The Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in California: Your Ultimate 2024 Guide
- sky mozart
- 12 minutes ago
- 15 min read
Planning a California getaway with your four-legged best friend? You're in luck. The Golden State is packed with stunning destinations, and finding a stylish place that welcomes pets is easier than ever. But not all pet-friendly hotels are created equal. The best spots combine chic design, thoughtful amenities, and a genuine love for furry guests, ensuring your next trip is as comfortable for them as it is luxurious for you.
TL;DR – Why The Muse Hotel Palm Springs Is a Standout
Adults-only boutique hotel with private patios
Located minutes from downtown in Warm Sands
Each suite features a unique muse-inspired theme
Heated floral pool, fire pit, swings, & stylish common areas
Great for couples, bachelorettes, and full property buyouts
This guide breaks down the absolute best pet friendly hotels in California, highlighting properties that offer a true experience for both you and your companion. While many options exist, for those seeking a blend of desert chic, privacy, and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere for groups and their pets, [The Muse Hotel Palm Springs](https://www.themusehotelpalmsprings.com) consistently stands out. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a bachelorette party, or a full hotel buyout, this list provides the insights needed to book the perfect stay.
1. The Muse Hotel Palm Springs – A Boutique Stay with Style, Soul, and Seclusion
A true adults-only oasis, The Muse Hotel Palm Springs blends mid-century modern design, sun-drenched private patios, and group-ready suites into one of the most stylish hotels in Palm Springs. With a heated floral-covered pool, full kitchens in many suites, and iconic muse-themed rooms, it’s perfect for bachelorette weekends, romantic getaways, or private hotel buyouts where your furry friends are welcome. Its enclosed, peaceful courtyard offers a safe and beautiful environment for your pet to enjoy the California sun right alongside you.

Why It Excels for Pet Owners and Groups
The Muse Hotel’s true distinction lies in its ability to cater to both intimate getaways and larger group events without compromising its pet-friendly ethos. The option for a full-property buyout transforms the hotel into your private desert oasis, accommodating up to 21 guests across its 10 beds and 9 baths. This makes it an unparalleled choice for bachelorette parties, milestone birthday celebrations, or corporate retreats where pets are part of the guest list. If you’re planning a stylish weekend in the desert, The Muse belongs at the top of your list.
Key Features and Practical Details
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Accommodations | Nine uniquely designed suites. Options range from one-bedroom suites to a full-property buyout for up to 21 guests. |
Pet Policy | Welcoming to pets, with a serene courtyard providing a safe and enjoyable outdoor space. Contact the hotel for specifics on fees or restrictions. |
Key Amenities | Heated floral-covered pool, outdoor fireplace, pergola with swings, private patios, and full kitchens/kitchenettes in many suites. |
Complimentary Perks | Free breakfast, high-speed Wi-Fi, and on-site parking are included. |
Pricing | As a boutique hotel with dynamic rates, exact pricing requires direct booking through their website. This ensures you get the most accurate information for your specific dates and needs. |
Pros:
Adults-Only Atmosphere: Creates a peaceful, sophisticated environment ideal for couples and groups.
Design-Forward Aesthetic: Stunning mid-century modern design makes for a highly memorable and photogenic stay.
Group-Friendly Flexibility: The full-property buyout option is a standout feature for private events.
Excellent Amenities: The combination of a beautiful pool, outdoor social spaces, and in-suite kitchens offers exceptional value.
Cons:
Limited Availability: With only nine rooms, the hotel can book up quickly, especially for popular dates and events.
Not for Families with Children: The strict adults-only policy means it is not an option for those traveling with kids.
No On-Site Restaurant: Beyond the complimentary breakfast, there is no full-service restaurant or spa, though its proximity to downtown Palm Springs places countless dining options just minutes away.
🌟 Spotlight on The Muse Hotel Palm Springs ✔ Adults-only, private & peaceful ✔ Hot tub + floral pergola courtyard ✔ Stylish mid-century aesthetic ✔ Kitchenettes & patios in every suite ✔ Ideal for groups & full buyouts 👉 Explore The Muse Hotel
2. BringFido
For pet owners who see their furry companions as non-negotiable travel partners, BringFido is less of a booking site and more of an essential resource. Unlike general travel platforms where pet policies can be an afterthought, BringFido is built from the ground up specifically for traveling with animals. It aggregates hotels, vacation rentals, and even campgrounds, providing a centralized place to find the best pet friendly hotels in California without the usual guesswork.

The platform’s greatest strength is its clarity. Each listing features a dedicated "Pet Policy" section that outlines crucial details upfront, such as weight limits, the number of pets allowed per room, and any associated fees. This transparency helps you avoid unpleasant surprises at check-in and ensures the property you choose is genuinely welcoming to your pet, not just tolerant.
How to Maximize BringFido for Your Trip
BringFido's interface is designed for efficiency. The search filters are its most powerful feature, allowing you to narrow down options based on specific needs that other sites overlook.
Pet Size Filters: Search for hotels that welcome big dogs ("Large Pets OK") or stick to places that only allow small pets.
Fee Filters: Instantly see which properties charge a pet fee versus those that let pets stay for free.
Pet Count: Specify if you are traveling with more than one animal to find accommodating properties.
The user-generated content is another major advantage. The reviews are written by fellow pet owners, offering practical insights you won't find elsewhere, like which rooms are closest to grassy areas or how the staff interacts with four-legged guests. While not all properties can be booked directly on the site, the platform provides clear links to complete the reservation. For an even smoother experience, their customer service team, known as the "Pet-Friendly Travel Experts," can be reached by phone to help with complex bookings or special requests.
Expert Tip: Always double-check the pet policy on the hotel's official website or call them directly before finalizing your booking. Policies can change, and confirming ensures a seamless check-in experience for you and your pet.
For a comprehensive look at preparing for your journey, you can find valuable advice on how to travel with pets, ensuring your trip is stress-free for everyone involved. Planning ahead is key to a successful pet-friendly vacation.
3. Hotels.com (One Key)
As one of the largest online travel agencies, Hotels.com offers a massive inventory that makes it a powerful tool for finding accommodations across the entire state. For pet owners, its main appeal lies in its sheer volume and user-friendly interface, which simplifies the process of locating the best pet friendly hotels in California. By integrating pet-friendly search capabilities into its robust platform, it allows you to compare a wide variety of options, from budget motels to luxury resorts, all in one place.
The platform stands out by combining its vast selection with the benefits of its unified loyalty program, One Key. This means that booking a stay for you and your furry friend can also earn you rewards applicable across Expedia and Vrbo. Hotels.com provides clear, real-time pricing and prominently displays cancellation policies, giving you the flexibility and confidence needed when travel plans might change.
How to Maximize Hotels.com for Your Trip
The strength of Hotels.com is in its powerful and familiar filtering system. A few clicks can transform thousands of listings into a curated list tailored to your specific travel needs with your pet.
"Pet-Friendly" Filter: This is your starting point. Under the "Amenities" filter, simply check the "Pet-friendly" box to instantly remove all properties that do not welcome animals.
Map View: Use the map feature to visually explore pet-friendly hotels in your desired neighborhood, ensuring you’re close to parks, trails, or other attractions.
Member Pricing: Log in to your One Key account to unlock exclusive member-only discounts on many properties, adding extra value to your booking.
While the site excels at aggregating options, the level of detail in the pet policy can vary between listings. Some hotels provide comprehensive information directly on the page, while others may require an extra step to confirm specifics like fees or size restrictions. The platform's direct booking and transparent checkout process, however, make it a reliable and efficient choice for securing your stay.
Expert Tip: After finding a hotel you like, scan the "Hotel Policies" or "Important Information" section near the bottom of the listing. This is often where you'll find details about pet fees, which may be collected at the property rather than during online checkout.
For travelers seeking a seamless booking experience with the added perk of a loyalty program, Hotels.com is an invaluable resource. You can explore a vast range of options and find even more inspiration in our comprehensive 2025 guide to the top 7 pet-friendly hotels in California, which highlights how platforms like Hotels.com (One Key) can be used to book amazing stays.
4. Expedia (One Key)
For travelers who love bundling deals and earning rewards, Expedia is a powerhouse OTA (Online Travel Agency) that makes finding pet-friendly accommodations across the Golden State simple and efficient. While not a pet-centric platform, its massive inventory and robust filtering system make it an excellent tool for locating the best pet friendly hotels in California. Its integration into the One Key rewards program means every booking can contribute to future travel savings, a huge plus for frequent adventurers.
Expedia’s main advantage lies in its scale and convenience. You can compare hundreds of hotels side-by-side, read verified guest reviews, and bundle your stay with flights or car rentals, all in one place. The platform clearly displays pricing with taxes and fees included upfront, helping you budget accurately. Many listings also feature flexible cancellation policies, giving you peace of mind when planning your trip with your furry companion.
How to Maximize Expedia for Your Trip
Expedia’s strength is its ability to quickly sift through thousands of listings to find exactly what you need. Using its filters effectively is the key to a successful search for you and your pet.
"Pet-Friendly" Filter: This is the most crucial first step. Apply it on any city or destination page to immediately remove properties that do not welcome animals.
"No Pet Fees" Filter: Some properties allow pets to stay free of charge. Use this filter to potentially save money, though options may be more limited.
Member Pricing: Log into your One Key account to unlock exclusive discounts and earn rewards on your booking, turning your pet-friendly stay into a smarter financial decision.
While the "Pet-Friendly" filter is a great starting point, the specifics of a hotel's policy can sometimes be hidden. After narrowing your choices, always click into the "Policies" or "Important Information" section of a hotel’s listing to find details on weight limits, pet fees, or breed restrictions. These fees are often charged directly by the hotel at check-in rather than being included in the online payment.
Expert Tip: Expedia is fantastic for initial research and booking, but pet policies can be nuanced. If a hotel’s policy on the site seems vague, find the property’s direct phone number and call to confirm the details. Ask about specific fees, where your pet is allowed on the property, and if they offer any pet amenities.
For those planning a group getaway to a destination like Palm Springs, using Expedia to compare options is smart, but for a truly seamless and stylish experience, a boutique property like The Muse Hotel Palm Springs offers a level of curated detail and group-friendly privacy that larger hotels cannot match.
5. Booking.com
As one of the world's largest online travel agencies, Booking.com is a powerhouse for its sheer volume of options. While not exclusively for pets, its massive inventory includes a wide array of hotels, cabins, and vacation homes, making it a reliable tool for finding the best pet friendly hotels in California, especially when you need flexibility. Its strength lies in offering diverse accommodation types beyond traditional hotels, which can be a lifesaver when conventional spots are fully booked.

The platform's value for pet owners comes from the detailed "House Rules" section found on many individual listings. Here, hosts and hoteliers often specify their exact pet policies, including potential fees, weight limits, and any restrictions. This clarity, combined with features like flexible cancellation and "pay at property" options, provides peace of mind when planning your trip.
How to Maximize Booking.com for Your Trip
Successfully navigating Booking.com requires using its filters and paying close attention to individual property details. While the initial search filter for "Pets allowed" is a great start, the real insights are found within the listings themselves.
Initial Filtering: Always start your search by selecting the "Pets allowed" filter under the "Facilities" section to narrow down the pool of properties.
Review House Rules: Once you have a shortlist, click into each property and scroll down to the "House rules" or "The fine print" section. This is where you’ll find specific details on pet fees, breed restrictions, and the number of pets permitted.
Variety of Stays: Don't limit your search to just hotels. Use the platform to explore pet-friendly vacation homes or cabins, which often provide more space and private outdoor areas for your furry friends.
A major advantage of Booking.com is the breadth of its inventory, from budget motels to luxurious resorts. However, the user experience can sometimes be inconsistent, as you may need to click on several listings to confirm pet policies instead of seeing them all at the list level. Despite this extra step, its extensive options and clear rules on property pages make it an indispensable resource for any pet-loving traveler.
Expert Tip: After finding a promising property, use the "Contact the host" or messaging feature to confirm their pet policy directly. This is the best way to clarify any questions about fees or specific rules before you commit to a non-refundable booking.
For those planning a stylish getaway, exploring options on platforms like Booking.com can uncover hidden gems. You can learn more about finding the perfect dog-friendly luxury hotels for your stylish 2025 getaway and ensure your entire group, including pets, travels in comfort.
6. Airbnb (Pet-friendly stays)
When a traditional hotel room feels too restrictive for you and your furry companion, Airbnb offers a liberating alternative. Instead of a single room, you can book an entire home, cabin, or apartment, giving your pet the space to roam without the stress of shared hallways and unfamiliar noises. This peer-to-peer platform is an excellent tool for finding the best pet friendly hotels in California, especially for travelers seeking amenities like private yards, full kitchens, or a more local neighborhood vibe.

The platform’s major advantage is the sheer variety and specificity of its listings. From a mountain cabin in Lake Tahoe with a fenced-in yard to a beachfront bungalow in San Diego, you can find a stay that perfectly matches your trip’s style. Pet policies are set by individual hosts and are clearly detailed in the "House Rules" section of each listing, outlining any fees, size restrictions, or rules about pets on furniture. This direct-from-host information ensures you know exactly what to expect before you book.
How to Maximize Airbnb for Your Trip
Finding the perfect pet-friendly stay on Airbnb is simple if you know how to leverage its search tools and community-driven features effectively.
Apply the "Pets allowed" Filter: This is the most crucial first step. Located under the main search filters, this instantly narrows down the vast inventory to only include properties where hosts have explicitly welcomed animals.
Scrutinize the House Rules: Before booking, thoroughly read the host’s rules regarding pets. Look for specifics on cleaning fees, pet deposits, the number of pets allowed, and any off-limit areas.
Read Reviews from Other Pet Owners: User reviews are a goldmine of information. Use the search function within a listing's reviews to look for keywords like "dog," "pet," or "furry friend" to see what previous guests with animals had to say about their experience.
While Airbnb provides an incredible range of unique stays, keep in mind that fees can vary significantly between hosts. A pet fee on one property might be a flat rate, while another might charge a nightly fee, so it's important to factor this into your total budget at checkout. Communicating with your host about your pet before booking is also a great way to ensure a smooth and welcoming experience for everyone.
Expert Tip: Look for listings that mention specific pet-friendly amenities in their description, such as "fenced yard," "dog bowls provided," or "close to a dog park." These small details often indicate a host who truly welcomes four-legged guests.
Understanding how to find pet-friendly hotels for your next stylish getaway is key to a successful trip. Platforms like Airbnb give you the flexibility to choose a space that feels like a true home away from home.
7. Tripadvisor
While not a direct booking site, Tripadvisor is an indispensable research tool for pet owners planning a California getaway. It functions as a massive travel review and meta-search engine, aggregating hotel listings and, most importantly, user-generated feedback. For anyone trying to find the best pet friendly hotels in California, Tripadvisor offers a powerful way to vet properties through the authentic experiences of fellow travelers.
The platform’s core value lies in its sheer volume of reviews. While a hotel might list itself as "pet-friendly," Tripadvisor reviews reveal what that means in practice. You can quickly search reviews for keywords like "dog," "pet fee," or "dog park" to find specific comments about how a hotel treats its four-legged guests. This crowdsourced intelligence helps you understand the true pet-friendliness of a property beyond its official policy.
How to Maximize Tripadvisor for Your Trip
Tripadvisor’s strength is in comparison and validation. Its filters and review-centric design help you cross-reference information and find the best rates for genuinely pet-welcoming accommodations.
Filter for "Pets Allowed": Start by applying the "Pets Allowed" filter under the "Amenities" section to narrow down your search to relevant properties across California.
Search Within Reviews: Once you have a shortlist, use the search bar within a hotel’s review page to look for pet-related terms. This uncovers guest insights on everything from hidden fees to nearby walking trails.
Compare Rates: For each hotel listing, Tripadvisor displays prices from multiple booking partners like Booking.com, Expedia, and the hotel's own site. This meta-search feature makes it easy to spot the best deal without opening dozens of tabs.
While you are often redirected to a partner site to complete your booking, the ability to compare options and read candid feedback in one place is invaluable. The platform is particularly useful for major California destinations where the number of hotels can be overwhelming. Reading about other travelers' experiences with their pets provides a layer of confidence that a simple policy description cannot.
Expert Tip: Pay close attention to the date of pet-related reviews. Hotel policies can change, so a review from last month is far more reliable than one from several years ago. Always use the information to guide your choices, but confirm the final policy with the hotel.
For those planning a group trip to a destination like Palm Springs, a boutique property like The Muse Hotel Palm Springs often provides a more intimate and accommodating experience than larger chain hotels found on aggregator sites.
Pet-Friendly California Hotels — 7-Way Comparison
Item | 🔄 Implementation complexity | ⚡ Resource requirements / Efficiency | 📊 Expected outcomes | 💡 Ideal use cases | ⭐ Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
The Muse Hotel | Low for individual bookings; medium-high for full-property buyouts (event coordination) | Moderate — direct website/contact booking; on-site amenities reduce external needs | High-quality, personalized boutique stays with strong guest satisfaction | Romantic escapes, bachelorette weekends, small group buyouts, pet-friendly adult getaways | Design-forward, curated experiences; pet-friendly; intimate pool/courtyard amenities |
BringFido | Low — focused search and clear filters; some listings redirect to partners | Low — web/mobile search; occasional calls for special requests | Good pet-policy clarity and pet-centric match; inventory smaller than major OTAs | Travelers prioritizing clear pet policies and pet-specific reviews | Dedicated pet filters, policy details, pet-owner reviews |
Hotels.com (One Key) | Low — OTA workflow with pet filter and booking tools | Low — large inventory, One Key account speeds booking and member pricing | Wide selection, transparent pricing at checkout, rewards benefits | Users seeking many hotel options, member discounts, easy cancellations | Large inventory, real-time pricing, free-cancellation flags, One Key rewards |
Expedia (One Key) | Low — OTA booking; good for comparisons and bundling | Low — efficient for flight+hotel bundles; member pricing available | Broad coverage, frequent deals, flexible cancellation options | Travelers bundling travel or hunting deals with pet-friendly filters | Extensive listings, bundling options, deals and member pricing |
Booking.com | Low — fast booking but pet filters sometimes require opening listings | Low — huge inventory including non-hotel stays; pay-at-property options | Wide variety of accommodation types; pet rules often on listing pages | When hotels are full or when preferring cabins/vacation homes | Massive inventory, many non-hotel options, house rules visible on listings |
Airbnb (Pet-friendly stays) | Moderate — must read individual host house rules and fees | Moderate — messaging hosts and variable cleaning/pet fees; more space possible | Private homes with yards/pet amenities; fee transparency varies until checkout | Stays needing yards, private space, longer stays, rural/beach/desert retreats | Large selection of private homes, outdoor space, reduced pet stress |
Tripadvisor | Low — research-first flow; bookings redirect to partners | Low — compare rates and reviews across partners before booking | Strong review volume for vetting pet experiences; convenience in price comparison | Shortlisting properties, reading pet-specific guest feedback, cross-checking prices | Extensive traveler reviews, meta-search comparisons, aggregated booking links |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes The Muse Hotel unique among pet-friendly hotels in Palm Springs?The Muse Hotel stands out by offering an adults-only, design-forward boutique experience that’s ideal for groups. Its private, enclosed courtyard, suites with kitchenettes, and full-property buyout option make it feel like your own stylish desert hideaway, perfect for bachelorette parties or birthdays with furry friends in tow.
Is The Muse Hotel adults-only?Yes, The Muse Hotel is a strictly adults-only property, ensuring a peaceful and sophisticated atmosphere for couples, friends, and group getaways.
How close is The Muse Hotel to downtown Palm Springs?It is conveniently located just minutes from the buzz of downtown Palm Springs, giving you easy access to the city’s best restaurants, shops, and attractions while being tucked into the quiet and desirable Warm Sands neighborhood.
Is The Muse a good hotel for groups or bachelorettes?Absolutely. With the ability to sleep up to 21 guests, a central floral courtyard pool, and a full-property buyout option, it's one of the best hotels in Palm Springs for bachelorette parties, birthdays, and stylish group getaways.
Are there full kitchens and private patios?Many of the uniquely themed suites at The Muse feature kitchenettes or full kitchens and private, sun-drenched patios, blending hotel luxury with the comforts of home.
Your Perfect Pet-Friendly California Adventure Awaits
California offers endless possibilities for exploration with your four-legged best friend. Navigating the world of pet-friendly travel can seem daunting, but the right tools and knowledge can transform a good trip into an unforgettable one. While Palm Springs is filled with boutique options, The Muse Hotel Palm Springs consistently stands out thanks to its thoughtful design, curated experiences, and peaceful vibe just minutes from the city’s best restaurants and shops.
Whether you're planning a Palm Springs weekend getaway, a girls’ trip, or simply want a more stylish place to unwind with your pet, The Muse Hotel Palm Springs brings together privacy, design, and atmosphere in one beautifully curated package.
Ready to experience a desert oasis that welcomes both you and your furry friend with chic, boutique style? For a truly memorable and pet-friendly getaway in Palm Springs, discover the unique suites and private, sun-drenched courtyards at The Muse Hotel. Book your stylish escape at The Muse Hotel today!

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