California may not be the first place you think of when planning a festive, winter getaway, but I’m here to tell you that Christmas time in California is pure magic. With festive lights and decor, so many dog-friendly seasonal events, and a mild climate perfect for outdoor adventures with your pup, you’ll find so much to do here on the golden coast and may even encounter some “snow”.

This guide highlights must-stay dog-friendly hotels that bring the holiday spirit to life. From the iconic Hotel del Coronado’s enchanting light displays to the Flamingo Resort’s Santa Suites, these destinations offer everything from luxurious pet amenities to holiday-themed experiences. You can even experience a real-life gingerbread house at Fairmont San Francisco, sit fireside along the coast at Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, or explore the many pop-up chalet experiences in Napa Valley. We’ve stayed at most of these hotels and they wouldn’t be on the list if we didn’t love our stays. We’ll continue to update this as we find more festive dog-friendly hotels each holiday season.

Flamingo Resort & Spa | Santa Rosa

Located in the heart of Sonoma County, The Flamingo Resort & Spa in Santa Rosa transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas. The historic hotel dazzles with festive décor, twinkling lights, and a cozy holiday atmosphere. A highlight is their exclusive Santa Suites, which are whimsically adorned with holiday-themed furnishings and cheerful accents, perfect for creating magical memories. Starting at an average rate of $500 per night, these suites also provide pet-friendly perks like a plush dog bed, food and water bowls, and easy access to grassy areas, ensuring four-legged guests are as comfortable as their human companions.

Beyond the festive charm, The Flamingo offers thoughtful amenities, including free parking, a heated pool, and an on-site spa for ultimate relaxation. Guests can also enjoy the hotel's seasonal Sippin’ Santa pop-up bar, featuring holiday cocktails served in playful, tiki-inspired glassware.

Hotel del coronado | San Diego

Located on the picturesque shores of Coronado Island near San Diego, the iconic Hotel del Coronado transforms into a Christmas dream at the holidays. Festively adorned with sparkling lights and towering Christmas trees, the hotel radiates holiday cheer. A highlight of the season is Skating by the Sea, an ice rink set against breathtaking ocean views, where guests can skate under the California sun. For an elevated experience, cozy up in a dog-friendly, private beachfront igloo decked out in holiday décor. The Del also offers a nightly light show, the festive Frostbite Lounge beach-side, and beach bonfires to roast s’mores.

The Hotel del Coronado warmly welcomes pets, providing amenities like plush beds, food and water bowls, and access to dog-friendly beaches nearby. Guests can also enjoy unique experiences such as beachfront dining, spa treatments, and boutique shopping within the resort. Room rates at this legendary hotel start at an average of $500 per night, offering a mix of timeless charm and modern luxury.

Fairmont | San Francisco

The Fairmont San Francisco boasts some larger-than-life decorations and timeless elegance when Christmas time rolls around. The lobby dazzles with a stunning Christmas tree, and the centerpiece of the season is the life-size gingerbread house—a masterpiece baked by the culinary team, complete with candy details and walk-through tunnels. The staff starts baking the gingerbread in July and the house is adorned with more than 1900 lbs of candy. Guests can elevate their experience by staying in the exclusive Santa Suites, decorated with festive cheer and holiday accents, starting at an average of $1,000 per night. These suites provide an immersive holiday experience with breakfast for up to four guests, an inspired holiday-themed hot chocolate amenity (with ingredients for both kids and adult beverages), a DIY gingerbread house kit, complimentary movie to select a holiday classic and overnight parking for one vehicle.

The Fairmont offers pet-friendly amenities such as plush beds, water bowls, and easy access to scenic outdoor areas for walks. Beyond the holiday charm, the hotel features fine dining options, a world-class rooftop garden, and breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline.

Ritz Carlton | Half Moon Bay

The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay offers an idyllic coastal retreat for the holidays along the dramatic cliffs of the Pacific Ocean. This luxurious resort transforms into an elegant, yet festive wonderland with glittering lights, garlands draped over every doorway, and a towering Christmas tree adorning the lobby and outdoor terrace. They make a killer hot cocoa on the Terrace that comes adorned with so many goodies like Kit Kats, Twix, cookie straws, chocolate sauce, etc.

The hotel provides pet amenities such as plush dog beds, bowls, and even an in-room dining menu crafted especially for canine companions. After a stroll along the dog-friendly coastal paths, treat your pup to gourmet delights right in your room.

Rosewood Miramar Beach | Montecito

Along the shore of Montecito, just south of Santa Barbara, you can find the dog-friendly beachfront property Rosewood Miramar Beach. The resort transforms into a festive retreat with elegant decorations and lavishly adorned Christmas trees throughout the property. Rooms, averaging $1,400 per night, blend coastal luxury with timeless holiday warmth, making it an idyllic escape for families and pets alike.

Rosewood Miramar Beach pampers four-legged guests with plush beds, bowls, and access to scenic walking paths. During the holidays, the resort hosts seasonal events like cookie decorating, holiday-themed cocktails at the Manor Bar, and visits from Santa Claus. With its blend of festive elegance, pet-friendly hospitality, and stunning ocean views, this resort offers a magical Christmas experience.

Four Season | Calistoga

Four Seasons Napa offers a holiday retreat surrounded by vineyard views and seasonal charm. The hotel dazzles with elegant holiday décor, from sparkling lights to beautifully adorned Christmas trees and garland. A standout experience is the Winter Chalet at TRUSS, where guests can enjoy cozy, alpine-inspired dining with holiday cocktails, seasonal dishes, and a pup menu with good protein options. Other holiday events include wine tastings, wreath-making workshops, and gourmet holiday dinners crafted by the culinary team. With its festive ambiance, top-tier hospitality, and pet-friendly touches, the Four Seasons Napa creates an unforgettable Christmas getaway in wine country.

The Four Seasons Napa warmly welcomes pets with amenities like plush beds, bowls, and easy access to walking paths through scenic vineyards. Rooms at this luxurious resort average around $1,200 per night, providing a serene blend of comfort and wine country sophistication.

Fairmont | Sonoma

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn is a cozy and luxurious retreat that exudes charm, especially during the holiday season. A highlight of the season is the Winter Chalet pop-up, where guests can enjoy a cozy Alpine-inspired experience complete with seasonal beverages, holiday treats, and a warm, inviting ambiance. Christmas events such as tree lighting ceremonies and holiday dining experiences add to the magical atmosphere, making it a perfect getaway to celebrate the season with your furry companion.

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn is as welcoming to dogs as it is to their human guests, offering thoughtful pet-friendly amenities to ensure your pup feels at home. From plush dog beds to bowls and a curated pet menu, your furry friend will be pampered at every turn. The resort's expansive grounds and nearby walking trails provide plenty of opportunities for holiday strolls with your dog, letting you both soak in the crisp winter air and festive spirit.

Meritage Hotel | Napa

Meritage Resort transforms into a festive wonderland during Christmas with its Merry Meritage holiday event. The event features the largest ice rink in Napa, cozy fire pits, private igloos, and festive cocktails to add to the holiday magic. They even have snowfall every couple of hours of the event. Additional holiday events include Christmas movie nights under the stars, visits from Santa Claus, and seasonal wine tastings.

The resort warmly welcomes pets with plush beds, bowls, and access to expansive outdoor trails amongst the vineyard. Rooms at the Meritage average around $600 per night, offering comfort and luxury in a scenic wine country setting.