You know how people always say the west coast is the best coast? This is no longer just a fun little rhyme, it may in fact be true! Especially for dog owners and their canine best friends looking for a new travel destination. 

The big state of California has over 1000 dog friendly cities within its borders. There are endless options in terms of hotels, off-leash dog parks, dog-friendly beaches, attractions, and restaurants! Here's a look at 5 cities that are particularly dog-friendly. 

San Diego

This is a great city for dog owners to bring their dogs on vacation. You could visit Fiesta Island Off-Leash Park where there are lots of sand dunes and bays for your pooch to frolic in. Or perhaps you'd rather visit the most popular dog spot in San Diego, 'The Original Dog Beach', found at Ocean Beach. Feel like shopping? Visit Westfield UTC, an open-air shopping centre with over 100 boutiques and welcomes both you and your dog. If you're looking to try something new, you and your dog should stop by Aqua Adventures Kayaks & Paddleboards, where you can both get out in a kayak or stand up paddle board and explore Mission Bay. After all this exploring your pet is probably starting to feel peckish. Not to worry, the Original Paw Pleasers Dog Bakery has lots of freshly baked treats for fido to enjoy! 

Carmel

Your canine travel companion will feel like a star when visiting Carmel, especially if you stay at Carmel Valley Ranch during your visit. This luxury hotel also offers a luxurious experience for your dog, including 500 acres for you and your pet to enjoy, plush doggie beds, and a doggie menu. Visit the Carmel Beach, where there are no leash laws, so your dog can run free and splash in the surf. Finally, a visit to Galante Vineyards Tasting Room is a must! Galante welcomes both you and your pooch to enjoy Carmel's finest wines. While you sip, your dog can enjoy treats that the vineyard provides. 

San Francisco

San Fransico is an amazing place for both human and dog travellers. Visit the Golden Gate Park, one of the city's most popular pet-friendly parks, where dogs have 4 separate, dedicated off-leash areas. Stop by Baker Beach, where dogs are permitted off-leash in some areas, and you'll have spectacular views of the famous Golden Gate bridge. Looking for a fun way to spend an hour? Take a Blue and Gold Fleet Bay Cruise, where on-leash pets and their owners are welcome! The cruise offers amazing views of the city's bridges, piers, and Alctraz! 

Los Angeles

L.A. is an amazing place for active owners and their pets to visit. Go to the famous Runyon Canyon Park, a 160-acre city park near the Hollywood Hills, often a favourite spot for celebrities to get their fitness on. The park features a 90-acre off-leash dog park, with tons of hiking trails and even has baggy stations to help you clean up after your pet. Westridge-Canyonback Wilderness Park is also a great place for you and your pooch to enjoy. There are plenty of different trails and hikes that offer amazing views of downtown L.A. If you're parched after this activity-filled day, stop by the Angel City Brewery, that welcomes dogs to join their owners while they indulge in a pint of craft beer. 

Napa

Napa has lots of parks that offer off-leash areas where dogs can run free, such as Alston Park and Kennedy Park, but the real reason you come to Napa is for the vineyards. Luckily, many are pet-friendly, including Regusci Winery, Baldacci Family Vineyards, The Hess Collection Winery, and Pine Ridge Vineyards to name a few. The Napa Good Dog Wine Tour is a great option for wine loving dog owners. A professional dog trainer will pick you and your dog up to take you on a tour of Napa Valley. While you're sipping and enjoying your wine, the trainer will be playing with and exercising your pooch! 

What are some of your favourite dog-friendly activities around California? Tell us over on Facebook or share your vacation snaps with us on Instagram!