My dogs love to travel. Whether it’s a trip to the pet supply store to pick up more treats or a four-day drive to Seattle, they’re always ready to go. Most of the time, however, we stick close to home. And why not? Here in Southern California, we have easy access to beaches, hiking, mountains, dog-friendly outdoor cafes and more. If your dog is flying Pet Airways to meet you in Los Angeles, come check out some of our favorite things to do.
Go naked—off leash, that is—at 134-acre Runyon Canyon Park, located at Franklin and Fuller Avenues in Los Angeles. Keep an eye out for the dogs of the stars. They’re the ones wearing the dark sunglasses.
Have lunch at one of the many restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating. You’ll find lots of them along Hollywood Boulevard, trendy West Third Street in Los Angeles and Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica.
South of Los Angeles is Huntington Beach, where your dog can ride the waves in Surf City. Huntington Beach Dog Beach allows dogs off leash all year round. Artsy Laguna Beach allows dogs on the sand, too, but they must be leashed, and between June 1 and September 16 they’re not permitted on the beach during the day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Ready to do some shopping? You and your dog are both welcome at Fashion Island in Newport Beach, home to dog-friendly stores such as Bloomingdale’s, Anthropology, Macy’s and more. My girls like to visit Muttropolis to drool over the treats and toys, chase the sprays of water that shoot out of the pop-jet fountain, and relax at one of the outdoor cafes.
When you’re both dog-tired, take a break in your room at any number of pet-friendly hotels. Southern California has lots of ‘em. But watch out! Once your dog has had a taste of the good life here in SoCal, he’ll sit up and beg to come back again!
Kim Campbell Thornton
Pet Airways Writer
