Several Northern California excursion railroads welcome dogs aboard for scenic rides through redwoods, Gold Country, and farmland. Options include Pumpkin Trains at the Western Railway Museum, the Skunk Train in Mendocino County, Roaring Camp in Santa Cruz, and Railtown 1897.
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Santa Cruz County's 29 miles of coastline include 15 dog-friendly beaches and one legally leash-free strand at Mitchell's Cove. Nearby lodging options like Edgewater Beach Inn put you and your pup steps from the sand and surf.
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Santa Cruz County has more than 50 pet-friendly lodgings for every budget. Splurge at Chaminade Resort with its pooch patio and mountaintop trails, or keep it simple at coastal inns, KOA cabins, and vacation rentals near the beach.
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Santa Cruz County's 29 miles of coastline include 15 dog-friendly beaches and a leash-free strand at Mitchell's Cove. Stroll West Cliff Drive for coastal views, hit the sand at Seabright Beach, or camp under the stars at Manresa State Beach.
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Santa Cruz County keeps getting more dog-friendly. Dogs can now hike a 7-mile route through redwoods at Big Basin, play at the new Ozzi's Memorial Dog Park near Capitola, and enjoy bocce at Heart of Soquel Park.
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Santa Cruz County's towering coast redwoods are a must-see, and your leashed dog can join the fun. Ride a vintage steam train at Roaring Camp Railroad, or hike the trails at Henry Cowell and Forest of Nisene Marks.
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DogTrekker.com's founders introduce Maya, a 5-year-old English Lab adopted from Monterey Bay Labrador Retriever Rescue. Despite some car anxiety and leash issues, Maya won their hearts and stepped into the role of Director of Barketing.
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Santa Cruz County pairs redwood forests, sandy beaches and a walkable downtown into one excellent dog-friendly getaway. Ride a steam train, go tidepooling, hike off-leash trails and explore 15 miles of dog-welcoming coastline.
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The Santa Cruz Mountains wine region welcomes dogs at tasting rooms tucked among redwoods and ocean views. Follow a dog-friendly wine trail from Davenport to Soquel to Aptos, with stops for picnics and vineyard strolls along the way.
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California's 840-mile coastline has some wonderful off-leash beaches for dogs who love chasing waves. From Mendocino's Seaside Beach to Carmel's famous strand, Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur and Coronado Dog Beach in San Diego, here are top picks by region.
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Santa Cruz County is a dog lover's playground. Walk the coastal path along West Cliff Drive, let your pup run off-leash at Mitchell's Cove Beach, hike through redwoods at Henry Cowell, or ride a steam train at Roaring Camp.
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No tent? No problem. From dog-friendly KOA cabins near Petaluma and Watsonville to Casini Ranch on the Russian River, these soft-camping options let you and your pup enjoy the outdoors without a full gear kit.
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