Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach sprawls across 2.5 miles of sand in Alameda, offering plenty to do whether you’re visiting the water or staying dry. The beach is part of the East Bay Regional Park District’s dog-friendly system, so you can bring your dog along, though there are some specific rules worth knowing upfront.

The main draw here is the variety of activities. You’ve got paved trails running through the park that work great for walking or biking with your dog, and picnic areas scattered throughout if you want to settle in for a while. The water activities—swimming and windsurfing—happen here too, though those are more for people than dogs. Just past the beach, the Crab Cove Visitor Center has exhibits about local marine life and Alameda’s quirky history as a former amusement destination, once marketed as the “Coney Island of the West.” The Elsie Roemer Bird Sanctuary is also nearby if you want to explore beyond the main beach area.

Now, about dogs on the beach itself: they’re not allowed on the sand. What you can do is walk your dog on the lawn areas and paved pathways, which still gives you a decent amount of space to roam. If your dog needs some real off-leash time, Alameda Dog Park is close by and has separate sections for small and large dogs, so they can actually run around and play with other dogs.

Parking costs $5 per vehicle when the kiosk is staffed, and there’s a $2 fee per dog (guide and service dogs are free). It’s worth planning your visit on a day when you know the kiosk will be open so you understand the full cost before you arrive.