My Favorite Dog-Friendly Spots in Montecito

 

Is Montecito dog-friendly? Here’s your answer – yes! Since it’s a very small city, it feels like you get a highly curated variety of shops, restaurants, hotels, hikes, and of course, beaches you can bring your dog to in Montecito. If you’re not familiar yet, Montecito is a little enclave just east of Santa Barbara, known for its stunning coastline, celebrity residents (Oprah, Ellen, Prince Harry!), charming downtown area, and picturesque Mediterranean architecture. Nestled between the majestic Santa Ynez Mountains and the sparkling Pacific coastline, this idyllic town exudes a sense of understated luxury and, of course, the relaxed SoCal vibes of the coast.

Fira and I recently spent a weekend in Montecito and had the perfect Californian getaway! Here are all my favorite dog-friendly spots in Montecito we discovered during the trip:

 

 

Bettina 

Located inside the Montecito Country Mart, this cozy Italian restaurant is a perfect combination of Italian + Californian culture and food. A dog-friendly restaurant in Montecito, Bettina specializes in wood-fired pizzas on naturally leavened sourdough crust and local ingredients. If you love Italian food, you’ll feel right at home in this space. The atmosphere is so bright and welcoming, it’s great for a casual lunch or dinner with friends, plus your pup!

If you’re in Montecito on a weekday afternoon, their happy hour is from 4-5:30pm, Monday through Thursday. You can get a free margherita pizza with the purchase of any bottle of wine! Their outdoor courtyard is dog-friendly, so Bettina is a must-visit during your trip to Montecito with your dog. 

1014 Coast Village Rd (inside Montecito Country Mart).

 

[ Le Luxe Leash by Saint Rue ]

Rori’s Artisanal Creamery

After your meal, get Rori’s ice cream! They offer unique flavors like Black Pepper Pistachio, Honey Lavender and the classics like Milk & Cookies and Dark Chocolate. 

1024 Coast Village Rd (inside Montecito Country Mart).

 

Montesano Deli & Market

Stop by for breakfast or lunch for classic Italian sandwiches and deli salads at Montesano Deli & Market. This east coast inspired deli also sells gourmet market items, like olive oil, snacks + spices. Sandwiches are thick and full of flavor or get yourself ingredients for a charcuterie board picnic on the beach!

1150 Coast Village Road.

 

Jeannine’s

The most charming breakfast spot in Montecito with adorable pink parasols dotted along the sidewalk. I recommend the tri-tip benedict with American Wagyu beef and two soft poached eggs. Pair it with a warm latte and you’re all set to head out on your adventures exploring the rest of Montecito for the day.

The dog-friendly outdoor seating at Jeannine’s is a great place to cozy up with your pooch. Come here early – they open at 7:30am and close at 1:30pm every day of the week.

1253 Coast Village Rd.

 

[ image credit: California Home Design ]

Oliver’s

Looking for vegan? Head to Oliver’s with your dog for an upscale vegan dining experience. A few of the restaurant’s shared plates include scallop pesto bucatini made with king oyster mushrooms, pad thai, wild mushroom tostada, and more. The menu offers many shared plates, so you can try a little bit of everything!

Dimly lit and well-designed, the terrace at Oliver’s is just gorgeous – a perfect spot for you and your precious pup to enjoy the indoor-outdoor design and beautiful setting.

1198 Coast Village Rd.

 

Lucky’s Steakhouse

More of a meat eater? Prepare for one of the best steakhouses in California – Lucky’s. Along with a classic, fun atmosphere, Lucky’s serves incredible food. The steak melts in your mouth, and of course, don’t forget the seafood and martinis. There’s an outdoor patio right on the sidewalk, so you and your pup can do some people-watching (maybe a celeb spotting or two?).

1279 Coast Village Rd.

 

 

Cashy’s Playpen 

If you’re looking for some aesthetically-pleasing doggie toys, leashes and bedding for your pup, stop by Cashy’s (named after the owner’s French bulldog, of course)! The shop offers the most gorgeous selection of curated items for pets. They also sell our favorite fresh cooked dog food PURE! 1292 Coast Village Rd.

 

Butterfly Beach

This beach is a popular spot among locals in Santa Barbara. Swim, surf, or sunbathe all day here, with your dog right at your side. This is a great beach to come to in Montecito with your dog (on-leash). You’ll see a lot of other people with their pups, so he will have plenty of new friends to meet!

If you’re hungry, you’re only a couple minutes away by car to Coast Village Road for restaurant options or a short 5-10 min walk. 1260 Channel Dr.

 

Toro Canyon Park

Tucked in the foothills, Toro Canyon Park is a hidden gem not far from Montecito. The 74-acre park has an off-leash dog park shaded by oak trees right at the entrance. There are plenty of picnic areas, too, so if you’re looking for a leisurely lunch in the park with your pooch, this makes a great spot!

Take a short trail up to an overlook gazebo to catch stunning panoramic views of the mountains in Montecito and Carpinteria. For sure one of the most dog-friendly spots in Montecito. 

576 Toro Canyon Park, Santa Barbara.

 

 

Rosewood Hotel

If you’re going to Montecito with your dog, I highly recommend Rosewood Miramar Beach. The interior design is ultra luxe, beautifully manicured grass to run around in and ocean views at every turn. Steps from Miramar Beach, which is also dog-friendly, this hotel is perfect if you’re dreaming of a relaxing beach vacation. Definitely great in the summer, you and your pup will love this five-star hotel. 

Don’t miss a drink at Cabana Bar, which is poolside. Now, where did I put Fira’s sunglasses?

Pet fee $150/stay. Rooms start at $1,795/night. 1759 S Jameson Ln, Montecito.

 

Kimpton Canary

If you’re looking for something more central, the Spanish-style Kimpton Canary will make all your dreams come true. The 360-degree views from the rooftop are gorgeous, and a cozy fire pit adds a comforting touch while catching the sunset. And did I mention a rooftop pool (dogs are welcome!)? When you stay at Kimpton Canary, you can even get complimentary access to Wag! Premium. 

Kimpton Hotels are always so wonderful and also dog-friendly. One of my favorite hotel chains almost anywhere I go with the dogs.

Of course, at every Kimpton hotel: no pet fee! Rooms start at $400/night. 31 W Carrillo St, Santa Barbara.

San Ysidro Ranch

Even if you aren’t staying the night here, spending an afternoon at San Ysidro Ranch is an absolute must while you’re visiting Montecito with your dog. There are 500 acres of rolling foothills to admire… so much seclusion and natural beauty everywhere. It’s also historic: Camelot began here with John and Jackie Kennedy honeymooning in the cottage that’s now named after them. Resort amenities include complimentary dining, private wine tastings, yoga instruction, botanical gardens and more.

There are just 38 vineyard-covered cottages surrounded by an incredible landscape – flowers, greenery and towering oaks everywhere. There are also nearby hikes and waterfalls. If you’re traveling to Montecito with your dog, don’t miss San Ysidro Ranch!

Of course your dog will also receive a five star experience with the Pampered Pet Program. Your pup will get a welcome dog treat, plus bedding, water bowl and even their own pet-friendly in-room dining menu.

Read my full hotel review here.

Pet fee: $150/stay. Rooms start at $2,495/night. 900 San Ysidro Lane, Santa Barbara.

Palihouse Santa Barbara

If you love being right in the heart of the action, Palihouse Santa Barbara is perfect for you since it’s in downtown Santa Barbara. You can stroll through the charming streets of downtown and explore the area. Walking distance to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and the historic Arlington Theatre, Palihouse Santa Barbara is a convenient and stylish option and of course, it’s also dog-friendly.

I love Palihouse because the hotels always feel more intimate (like a hideaway!) with an emphasis on hospitality. 

Pet fee: $150/stay. Rooms start at $275/night. 915 Garden St, Santa Barbara.

El Encanto

Nestled amidst lush gardens and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this historic hotel offers a timeless blend of old-world elegance and modern luxury. Built in the 1920s, you’ll get all the classic vibes here with your dog in tow. The views are to die for, and the Spanish-colonial and Californian craftsman styles are definitely camera-friendly. You can register for experiences too, like candle pouring, al fresco movie night, and a hilltop picnic.

Pet fee: $150/stay. Rooms start at $750/night. 800 Alvarado Pl, Santa Barbara.

 

If you were wondering if Montecito is dog friendly, now you know! If you have any questions, drop me a comment below.