Located in Capitola along the stunning Santa Cruz County coastline, Margaritaville is a dog-friendly Mexican restaurant with a prime waterfront location that actually delivers on its casual vibe. The outdoor patio sits right along the water, and you’ll see boats passing while you eat, which dogs seem to find as entertaining as the people do.

The menu focuses on organic margaritas and casual California cuisine — think fresh seafood, carne asada, and the kind of food that tastes better when you’re sitting outside with an ocean view. The margaritas are a real draw here, made with quality ingredients and not the syrupy sweet stuff you get at chain places. You can order a round for yourself while your dog hangs out under the table or lounges on the patio.

What makes this place actually work for dogs is that they seem genuinely fine with them being there, not just tolerating them. You’ll get water bowls without asking, and they have actual dog treats available if you want to give your pup something while you’re eating. The patio has plenty of space, so it doesn’t feel cramped even when it’s busy, which matters when you’re managing a dog and a meal at the same time.

The location in Capitola means you can easily walk around the village before or after eating — the shops and waterfront promenade are right there, and there’s a dog park nearby if you need to burn off some energy. Parking in Capitola can be tight on weekends, so aim for weekday afternoons if you want an easier time finding a spot close to the restaurant. If you’re bringing your dog, the outdoor patio is really the only option, but honestly, it’s the better seating anyway.