How Dog-Friendly is San Diego? Discover My Favorite Pet Friendly Spots with My Pugs!
Are you a dog owner who can't bear to leave your pup companions behind? I adore taking my pugs with me everywhere, especially when exploring new pet-friendly spots in beautiful San Diego, California. However, as much as I love dog-friendly places, it's essential to ensure our dogs are well-prepared to socialize in these settings. If they aren't trained or feel anxious, it might lead to an unpleasant experience. Responsible dog ownership is crucial; always keep them on a leash, clean up after them, and maintain constant supervision to avoid any mishaps.
Let me share some of my most cherished dog-friendly places in San Diego, where you can enjoy amazing food and beverages while having a great time with your pet.
1. Holy Matcha
3118 University Ave, San Diego, CA - $$ - Website
This indoor café is totally dog-friendly! The place has a beautiful aesthetic (is all pink!) it is super cool, and they serve the yummiest matcha of the city. I'm totally obsessed with their Strawberry Matcha drink – so good! The vibe is friendly, and the staff are awesome to both people and pups. Everyonce in a shile they host special events for humans & dogs, so make sure to follow them on instagram to not miss anything!
2. Nolita Hall
2305 India St, San Diego, CA - $$ - Website
This spot is awesome because they have both indoor and outdoor seating for dogs. You can grab a very tasty meal or just hang out with some drinks. They always change their cocktails according to the season and they are the best! But heads up, they've got big TVs and loud music, so if your pup isn't into that, daytime and week visits are better than a saturday night for your dog!
3. Hinar Cafe
7412 Fay Ave, San Diego, CA - $ - Instagram
This cute place is named after the owner's dog – how adorable is that? They've got a drool-worthy dessert selection that not only looks amazing but also tastes incredible. My absolute favorite is the tres leches, so make sure to try it! You and your pup can chill inside or enjoy the open patio, perfect for bigger dogs or a private vibe. Also,if you forgot to bring water for your pup, they’ll happily serve fresh water for your furry baby in the cutest bowls.
4. Lola 55
1290 F St, San Diego, CA - $$ - Website
If you're a taco lover, you'll love this place! They have ranked as a Bib Gourmand in The Michelin awards for being a great food and value-for-money. They've got a sweet patio where you can hang with your pet, either chilling in the shade or soaking up the sun. The carnitas taco is my absolute fave, and the whole dining experience here is casual a relaxed, good for a big group of friends!
5. Gelatti Peccati
1417 University Ave, San Diego, CA - $ - Website
Looking for a laid-back dinner spot? Gelatti Peccati is the place to be! Grab a seat at the bar inside, and your furry buddy can join you. They serve up delicious Roma-style pizzas and unique house made gelato with unique flavors. Plus, they've got a few tables outside for an urban mealtime with your pup.
Moving on, there are some other great places I love to take the pugs with me. Here is a list of some fantastic outdoor natural places to be with your dog in San Diego:
6. Dog Beach
Mango and Kiwi love going to the dog beach. They enjoy playing around, running with other dogs, and even getting their paws into the water! I prefer to take them in the mornings when it's usually a bit quieter. I think this is a great place for all types of dogs (but again, make sure they are trained and know how to behave with other dogs around!). I always bring my picnic blanket, some snacks, and enjoy it with the dogs. Also, you can surf on this beach, making it a great family activity.
7. Harbor Island
Contrary to the norm, my pugs really enjoy walking and short hikes! I love that San Diego offers great hikes around the city, so I've been exploring a few, and one of my top favorites is Harbor Island. It's a short hike of 2.67 miles that's flat, and it offers a beautiful view of the city. It's a great activity to do on weekends to get a good workout for me and my pugs!
8. Mission Bay Park
This place is absolutely gorgeous to walk around, and it's also great for your dogs to play and run. They have different areas where dogs are allowed and can be on/off leash. For example, Fiesta Island works best for bigger dog breeds, as they can run around, play catch, and even jump into the little lake off leash!
9. Disc Golf
Going disc golfing with the pups is a great opportunity to hang around with friends, get some steps in, and enjoy the dogs playing around while you also play. This activity usually takes about 1-2 hours, depending on how many people are playing and if you want to play all the holes.
Visiting these fantastic dog-friendly places with my pugs has brought immense joy to my life. Remember, responsible dog ownership is key to ensuring that everyone has a pleasant time. So next time you're in San Diego and seeking pet photography opportunities or simply pet-friendly places to explore, consider these recommendations for a great experience with your beloved canines by your side!
