Beaches Blog

Here are our favorite stories about the best dog-friendly beaches in California! Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, we’ve got you covered with the most paw-some spots for your furry friends to enjoy some sand and surf. Check out our list below and get ready for some tail-wagging adventures!

Seaside waves and walks with your dog

A drive along Highway 1 through Mendocino County rewards you and your dog with sandy stops at every turn. Enjoy off-leash romps at Noyo Beach and Seaside Beach or leashed walks at MacKerricher State Park.

Monterey Bay Labrador Retriever Rescue vets save Cali

When sweet Cali, an eight-year-old Lab, arrived at Monterey Bay Lab Rescue with badly infected ovaries, emergency surgery saved her life. Now happily adopted, she spends her days gardening and going to the beach with her new mom.

Forest bathing with Fido, anyone?

Mendocino County is the perfect place to try forest bathing with your dog. The region misty redwood forests, fresh air, and wide-open spaces offer a deeply restorative experience for you and your pup.

Cuddle up with your pup in Mendocino county

Mendocino County is worth an overnight stay, and dog-friendly lodging options abound. From secluded modern cottages at Sheep Dung Properties to oceanfront pet suites at the Beachcomber Motel, there is something for every travel style and budget.

Open air dog-friendly activities perfect for social distancing

Mendocino County offers plenty of open-air, dog-friendly activities perfect for getting outside safely. Ride the historic Skunk Train through redwood forests, stroll uncrowded beaches in Fort Bragg, or wander the blooming pathways of Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens with your pup.

We love California state parks

California state parks offer wonderful outings for dogs and their owners. From the secluded sands of Bean Hollow State Beach to the trails of Hearst San Simeon, here are eight of the best to visit.

Brews and views in Humboldt County

Humboldt County pairs towering redwoods, wild beaches, and craft breweries into one great dog-friendly destination. Hike old-growth forest, explore Black Sands Beach at Shelter Cove, and wind down with brews at Gyppo Ale Mill.

An unforgettable ride in Mendocino County

Mendocino County's coast is an adventure playground for dogs. Ride the historic Skunk Train through redwood groves, paddle a handcrafted outrigger canoe on Big River, grab fish and chips overlooking Noyo Harbor, and stay in an ocean-view vacation home nearby.

Ten best places in California to take your dog

California offers countless adventures for dogs and their owners, from the off-leash sands of Rosie's Dog Beach in Long Beach to the trails of Garland Ranch Regional Park in Carmel.

Image from Make a big splash on DogTrekker

Dog-friendly swimming spots: Big Bear Lake and Monterey Bay

Big Bear Lake and Monterey Bay both offer great spots for dogs to swim and paddle. Rent kayaks and paddleboards at Big Bear's marinas or hit the sandy shores near Monterey for some saltwater splashing with your pup.

Skunk Train named top scenic train ride

The Skunk Train in Mendocino County earned a top-five spot in USA Today's Best Scenic Train Ride awards. Dogs are welcome aboard for the ride through redwood forests, and the surrounding area offers beaches, trails and breweries.

Puppies play in a waterfall. professional photo ph

Discover California’s dog-friendly waterfalls: A nature lover’s guide

California has dozens of dog-friendly waterfalls worth visiting, from Alamere Falls cascading into the ocean at Point Reyes to Bridalveil Fall in Yosemite and hidden swimming holes in Shasta County. Leash up and go chase some mist.

Four-paw fun with a view at Little River Inn

Little River Inn has welcomed dogs to the Mendocino coast for over 80 years. This locally owned gem offers ocean-view cottages, garden patio dining, welcome treats for pups and easy access to state beaches.

Getting outdoors in Greater Ontario

Greater Ontario's 300 days of sunshine and mild climate make it ideal for outdoor adventures with your dog. Hike the Pacific Electric Trail, cool off at Lake Gregory, or head up to Lake Arrowhead.

Bass Lake video

Less than 35 miles from Yosemite's front gate, Bass Lake offers crystal-clear waters, dog-friendly trails, and a laid-back local atmosphere. Whether you're swimming, hiking, or just exploring the shoreline, it's a perfect day trip or weekend escape with your pup.

The perfect pairing of rest and relaxation

The Stanford Inn pairs ocean-view suites and wood-burning fireplaces with a dog-welcoming atmosphere on the Mendocino coast. Enjoy complimentary breakfast, plant-based dining at Ravens Restaurant, a heated saltwater pool and easy access to coastal trails and beaches.

Paddle, pedal and play with your pup

The Stanford Inn in Mendocino makes paddling with your dog easy. Rent a canine cruiser outrigger from Catch a Canoe and explore 8.3 miles of Big River Estuary, then return to a resort that welcomes pups warmly.

Your dog deserves a vacation too!

The Little River Inn on the Mendocino coast offers two adventure packages for dog lovers. The Water Dog package includes ocean kayaking, while the River Dog package features an outrigger canoe trip with your pup.

Day 2: Beaches and botanical wonders in Fort Bragg

Fort Bragg delivers beaches, botanical gardens, and Skunk Train railbike tours for dogs and their people. Walk Glass Beach, explore MacKerricher State Park trails, and dine on dog-friendly patios at the Noyo Harbor waterfront.

Day 3: Hiking, history and waterfront hotels

Mendocino's sweeping Pacific vistas, pygmy forests, and bluff-top trails set the scene for a dog-friendly North Coast escape. The Stanford Inn offers canoe rides with a special canine deck, plus organic treats for pups.

Keep your dog safe from salmon poisoning disease

Salmon poisoning disease is a potentially fatal illness that strikes dogs who eat raw fish along the California coast. Know the warning signs, including lethargy, vomiting, and fever, and seek veterinary care immediately.

Temecula: A Southern California wine oasis

Temecula Valley wine country, about 60 miles north of San Diego, offers more than 40 dog-friendly wineries, relaxed Old Town dining, and welcoming lodging. With a Mediterranean climate year-round, it's a great getaway for you and your pup.

Sip and savor with your pup: Fall winery-trekking

Fall is prime time for dog-friendly wine tasting in California. Skip the crowds and pricey fees with laid-back visits to wineries near Sacramento, in Vacaville's Suisun Valley, and along Mendocino County's scenic Highway 101 and 128 wine roads.

Glass Beach, Fort Bragg. Soft on the paws!

Delights for dogs in Mendocino County

Mendocino County welcomes dogs to some wonderfully unique activities. Ride the Skunk Train through redwoods, pedal railbikes with dog trailers, paddle Big River in canine cruiser outriggers and browse pup-friendly shops from Fort Bragg to Point Arena.

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