California’s original surf town, Santa Cruz is equal parts beachy and woodsy with legendary surf breaks on the coast and towering redwoods covering the mountains inland.
Paws are permitted on 17 of the county’s beaches that dot the 29-mile coastline as well as on several dog-friendly hiking trails. Add wineries, breweries and a historic, walkable downtown district to the mix, and there’s no shortage of to-do’s here.
When it comes to beaches, Mitchell’s Cove is a must; it’s leash-free during daylight hours before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. Fido favorites where leashes are required include Seabright State Beach nestled between the famed Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Santa Cruz Harbor.
Home to California’s first surfing museum, Lighthouse Field State Beach has a dog park and overlooks Steamer Lane, where you can watch surfers ride the perfect waves.
Stroll around colorful Capitola and downtown Santa Cruz soaking up the neighborhood atmosphere. Sample local wines at pet-friendly urban tasting rooms such as Birichino Winery, Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard and Sones Cellars. For bucolic vineyard atmosphere, cruise along country roads to Alfaro Vineyards, Nicholson Vineyards or Soquel Vineyards.
If craft beer is your beverage of choice, Firefly Tavern and Lupulo Craft Beer House both welcome pups on their patios.
Your pups will feel equally at home at Chaminade Resort & Spa, where the resort’s restaurants cater to canines with their “Pooch Patio Menu” and three miles of trails on property offer ample room to roam. In town, Ocean Echo Inn & Cottages and the boutique-style Hotel Paradox are both in walking distance to beaches and restaurants.
