Allianz - Travel
Travel Resources

The Best Dog-Friendly Destinations in the U.S.

traveler with dog with lake in background
Allianz - traveler with dog with lake in background

The majority of dog and cat owners in the U.S., 54 percent, planned to take trips with their pets last year, according to a travel trend survey by economy lodging brand Motel 6. As the rate of pet ownership continues to grow – currently, 68 percent of American households include pets – more people will be hitting the road with furry companions. 

If you’re one of the millions of pet owners who take trips with an animal pal, here are some top destinations, beaches, hotels and more in the U.S. to enjoy with Fifi or Fido. 

Best dog friendly beaches

Carmel Beach: Carmel-by-the-sea, California

Located on California’s central coast, Carmel Beach is one of the most welcoming beaches to pets in the U.S. If your pup is a free spirit, she’ll enjoy being allowed to run off-leash in the sand and surf under voice command. You’ll have to leash your pal if you’re walking along Scenic Road, but you’ll both enjoy views of the coastline and Cypress trees along the way. For lunch, head to the many restaurants that seat both humans and canines. 

Jupiter Dog Beach: Jupiter, Florida

Yes, you read that right, an entire beach dedicated to dogs! This 2.5 stretch of oceanfront along the Atlantic in South Florida is the only free off-leash dog beach of the Palm Beaches. If you want to explore beyond the sand, head to Harbourside Place, a waterfront restaurant and shopping area, with options for dining outdoors with your companion. Be sure to buy your buddy something special at Pucci & Catana, an upscale pet boutique offering organic toys, seasonal clothing and accessories, and other trendy wares. 

Willard Beach: Portland, Maine

Less than four miles from downtown Portland, Willard Beach offers great views of Spring Point Ledge Lightouse and sailboats moored in the harbor. Your pup will enjoy extended off-leash hours from October to April and playing in the beach’s calm surf. During the busy summer season, please keep in mind that dogs must be on a leash from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. It’s wise to confirm the latest restrictions before you go. 

Cannon Beach: Oregon

This small coastal town is a doggie sanctuary. Your pet can roam the beach off leash, and there are plenty of nearby hiking trails where he can explore new scents and sights while running on leash. If you’re truly dog obsessed, plan your visit over Labor Day weekend during Muttzanita, an annual festival held in the town of Manzanita, a short trip south from Cannon Beach. Showcase your dog's unique talents, quirky outfits, and athleticism. Proceeds for the event support the rescue program Animal Haven by the Sea. 

Kiptopeke State Park: Cape Charles, Virginia  

This natural and quiet state park is located on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Your leashed pup is welcome on South Beach, where humans also enjoy fishing and swimming. And the park has more than five miles of trails for you both to explore. Stay in rustic cabins open to pets on-site or camp. 

Best dog-friendly accommodations

Inn by the Sea, Cape Elizabeth near Portland, Maine

We’re shouting out Portland, Maine again for this one. The luxury beach resort Inn by the Sea in nearby Cape Elizabeth has completely gone to the dogs. Book the INNcredible Pet Package for a personalized L.L. Bean dog bed, toy, and a gourmet dinner menu for your pooch. Every October, pups are permitted to swim in the property’s pool for a week before it closes for the season.

You may adopt another furry family member during your visit, thanks to the inn’s foster and adoption program in partnership with the Animal League of Greater Portland. About 45 dogs are given a temporary home at Inn by the Sea every year, and guests are welcome to walk and play with the foster dogs. 

The Jefferson, Washington D.C.

One of the best luxury hotels in Washington D.C., The Jefferson, is home to a most regal beagle, Lord Monticello, also known as Monti, who serves as the property’s Executive Canine Officer. If you and your dogs make the trip to our nation’s capital to see Monti, your furry crew will be given beds, dog bowls, treats, and maps of nearby walking routes. Up to two dogs per traveler are allowed to stay in any room. 

The Little Nell: Aspen, Colorado

You can hit the slopes in Aspen with peace of mind when your pooch is looked after by The Little Nell’s pet sitting and walking service for resort guests. The hotel provides a Puppy Jet Lag Kit to help your friend adjust to Aspen’s altitude, pet beds, water bowls, and gourmet dining for dogs.

The Beverly Hills Hotel

Your dog will receive a royal welcome at The Beverly Hills Hotel with a personalized bone-shaped cookie with her name on it, pink tennis balls, dog treats, pet beds, and bowls. If you want to hit the town, take advantage of the hotel’s walking and pet sitting services for an additional fee.

Best dog-friendly activities

Growloween: Denver, Colorado

If you and the pup are in Denver this October, don your costumes and stop by Growloween, a spooky celebration hosted by Three Dog Bakery, The Bakery for Dogs. Compete for the best Halloween costume and let your pooch sample special treats. Visit the bakery year-round for unique, doggone good eats. Your pooch will think he’s up to no good while enjoying Dottie Spots; Three Dog Bakery’s dog-safe version of the chocolate chip cookie.

Subaru Ultimate Air Dogs: Richmond, Virginia

Test your dog’s athletic ability at one of the nation’s premier dock jumping competitions. The annual event in May brings together dogs of all breeds and sizes to see which pup has the longest horizontal jump from the dock into the competition pool. Ultimate Air Dogs is part of Dominion Energy Riverrock, a sports, outdoor recreation, and music festival held on the banks of the James River near Richmond’s city center. 

The Seattle Barkery: Seattle, Washington

Planning a trip with your pup to Seattle? Be sure to take a stroll through Fremont Sunday Market and stop at The Seattle Barkery, a food truck for dogs. Let your pup munch on bacon pupcakes, air-fried chicken hearts, and peanut butter cookies. If your pooch is celebrating a special day, treat him to a birthday cake, doggie bowtie and crown. 

Snowshoeing with Colorado Adventure Guides: Breckenridge, Colorado

Outdoor adventures are best shared with four-legged friends. If you’re taking a winter vacation in Breckenridge, book a snowshoe tour for you and your pup led by Colorado Adventure Guides. Your pup will love diving in the soft powder of Summit County’s backcountry routes. In December, show off your pup’s best holiday costume on the sidelines of the Breckenridge Colorado Bernese Mountain Dog Parade down Main Street.

Before you and your companion set off, consider purchasing travel insurance to deal with any snags along the way. Travel insurance benefits by Allianz Global Assistance include (depending on your plan) reimbursement for certain non-refundable expenses if your trip is canceled or delayed for a covered reason, whether you drive or fly. Benefits can also include baggage protection, rental car insurance, and medical coverage.

Every year, millions of travelers trust Allianz Global Assistance to keep them safe with straightforward benefits, quick claims, and diligent service.  Get a quote today to learn how we can protect you on your travels.

Related Articles

Allianz - AZ_OPM_Insurance_Partner


Mar 09, 2023