San Diego, aka America’s Finest City, beckons with beaches, blue skies, sunshine, and year-round temperate weather. This Southern California destination is very pet-friendly, from parks and beaches to dozens of lodging options. We’ve created a list of the best nine pet- and dog-friendly hotels, covering different price points, policies, and amenities. No matter what kind of San Diego experience you’re looking to have with your pets, we got your bases covered.
Before you book your trip, there’s a couple of things to note:
- Hotel prices fluctuate throughout the year, and the off-season—from mid-September to November, or March to May—is the most affordable time to visit.
- Summer is the most expensive time to hit San Diego, particularly if you plan a trip in July, when San Diego Comic Con attendance surpasses over 135,000 people.
- Pet parents should still be cautious about canine heat stroke and paw burns during the summer, especially on the beach and pavements.
As for hotel costs, you’ll notice that we rate hotel prices with dollar signs that range from $ to $$$$. We offer short explanations for each, but typically $ stays below $150 and $$$$ is anything above $500.
Our favorite San Diego pet-friendly hotels below are grouped in order by location to beaches and waterfronts, La Jolla, and downtown.
Hotel del Coronado
1500 Orange Ave.
Coronado, CA 92118
Courtesy of Hotel del Coronado
Historic and iconic Hotel del Coronado (“The Del” to locals) sits right on the beach in idyllic Coronado Island. The beachside hotel is easy to spot with its striking red roof and rotunda. Guests can relax in cabanas on the beach, take in a beachfront movie, lounge by the pool, hit the spa, hit the shops, and more. In fact, located just one mile north of the resort is the perfect place for your furry loved ones—Dog Beach!
and pet parents can stay with their dogs and cats! Pet parents can walk along nearby Ocean Boulevard to get to this special beach.
Cost rating: $$$$
Staying at an iconic beachfront hotel is costly (Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplain and past presidents have all visited Hotel del Coronado). Guests can expect to spend at least $500 a night for an average room. This doesn’t include the $50 daily resort charge or any pet fees.
Cancellation policy: Hotel del Coronado typically has a 72-hour cancellation policy, though this period may be extended to 7 days on certain dates.
Pet allowances and restrictions
Hotel del Coronado welcomes both cats and dogs to stay with them. A maximum of two pets are allowed, and they must weigh 40 pounds or less each. Pet parents must sign a waiver upon check-in, and there’ll be a $125 pet charge to take care of the costs of deep cleaning your room after your departure.
Pets must be leashed or in a carrier while out in public areas, but they are not allowed inside pool areas, spa, salon, fitness center, indoor dining spots, or at Coronado main beach. Pets on leashes are permitted at two on-property restaurants: Sun Deck and Beach + Taco Shack so you can enjoy a meal with your pet in tow.
Dog parents should also note that certain breeds are not permitted to stay at the hotel: pit bulls, pit bull mixes, Dobermans, Rottweilers, Chows, and Chow mixes.
Guest perks and restrictions
There are many amenities available to guests staying at the Del:
- high-speed WiFi
- HD television with HBO
- access to Netflix and YouTube
- mini-fridge
- full laundry and dry cleaning services
- access to childcare, if needed
For your pets, a bowl and a bag of treats is an available amenity upon request.
Potential guests should note that the hotel is under major renovations until the end of 2025, so elements of your stay may be impacted. If you’re on a smaller budget and don’t necessarily need to be seaside, looking elsewhere may be best. Book Hotel del Coronado.
The Dana on Mission Bay
1710 W. Mission Bay Dr.,
San Diego, CA 92109
Located adjacent to Mission Bay Aquatic Park, The Dana on Mission Bay is a waterfront resort surrounded by tropical landscaping. Guests can enjoy amenities like heated outdoor pools and a private marina. The Dana is less than a mile from Mission Beach and Belmont Park, a short drive from the San Diego Zoo, and is the closest hotel to SeaWorld. It’s a dog-friendly hotel too—not only can guests bring their dogs to stay with them, but there are plenty of waterfront areas where they can walk with their pups, including nearby Dog Beach.
Cost rating: $$
The Dana seems to be pretty affordable as far as waterfront resorts go, with standard rooms averaging between $200-$300. Pet parents will have to account for pet fees too, but The Dana has done away with their resort fees as of 2024.
Cancellation policy: Guests who have made reservations at The Dana must cancel them at least 48 hours in advance or be charged one night’s room plus taxes and fees.
Pet allowances and restrictions
Dogs are permitted at The Dana based on availability of rooms that are pet-friendly. Two dogs up to 80 pounds each are allowed, and there’s a pet fee of $50 per night that’s capped at $200. For any guests who stay longer than 6 days, an additional $100 pet cleaning fee will also be charged.
The Dana doesn’t state which common areas dogs are restricted, but they’ll likely have to avoid pool areas and indoor dining areas. However, the hotel invites guests to bring their dogs to outdoor tables at the Firefly Eatery & Bar.
Guest perks and restrictions
There are many hotel amenities for guests of the Dana to enjoy:
- tropical pool bar
- dive-in movie nights
- onsite rentals
- complimentary WiFi
- beach rentals
- lobby pantry
- fitness center
Guests bringing their pup can expect an arrival kit that will list numerous dog-friendly restaurants and parks and attractions, a water bowl, dog treats, and more.
Based on pet parent reviews, The Dana seems to be a great option for pet-friendly lodging in San Diego that’s not too expensive. Guests enjoyed their stay and praised the level of accommodations and areas for their dogs. Book The Dana.
Loews Coronado Bay Resort
4000 Coronado Bay Road
Coronado, CA 92118
Courtesy of Loews Coronado Bay
Sitting on a 15-acre peninsula, Loews Coronado Bay Resort is right on the Coronado Bay and offers stunning waterfront and city vistas. The pet-friendly hotel includes a complimentary shuttle that takes guests to popular nearby attractions Silver Strand Beach and downtown Coronado Village. The resort is also located on a 13-mile walking and biking route, perfect for dogs!
Cost rating: $$-$$$
Loews is a resort that’s at the middle to high range of San Diego hotel costs. Hotel prices listed on their website include taxes and the $42.90 resort fee. The $150 pet fee is not included.
Cancellation policy: Guests must cancel reservations at least 72 hours in advance to avoid a one-night plus tax fee.
Pet allowances and restrictions
Both cats and dogs are welcome at Loews, with a limit of two pets per room. Guests will have to pay a one-time $150 per accommodation, per stay. The hotel doesn’t list a weight limit, though it’s best to call, as other sites have reported that a 40 pounds per animal limit.
Guest perks and restrictions
Hotel amenities for guests include:
- three heated pools
- four different lounges and restaurant options
- access to resort marina
- spa
- bike and water sport rentals
- in-room Chromecast
- fitness center access
- daily group fitness classes
- pickleball courts
- shuttle service
- use of beach equipment
All pets receive their own special amenities: bowls and a special treat; however, Loews asks that guests contact them directly for a complete list of their pet policies and amenities. Guests with pets reported being very satisfied with their experience at Loews, particularly with the pet room service menus and grassy relief areas on the property.
Costs at this hotel may add up quickly, so it might not be the best option if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly experience. Guests have reported overall positive experiences with their stay, though many said their rooms were in need of a design upgrade. Book Loews Coronado Bay Resort.
Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina
2051 Shelter Island Drive
San Diego, CA 92106
With a waterfront location near Ocean Beach, Sea World, and San Diego Zoo, this Best Western location might be the best combination of location and price. Offering rooms overlooking a private marina, downtown skyline or the San Diego Bay, there’s a little something for everyone. Even if you don’t want to go far, there is a full-service restaurant and cocktail bar and an outdoor pool with food and beverages.
Cost rating: $$
Pricing at this Best Western location typically falls mid-range, but there are a lot of amenities available that are not typical of Best Western locations.
Cancellation policy: Guests will need to cancel reservations at least 48 hours ahead of time during the off-season (January 26-May 22; October 1-December 31) and at least 72 hours during the on-season (May 23-September 30). Failure to do so will result in a one-night’s room and fees charge.
Pet allowances and restrictions
This Best Western location allows up to two dogs in a room, with a weight limit of 80 pounds per dog. Cats may be welcome if pet parents receive hotel approval ahead of time. Pet fees are $40 per day, and Best Western also requires a refundable cleaning deposit of $150 when you check in.
Guest perks and restrictions
Other amenities for guests include:
- free WiFi
- tennis courts
- laundry facilities and dry cleaning
- suites with full kitchen
- complimentary HBO
- poolside fireplace
- swimming pools
- whirlpool spas
Potential guests should note that this Best Western location has closed their fitness center indefinitely for safety reasons.
This hotel is probably the best option for San Diego visitors who are looking for amenities at a medium price point. While there are no in-hotel amenities for pets, there are plenty of nearby spots you can bring them along for, such as bike rentals, sightseeing tours, and a bay-side walking and jogging path.
The hotel has a 4.5/5 rating on TripAdvisor, with most of the cons lamenting the new $25/night parking fee. Book Best Western Island Palms.
The Lodge Torrey Pines
11480 N. Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, CA 92037
Courtesy of The Lodge at Torrey Pines
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean and renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course, The Lodge at Torrey Pines offers luxury rooms and stunning Southern California scenery. The dog-friendly property includes two restaurants and lounges, a full-service spa and fitness center in addition to a pool with cabanas. La Jolla is just a 15-minute drive and is a stunning place to spend time with your dog outside.
Cost rating: $$$$
The Lodge typically runs at least $400 a night, usually falling within the $500-$600 range before taxes and any fees. Guests will also be responsible for a $55 daily resort fee to cover unlimited WiFi access, access to fitness center, yoga classes on weekends, pool cabanas, and golf putters.
Cancellation policy: A cancellation policy is assigned based on the dates of your stay and the time you’ve booked.
Pet allowances and restrictions
The Lodge allows one dog per guest room that weighs 50 pounds or less, or two smaller dogs with a combined weight of 75 pounds or less. There’s a one-time room cleaning fee of $150 on the day of check-in for those bringing dogs.
Dogs must be on a leash whenever outside of a guest’s room, and should not be left unattended inside the room.
Guest perks and restrictions
Guests of The Lodge Torrey Pines have many amenities available to them, such as:
- pool and hot tub
- spa
- free WiFi
- laundry services
- luxury car service (within 5 miles) with a chauffeur
- complimentary shoe shine
- complimentary access to the putting greens at Torrey Pines Golf Course
The Torrey is a pricey option, and there are better choices if you’re looking to prioritize pet perks—whether that’s complimentary hotel amenities or beaches within walking distance. The hotel is highly rated, however, and may be a solid option for you, particularly if you have a small pet who’s not very active. Book The Lodge at Torrey Pines.
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa
9700 N. Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, CA 92037
Luxe and pet-friendly Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa is located on a lush 10-acre garden between La Jolla and Del Mar and features Hacienda-style lodging. The hotel offers four restaurants, a salt-water pool, spa, a nine-acre garden where you can check out board games, and a 7,000- square-foot spa that sits on 10 acres.
The hotel is located less than nine miles from dog-friendly Del Mar North Beach, where dogs can run on the beach leash-free.
Cost rating: $$
Rooms seem to start around $250 a night, excluding taxes and fees. Estancia also charges a $42 resort fee and pet parents will have to factor in the pet fee, as well.
Cancellation policy: The hotel asks that guests cancel their reservations at least 72 hours in advance to avoid a one night’s room and tax charge.
Pet allowances and restrictions
La Estancia La Jolla is very different from nearly every other dog-friendly hotel in that it has no size, weight, or breed restrictions. Guests will have to pay a non-refundable $150 pet fee that’s taken at registration.
While the site doesn’t list any places where dogs may be restricted, former guests have stated that the only place pups weren’t allowed was the hotel pool.
Guest perks and restrictions
La Estancia La Jolla offers the following amenities to its guests:
- free WiFi
- fitness center access
- weekly yoga sessions and other wellness events
- self-guided beach hikes
- in-room gourmet coffee and tea
The hotel lists a few amenities available to its pets: a selection of add-ons, including a package of peanut butter treats and a dog bed, a dog menu that includes grilled chicken and steak, and assistance setting up pet sitting or dog walking services.
La Estancia is unbeatable when it comes to avoiding limitations on your dog. Very few hotels, even nationally, offer no limits on size or weight of your pup. That coupled with the sweet amenities makes it a pretty comfy place for a pet.
The only drawback might be the nine-mile drive it takes to get to Del Mar North Beach; however, guests reported that grounds were extensive for dog-walking, so distance from the beach might not be a contributing factor for you and your pet. Book Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa.
Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants
1047 5th Ave.
San Diego, CA 92101
Located in the lively Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego, Kimpton Alma features a rooftop bar and pool, a nightly wine hour, and restaurants. The hotel is steps away from shops in Little Italy, walking trails in Balboa Park, and just a short mile from the San Diego Convention Center. Kimpton is great for guests looking to stay near a historic cityscape location that’s also close to plenty of dog-friendly spots, such as nearby Waterfront Park.
Cost rating: $$-$$$
The 4-star hotel is at the mid to high range of the price spectrum for guests. While there are no additional pet fees to account for, guests will have to pay a $35 daily resort fee.
Cancellation policy: Guests must cancel at least 48 hours ahead of their scheduled check-in time.
Pet allowances and restrictions
Kimpton is one of the pet-friendliest hotels in San Diego, with certain floors dedicated to travelers with pets. It has no size, weight, or breed restrictions on your canine or feline companions. It also has no limit on the number of pets allowed, something virtually unheard of at most hotels.
While many hotels charge some kind of pet or cleaning fee, Kimpton does not charge guests any additional fees for bringing pets.
Kimpton does not mention any puppy relief areas onsite, and guests reported that they had to walk a couple of blocks away to a small park.
Guest perks and restrictions
In addition to the amenities listed above, guests will also have access to:
- fitness center
- high-speed WiFi access
- laundry and dry cleaning services
For pets, guests can expect water bowls delivered to their room, courtesy poop bags for dog walking and a nightly, pet-friendly wine reception.
Kimpton is likely best-suited for guests who want a more downtown, cultural experience. Some guests reported frustration with the lack of hotel pet relief areas, as well as feeling a little unsafe at times while out walking their dog, so potential guests may want to take that into consideration. Book Kimpton Alma
Motel 6
5592 Clairemont Mesa Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92117
Budget-friendly chain Motel 6 has a variety of locations in San Diego and accepts pets for no additional fee. This Mesa Boulevard location has the best rating/price combination of all the Motel 6 lodging in the area. It’s located conveniently off the highway for easy access to a few pet-friendly restaurants and popular attractions, like Sea World, Balboa Park, and the San Diego Zoo, all less than 10 miles away.
Cost rating: $
Prices at this Motel 6 typically range from $75 to $130 per night, plus taxes. There are no additional pet fees.
Cancellation policy: Guests must cancel their reservation by their designated check-in time.
Pet allowances and restrictions
Two pets—either dogs or cats—are welcome to stay with no additional pet fee. There are no size limits listed on their website, so pet parents may want to inquire at the time of booking their reservation. Guests have expressed satisfaction with the amount of grassy areas for dogs to relieve themselves.
Guest perks and restrictions
Motel 6 guests can look forward to free coffee in the mornings, free WiFi and an in-room flat-panel TV.
Motel 6 is an incredibly budget-friendly hotel, which means that guest experiences run the gamut—guests of this particular location expressed frustration with management in the past, for example.
While this Motel 6 is located centrally to many different attractions, you’ll need a car to get to many of them. There are better options for guests who want a more walkable San Diego experience. Book Motel 6
La Quinta Chula Vista
150 Bonita Rd.
Chula Vista, CA 91910
Affordable La Quinta chain has multiple locations in the San Diego metro area but our top pick is the Chula Vista location. Located conveniently off I-805 and less than 15 miles from the San Diego International Airport, this hotel is close to Coronado Beach, pet-friendly Balboa Park (which features many dog parks), and the San Diego Zoo.
Cost rating: $-$$
Hotel costs vary based on time and date of your visit, but rooms typically range from $120 to $250 per night, not including any taxes or fees.
Cancellation policy: Vary by room and location.
Pet allowances and restrictions
La Quinta Chula Vista allows a maximum of two pets—each up to 75 pounds. Both dogs and cats are welcome.
The Inn may issue a pet fee at check-in, $25 per night for a maximum of $75 per room per stay. Pet parents should note that pets aren’t allowed in the breakfast area, fitness center, or pool. You also can’t leave your pet unattended in your room, and when outside the room, they must be leashed or in a pet carrier. While the hotel does have dog relief areas, cat owners should bring a litter box.
Guest perks and restrictions
Guests of La Quinta will have access to the pool, sundeck, and fitness center, as well as free WiFi and continental breakfast.
There are no real pet perks available at Chula Vista, but pet parents will find pet relief areas available on the property.
There are more amenity-friendly (for both pets and pet parents) hotels in San Diego, so to get the best bang for your buck here at La Quinta, pet parents may want to be flexible with their dates for the best available pricing. Reviews for this hotel are mixed, with negative reviews expressing dissatisfaction with cleanliness and noise. Book La Quinta Chula Vista location.
Dog-Friendly Activities in San Diego
San Diego is a very dog-friendly city, with plenty of things for pet parents to do with their furry companions. It’s home to many different dog parks—like Balboa Park—and dog beaches, such as Dog Beach, as well as several restaurants, hiking trails, and attractions.
If you’re interested in hitting up some San Diego spots that aren’t pet-friendly, such as watching the giraffes at San Diego Zoo or getting on a rollercoaster at Belmont Park, make sure your pet’s needs are met, worry-free. Check out affordable dog-sitting rates through Rover pet sitters.
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