St. Regis Dana Point: Decidedly Pooch-Friendly

Dog Friendly St. Regis Hotel in Dana Point, California
By Sheila Appleby Williams

A canine vacation fantasy might involve this scenario: Ocean view walking trails, an off-leash dog park, private patios leading to lush grassy areas with fresh warm breezes and mild temperatures, personalized food and water bowls, monogrammed dog beds, treats and enough adulation and attention to satisfy the inner diva/divo of any pooch.

Yes, this probably is a canine fantasy but it happens to also be a pampered dog’s reality at the luxurious St. Regis Hotel in Dana Point, California.

I had the opportunity to accompany my pug, Phoebe Rose, for an overnight stay at the only California Forbes 5 star rated resort.

The dog friendly rooms and suites are limited to the first floor to ensure maximum comfort and convenience for easy access to outdoor areas.  The private patio in our suite led to the pristine grassy grounds and walkways and showcased the panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean.  The King Suite even comes with the services of a private butler.

If your evening plans do not include your furry friend-not to worry, a pet sitting service can be arranged ($16 per hour and a 4 hour minimum).

Phoebe was given the royal treatment with a St. Regis monogrammed king-sized dog pillow and complimentary squeaky “Chewy Vuitton” toy purse.  Her personalized food and water bowls and treats were already awaiting her dining pleasure when we entered the room.  All the cliché adjectives: luxury appointments, calm serene environment, gracious hospitality and service with a smile are not clichés at the St. Regis, but take on a new “I can definitely get used to this” meaning.

Family friendly activities abound-Phoebe Rose (referred to as Miss Rose, by the staff) joined the guests and their families for an enchanted evening of storytelling and S’mores following the hotel’s Signature Monarch Butterfly Release- a truly magical event where a Butterfly Butler releases dozens of butterflies into the air in celebration of their annual migration.  The Sand Castle Kids Club has daily activities specially designed for children aged 5-12 years.

Although the hotel has restaurants, most are off limits for pets.  However, there is a small café that is located in the hotel where I spotted several furry guests quietly peering out from under tables or sitting sedately beside their human family members.  The management and staff brings pet friendly to an enlightened pet-indulgent level and relies on the good judgment of human guests and appropriate manners of canine guests. Front Office Director, Justin Simpson (a devoted canine parent) remembered Phoebe Rose from our visit last year and made the arrangements for our memorable stay.

The local off leash dog park is a few short blocks away and is close to the path to the walking trail that hugs the beach. Phoebe savored and sniffed the lush, manicured grounds surrounding the adjacent golf course and the fresh invigorating breezes brought out the puppy in her as we strolled on the path along the beach spotting a few small rabbits scurrying under the bushes.  Dogs are not allowed on the beach, but again, this must be a guideline rather than a rule as I observed several pooches enjoying themselves in the “off limits” sandy areas.

The St. Regis Dana Point is also a popular destination wedding venue that will happily accommodate your furry family member in the bridal party arrangements.

For further information and rates:

• visit www.stregismb.com

Photos by Sheila Appleby Williams from A Traveling Pug

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