Pacific Palisades isn’t just a paradise for people; it’s also incredibly welcoming to pets. This prestigious neighborhood offers countless parks, trails, and pet-friendly venues where furry friends can enjoy the same freedom and enjoyment as their humans. Known for its pet-friendly culture, Pacific Palisades provides diverse amenities tailored to pets and pet lovers, making it an ideal place for families with four-legged members.
If you’re a pet owner or thinking about adopting, here’s why Pacific Palisades should be on your radar for your next home.
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TOP THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO VISIT WITH YOUR PETS IN PACIFIC PALISADES
From beautiful parks to welcoming cafes, accessible shopping centers, and community events, this neighborhood has everything you and your pet could need.
Parks and Trails
Pacific Palisades is famous for its abundant natural spaces, and it’s no surprise that these areas are pet-friendly. Here are some top picks for places to bring your furry friend:
Palisades Park
Ocean Avenue, between Colorado Avenue and Adelaide Drive
Just a five minute drive from Pacific Palisades, this iconic park offers scenic trails overlooking the Pacific Ocean, making it perfect for a relaxing stroll with your pet. With paved walkways and grassy areas, it’s a versatile spot for pets of all sizes. While dogs are required to stay on-leash, the park provides ample space for pets to explore. There are water fountains, including pet-friendly versions, as well as waste bag dispensers located throughout the park, helping to maintain the clean, welcoming environment.
Will Rogers State Historic Park
1501 Will Rogers Park Road, Pacific Palisades 90272
A beloved destination in Pacific Palisades for both history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Will Rogers State Historic Park offers a pet-friendly environment that makes it perfect for dog owners. Located off Sunset Boulevard and set against the backdrop of the Santa Monica Mountains, this park once served as the ranch of the famous actor and humorist Will Rogers, and today, it’s a beautifully preserved space with plenty of features for pet-friendly adventures.
One of the biggest draws for pet owners is the network of scenic hiking trails throughout the park. The popular Inspiration Point Trail is a manageable 2-mile loop that rewards hikers with sweeping views of the Los Angeles Basin, the Pacific Ocean, and even Catalina Island on clear days. The trail is dog-friendly, but pets must remain on-leash. The path is ideal for dogs of various sizes and fitness levels, as it’s not overly strenuous yet offers enough of a climb to make it feel like a small adventure.
Temescal Gateway Park
15601 Sunset Blvd., Pacific Palisades, CA
Temescal Gateway Park, located at the intersection of Temescal Canyon Road and Sunset Boulevard, is a picturesque retreat spanning nearly 141 acres. With a blend of shaded canyons, rolling hills, and ocean views, the park creates a variety of outdoor experiences that’s perfect for pets and their owners.
Take Fido hiking through the Temescal Ridge Trail, a moderately challenging trail that winds up into the hills, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding Santa Monica Mountains. The trail has varying terrain, with a mix of gradual inclines, rock steps, and shady spots, making for an invigorating experience for active pets and their humans alike.
Another pet-friendly feature is the Temescal Canyon Loop, a 2.6-mile trail that offers a more moderate hike. It’s a popular choice for pets due to the mix of sunny patches and shaded sections. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush greenery, cross footbridges, and enjoy the soothing sounds of a seasonal waterfall (typically flowing after rains).
Although it’s wise to bring your own water, especially for longer hikes, the park provides drinking fountains, some of which are pet-friendly, to help keep your pet hydrated.
After a hike, there are open picnic areas where you can relax with your pet and enjoy a snack or simply take in the serene environment. Temescal Gateway Park is also connected to other trails in the Santa Monica Mountains, allowing more adventurous pet owners and their dogs to explore further.
Santa Ynez Canyon Park
Palisades Dr. and De Santa Ynez, Pacific Palisades, CA
Santa Ynez Canyon Park is a hidden gem known for its serene trails, perfect for pet owners and their canine friends seeking a quiet escape in nature.
One of the main attractions for pet owners is the Santa Ynez Trail, a moderately easy path that winds through lush greenery and shaded groves, and along a seasonal creek. This trail, stretching about 2.5 miles one way, is dog-friendly, though pets must remain on-leash. The terrain is manageable, with slight inclines and well-defined paths, making it suitable for pets of all sizes and fitness levels.
Santa Ynez Canyon Park’s relatively low foot traffic is a big draw for dog owners looking for a more secluded experience. The park is equipped with basic amenities, such as trail markers and trash bins, although pet owners should bring their own water, as there are no fountains along the trail.
Cafés and Restaurants
After a fun-filled day at the park, you and your pet can head to one of the many pet-friendly cafes or restaurants in the area. Here are a few top spots:
The Draycott
15255 Palisades Village Lane, Pacific Palisades, California
The Draycott is a California-inspired family-friendly brasserie that offers a welcoming atmosphere for patrons and their pets. A spacious outdoor patio welcomes well-behaved dogs to join their owners for a meal.
The Draycott’s menu showcases seasonal dishes that highlight California’s bounty with a creative twist. Guests can enjoy brunch, lunch, and dinner options, making it a versatile spot for various occasions.
If you’re planning to visit with your pet, it’s best to make a reservation and mention that you’ll be bringing a dog, as outdoor seating can be in high demand. This ensures that both you and your pet have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Cafe Vida
15317 Antioch Street in Pacific Palisades, California,
This cozy spot is well-known for its health-conscious menu that blends California and Latin flavors. Guests can enjoy items such as organic oatmeal, buttermilk pancakes, egg white omelets, salads, and sandwiches. The restaurant also features a selection of fresh-squeezed juices, shakes, and smoothies.
Cafe Vida is also known for its welcoming atmosphere and attentive service. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with the outdoor patio providing a pleasant environment for diners to enjoy their meals with their furry companions.
Palisades Garden Cafe
15231 La Cruz Drive, Pacific Palisades, CA
For pet owners seeking a welcoming dining experience where their dogs are not only allowed but appreciated, Palisades Garden Café stands out as a top choice. This casual eatery warmly welcomes pet owners and their furry companions with a spacious outdoor seating area where dogs can comfortably join their humans for a meal.
The café’s menu offers a variety of delectable dishes, including breakfast sandwiches, bagels, pancakes, salads, and more. The staff at Palisades Garden Café are known for their friendly service and accommodating nature, often providing water bowls to ensure pets stay hydrated during their visit.
Casa Nostra
15306 Sunset Blvd and 1515 Palisades Dr, Pacific Palisades, CA
Casa Nostra is a renowned Italian restaurant with two locations in Pacific Palisades, each offering a pet-friendly dining experience.
Casa Nostra Trattoria features a spacious outdoor patio where well-behaved dogs are welcome to join their owners. The restaurant’s commitment to accommodating pets has made it a popular spot among local pet owners.
Casa Nostra Ristorante also offers a pet-friendly environment with outdoor seating options. Guests can savor a variety of Italian dishes while their pets relax nearby.
Both locations are known for their authentic Italian menus, featuring dishes such as pasta, seafood, and wood-fired pizzas. The combination of delicious food and pet-friendly policies makes Casa Nostra a favorite destination for those looking to enjoy a meal without leaving their pets at home.
Shopping Centers
Shopping with your pet in Pacific Palisades is a breeze. Some shopping centers even provide pet-friendly amenities, making errands an enjoyable outing for you both.
Palisades Village
15225 Palisades Village Ln, Pacific Palisades, CA
The crown jewel of shopping in Pacific Palisades, Palisades Village is an upscale outdoor mall that warmly welcomes pets. Many shops within the mall are pet-friendly, often providing water bowls and treats to ensure a pleasant shopping experience for both humans and their furry companions. Outdoor seating areas at various eateries provide comfortable spaces for guests and their pets to dine together. However, to maintain a clean and inviting environment, dogs are not permitted on the grass areas within The Park.
Santa Monica Place
395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, CA
Just a quick 11 minute drive to nearby Santa Monica, this expansive open-air shopping center welcomes leashed dogs in common areas. However, individual store policies regarding pets may vary, so check with each retailer before entering.
The center features a variety of amenities to enhance the experience for both pets and their owners. Designated pet relief areas are available, and some stores provide water bowls and treats. For dining options, the mall’s indoor/outdoor food court includes establishments with outdoor seating areas where pets are welcome.
Santa Monica Place also hosts pet-friendly events throughout the year, such as “Pet Nights” during the holiday season, where pets can have their photos taken with Santa, giving pet owners opportunities to create lasting memories with their four legged friends.
Brentwood Country Mart
225 26th Street, Santa Monica, CA
This charming open-air shopping center is also around 11 minutes from Pacific Palisades. A community staple since 1948, it’s designed to evoke the feel of early American and English country marketplaces, offering a variety of shops, eateries, and services.
The Mart is known for its pet-friendly atmosphere, welcoming leashed dogs in common areas. Many of the outdoor spaces, including the central courtyard, are accessible to pets. Some retailers and eateries with outdoor seating areas also accommodate pets, providing water bowls and treats to ensure a comfortable visit.
Pet Shops and Grooming Services
Caring for your pet’s health and well-being is easy in Pacific Palisades, thanks to the range of quality pet shops and grooming services available. Here’s where to shop for supplies or get Fido pampered:
Healthy Spot
1110 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA
Healthy Spot has several locations across California and the closest one to Pacific Palisades is found just 12 to 14 minutes away in Santa Monica. The store offers a comprehensive selection of wholesome, organic food lines, as well as a wide array of treats, toys, and accessories. Various services are also available, including dog grooming, a small dog daycare, obedience training, and preventative veterinary dental care.
Paws n’ Claws Grooming Salon
16634 Marquez Avenue, Pacific Palisades, CA
Paws n’ Claws Grooming Salon has been a trusted provider of pet grooming services since 2002. This family-owned business offers personalized grooming plans tailored to each pet’s breed, health, and individual needs. Comprehensive bathing services are provided, including coat cleaning, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. And on the fourth Tuesday of every month, the salon offers non-anesthesia teeth scaling to promote dental health without the need for sedation.
Barkbus is a luxury mobile dog grooming service that brings professional grooming directly to your doorstep in Pacific Palisades. Their state-of-the-art mobile spas are designed to provide a stress-free and convenient grooming experience for your pet.
Barkbus’ Signature Service is a comprehensive package that includes a warm filtered water bath, gentle blow dry, brush out, ear cleaning, teeth brushing, nail trimming and filing, and anal gland expression if needed. Specialty products such as a blueberry face wash and sensitive skin shampoo and conditioner are used to ensure your pet’s comfort and well-being.
In addition to the Signature Service, Barkbus offers breed-specific haircuts and styling to keep your dog looking their best.
Westside Pet Stop
10588 West Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles, California
Approximately 17 minutes from Pacific Palisades, Westside Pet Stop is a family-owned and operated business dedicated to delivering high-quality care for pets. The shop is committed to make each visit a positive experience for both animals and their owners.
The salon offers comprehensive grooming services tailored to each pet’s breed, health, and individual needs, ensuring comfort and well-being. It also provides a selection of pet supplies, including natural and eco-friendly products, to support your pet’s health and happiness.
Pet Sitters, Walkers, and Veterinarians
For pet owners in need of additional support, Pacific Palisades offers numerous options for pet sitters, walkers, and veterinarians.
Palisades Animal Clinic
16636 Marquez Avenue in Pacific Palisades, CA
Palisades Animal Clinic is a full-service veterinary facility dedicated to providing high-quality care for pets in the community. The clinic offers a comprehensive range of medical, surgical, and dental services to ensure the health and well-being of your furry friends.
Palisades Animal Clinic also engages in community service and charitable events, supporting organizations such as Healthcare for Homeless Animals, Westside German Shepherd Rescue, and Angels Bark Dog Rescue.
Pacific Palisades Veterinary Center
853 Via De La Paz, Pacific Palisades, CA
Also a full-service animal hospital, Pacific Palisades Veterinary Center provides comprehensive veterinary care for pets in the community. Its wide range of services includes general medical care, surgical procedures, dental care, and advanced diagnostic imaging. Equipped with in-house, state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, the center ensures prompt and accurate diagnoses for various health conditions.
Professional pet sitters and dog walkers
When you need reliable care for your furry friends, you’ll find a wide range of professional pet sitters ready to help. Whether you’re away for the day, need assistance with daily walks, or require overnight care, you can trust that your pets will be in the hands of skilled, compassionate caregivers. Here are some excellent options to consider:
Community Events and Meetups for Pet Lovers
One of the highlights of being a pet owner in Pacific Palisades is the vibrant pet community. There are frequent events, meetups, and social gatherings that cater to pet lovers in and around the neighborhood.
- Pet-friendly festivals: Events like “Pawsapalooza” offer pet-themed activities, vendor booths, and pet-friendly entertainment, making it a hit with locals.
- Holiday parades and costume contests: During the holiday season, you can often find pet costume contests and parades that are fun for both participants and spectators.
- Pet adoption events: Animal rescue organizations hold adoption events in Pacific Palisades, making it easy for residents to adopt or foster animals in need of homes.
FIND THE PERFECT HOME FOR YOU AND YOUR PET IN PACIFIC PALISADES
Live the life you’ve always dreamed of in Pacific Palisades. Surrounded by a host of recreational options and featuring stunning properties that reflect owners’ individual styles, you’ll find an exceptional community where you and your furry family members will immediately feel at home. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere and countless pet-friendly amenities, it’s the perfect place for both you and your pets to thrive.
Let James Respondek guide you to the perfect property. Serving the Westside of Los Angeles since 1979 and recognized as one of the top agents nationwide, James and The Respondek Team have the expertise and dedication to help you find the Pacific Palisades home that ticks all your boxes.
Get in touch with James today at 1.310.488.4400 or send an email to learn more about what The Respondek Team can do for you.