Dog-Friendly Getaways Near Los Angeles

(credit: Wandering Dog Wine Bar)

(credit: Wandering Dog Wine Bar)

Finding activities and hotels that accept pets can be difficult if you're looking for a weekend getaway. Here is a list of spots that not only allow domesticated animal companions, but celebrate and welcome them.

(credit: Wandering Dog Wine Bar)

(credit: Wandering Dog Wine Bar)

Wandering Dog Wine Bar
1539 C Mission Drive
Solvang, CA, US 93460
(805) 686-9126
wanderingdogwinebar.com

With a motto of "Leave your leash behind," dog lovers from all over the Southland feel at home at this local winery. Wandering Dog Wine Bar offers more than 200 wines. Besides the dog-loving atmosphere, beer and wine tastings, and year-round events are among the reasons loyal customers return.

(credit: santabarbara.com)

(credit: santabarbara.com)

Santa Barbara: Sunday Arts and Crafts Show
Cabrillo Boulevard at State Street
Santa Barbara, CA
(805) 962-8956
www.santabarbara.com

If there's one town outside of LA where pet-lovers proudly roam the streets, shops, and restaurants, the place is Santa Barbara. The beach city of Santa Barbara offers many opportunities for pets to enjoy the open air with their owners. Dog walkers and cat companions can be found at the State Street art walk every Sunday morning and afternoon. Pets are nearly always seen enjoying the shores, sidewalks, and recreational facilities year round.

Related: One-Tank Trip To Santa Barbara.

(credit: City of Los Angeles Parks & Recreation)

(credit: City of Los Angeles Parks & Recreation)

Mount Hollywood Trail
Mount Hollywood Drive
Los Angeles, CA, 90027

Griffith Park and its attractions have always been a place where pet-lovers enjoy exercise. The Mt. Hollywood Trail is a three-mile hike in the middle of Griffith Park and features one of the absolute best views of the legendary Hollywood sign and the ocean. This is a city-owned section of the San Gabriel Mountains and is open to the public. Be cautious of the sun, since there is no shade on this trail. Aim for starting early or at dusk and keep you and your little buddy hydrated.

(credit: istockphoto.com)

(credit: istockphoto.com)

Alice Frost Kennedy Dog Park
Vina Vieja Park
3026 E. Orange Grove
Pasadena, CA 91107
www.ci.pasadena.ca.us

This park is loved by locals for its large, clean, grassy areas and doggy fountains, and gets very busy on the weekends and after work hours during the week. Leashed dogs are welcome to stroll the three-mile path at Rose Bowl Park. Old Town Pasadena is nearby, with its outdoor shops and historically beautiful architecture that is also open to the public. The park is closed on Mondays.

Big Bear Lake FB
Big Bear Lake Beaches
48155 Lakewood Drive
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

If you are looking for a mountain getaway, stop at any of the beaches along Big Bear's Highway 36. The Alpine Path is nearby and can be accessed from the beach for those who want to get even closer to nature. Big Bear is known for its glorious foliage in the summer, spring, and autumn. Winter brings an array of snow sports, from skiing, to snowboarding and winter fishing.

Related: Best Places To See Autumn Leaves In Los Angeles

Danielle Farve is a freelance writer covering all things Los Angeles. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.