beach for fun in the sun and sand. -Point Mugu State Park offers five miles of shoreline dotted with sand dunes, beaches, hills, and bluffs. – South Park Adventureland -If you want a seriously fun day at the park with your pooch, this place is it! It is literally a theme park for dogs! Where to Stay: Calamigos Guest Ranch & Beach Club- Here you will receive dog bowls, mats and treats upon arrival. Pro Tip: Keep a quick dry, microfiber towel in your car to use when your pup does a quick dip in the water. These not only help dry them off but can be used as blankets on the seat to help keep the seat dry. Rosie’s Dog Beach Long Beach: Off-Leash Beach Bliss From off leash beaches to supernatural fun this is a great stop along PCH. For serious dog joy: -Rosie’s Dog Beach- This is the only off-leash dog beach in Los Angeles County, and it’s legendary. -Visit the Queen Mary, yes, it’s haunted, and yes, dogs are welcome on the Haunted Happenings Tour, a Paranormal Investigation, or a Paranormal Ship Walk. Where to Stay: Hotel Maya- This Doubletree by Hilton Hotel provides pet beds, bowls, and treats. Huntington Beach Dog Park Huntington Beach: Surf City for Dogs Home to Orange County’s only off-leash dog beach, Huntington Dog Beach is a must-stop. For serious dog joy: -Huntington Beach Dog Park- rated one of the best off leash dog parks in the US. -Best Friend Dog Park- This park isn’t on the beach, but it is leash free. It’s a great park for pup to burn off some energy. -Park Bench Cafe – The have been serving off of their dog menu since 1993 and your pup will love the selections. Where to Stay: Paséa Hotel & Spa- rated best dog resort you’ll get a pet package upon arrival. You will also find a private on-site dog park, complete with a lifeguard tower doghouse and Pet-friendly restaurants and dedicated dog menus. Main Beach Park- Laguna Laguna Beach: Main Beach Park A quick stop to stretch and enjoy the beach. Main Beach Park allows leashed dogs year-round and offers grassy areas and picnic tables. Redhawk Dog Park Temecula: Wine Country Detour (Worth It) Just inland from the coast, Temecula Valley is surprisingly dog-friendly. Top spots for serious dog joy: -Miramonte Winery – dogs welcome in tasting room and patio -Thornton Winery – champagne lovers, this one’s for you -Redhawk Dog Park – perfect post-wine energy burn Where to Stay: Carter Estate Winery and Resort-Guest pets receive a Wag Bag of amenities, including bowls, a mat, and blanket. Fiesta Island Dog Park San Diego: Ending on a High Note San Diego is dog paradise. It’s also a people paradise. This beautiful city is well worth spending time visiting. Top spots for dog joy: -Del Mar North Beach – Also known as Dog Beach, it has shallow sandbars and unpredictable currents, but it is protected from blustery winds and pounding waves. During the summer, dogs are required to be on leash. They are allowed to be off leash from the day after Labor Day through June 15. -Windansea Beach -This beach is located below Neptune Place in La Jolla stunning sunsets. Leash rules change throughout the year so be sure to check ahead. -Mission Trails Regional Park -Standing at 1,593 feet, Cowles Mountain is the highest point in San Diego which is part of this 7,200-acre park. Dogs must be kept on a leash that is less than 8 feet long. -Fiesta Island Dog Park -Fiesta Island Dog Park is a leash-free zone, so your dog is free to romp through sand dunes or plunge into the calm bay water. A one-way loop road winds around the island, so you can pull over anywhere and let your dog off leash. Pro Tip: Bring water, shade, and poop bag – this place is dog heaven, not dog-serviced. We always bring this pup water bottle with a few treats. They make giving them water easy and less messy. Where to Stay: Paradise Point Resort & Spa offer expansive grounds, easily accessible ground-floor bungalows, and pet-friendly waterfront restaurants. Final Thoughts Traveling with your dog is always better, but traveling where dogs are genuinely welcome is a game changer. The Pacific Coast Highway isn’t about rushing from point A to B. It’s about slow mornings, beach stops, sandy paws, and memories you’ll never forget. Take your time. Make extra stops. And remember- your dog doesn’t care how many miles you cover, just that they’re along for the ride. We love to share information and tips we learn to help you when planning your next trip. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories. 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