Pet-Friendly May Destinations: Where to Bring Your Dog

Traveling with your furry friend? May is the perfect month for a pet-friendly getaway—pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of outdoor adventures. From beachside paradises to mountain retreats, here are the best dog-friendly destinations to explore with your pup this May.

5/4/20252 min read

Cute little Maltese dog with soft brown fur on the beach
Cute little Maltese dog with soft brown fur on the beach
🐾 Why Travel with Your Dog in May?

Mild weather – No extreme heat or cold, ideal for walks and hikes.
Shoulder season perks – More pet-friendly accommodations available before summer bookings spike.
Outdoor dining & events – Many cafes, breweries, and parks welcome dogs this time of year.

🏖️ 7 Best Pet-Friendly Destinations for May

1. Portland, Oregon – The Ultimate Dog-Lover’s City

Why? Portland is famously pet-friendly, with dog parks, breweries, and even doggy bakeries.

  • Must-Do: Hike in Forest Park (80+ miles of trails).

  • Dog-Friendly Stay: Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel (no pet fees, treats provided).

  • Bonus: Visit Sandy River Delta (off-leash paradise).

2. Asheville, North Carolina – Mountain Adventures for Pups

Why? Scenic trails, pet-friendly patios, and even dog-friendly wineries.

  • Must-Do: Walk the Blue Ridge Parkway (leashed dogs welcome).

  • Dog-Friendly Stay: The Dog House (boutique hotel with dog beds & treats).

  • Bonus: Biltmore Estate allows dogs on the grounds.

3. San Diego, California – Beach & City Fun

Why? Year-round sunshine and dog beaches like Coronado Dog Beach.

  • Must-Do: Stroll Balboa Park (leashed dogs allowed).

  • Dog-Friendly Stay: Hotel del Coronado (luxury pet-friendly option).

  • Bonus: Liberty Station has outdoor dining with water bowls.

4. Bar Harbor, Maine – Coastal Walks & National Park Access
Why? Acadia National Park has 100+ miles of dog-friendly trails.
  • Must-Do: Hike Cadillac Mountain (leashed dogs allowed).

  • Dog-Friendly Stay: Acadia Inn (pet-friendly with no weight limits).

  • Bonus: Bark Harbor (a shop just for dogs!).

5. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin – Lakeside Relaxation

Why? Scenic walks, boat rides, and pet-friendly resorts.

  • Must-Do: Walk the Lake Geneva Shore Path (leashed dogs welcome).

  • Dog-Friendly Stay: The Cove of Lake Geneva (private dog park on-site).

  • Bonus: Hawk’s View Golf Club allows dogs on the course.

6. Sedona, Arizona – Red Rock Adventures

Why? Stunning desert hikes and dog-friendly vortex sites.

  • Must-Do: Bell Rock Pathway (easy, scenic trail).

  • Dog-Friendly Stay: L’Auberge de Sedona (luxury with pet perks).

  • Bonus: Many pet-friendly jeep tours available.

7. Amsterdam, Netherlands – Europe’s Most Dog-Friendly City

Why? Dogs ride trams, ferries, and dine in cafés with you.

  • Must-Do: Walk through Vondelpark (off-leash areas).

  • Dog-Friendly Stay: Hotel V Fizeaustraat (no extra pet fees).

  • Bonus: Many canal boat tours allow dogs.

✈️ Tips for Traveling with Your Dog

Check airline pet policies (if flying).
Pack a doggy travel kit (water bowl, leash, waste bags, meds).
Book pet-friendly stays in advance (May is popular!).
Research local vet clinics (just in case).

🐕 Final Thoughts: Happy Travels with Your Pup!

May is the perfect time to explore with your dog—whether it’s a beach trip, mountain hike, or city adventure. Which destination would your pup love most? Bark at us in the comments!

A dog stands on a rocky outcrop, overlooking a scenic mountain landscape
A dog stands on a rocky outcrop, overlooking a scenic mountain landscape