According to Home Away, the best vacations for dogs usually involve a vacation rental that gives you and your dog a home away from home and a new place to explore.

Number one on the list is Lake Placid, NY. High in the Adirondacks, Lake Placid is a gorgeous four-season vacation destination and one of the most dog-friendly spots in America. In summer, big dogs will enjoy the nearly three-mile hiking trail around Mirror Lake, and small dogs will love to splash at the doggie beach. There’s also lots of snow in the winter, and dogs who like the snow will love running through the fresh powder.

Number two on the list is Sanibel Island, FL. Sitting on Florida’s gorgeous Gulf Coast near Naples, Sanibel is one of the best beaches to bring your dog. Book a beachside cottage, and spend your days combing the famous beaches for seashells, while your dog runs, splashes, and chases scurrying crabs. Algiers Beach is a great dog area right next to the island’s nature preserve. Dogs who love waves will love the safe and gentle surf of the Gulf of Mexico.

Number three on the list is Branson, MO. Branson is one of the best vacation spots for dogs, as there are miles and miles of wonderful hiking trails in Table Rock State Park, where they can go off leash and splash in a few lakes along the way.

Number four on the list is Los Angeles, CA. Even small urban dogs that may not love big waves or long walks enjoy vacations. Rent a dog-friendly vacation condo in Los Angeles, and take your buddy to all the great city parks so he or she can smell new things and meet new friends. For a true party evening Los Angeles style, head to SkyBark, a trendy downtown bar with an incredible view of the L.A. skyline, where you are welcome to dance the night away with your dog.

Number five on the list is Myrtle Beach, SC. Myrtle Beach makes for one of the best vacations for dogs because it’s so dog-friendly. While you have to keep your dog off the beaches during the day, early morning walks and evening walks are welcome, even off leash. Myrtle Beach also has a great Barc Parc, where dogs even have their own lake with separate areas for big dogs and small dogs. Thirsty dogs will love the doggie drinking fountain at the North-End Dog Park at Grand Strand.

For information about other dog friendly vacation spots, check out Home Away's web page.

Have you ever visited any of these places with your dog? Let us know, we would love to hear from you.