I'm going to say something controversial: if a resort doesn't welcome my dog, I don't want to stay there. My 12-pound terrier mix goes everywhere with me, and I refuse to board him at some depressing kennel while I go have fun. He IS the fun. He IS the vacation. We're a package deal.
Finding genuinely pet-friendly vacation deals (not just "we'll tolerate your animal for a $250 fee") takes some research, but the options have gotten SO much better in recent years. Here are the best destinations and resort deals for traveling with your small dog. Check our latest vacation deals for pet-friendly options.
1. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California — The Most Dog-Friendly Town in America
Carmel is literally famous for being dog-friendly. Dogs are allowed off-leash on the beach (and it's a gorgeous beach), most restaurants have dog-friendly patios, and many shops keep water bowls and treats by the door. The town has more dog bakeries per capita than people bakeries, which tells you everything you need to know.
Pet-friendly resort deals in the Carmel/Monterey area start at $139/night. The Cypress Inn (co-owned by Doris Day) is legendarily dog-friendly. Many hotels here charge zero pet fees for small dogs, which is basically unheard of.
2. Asheville, North Carolina — Dog-Friendly Brewery Capital
Asheville might be the most dog-friendly city in the eastern US. Almost every brewery has a dog-friendly patio (and Asheville has 30+ breweries). The trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway welcome leashed dogs. Many downtown restaurants have patio seating where your pup can join you for dinner.
Pet-friendly resort deals in Asheville start at $109/night. The Biltmore Estate grounds are dog-friendly (leashed), and the city's vibe is generally "bring your dog everywhere." Browse our destination page for mountain resort deals.
3. San Diego, California — Dog Beach Paradise
Ocean Beach Dog Beach is one of the original off-leash dog beaches in America, and it's a paradise for small dogs (there's a separate section for smaller pups). Coronado Dog Beach and Fiesta Island off-leash park are also excellent. San Diego's outdoor dining culture means most patios welcome dogs.
Marriott Mission Valley resort deals start at $129/night with pet-friendly policies. The Kimpton chain has several San Diego hotels with no pet fees and no weight limits — they genuinely love dogs, not just dog owners' money.
4. Savannah, Georgia — Dogs in the Squares
Savannah's 22 public squares are all dog-friendly, and the city's outdoor dining scene means your pup can join you at most restaurants. The Forsyth Park fountain area is a popular dog-socializing spot. River Street is dog-friendly, and several ghost tour operators welcome well-behaved dogs.
Marriott properties in Savannah's historic district start at $119/night with pet-friendly rooms. Pet fees vary by property but are typically $50-100 for the entire stay. The walkable nature of Savannah means you and your dog can explore together on foot all day.
5. Gatlinburg, Tennessee — Mountain Trails with Your Pup
While dogs aren't allowed on most trails inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park (a bummer), the Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail both welcome leashed dogs. Outside the park, dozens of dog-friendly trails wind through the Smokies. Many Gatlinburg shops and restaurants have dog-friendly patios.
Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort offers pet-friendly vacation deals from $79/night. Several cabin rental companies in the area also welcome dogs with fenced yards — a great option for small dogs who like to run around off-leash in a safe environment.
6. Key West, Florida — Laid-Back Dog Living
Key West's laid-back vibe extends to dogs. Most outdoor restaurants welcome dogs, the beaches are accessible (though not all allow dogs — check specific beaches), and the compact, walkable island is perfect for small dog owners. The Hemingway Home's famous six-toed cats might be of... intense interest to your dog from a safe distance.
Pet-friendly Marriott and Wyndham properties in Key West start at $129/night. Dog beach on the Atlantic side is specifically designated for dogs and their owners.
| Dog-Friendly Destination | Resort Price | Pet Fee | Off-Leash Areas | Dog-Friendly Dining |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carmel, CA | From $139/night | $0-50 | Beach (off-leash) | Extensive |
| Asheville, NC | From $109/night | $25-75 | Dog parks | Most breweries |
| San Diego, CA | From $129/night | $0-100 | 3 dog beaches | Most patios |
| Savannah, GA | From $119/night | $50-100 | Forsyth Park areas | Most outdoor seating |
| Gatlinburg, TN | From $79/night | $25-75 | Cabins with yards | Select patios |
| Key West, FL | From $129/night | $50-100 | Dog Beach | Most outdoor venues |
Your small dog is a member of the family, and family members don't get left behind. These destinations prove that pet-friendly doesn't have to mean pet-tolerated — these are places that genuinely welcome your four-legged travel companion. Visit our brand resort pages for pet-friendly property details. Pack the treats and hit the road.