Voted as one of California’s dog-friendliest cities, Surf City USA welcomes four-legged kids with open arms at restaurants, parks, and hotels, along its paved beach path, and even dedicates a stretch of beach to salty pups. We don’t want you to leave your best friend at home any more than you do, so here’s a helpful guide to exploring the town with your canine companion in town.
Where To Go
First stop, Huntington Dog Beach! This 1.5-mile pooch paradise along Huntington City Beach spans between Seapoint and Goldenwest streets. Dogs are free to run, play, swim, and even surf.
Second stop, Central Park Dog Park! With separate dog runs for large and small pups, the fenced-in space on the edge of Huntington Beach Central Park at Edwards Street and Talbert Avenue offers something for every wagging tail.
What To Do
Each year, Surf City Surf Dog sees dozens of furry shredders take to the waters of Huntington Beach in this “pawsome” three-day event that culminates in an epic surf competition. Enter your salty dog, or join the event as spectators and event-goers to experience this collective love for the water. This year, the doggone fun kicks off on Saturday, September 25, 2021 with a Pooch Party, followed by the competition on Saturday, and wraps with two NY Dog Film Festival screenings on Sunday. Pawabunga!
Every spring and fall, So Cal Corgi Beach Day, aka “the biggest corgi pawty on the planet,” convenes at Huntington Dog Beach, courtesy of So Cal Corgi Nation. This fall, witness the magic of hundreds of corgis descending upon one beach on Saturday, October 30, 2021, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where To Eat
Perched at the corner of Main Street and Pacific Coast Highway, Fred's Mexican Cafe hosts “Doggie Date Night” every Monday from 4 p.m.-midnight on the patio—which boasts a stunning view of Huntington Beach Pier and the Pacific Ocean. With your purchase of an entree, your pup scores a generous bowl of kibble.
A quick stroll up Main Street delivers you to Cruisers Huntington Beach, lauded for its Chicago Stuffed Pizza, craft beer selection, and dog-friendly front patio.
Inside Kimpton Shorebreak Resort, Pacific Hideaway features a dog-friendly ocean-view patio and an impressive trio of housemade dog dishes: beef, chicken, and fish.
Nestled inside Huntington Beach Central Park along Goldenwest Street, Park Bench Cafe not only plates outstanding treats for humans, but also a full “Canine Cuisine” menu. Order the Wrangler Roundup (lean ground turkey) and a Peanut Butter Bone, and watch that tail wag.
Where To Shop
Dogs go wild for the personalized pastries and toys at Top Dog Barkery, Pacific City’s resident “dog house.” The pup boutique also offers hosted birthday “pawties,” themed events, grooming services, and doggy daycare while you shop and dine.
Where To Stay
Kimpton Shorebreak Resort promises: “If your pet fits through the door, we’ll welcome them in.” Outstanding amenities include treats, plush pet beds, water bowls, cleanup bags, a dog-friendly restaurant and menu, and a nightly wine reception—all at no extra cost.
The "Pawesome Getaway" specials at Waterfront Beach Resort, A Hilton Hotel, offers a welcome bowl and treats, 50% off pet fee, daily waived resort fee, and a daily $25 Hero Pizza credit.
Pups are loved at Paséa Hotel & Spa. Amenities feature treats, beds, and feeding bowls for a fee, plus free cleanup bags. Look for Lago, their French Bulldog Pet Concierge.
Dogs weighing 50 pounds or less are welcome in designated pet-friendly rooms for a fee at the Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa. Amenities include food and water bowls, a pet pillow, and dog treats available for purchase.