Dog-Friendly Staycation Ideas in Los Angeles For Labor Day Weekend
- calvinschnauzer
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 7 hours ago
Hey dog parents! Labor Day weekend is here, which means it’s time to clock out of work mode and clock into play mode. Forget the stress of travel. Los Angeles is already serving up the perfect dog-friendly staycation vibes. From sandy paws at the beach to sniffaris through pet-friendly botanical gardens and shopping strolls with plenty of pup cups, I’ve rounded up the best ways to make this long weekend paws-itively unforgettable.
So leash up and follow my lead!
Top Dog-friendly Staycation Ideas to do in Los Angeles for Labor Day Weekend
1. Visit a Dog-Friendly Beach
A trip to the beach is always at the top of my list. There’s nothing quite like a day spent with wet paws and a sandy nose. We can romp in the waves, sniff around with other dogs, or simply lounge on the beach. Remember, not all dog-friendly beaches allow pups on the sand or in the water. While places like Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach are welcoming, dogs must stay on the boardwalk.
Feeling adventurous? Consider paddle boarding or kayaking. Recently, some friends rented a boat through London Boat Rentals. I’m eager for a boat party in Long Beach!
Also, check out the new bar at Rosie’s called Monty’s Dog Beach & Bar. It features a mini agility course, lounge chairs, delicious food for humans, and a special dog menu!
Top Picks:
Rosie's Dog Beach (Long Beach, CA)
Huntington Dog Beach (Huntington Beach, CA)
2. Go on Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails and Nature Walks
Explore the great outdoors with your dog by hitting local hiking trails or nature parks. Select trails that provide plenty of shade and accessible water. For my favorite dog-friendly trails in Los Angeles, I particularly recommend ones where we can dip our paws in water during summer.
Don’t forget about dog-friendly gardens like the South Coast Botanical Garden, which allows dogs to explore every fourth Sunday of the month!
Top Picks:
Eaton Canyon Falls (Altadena, CA) - closed under further notice
South Coast Botanical Garden (Palos Verdes, CA)
3. Spend a Day at a Dog-Friendly Shopping Area
It’s a win-win when I get my steps in while my human shops and dines at dog-friendly malls and restaurants. The Grove is always on my list because I can visit almost every store. Many restaurants have outdoor seating, and there’s even Sprinkles, which sells pupcakes and offers free pup cups at La La Land Cafe. Did you know you can even take your dog on a trolley ride?
Right next to The Grove is The Original Farmers Market, filled with delicious aromas from various restaurants. They offer a wide range of cuisines, from French and Asian to classic American food. Enjoy it best with a group by sharing dishes, exploring the world with your taste buds. Just be cautious if your dog has allergies or dietary restrictions. Another must-visit is the Dog Bakery for munchkins, brownies, and carrot cake.
Top Picks:
The Grove (Los Angeles, CA)
Original Farmers Market (Los Angeles, CA)
4. Check Out Dog-Friendly Rentals
Consider renting a pet-friendly cabin, pool, or yard for a change of scenery and some off-leash fun! Sniffspot is a fantastic platform for renting private dog parks. While most of these spots are backyards, a 45-minute drive outside the city can lead you to a ranch with lake access.
Another excellent option is Hipcamp, featuring many dog-friendly farms and campgrounds. I once camped at Angel Crest Creamery, met dozens of goats, ran free on their 70-acre field, and hunted for bunnies. The farm’s guardians were kind, despite my loud barks!
5. Relax at a Dog-Friendly Park
Spend a day at a local park where your dog can socialize with other dogs or just people-watch as we love to do. Bring a blanket, water, and some treats to enjoy the fantastic weather. This activity is a great way to meet new furry friends while desensitizing your pup.
Top Picks:
Los Angeles State Historic Park (Los Angeles, CA)
Pan Pacific Park (Los Angeles, CA)
Echo Park (Los Angeles, CA)
6. Participate in a Dog-Friendly Event Near You
Los Angeles has numerous pet events, and I even have a dedicated blog post just for it! Choose between beach parties, pet friendly markets, pack walks and outdoor cinemas that'll surely make this a memorable summer. Click here to see more dog-friendly events.
Tips for a Successful Staycation with Your Dog:
1. Plan Ahead:
Research your chosen staycation destination’s pet policies and facilities. Book pet-friendly accommodations and inquire about additional fees or restrictions to avoid last-minute stress.
2. Pack Essentials:
Bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog. If spending a day outside, also pack toys and some food to keep your dog entertained. I get grumpy when I’m hungry!
3. Stay Hydrated:
Like humans, dogs need hydration, especially during outdoor activities. Bring a portable water bowl and enough clean water to keep your dog healthy.
4. Safety First:
Be mindful of your dog’s limits. Avoid extreme heat or strenuous activities that may harm them. Take breaks and seek shaded areas for cooling down on warm days.
5. Have Fun:
The most crucial aspect of your staycation is to enjoy quality time with your dog. Plan activities you both enjoy, whether it's exploring pet-friendly trails, visiting a dog-friendly beach, or relaxing together.
There you have it! The ultimate guide to living it up with your pup this Labor Day weekend in Los Angeles. Whether you’re splashing at Rosie's, strolling The Grove, or lounging at a park picnic, the goal is simple: keep it fun, keep it furry, and keep it stress-free.
For more paw-fessional tips, follow me on Instagram @sweetlifeofcalvin and sign up for my newsletter.
If you see me on one of my long weekend sniffaris, say hi! I’d love to meet you and your pup.
Happy staycationing!