Dog-Friendly Winery Weekend: A 2-Day Itinerary from the Bay Area to Mendocino
Ready to plan the ultimate wine country getaway with your pup? Roughly 2 hours north of San Francisco, Anderson Valley and the Mendocino Coast offer an unforgettable mix of award-winning wine, redwood hikes, dog-friendly patios, and coastal charm.
This 2-day itinerary helps you discover exactly where to sip, stay, and explore, with plenty of tail wags along the way.
Haven’t read our overview yet? Start with our guide to the Best Dog-Friendly Wineries Near San Francisco: Discover Anderson Valley and The World’s Dog-Friendliest Wine Region, and then come back to plan your route.
Day 1: From the Bay to the Vines – Your dog-friendly wine weekend itinerary
Morning: Depart the Bay Area
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Coffee stop in Healdsburg
- Visit the Doodles at Smith Story Wine Cellars in Healdsburg if you want to start your wine sampling started
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Leash up and hit Highway 128 north toward Yorkville
First Stop: Seawolf Wines
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Rustic, wild, and 100% dog-welcoming
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Tastings by appointment outdoors at this working winery in Yorkville Highlands
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Great first stop to shake off the drive and sip something soulful
Second Stop: Foursight Wines, Boonville
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Family-run, estate-grown, and passionate about pups
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Tastings on their shaded patio—often hosted by their own winery dogs
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Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and a welcoming, homegrown feel
Check-In Options: Wine Country or the Coast
Option 1: The Boonville Hotel
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Dog-friendly garden rooms
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Relax in the courtyard or take a walk to town
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Dinner:
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Reserve a seat at the Boonville Hotel’s prix-fixe dinner (dog-friendly patio)
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OR skip the res and head to Jumbo’s Win-Win in Philo—walk-ins welcome
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Option 2: Elk Cove Inn (Mendocino Coast)
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Perched on the bluffs of Elk, dog-friendly rooms with ocean views
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Private beach access and a peaceful, coastal vibe
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Dinner:
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Night 1: On-site French bistro SIBO
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Night 2: Reserve in advance for a Michelin-starred dinner at Harbor House Inn, just down the road
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Day 2: Valley Views, Wine Stops & Orchard Sips – Enjoy dog-friendly wine tasting in Northern California
Morning Tasting: Lula Cellars
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Legendary for being dog-friendly with an off-leash tasting garden
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Big reds, bright whites, and plenty of space for your pup to relax
Second Stop: Brashley Vineyards
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Lawn games, relaxed tastings, and friendly faces
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Dogs welcome on leash throughout the grounds
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Great mid-morning pause for Pinot and play
Grab Lunch:
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Lemons Market in Philo for deli sandwiches
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Gowan’s Oak Tree for fruit, snacks, or picnic fare
Afternoon: Gowan’s Heirloom Cider or Anderson Valley Brewing Company
Option 1: Gowan’s Heirloom Cider Orchard
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Dog-friendly cider flights beneath the apple trees
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Bring your picnic and stretch out in the grass
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A must-stop in any season—especially in fall
Option 2: Anderson Valley Brewing Company (AVBC)
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One of California’s most iconic craft breweries, and super dog-friendly
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Huge lawn with picnic tables, games, and space for pups to roam on leash
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Pouring seasonal favorites like Boont Amber, with non-alcoholic options too
Whether you prefer crisp apple cider under the trees or a cold beer in the sun, both are ideal spots to relax with your pup before winding down the day.
Day 3 (Optional Bonus): Redwoods & Wine Dogs – Departing our pet-friendly wine region
Morning: Hendy Woods State Park
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Dogs allowed in picnic and campground areas (not on trails)
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Still great for a quiet walk under redwoods before heading out
Final Stop: Bee Hunter Wine
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Last sip in downtown Boonville
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Friendly indoor-outdoor space
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Insider Tip: Winemaker Andy is known to foster pups from a well-mannered breed and you just might leave with a bottle and a new best friend.
Pro Tips for the Best Dog + Wine Experience
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Bring a water bowl, blanket, and leash
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Always call ahead to confirm dog policies and tasting hours
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Be respectful of gardens, vineyards, and other visitors
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Want more ideas? Explore our Dog-Friendly Winery Guide
One Last Note…
Whether you’re soaking in sunsets on the coast or sipping cider under the oaks, Anderson Valley offers a wine country escape that welcomes your pup just as much as it welcomes you.
See you (and your dog) in the Valley.