The Best Pet-Friendly Airbnbs in California • The Blonde Abroad

Wander the Redwood forest, take into the dramatic beauty of the desert, surf those Pacific waves, or dance the night away in Hollywood. California is everything to everyone.

Maybe I’m partial as a native California girl, but even after traveling the world over, there is no place like home.

Whatever you have in mind for California, I can confirm everything is better with a furry friend at your side (just check out all of the adventures my little man has had!). Fortunately, it is easy to find dog-friend accommodation in California.

On the hunt for the perfect place? Grab your four-legged friend and check out the best pet-friendly Airbnbs in California.

Santa Cruz, California

This one-bedroom apartment in Santa Cruz is perfectly nestled between the beach and the best restaurants in the city.

Lounge on the private balcony and admire the free fruits in the courtyard below while you sip a brew from one of the local coffeehouses.

BOOK HERE

Carlsbad, California

A ten-minute walk from downtown Carlsbad, this one-bedroom cottage is perfect for exploring Carlsbad Outlet, Legoland, the Carlsbad Flower Fields, and beyond.

After a long day of exploring, lounge in the quiet oasis outback, complete with a fire pit, grill, outdoor showers, and play area for kids.

BOOK HERE

 

Mariposa, California

With room for eight guests, this 2,800+ sq. foot Mariposa lodge has a dreamy location just between Yosemite and Bass Lake.

While it’s a perfect base for exploring the area, it’s also a great pic for a staycation thanks to its spacious yard with a BBQ and hot tub.

BOOK HERE

South Lake Tahoe, California

Just beside the Tahoe Paradise Golf Course, this spacious chalet for eight has stunning views and plenty of space to spread out for cozy nights in front of the fire.

BOOK HERE

Paso Robles, California

Located in Paso Robles, this one-bedroom loft is a chic option for couples looking to sip their way down the famous Adelaida Road Wine Trail.

Planning Tip: Still debating where to go? Be sure to check out my Top Things to See and Do in Northern California guide.

BOOK HERE

Palm Springs, California

This stylish Twin Peaks cabin for four is a dream home for travelers with kids or furry babies in tow.

While the kids play out back in the timber fort, there is plenty of space for the grown-ups to spread out over two oversized decks and a spacious interior.

BOOK HERE

 

Joshua Tree, California

Nestled on five acres just outside of Joshua Tree, this one-bedroom cabin has all of the creature comforts, along with unforgettable views of the sunrise and sunset right from the front porch.

BOOK HERE

Big Bear Lake, California

This newly created cabin for five in Bear Lake has a picture-perfect location amongst the majestic mountain pines. Newly remodeled this two-bedroom home checks all of the boxes.

BOOK HERE

Joshua Tree, California

Situated on more than 22 acres, this cute cabin has everything that you need to get away from the world and fully disconnected (while still enjoying all of the comforts of home).

BOOK HERE

 

Geyserville, California

This one-bedroom escape overlooks the beautiful Alexander Valley. Meet the locals on the host’s six-acre refuge farm then stroll into town for world-class wine.

BOOK HERE

Los Angeles, California

Featured in Dwell Magazine, Curbed, Beyond the Gates, and Robb Report, this ultra-luxe home has a sweeping view of Los Angeles. With room for seven, this well-appointed property will impress at every turn.

BOOK HERE

Los Angeles, California

This magical house for six overlooking the Hollywood hills is a secluded paradise in one of the city’s most sought-after areas.

Sip your morning coffee while you admire the views, lounge in the magical garden by the pool, then curl up in front of the fireplace.

BOOK HERE

Yucca Valley, California

With room for eight, this stylish villa is straight out of a design magazine.

While you could spend a weekend just admiring the space, you can also take a quick 15-minute drive to Joshua Tree National Park or hop in the car for a ten-minute trip to Pioneertown.

Planning Tip: Joshua Tree has so many one-of-a-kind things to do and places to explore. Before you go, grab my guide to Joshua Tree in a weekend.

BOOK HERE

 

San Luis Obispo, California

Savor the 360-Degree vineyard views from the tranquil deck, mingle with the four-legged locals wandering amongst the fruit trees, then gather around the fire pit for an evening under the stars.

BOOK HERE

Venice, California

With room for eight in the heart of Venice, this charming beach house will steal your heart from the moment that you turn the key.

With en-suite bathrooms and private patios, this place is perfect for big groups who want to be able to spread out and share a bit of private space.

Planning Tip: Want to make the most of every moment in Venice Beach? Grab my insider’s guide to the best of the best.

BOOK HERE

 

Malibu, California

Soak in the Malibu Glamour in this luxury space for ten guests. Admire the Pacific sunset views while you like a royal in this legendary oceanfront neighborhood.

BOOK HERE

Stinson Beach, California

With room for 14 in Stinson Beach, this luxury lodge has everything from an antique Bechstein piano to a hidden speakeasy (complete with a poker room!) to a pond with two welcoming turtles named Tom and Jerry.

BOOK HERE

San Francisco, California

This four-bedroom historical home in San Francisco has been lovingly preserved with its original design features still intact, along with all of the modern conveniences that will make you feel right at home in the Golden Gate City.

With so many things to do in SF, this is an ideal base for exploring.

BOOK HERE

Once you’ve decided on the perfect place for your pooch, check out my complete California Travel Guide.

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What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking • The Blonde Abroad

I’ve fallen in love with exploring the great outdoors and (ethically) seeing animals in their natural habitat. From national parks around the globe to unforgettable diving locales, some of my best memories have been far from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Of all these magical excursions, having the opportunity to go gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the experiences that I hold nearest and dearest to my heart.

Getting ready to go on the adventure of a lifetime and have no idea what to pack? Here are all of the things I would suggest packing to go gorilla trekking.

You Can Pack Really Light

Keep it simple! You’re going to find weight restrictions on the small planes that take you out to the best trekking spots. In sub-Saharan Africa, bush flights mean small planes (I mean, seriously tiny).

If you’re connecting on a flight from Entebbe to Kihihi, for example, there are restrictions on the baggage weight as well as the type of suitcase. For most flights, the Aerolink Uganda luggage policy says that you can only bring soft-sided luggage up to 15 kgs (33 lbs).

While I’d heard that you get so close to the gorillas that you don’t really need a zoom lens, I’m glad that I decided to bring mine.

If you’re traveling solo or planning to do nighttime photography, you might want to bring your tripod too.

Helpful Tip:

With the tropical weather, we found that most nights were too rainy to see the stars or do much photography. You’ll have different luck at different times of the year. Check out the Best Time to Travel to Uganda to know what to expect.

Photography Gear

I shot on my FUJIFILM X-T4 and brought my 35mm prime lens which was perfect for snapping pics around Bwindi. I also found myself using the FUJIFILM XF 50-140mm Telephoto Zoom F2.8 R LM OIS WR Lens for a lot of shots.

A zoom lens (16-55 2.8) is great for those times you’re lucky enough to get up-close and personal for gorilla snapshots.

On our trip though, I found myself reaching for the 50-140mm 2.8 lens time after time. It was an ideal choice for pics and videos because of the optical image stabilization.

With bokeh, I was able to get gorgeous portrait shots because of the fixed 2.8 aperture. While it is definitely a big lens, it was well worth it.

Similar Boots for Trekking

Sturdy Footwear

This is one walk through the park that will definitely give you a serious workout. We’re talking several hours of uphill hiking so come prepared.

Find a pair of waterproof hiking boots with ankle support or rain boots.

If you aren’t able to bring the right footwear, you can rent rain boots at the park headquarters when you arrive for the initial briefing. It’s only a few dollars and far better than slipping around in sandals.

Unless it’s an impromptu trip or you’re really lacking luggage space, I’d highly recommend shopping ahead of time. Browse my rundown of the best shoes and boots for traveling, then wear in your pair a bit before you arrive to make them comfortable.

On top of hiking boots, I noticed a few other trekkers wearing waterproof ankle covers, which you can purchase at any outdoor sports store.

While I was happy enough in hiking boots, I found my socks and jeans pretty caked in mud by the end of the day.

What to Wear: Clothing Made for the Rainforest

Regardless of the time of year, plan for wet weather and a long day outside. Here’s a quick checklist:

Sturdy Footwear

See above, and definitely be sure to see how your new boots fare on a long walk before you arrive. They might be comfortable when you try them on, but you’ve got to know how your feet will be feeling after five hours of hiking.

Long Socks

I actually found a pair of socks that are “bug repellant” and they did work to stop bugs from penetrating them.

Stretchable Pants

Be sure to opt for thick fabric because you’ll be walking by sharp greenery and be surrounded by bugs. Keep in mind that you will be climbing so test to see that you can get your knees hip-high without being uncomfortable.

I was relatively happy with my trekking style but wish it had the pants had a bit more stretch. Yoga pants could be a good pick, but make sure they’re not a material that snags easily.

 

Long Sleeve Athletic Top

Your shirt doesn’t have to be super thick so look for moisture-wicking material that will keep you cool.

 

Sunscreen

Even if it looks overcast, don’t underestimate the power of the sun. Put on sunscreen in the morning before you get dressed to make sure you start with a complete layer of coverage. It’s extremely sunny in the wide-open areas.

Bug Repellent

Do check with your guide on this one.

In Uganda, we were told not to wear bug repellants because they can actually attract wasps, which cause a much bigger problem. I didn’t use any during the entire trip and never had a bite.

This could be something specific to the time of year (early February) so be sure to ask. Things may be different in Rwanda or DRC.

Hat

We were in the sun a lot of and having a hat made a major difference. A scarf around your neck can be helpful too. I was incredibly sweaty and getting any bit of my skin out of the sun helped.

Opt for a hat that is good for sun or rain to cover all your bases.

 

Gardening Gloves

It’s all too easy to accidentally grab onto stinging nettle! While our lodge gave us gloves, it’s nice to have your own comfortable pair.

Rain Jacket

Optional, but helpful if there is rain in the forecast. Bring a lightweight coat that will keep you relatively dry.

 

Flip-Flops

After the hike, it will feel oh-so-good to kick off everything and slide these on. While it’s not essential, flip-flips are worth packing in if you have the space.

Binoculars

This is another for the maybe list. You will be close enough to see it all without them, but do bring binoculars on your trekking day if you’re already going to have them on the trip.

Once you’ve picked your accommodation option, touch base to see what they provide. At Sanctuary Retreats, they provided bags, walking sticks, and gloves for us to borrow.

Planning your Bag

The best option for luggage is to have a small waterproof backpack. Ideally, bring one bag per person. Keep in mind that you might want to shove your rain jacket into the bag later on and you will also be bringing a packed lunch.

When it comes to food and drinks do check with your accommodation as well, but, in any case, make sure you have snacks with at least a one-liter bottle of water with you.

Helpful Tip:

I got the worst blisters from this hike! Luckily I always pack moleskin and blister pads just in case. Since it is such a long day of walking, I’d recommend wrapping moleskin around your heels before you even go out.

Ready to set off on your bucket list adventure? Be sure to grab my Ultimate Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Uganda before you go.

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