After seven years of traveling throughout the Golden State with my Mini Australian Labradoodle Ruby, I’ve come to one conclusion: California is one of the most dog-friendly states in the U.S. Whether we’re hiking beneath towering redwoods, cruising along the coast, or dining al fresco in the desert, Ruby is always by my side—and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

This California bucket list is for fellow dog lovers who want to explore the best of California with their furry companion. You’ll find unforgettable activities broken down by region—each one approved by Ruby or is on our bucket list as well. We’ve also included the best times of year to visit each area so you can make the most of every adventure.

When to Visit California With Your Dog

• Coastal California (San Francisco, Big Sur, San Diego): Great year-round, with spring and fall offering mild temps and fewer tourists.

• Northern California (Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, Napa, Humboldt): Winter brings snow play in the mountains; spring and summer are ideal for lakes, wildflowers, and redwood hikes.

• Southern California (Palm Springs, Los Angeles): Best visited in winter and early spring to avoid summer heat.

• Central California (Carmel, Monterey): Enjoy pleasant weather and dog-friendly beach days from spring through fall.

Northern California Dog-Friendly Bucket List Experiences

Explore the Redwoods Along the Avenue of the Giants

No California bucket list is complete without standing beneath the majestic redwoods. Take a road trip along Avenue of the Giants in Humboldt Redwoods State Park—a scenic drive with plenty of dog-friendly trails, picnic areas, and photo ops beneath trees over 300 feet tall.

Best time to go: Year-round, but spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather and fewer crowds.

Discover the Magic of Yosemite Valley

While dogs aren’t allowed on most wilderness trails in Yosemite, they’re welcome on paved areas in Yosemite Valley. Stroll the Cook’s Meadow Loop, view Yosemite Falls, and walk along the Merced River Trail. Spring is the best time for waterfalls; fall brings golden hues and quieter trails.

Best time to go: Late spring (May–June) for waterfalls, or early fall (September–October) for fewer crowds.

Play in the Snow at Lake Tahoe

In winter, Tahoe’s snowy trails offer off-leash fun in select areas, whether you want to snow shoe, sled, or just build a snowman.

Best time to go: Winter (December–March) for fresh snow.

Paddleboard or Kayak on Lake Tahoe in the Summer

When the snow melts, hit the water in Lake Tahoe! Launch from Kiva Beach or Sand Harbor, where dogs are allowed on leashes. Many rental shops offer dog-friendly paddleboards and kayaks so your pup can cruise right alongside you.

Best time to go: Summer (July–September) for warm weather and calm waters.

Sip Wine at a Dog-Friendly Napa Valley Winery

Treat yourself to a tasting with your pup at top dog-friendly Napa wineries like Hall, Trefethen, Alpha Omega, and Migration. If you want to make a weekend out of it, you can also enjoy a luxury stay with your pup at Carneros Resort & Spa.

Best time to go: Fall (September–October) for harvest season, or spring (April–May) for wildflowers and greenery

Canoe the Big River Estuary in a Redwood Outrigger in Mendocino

For an unforgettable on-the-water adventure, head to Catch a Canoe & Bicycles Too in Mendocino and paddle the stunning Big River Estuary with your pup in a handcrafted redwood outrigger canoe. These custom boats are stable and designed for dogs to ride comfortably. As you paddle beneath towering redwoods and spot river otters and harbor seals, it’s a peaceful and magical way to explore the coast—especially in the morning when the water is calm. This is a must-do for water-loving dogs and their humans.

Best time to go: Spring through early fall, when the skies are clear and the water is serene.

Ride the Skunk Train Into the Redwoods

Step back in time and take your pup aboard the historic Skunk Train departing from Fort Bragg. Dogs are welcome aboard (ticket required), and you’ll both chug through lush forests and across wooden trestles deep into the heart of the redwoods.

Best time to go: Year-round, but spring and fall offer the best weather and light.

Glamp in Style Across California

California is full of luxury glamping spots that roll out the red carpet for your four-legged travel buddy. Here are a few standouts worth adding to your road trip:

• Mendocino Grove – Nestled among coastal redwoods, these canvas tents offer plush beds, ocean-view hammocks, and are just minutes from dog-friendly beaches.

• AutoCamp Yosemite – Near the park’s entrance, this stylish Airstream and cabin retreat is dog-friendly and makes a perfect base for hiking and stargazing.

• Postcard Cabins Big Bear – These minimalist, Scandi-style cabins are steps from forest trails and Big Bear Lake, with cozy amenities like record players, fire pits, and dog beds on request.

Each offers a peaceful, off-the-grid feel with thoughtful creature comforts—and yes, that includes treats for your pup.

Best time to go:

• Mendocino: Spring to early fall.

• Yosemite: Late spring and early fall for fewer crowds.

• Big Bear: Fall for foliage, winter for snow play.

San Francisco Bay Area Dog-Friendly Bucket List Experiences

Enjoy Golden Gate Bridge Views from Every Angle

Some of the best dog-friendly spots to view the Golden Gate Bridge include:

• Presidio Tunnel Tops – wide green space with panoramic bridge views

• Crissy Field and Crissy Beach – popular off-leash zones with access to the bay

• Baker Beach – sandy spot with epic views and ocean play

• Marin Headlands – hike the Coastal Trail or Battery Spencer

Best time to go: Fall (September–November) offers the clearest skies and fewest foggy days.

Slide, Climb & Explore Hidden Gems

• Check out the hidden concrete slides at Esmeralda Ave. and Seward Street

• Climb the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps with your pup for a scenic stair workout

• Explore the wave organ along the waterfront—a quirky sound sculpture

Best time to go: Year-round, though sunny spring and fall days are best for outdoor exploring.

Kayak or Paddle Around Oracle Park

Take in the San Francisco skyline, Oracle Park, and McCovey Cove by kayak, with your dog along for the ride. Check with local companies like City Kayak for pet-friendly rentals. They do offer dog life jackets, but we brought our own. And if you’re lucky, you just might see a sea lion too!

Best time to go: Summer to early fall (June–October) when the Bay is warmest and calmest

Take Your Dog to the Ballgame

Taking your dog to the San Francisco Giants’ Dog Days at Oracle Park is a tail-wagging experience that combines America’s favorite pastime with canine camaraderie. The Giants typically host two Dog Days events a year in the spring and fall. These special games invite dog lovers and their furry friends to enjoy the ballgame together, with activities like a pregame dog parade around the warning track and a costume contest. Each special event ticket package includes game admission for you and your dog to sit in the bleachers and access to the pregame parade. Partial proceeds from each ticket benefit the San Francisco SPCA, supporting their life-saving work for animals in need. Please note that both you and your dog must have a special event ticket to participate in all Dog Day activities and sit in the designated Dog Days sections. Tickets start at $79 and are typically sell out. If you happen to be visiting during a Dog Day, get 10% off your tickets with our affiliate code HELLORUBYDOODLE (applied at checkout).

Wander Golden Gate Park

Leashed dogs are welcome on trails and in open meadows. There are also several off-leash dog areas and plenty of shady spots to rest or picnic. We love taking a boat out on Stow Lake and picnicing at the Conservatory of Flowers.

Best time to go: Fall (September–November) offers the clearest skies and fewest foggy days.

Get Up Close With Wild Animals at the San Francisco Zoo

Experience the the San Francisco Zoo’s with your dog during their Dog Days. These events invite dog owners to bring their well-behaved, leashed dogs to enjoy the zoo’s exhibits and gardens. Each guest is permitted to bring one dog, and each dog must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or older. The zoo’s general admission is $29 for adults and $20 for children aged 2–11 and your dog does not need a ticket. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on event dates and ticketing, please visit the zoo’s Special Programs page. This page outlines the lottery system for entry. Tickets can be purchased in advance through the zoo’s Tickets & Hours page.

Find the Hidden Hippie Swing in Tiburon

Located near Old St. Hilary’s Open Space, this secret hillside swing offers jaw-dropping views of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. Bring snacks and enjoy a golden hour picnic.

Rent a Duffy Boat in Sausalito

Trade hiking boots for boat shoes and rent a Duffy boat in Sausalito for a laid-back cruise along Richardson Bay with your pup as captain. These electric boats are easy to navigate, dog-friendly, and come with shaded canopies—perfect for a picnic on the water. You’ll glide past floating homes, harbor seals, and enjoy a new perspective of the Bay Area skyline and Mt. Tamalpais. Bonus: Many rentals allow you to bring wine and snacks aboard.

Best time to go: Late spring to early fall for sunny skies and minimal wind.

Take a Seaplane Tour Over the Golden Gate

If your pup is calm and used to flying or travel, Seaplane Adventures in Mill Valley offers breathtaking aerial tours of San Francisco, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Marin Headlands—all from a vintage seaplane. Dogs are welcome if you book a private ride, and the views are jaw-dropping. It’s a splurge-worthy item for the bucket list and one of the few aviation experiences where your dog can tag along.

Best time to go: Early morning or golden hour flights for the best light and calmest skies.

Dog-Friendly Bucket List Experiences in Central California Coast and Valley

Ride Through the Redwoods On a Historic Steam Train

Riding the Roaring Camp Railroad in the Santa Cruz Mountains is a unique, dog-friendly experience that feels like stepping back in time. With your pup by your side, you can hop aboard an open-air steam train that winds through towering redwoods and scenic forested hillsides. The chug of the engine, the scent of pine in the air, and the rhythm of the tracks create a relaxing journey. Dogs are welcome on leash and ride for free, making this historic outing one of the most memorable ways to explore the natural beauty of the region together.

Best time to go: Spring or fall, when temperatures are mild, the forest is lush, and seasonal events—like the Harvest Faire or Holiday Lights Train—add a little extra magic to your ride.

Go Whale Watching

Embarking on a whale-watching adventure with your dog in Monterey Bay is an unforgettable experience. Monterey Bay Whale Watch welcomes well-behaved, leashed dogs aboard their vessels, allowing you and your canine companion to witness the majestic marine life together. The tours are led by experienced marine biologists and captains, offering educational insights as you potentially spot humpback whales, blue whales, orcas, and dolphins. Morning trips are recommended for calmer seas, ensuring a comfortable experience for both you and your dog. Dogs ride free of charge and human tickets start at $50/person and tours are typically 3 to 4-hours long. 

Best time to go: April through November, when humpback whales are most commonly seen. If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of blue whales, the best window is June through September. During the winter months (especially January to March), you may spot gray whales during their migration.

Let Loose on Carmel Beach

One of the most dog-welcoming beach towns in California, Carmel-by-the-Sea allows off-leash play on Carmel Beach. The town itself is extremely pet-friendly—think boutique hotels, art galleries, and even dog menus at restaurants.

Best time to go: Late spring through early fall (April–October) for sunny days and cool breezes.

Bike or Drive the Iconic 17-Mile Drive

Rent a an e-bike with a sidecar for your dog from Mad Dogs & Englishmen Bike Shop in Carmel and cruise the 17-Mile Drive past Pebble Beach, Lone Cypress, and more. Stop for ocean views, tide pools, and picnic breaks.

Best time to go: Spring and early fall (April–June and September–October) for pleasant temps and fewer tourists

Road Trip Highway 1 Through Big Sur

Drive the dramatic stretch of Highway 1 between Carmel and San Simeon. Must-stops include:

• Garrapata State Park – dogs allowed on leash on coastal trails

• Pfieffer Beach – leash required; known for its purple sand

• Bixby Creek Bridge – scenic viewpoint

• McWay Falls – dogs not allowed on the trail but viewable from pullouts

Best time to go: Fall (September–November) offers the clearest views and less coastal fog.

See the Almond Blossoms in Bloom in Modesto

From mid-February to mid-March, the Central Valley transforms into a sea of pink and white as almond trees bloom. Two dog-friendly farms, Rodin Farms and Roberts Ferry Gourmet, welcome leashed dogs to stroll through their picturesque orchards. Rodin Farms offers scenic walking paths among the blossoms, while Roberts Ferry Gourmet invites visitors to explore their blooming orchards and enjoy treats like their famous almond butter milkshakes. To make the most of your visit, consider embarking on the self-guided Almond Blossom Cruise, which provides a mapped route with turn-by-turn directions to various blossom hotspots and local attractions.

Best time to go: Last week in February or the first week in March for peak bloom. If you go later in March you’ll experience the snow effect.

Southern California Dog-Friendly Bucket List Experiences

Dine at Boozehounds in Palm Springs

Palm Springs is another city that permeates dog-friendliness and one of the popular restaurants in the area is designed for dog lovers. Boozehounds has a pup menu, a dog-friendly atrium, and a spacious patio.

Best time to go: Fall to spring (October–April) to avoid the desert heat.

See the Hollywood Sign from Dog-Friendly Trails

Hike the Brush Canyon Trail in Griffith Park for panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign. Dogs must be on leash, but the trail is well-shaded and scenic.

Best time to go: Late fall to spring (October–April) for cooler temps and clearer skies.

Visit Dog Beaches in San Diego

San Diego has some of the best off-leash dog beaches in California (second to San Francisco in my opinion):

• Ocean Beach Dog Beach – wide and relaxed vibe

• Coronado Dog Beach – postcard views with soft sand

• Del Mar North Beach – great for swimming and long walks

Enjoy the Unique Landscape of Joshua Tree National Park

Visiting Joshua Tree National Park with your dog is a surreal experience where dramatic desert landscapes and otherworldly rock formations create a backdrop unlike any other. While dogs aren’t allowed on hiking trails or in the backcountry, there are still plenty of ways to explore together. Leashed pups are welcome on park roads, in campgrounds, and within 100 feet of picnic areas—perfect for scenic strolls near Hidden Valley, Jumbo Rocks, or along the paved sections of Keys View Road. Sunrise and sunset are especially magical in Joshua Tree, with glowing skies and cooler temperatures ideal for exploring with your pup.

Best time to go: Plan your visit during the cooler months (October through March) for the most comfortable experience.

Go Off Grid at East Jesus and Salvation Mountain

If you’re looking for a quirky, art-filled desert escape with your dog, East Jesus and Salvation Mountain in Niland, California, are two wild stops. These vibrant, eccentric art installations sit on the edge of Slab City, an off-grid community near the Salton Sea. Dogs are welcome to explore both locations on leash—just be mindful of the terrain and art boundaries. Salvation Mountain, created by Leonard Knight, is a technicolor hillside painted with religious messages and folk art, while East Jesus is a living art colony filled with large-scale sculptures and interactive pieces made from repurposed materials.

Best time to go: The best time to visit is in the fall or winter when temperatures are cooler and more pleasant for your pup.

It’s Time to Explore Dog-friendly California

From snowy summits to sun-kissed beaches, this California bucket list offers unforgettable experiences for every type of dog and dog parent. Ruby has checked off almost every one of these—and we’re still discovering more.

Start where you are, go where your pup’s tail leads you, and remember: the best adventures are the ones you share.