Traveling solo with your dog is one of the most rewarding ways to explore new places — the freedom to roam, the joy of companionship and the chance to discover hidden gems that welcome both you and your furry friend. Over the years, Jackson and I have explored some incredible dog-friendly spots, mostly in California, where landscapes and communities embrace the bond between humans and pups. Here are my top destinations for solo dog travelers craving adventure, relaxation and connection.
🌵 Southern California & Desert Magic
Ojai, California — Artistic Vibes and Trails at Your Doorstep
Ojai Rancho Inn is a dog-friendly gem with a beautiful garden perfect for pup relief and a scenic trail right behind the property. It’s a welcoming spot where you and your dog can enjoy peaceful walks and artistic small-town charm.
Stay: Ojai Rancho Inn — Cozy, welcoming, and perfectly placed for exploring local dog-friendly trails.
Joshua Tree National Park — Desert Nights & Starry Skies
While dogs aren’t allowed on official hiking trails inside Joshua Tree National Park, the surrounding desert camping areas offer peaceful retreats perfect for solo travelers and their dogs. Jackson and I cherished nights under California’s clearest skies, with stars shimmering like diamonds overhead.
Stay: Airbnb desert retreat — Perfect base for exploring.
🌊 Coastal California: Mendocino to Carmel
Howard Creek Ranch, Mendocino Coast — Rugged Beauty & Seaside Freedom
Tucked away on the remote Northern California coast, Howard Creek Ranch is a magical, historic inn set on sprawling acres of meadows, creeks, and private beach access. Jackson and I wandered along windswept bluffs, crossed quaint wooden bridges, and fell asleep to the sound of crashing waves. Dogs are treated like part of the family here — welcome in rooms, on trails, and even at the breakfast table if you sit outside.
Stay: Howard Creek Ranch Inn — Rustic and dog-friendly, with direct access to trails, beaches, and wild Mendocino beauty.
Mendocino — Coastal Charm and Forest Trails
This peaceful Northern California coastal town blends cool sea breezes, mossy forest walks, and dog-friendly beaches. Mendocino is a calming retreat for solo travelers seeking solace and companionship. Jackson and I enjoyed tranquil trails and quiet moments by the shore, wrapped in the town’s laid-back charm.
Stay: Nicholson House — Charming historic inn with dog-friendly rooms and close proximity to walking trails.
Tomales Bay — Nick’s Cove, Coastal Cottage with a Ghostly Vibe
Perched atop the water in a rustic cottage, Jackson and I felt like we were gently floating — more boat than bungalow. The surrounding area was famously featured in the supernatural film The Fog, and staying here puts you within easy reach of exploring Point Reyes’ windswept charm. It’s an ideal hideaway for dog lovers drawn to nature, mystery and the quiet beauty of the Northern California coast.
Stay: Nick’s Cove Cottages — Dog-friendly cottages right on the water.
Half Moon Bay — Vintage Airstream and Ocean Views
For a unique stay, try a vintage Airstream perched on a rugged bluff overlooking the wild California coast. This serene spot welcomed Jackson with open arms, offering sweeping ocean views and refreshing sea air. It’s an ideal getaway on a private 9-acre plot for reflection and rejuvenation with your pup.
Stay: Airbnb Airstream
Carmel-by-the-Sea — Beachside Bliss for Dogs and Humans
Carmel’s legendary white-sand dog beach is pure bliss. Jackson could run free, splash in the surf, and soak in endless coastal beauty. The town itself is incredibly dog-friendly — many hotels, restaurants, and shops welcome pups with open arms. Strolling through quaint streets feels like stepping into a storybook, with your dog happily by your side.
Stay: Green Lantern Inn — Steps from the beach with a warm welcome for dogs.
🌲 Northern California & Mountain Escapes
Sonora, California — Friendly Town, Giant Trees
This Gold Rush–era town in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada offers small-town charm, dog-friendly streets, and a gateway to one of California’s most underrated natural wonders: Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Standing beneath ancient sequoias with your dog by your side is a soul-stirring experience — a majestic link to Earth’s prehistoric past. The townsfolk are warm, the pace is slow and the natural surroundings unforgettable.
Stay: Hotel Lumberjack — reimagined vintage motel located in the center of town—and just over an hour’s drive from Yosemite.
Dunsmuir, California — The Hidden Gem for Outdoor Lovers
Nestled in Northern California’s Shasta Cascade region, Dunsmuir is a paradise for dog lovers who crave fresh air and peaceful mountain vibes. We loved hiking the Sacramento River Trail, breathing in crisp pine-scented air, and watching the river shimmer beside us. The town itself is charming and laid-back, with local cafés welcoming well-behaved dogs. Bonus: Nearby Mossbrae Falls is a magical, off-the-beaten-path waterfall accessible via a scenic railway trek — perfect for adventurous pups (though not without some risk).
Stay: Cave Springs Resort — A dog-friendly historic resort right by the Sacramento River, offering cozy cabins and easy access to trails.
🏝️ Pacific Northwest Bonus: Whidbey Island
Captain Whidbey, Whidbey Island — Historic Charm & Island Serenity
Located in Coupeville, Washington, Captain Whidbey is a historic inn nestled among old-growth firs on the shores of Whidbey Island. The property offers dog-friendly cabins, allowing you to bring your pup along for the adventure. Enjoy serene walks along the waterfront and explore the island's natural beauty together.
Stay: Captain Whidbey Filson Cabin