Hotel Solares sits about three blocks from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which means you can walk to that classic amusement park and the sand pretty easily with your dog in tow. The location is genuinely convenient—you’re close enough to Downtown Santa Cruz to hit restaurants and shops on foot, but far enough that you’re not dealing with constant noise and crowds right outside your room.

The rooms and suites are straightforward and comfortable. You get a complimentary continental breakfast to start your day, which is nice when you’re trying to get out early for a beach walk or hit one of the nearby trails. The hotel keeps things simple and functional rather than trying to be fancy, which honestly works well when you’re focused on exploring the area with your dog.

What matters most here is that they actually welcome dogs without making a big deal about it. You can bring your dog and take them straight out to the beach or along the nearby streets without feeling like you’re bending the rules. The Boardwalk itself has a specific dog beach area if you want to let your dog actually get in the water, and from the hotel you can also walk down to Natural Bridges State Beach, which allows dogs on-leash year-round.

The neighborhood around the hotel is walkable and dog-friendly, with plenty of spots to grab coffee or food to take with you. If you want to explore some actual trails, Wilder Ranch State Park is about fifteen minutes north and has several dog-friendly routes through redwoods and along bluffs. The hotel itself doesn’t have special dog amenities or a spa, but that’s fine—you’re really here for the location and the ability to get your dog outside without complicated logistics. It’s a straightforward, practical base for a Santa Cruz visit.