Top 5 Dog-Friendly Fall Vacation Destinations

Fall is my favorite time to travel with my dog, Poppy. The cooler weather means your pup won’t overheat, the crowds have thinned out, and prices have dropped in popular destinations. Plus, fall foliage adds a splash of color to any trip. Whether your dog is a beach bum in California, a mountain explorer in Colorado, or a Mediterranean jet-setter, these five destinations are perfect for an unforgettable autumn adventure.

Costa Navarino, Greece

If your pup’s wagging tail says "European adventure," Costa Navarino is a dream destination. Located in the Messinia region of the Greek mainland, about three hours southwest of Athens, this luxurious resort community overlooks the sparkling Ionian Sea. But what makes it special for dog lovers is Costa Navarino’s heartwarming dedication to rescuing dogs in need.

The resort runs its own animal shelter, caring for up to 20 homeless dogs at a time. The focus is on helping vulnerable pups—puppies, seniors, and the injured—who wouldn’t survive on their own. These dogs attend special events at the resort, giving guests a chance to meet them and potentially offer a forever home. Costa Navarino had six dogs adopted this summer and more than 250 dogs have found forever homes over the years.

All four Costa Navarino resorts are dog-friendly, making it easy to plan a pet-inclusive vacation. Fall is a particularly great time to visit—the crowds have disappeared, but the Ionian Sea is still warm enough for a dip. While my Chiweenie, Poppy, doesn’t love swimming, she had a blast running zoomies along the golden sand beach at our resort. The staff was also quick to spoil her with wild rice and grilled chicken meals.

For off-resort adventures, head to Voidokilia Beach, one of the most pristine spots in Greece, where the calm waters are perfect for a tentative dog swimmer. Or take a short hike to the Kalamaris Waterfall, where you and your dog can cool off in crystal-clear, emerald-hued pools. And if you’re a golfer, Costa Navarino offers four of Greece’s ten golf courses.

Traveling to Greece with a small dog is relatively easy. Poppy has her EU pet passport, which simplifies the process, but if you don’t have one, you’ll need a USDA-approved health certificate from your veterinarian that is issued within ten days of travel. This costs around $300.

Where to Stay: The W Costa Navarino is a sleek, design-forward resort that doesn’t allow children under 12. The first W hotel in Greece has a more sophisticated vibe than many W’s in the U.S. Still, it doesn’t stray too far from the brand’s holistic fun vibe with a poolside DJ, trendy restaurants, and plenty of wellness offerings from yoga classes to an outdoor section of its gym. The therapists at the spa know what they are doing, and my massage was one of the best I’d had in years.

I also loved my room, which had a large terrace facing the sea, a private rooftop infinity pool, a divinely comfortable bed, and gallery-like artwork from Greek artists. The property smells delicious, with hints of lavender, jasmine, and oleander on its beautifully landscaped grounds. There are two beautiful swimming pools tumbling down to the beach and multiple restaurants and shops.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

If you’re looking for an accessible international dog-friendly vacation destination this fall, Riviera Maya is ideal. November is a sweet spot for visiting, with fewer crowds and lower temperatures than the summer heat. Plus, traveling to Mexico with your pup is incredibly simple—all you need is proof of their rabies vaccination.

From Cancun to Tulum, Riviera Maya’s beaches are postcard-perfect, with soft white sand and turquoise waters. You’ll find a variety of resorts that welcome small dogs, making it easy to relax on the beach with your furry friend. If cenotes (natural freshwater pools in sinkholes) are your jam, you can bring your pup to Cenote Masam. You will need to visit the Pet-Friendly Cenotes Facebook page to make a reservation to visit, as the owner keeps daily admissions low and does not advertise his location.

Where to Stay: The Waldorf Astoria Cancun is the ultimate luxury escape for you and your dog. Not only does the resort pamper its human guests, but it also goes all out for small dogs, with pet-friendly pool areas and even a room service menu for pups. The Waldorf’s house photographer can capture your dog’s best angles in a professional shoot, perfect for boosting your pet’s social media presence.

The stunning resort has a striking lobby, chic gold and blue decor, and impeccable service. Poppy loved sunbathing on our room's private balcony while I enjoyed the plunge pool. The Waldorf is a perfect blend of elegance and comfort, making it a go-to for dog-loving travelers.

Seattle, Washington

Fall in Seattle means cooler temps, fewer tourists, and some of the best autumn foliage in the Pacific Northwest. From late September to October, the city’s hills are covered in shades of red, orange, and gold, making it a beautiful time to visit with your dog. Poppy and I love wandering the streets, checking out the famous Pike Place Market, and indulging in a puppachino at the original Starbucks.

Seattle also boasts dog-friendly spots like Warren G. Magnuson Park, where pups can run off-leash along the beach. If your dog has an adventurous streak, consider booking a pet-friendly seaplane tour with Kenmore Air. It’s a fun way to see the city from a new perspective. For a day trip, the Olympic Peninsula offers rugged scenery, hot springs, and forests to explore.

Where to Stay: The Fairmont Olympic Hotel celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2024 and remains a Seattle icon. Its historic charm and canine-friendly amenities (including a curated doggie menu) make it the perfect downtown spot for a luxury stay with your dog. The location is unbeatable, putting you within walking distance of Pike Place Market and the waterfront.

The rooms exude classic elegance with modern touches—think marble bathrooms, cozy seating areas, and large windows with views of the city skyline. If you love oysters, you’ll also want to eat at Shuckers Oyster Bar at least once. One of Seattle’s oldest oyster bars, the beautifully carved oak paneling and tin ceiling décor are as appealing as the mollusks.

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Just an hour south of Denver, Colorado Springs is a quick escape with some of the most stunning fall scenery you’ll find anywhere. The golden leaves against the snow-capped Rocky Mountains create a breathtaking contrast, and the trails are perfect for hiking with your dog. Poppy and I love exploring Garden of the Gods, a free city park filled with towering red rock formations and over 20 miles of trails.

For something unique, drive up to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak, which inspired the song "America the Beautiful." Colorado Springs is also home to Pub Dog Colorado, the state’s only restaurant that allows dogs to dine indoors with their humans. The restaurant even has separate menus for people and pups, and Poppy gets a kick out of the fact that her meal arrives on a plate while mine comes in a dog bowl!

Where to Stay: The Broadmoor is a world-renowned, incredibly dog-friendly luxury resort. Set on thousands of acres, the property offers everything from upscale dining to stunning views, and pups are pampered with homemade treats and fancy collar accessories. This five-star resort is a must for dog owners who love combining luxury with adventure.

San Diego, California

San Diego is a great road trip destination in the fall, especially if your dog loves the beach. Dog Beach in Ocean Beach is a popular spot for pups to run off-leash and splash in the surf. It even has a surf break if your dog wants to try their paw at surfing. With sunny skies and warm weather well into fall, San Diego is a perfect escape.

If your dog prefers dry land, there are plenty of options. Balboa Park’s dog park is a great place to meet other pups, and the hike up Cowles Mountain offers unbeatable views of the city and ocean. You can also find numerous dog-friendly patios throughout the city for al fresco dining with your pup. Casa de Freds Tacos y Tequila in Old Town has a special doggie menu on Tuesdays.

Where to Stay: Kimpton Alma San Diego is ideal for dog parents. This chic hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter doesn’t charge pet fees and welcomes dogs of all sizes, so it’s an excellent value for travelers with multiple pups. The stylish rooftop pool and trendy restaurant are perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the city with your dog.