The beach at Moss Landing sits right behind the main drag, accessible via a tucked-away entrance next to Phil’s Fish Market or at the end of Sandholt Road. You’ll know you’re in the right spot when you see the MBARI building — the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute facility marks the area well. The beach itself is modest in size, but it’s plenty for a solid walk with your dog without feeling crowded.

Head to the northern end and you’ll find a jetty that’s perfect for watching fishing boats and commercial vessels heading out into the bay. It’s a nice spot to pause and take in the activity on the water. The beach has a mixed vibe when it comes to leash rules. There’s an official sign posted requiring dogs to be leashed, but enforcement seems relaxed — we saw plenty of dogs running off-leash during our visit. That said, it’s worth keeping your dog under control around other visitors and dogs you encounter, and having a leash handy just in case.

The setup here is practical. There’s a dog waste bag dispenser right at the entrance, so you won’t have to hunt around for supplies. The beach provides enough space for your dog to stretch out and explore without the intensity of bigger, more popular spots. Moss Landing itself is a working fishing village, so there’s something authentic about the place — you’re walking a genuine local beach rather than a manicured tourist destination.

If you’re driving through Monterey County or exploring the harbor area, this is a convenient stop. It’s not going to be a day-long destination, but as a quick beach walk with easy parking and bag dispensers on hand, it works well. The village also has restaurants and shops nearby if you want to grab something after your beach time.