Dog-Friendly Carlsbad 2025

From stylish stays, delicious dining to must-visit hiking trails and dog parks, every corner of this coastal city is ready for you to explore. Our guide gives you an overview of how to make the most out of your visit to Carlsbad and enjoy your time side by side.

Who doesn’t love cuddles and kisses in the morning? Whether you’re planning a short trip or a staycation in Carlsbad, bringing your furry friend along is a breeze with the multiple dog-friendly hotel options in the area.

Nestled along the coast, opposite South Carlsbad State Beach, is the lovely Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach. This beachside resort has pet-friendly rooms so that you can relax to the sound of the waves with your best friend by your side. You’re nearby the outdoor Carlsbad Premium Outlets, making it easy to get some shopping in during your vacation and bring your pet along for the ride.

To experience the true California lifestyle, book a room at Omni La Costa resort. From spacious suites, golf-view rooms to villas, there are multiple dog-friendly options that provide ample space to unwind. There are even treats and bowls available upon request! With various outdoor dining options, you can delight in tasty bites and sip on a signature cocktail all while your furry friend lounged by your side.

We know that leaving your pup behind in the hotel room can be difficult or not always possible. If you were hoping to fit in a not-so dog-friendly activity during your visit to Carlsbad why not try a premier pet care concierge service? Dogs on the Run offers a variety of dog walking and running options with vetted professionals to keep your pet active while you have a dog-free moment. They also provide doggy day care if you’re planning a whole day of fun and need some pet care coverage!

There are plenty of dog-friendly hikes in Carlsbad waiting to be explored. From the relaxed Batiquitos Lagoon Trail to the scenic trails at Lake Calavera, there are beautiful options to get outdoors with your pup. The Batiquitos Lagoon Trail is an easygoing 3.4-mile out-and-back trail that takes you through an ecological reserve that offers incredible birdwatching and wetland views. Make a pitstop at the Batiquitos Lagoon Nature Center, run by the Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation, for a hydration break and to grab a dog treat! For more of a challenge, give the Lake Calavera Loop a go. This trail is a 4.9-mile loop through coastal sage scrub habitat and provides panoramic views from the “peak”. Keep in mind that there is limited shade so it’s best to do this trail in the morning or on a cooler day. As both these trails are in protected areas, be sure to keep your pup leashed to protect the wildlife and habitat.

If you’re looking for an off-leash option, the Alga Norte Dog Park offers a 30,000-square-foot fenced area for dogs to run free and play. You’ll find dog agility equipment, a separate area for small and large dogs as well as helpful amenities to make your playtime even better, such as a dog drinking fountain and plastic bag dispensers. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. the park is a great spot for your pup to run off some energy!

Many restaurants in Carlsbad welcome dogs, so whether you’re in the mood for a chill brewery or hoping to try some of the city’s best bites, you will have your pick of options. The Karl Strauss brewpub offers up mouthwatering food and a wide selection of beers that you can enjoy alongside your dog at their covered outdoor patio. Right in the heart of Carlsbad Village, is Pure Project Carlsbad which welcomes pups to their dog-friendly taproom. Try one of their craft brews at their open-air patio that features water bowls, a fire pit and relaxed seating so that you can unwind.

For a sit-down meal, you may be surprised to learn that there are a lot of choices. Both you and your pup can take in beautiful views from the outdoor patio at Vigilucci’s Seafood & Steakhouse. From flavorful steak, fresh seafood to delicious pasta dishes, you’re sure to have a wonderful meal at this relaxed Italian eatery. Hoping to try somewhere new? Wildland is one of Carlsbad’s newest restaurant additions that has cozy outdoor seating that is dog-friendly. This all-day restaurant serves up freshly baked goods, wood-fired pizza and other memorable bites that have quickly made this spot one of Carlsbad’s most popular restaurants.

These are only a few of the dog-friendly dining spots in Carlsbad! To see a complete list, check out BringFido to plan your next date with your pup.

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Pack the leash, grab the trails and get ready for some tail-wagging adventures while exploring Carlsbad!