One of the many reasons we love living on the Westside is that Southern California truly embraces pets. Whether your idea of the perfect day is walking the beach with your Labrador, hiking the Santa Monica Mountains with your adventure buddy, or enjoying coffee while your dog people-watches from the patio, Los Angeles has no shortage of places to explore together.

As veterinarians, we also love seeing pets living full, active lives. Here are some of our favorite places to get out and enjoy everything Los Angeles has to offer—with a few safety tips along the way.

Start Close to Home: Santa Monica Favorites

You don't have to travel far to have a great day with your dog.

  • Palisades Park is one of our favorite recommendations. Stretching along Ocean Avenue above the Pacific, it's perfect for a leisurely morning walk with cool ocean breezes and some of the best views in Los Angeles.
  • Tongva Park offers beautiful landscaping, walking paths, and shady spots to relax after grabbing coffee downtown.
  • If you're looking for a little shopping, Montana Avenue has several dog-friendly patios and boutiques where well-behaved pups are welcome. Likewise, many of the restaurants along Main Street Santa Monica welcome dogs on their outdoor patios, making it easy to enjoy brunch without leaving your best friend at home.
  • For longer walks, head to the Marvin Braude Beach Bike Trail, where leashed dogs can enjoy miles of ocean views while you soak up the California sunshine.

(Just remember that while Santa Monica's beaches are beautiful, dogs are not permitted on most city beaches, so plan your beach adventures accordingly.)

Beach Adventures

If your dog dreams of sand between their paws, there are still plenty of options nearby.

Rosie's Dog Beach in Long Beach is the only legal off-leash dog beach in Los Angeles County and is well worth the drive. Dogs can splash in the surf, run freely, and make plenty of new friends.

For a quieter outing, Leo Carrillo State Park in Malibu allows leashed dogs in the campground, day-use areas, and sections of the beach, making it a beautiful destination for both hiking and coastal exploring.

Always bring fresh water, avoid the hottest hours of the day, and rinse saltwater from your dog's coat and paws afterward.

Hit the Trails 

Living near the Santa Monica Mountains means some incredible hiking opportunities. 

For local adventures, explore Temescal Canyon, Topanga State Park, or the trails throughout the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, where many trails welcome leashed dogs.

Looking to venture farther?

Summer hiking requires a little extra planning. Bring more water than you think you'll need, avoid midday heat, and always keep an eye out for rattlesnakes and foxtails—two hazards we treat regularly here at Santa Monica Pet Medical Center.

Let Them Run

Sometimes dogs simply need room to stretch their legs.

Some of our favorite dog parks include:

Dog parks are wonderful for socialization, but they aren't the right fit for every dog. If your pup is shy, fearful, or easily overwhelmed, a quiet walk may be far more enjoyable.

Patio Dining with Your Pup

One of the best parts of living in Los Angeles is that many restaurants now welcome dogs on their patios. 

A few favorites include:

Many restaurants provide water bowls, treats, and plenty of smiles for canine guests. It's still a good idea to call ahead since policies occasionally change.

Dog-Friendly Breweries

If you're meeting friends for an afternoon drink, your dog doesn't have to miss out.

Some local favorites include:

Many breweries host adoption events, food trucks, trivia nights, and seasonal dog gatherings throughout the year.

Fun Events Throughout the Year

Los Angeles loves celebrating dogs almost as much as we do.

Watch for events like:

  • PAW Fest Experience
  • DTLA Dog Day
  • Santa Monica Artisan Markets
  • Puppy Yoga fundraisers
  • Brewery fun runs
  • LA Galaxy "Pups at the Pitch"
  • Adoption events hosted by local rescue organizations

Before attending any large event, think about your dog's personality. Social butterflies usually love the excitement, while more reserved dogs may be happier with a quieter outing.

Visiting Los Angeles?

Traveling with your pet has never been easier.

Many hotels—including The Garland, Hotel Bel-Air, Fairmont Century Plaza, Kimpton Everly, Regent Santa Monica Beach, and Beverly Wilshire—welcome pets with special amenities.

Flying through LAX? The airport features therapy dogs through its Pets Unstressing Passengers (PUP) program and multiple pet relief stations throughout the terminals.

Cat Lovers, We've Got You Covered Too

Dogs may steal the spotlight, but Los Angeles offers plenty of fun for cat enthusiasts as well.

Cat lovers in Los Angeles will discover that their feline friends are everywhere in the city. From kitty adoption centers to close encounters with big cats, read on for the best cat places in LA to visit on International Cat Day (August 8), National Cat Day (October 29), or right meow!

If you're looking for a relaxing afternoon, visit one of LA's wonderful cat cafés.

  • CatCafe Lounge in West Los Angeles partners with Kitten Rescue and gives visitors the chance to enjoy coffee while spending time with dozens of adoptable cats.
  • Crumbs & Whiskers on Melrose is another favorite, combining cozy café vibes with rescue cats looking for forever homes.
  • If you're willing to venture south, Feline Good Social Club in Long Beach offers another unique opportunity to cuddle, play with, and potentially adopt rescue cats.
  • For book lovers, The Iliad Bookshop in North Hollywood is famous not only for its incredible collection of used books but also for its resident feline "employees."
  • And if you're fascinated by big cats, don't miss the impressive jaguar habitat at the Los Angeles Zoo.

Outdoor Adventures for Cats

Believe it or not, many cats enjoy outdoor adventures—provided they're introduced slowly and safely.

If your cat is comfortable wearing a harness or traveling in a backpack carrier, consider visiting quieter locations such as:

The key is remembering that cats experience the world very differently than dogs. Loud crowds, barking dogs, and busy festivals can be overwhelming. Choose calm environments, always use a secure harness or carrier, and let your cat decide how much exploring they're comfortable with.

And if your cat prefers the comfort of a sunny windowsill? That's perfectly okay too.

A Few Final Safety Tips

No matter where your adventures take you, a little preparation makes every outing safer.

  • Bring plenty of fresh water.
  • Avoid hot pavement—it can burn paws in seconds.
  • Keep your pet on year-round flea, tick, and heartworm prevention.
  • Make sure your pet wears identification and has an up-to-date microchip.
  • Watch carefully for signs of overheating, fatigue, or dehydration.
  • Pack a small pet first aid kit if you're planning longer outings.

At Santa Monica Pet Medical Center, we believe pets deserve to experience life alongside the people who love them. Whether you're catching a sunset at Palisades Park, hiking through the Santa Monica Mountains, or sipping coffee with your favorite feline at a cat café, Los Angeles is full of opportunities to make lasting memories together.

We'd love to hear about your favorite pet-friendly spots around town. Maybe we'll see you there!