Planning a Mendocino Pet-Friendly Trip? Read This First!

The Mendocino Coast is a fantastic place to visit with your dog! This guide highlights some of the best Mendocino pet-friendly spots, including dog-friendly beaches, restaurants, and hotels. Get ready for a memorable trip with your best friend!

Dog-friendly beaches and trails

Mendocino is a great place to bring your canine pal! Here are a few places you can explore together.

Beaches

Van Damme State Beach offers 1.5 miles of dog-friendly shoreline — just remember to bring a leash. Other nearby dog-friendly beaches include Portuguese Beach (0.4 miles), Big River Beach (0.2 miles), and Caspar Beach (2.4 miles).

Trails

Spring Ranch is a notable exception to the rule that dogs are not allowed on single-track trails in Mendocino. If you’re looking for a longer walk, this is your best bet.

Pet-Friendly Dining

A lot of restaurants along the Mendocino Coast offer outdoor seating where you can sit with your dog. However, it’s always a good idea to check their specific policies before you go.

Some places might let dogs into the lobby but not the dining room. Call ahead to find out what the rules are.

The Good Life Cafe is a local favorite known for being dog-friendly.

Pet-Friendly Campgrounds

Many Mendocino campgrounds welcome dogs, often for an extra fee. For example, one campground charges $35/night plus tax for your furry friend. You may find dog parks or even dog-washing stations.

Be sure to book pet-friendly spots in advance and add your pet to the reservation before you arrive!

The Bottom Line

Always double-check pet policies before booking lodging or making restaurant reservations. Keep your dog on a leash in public spaces.

For more ideas, check out dogtrekker.com and visitfortbraggca.com. Have a wonderful, dog-friendly trip!