Perhaps no part of the United States lends itself to outdoor adventures quite like the Golden State. With plenty of sunshine and wide-open spaces, it provides an idyllic setting for outings with your best pal.
Melody Schoenfeld takes regular advantage of Southern California's picture-perfect weather with her 4-year-old Shiba Inu-Greyhound mix, Sweetie. "She loves to go anywhere I go," says the 36-year-old personal trainer.
"She hikes with me all the time," Schoenfeld says. "Our favorite place is Runyon Canyon Park in Los Angeles."
Sharing the fun
Others share that thrill of adventure, too. Last year, Michelle Whitcomb and her 11-year-old black Labrador Retriever, Cadi, moved from upstate New York to Los Angeles in order to enjoy a more active lifestyle together. "We're both definitely happier here," Whitcomb says. "Cadi gets so excited when she knows we're going to the dog park and she absolutely loves swimming at the beach."
Thanks to a plethora of dog-friendly beaches, parks, hotels, and special events throughout the state, there's no shortage of ways for you and your buddy to enjoy some quality adventure time, whether it's retail therapy at the farmers market, or a windswept stroll on a sandy beach.
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Hofsas House Hotel
(0 reviews)
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921
This family-owned boutique hotel has been in operation since the '40s and prides itself on catering to dog lovers. Unwind with your best pal on your balcony, enjoying the sunset and salty sea air. Or take in a meal together at one of the town's many restaurants with dog-friendly patios. And just a few blocks away is picturesque Carmel Beach, an off-leash beach where both of you can enjoy the sun and surf.
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Muttropolis
(0 reviews)
Newport Beach, CA 92660
The shopping in Orange County is legendary—and you can bring your best friend along too! Stop for a sip and treat at Muttropolis, which is known for its toys, goodies, and numerous events, including parties and celebrations. This store has several locations, and the one at Fashion Island's outdoor shopping mall allows you to window-shop and visit many of the stores with your dog.
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Balboa Park
based on 1 review
San Diego, CA 92101
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Fort Funston
based on 1 review
San Francisco, CA 94101
The unspoiled landscape of this off-leash park is the perfect place for you and your best pal to release the Peter Pan adventurer in both of you. Fort Funston operated as an Army post until 1972, when it became part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Hours are dusk to dawn daily. With sandy beaches, dunes, walking trails, and bluffs, there's no shortage of territory to explore. And thanks to water spigots near the parking lot, there's no need to cut the adventure short.