A four-star luxury resort pampers guests with chef-created room service menus, plush 300-thread count sheets, soothing massages and—chew toys? A recent statistic reveals that more than 30 million Americans travel with their pets. Judging by the number of creative pet perks being offered by the luxury resort industry, a high number of these pet-toting travelers are looking for top-notch personal service for both themselves and their furry companions.
If a luxury stay is what you and your four-legged travel companion crave, then it is easy to plan an over-the-top “Dogcation” this spring and summer in these Southern California luxury retreats. Choose from a wide array of options that give “pet-friendly” a new, decadent meaning. And, if you’re a well behaved human, you can share in the pampering.
For any special arrangements or concerns, contact the establishment’s concierge. But be prepared—your precious pup may not want to “check out.”
Beverly Hills, CA
The Peninsula Beverly Hills is revered for its classic elegance and private estate feel. Bursts of color and crystal chandeliers permeate its bright interiors that are surrounded by tropical gardens. The five-star hotel not only knows how to pamper its human guests, but dog-guests get the same five-star service, beginning with a deluxe doggie bed, personalized towels and complimentary dog-walking services offered by the hotel’s white-coated Peninsula Pages. It is the special menu that puts the hotel over the top. Order your pampered pooch the “Brutus Filet Mignon” for a special dining delight. Pampering goes over the top with an in-room doggie massage, but why not?
Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel
Santa Monica, CA
Personal service goes beyond the human guest at Loews Hotels & Resorts, which have a reputation of being one of the most pet-friendly hotel groups you will find. The four-diamond beachfront hotel with award-winning Ocean & Vine restaurant, spa and 347 newly renovated, deluxe guest rooms sits in an idyllic locale near the pier, chic shopping and toe-touching-sand amenities. The hotel’s pet friendliness begins at check-in with a welcoming letter from the GM and amenities such as pet toys, bedding and more. Owners get a detailed brochure outlining hotel pet services—such as “Loews Loves Pets” room service menu, local dog walking routes and area pet services, from veterinarians to groomers. Other extras available to guests are dog and cat beds, leashes and collars, rawhide bones, catnip, scratch posts, litter boxes and litter, and, of course, pooper scoopers Pet-walking and pet-sitting services are also available.
Costa Mesa , CA
The newly redesigned hotel sits in a perfect locale for pedestrian fun, a few steps from the Orange County Performing Arts Center and a walking bridge walk from the South Coast Plaza uptown shopping and dining complex. You can basically park the car and walk your entire stay. The Westin’s trademark Heavenly® Bed, fashioned of foot-thick pillow topping is the hallmark of the posh and nurturing guest rooms that also feature a Heavenly Bath. But, the bed is not just for human guests. Pooch gets one too, and the four-legged version is just as plush made of custom-designed oversized pet pillows, covered in a Heavenly ® bed duvet, which mimics the human version. Critters also are given a welcome package of treats. Nicely, your big pooch, up to 40 pounds, is just as welcome as small dogs.
Del Mar, CA
Del Mar has two miles of sparkling coastline, with beaches for everyone, so it’s not surprising that even dogs have their own small beach. For a canines-only experience, walk north to the border of Solana Beach to Dog Beach. The beach is designed for canine fun in the surf, digging in the sand and Frisbee catching. However, if your dog wants serious surfing skills, “Surf Dog” lessons are offered to participants of Del Mar’s annual Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon held in September.
Some of Del Mar’s most coveted bistros are Fido friendly, so no reason to leave puppy behind. Pets get snacks while you get some gourmet coastal cuisine. For a sunset glass of wine staring out to the waves, take your pooch with you to Il Fornaio’s Del Mar. You get wine overlooking the Pacific; Fido gets water and shade.
While in Del Mar, head to supreme dog and people luxury at L’Auberge Del Mar. Concierge services include dog sitter and dining recommendations, although we know Dexter’s Deli in Del Mar Village is a dog resort favorite. There is a $125 fee per stay.
Carlsbad, CA
One of Carlsbad’s “secret” finds is the West Inn & Suites, centrally located within a five-minute drive to everywhere you want to be—from LEGOLAND to the village shops. The boutique hotel with 86 luxurious rooms and suites is becoming a favorite with both business and pleasure travelers alike because of its many special touches and free amenities—from a complimentary hot breakfast and an evening pouring of special wines to the night-time nightcap of cookies and milk. The hotel, just a quarter-mile from Carlsbad State Beach, also loves its pet guests. Even before you check in, pet bowls, beds and a welcome bag with treats are placed in the room, along with pet aromatherapy. A dog run and dog park, equipped with a dog water fountain and bags are on site; dogs are allowed on the Bistro patio while you dine.
