Dog-Friendly Staycation Ideas in Los Angeles For Labor Day Weekend 2026
- May 18
- 4 min read
Hey dog parents! Memorial Day weekend is almost here, which means it’s time to clock out of work mode and clock into play mode. Forget the stress of travel. Los Angeles has plenty of events, free activities and dog-friendly hotels to keep you busy while on your staycation.
Ready for a long weekend of fun? Leash up and follow my lead!
Top Dog-friendly Staycation Ideas in Los Angeles for Memorial Day Weekend 2026
1. Visit a Dog-Friendly Beach
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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 pet-friendly 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!
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. Check the full list of my favorite dog-friendly trails in Los Angeles,.
Top Picks:
Runyon Canyon for off-leash trails
Rancho Palos Verdes (Point Vicente to Pelican Grove) for a scenic trail overlooking the ocean
Don’t forget about dog-friendly gardens like the South Coast Botanical Garden, which allows dogs to explore every fourth Sunday of the month!
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 every store an dalmost all restaurants have outdoor patios to acommodate pups. Did you know you can even take your dog on a trolley ride?
Right next door 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 dog cookies, cupcakes and cakes.
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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. If your dog loves the water, you can also rent dog - friendly private pools through Swimply.
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 friends while desensitizing your pup.
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6. Watch Classic Movies at Dog-friendly Outdoor Cinemas
From rooftop cinemas to dog-friendly parks, LA has the best pet-friendly outdoor cinema locations where you and your pup can enjoy a classic, a cult favorite, or a family blockbuster while enjoying a pup-corn together.
Street Food Cinema hosts movie nights all summer where majority of the locations are dog-friendly. You can also click here to see my curated list.
Top Pick:
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 Memorial 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!
Looking for fun dog-friendly staycation ideas in Los Angeles? Whether you’re exploring local parks, hitting pet-friendly beaches, or enjoying outdoor cafes that welcome your furry friend, LA has so many great spots to make your staycation special. At Petsave, we’re all about helping pets and their owners enjoy life together to the fullest. That’s why we offer carefully chosen here products—from nutritious food and playful toys to comfy bedding—that keep your pet happy and healthy, whether you’re at home or out on an adventure. So get ready to make some amazing memories with your pup right here in LA!