Located 9 miles south of Santa Cruz along the California Coast in Aptos, Sanderlings at Seascape Beach Resort sits right on the edge of Monterey Bay with views that stretch across the water. The restaurant occupies a prime spot at the resort, and if you’re dining on the outdoor patio with your dog, you’ll have unobstructed ocean views whether you visit at sunrise or sunset.

The outdoor dining area is where dogs are welcome, and the atmosphere strikes a nice balance between casual and upscale. You can watch the waves while you eat, which makes for a relaxed meal even when the place fills up. The kitchen works with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and they maintain a solid wine list that pairs well with coastal flavors. The menu changes seasonally, so what you’ll find depends on when you visit.

If you’re staying overnight, the resort offers dog-friendly rooms for guests traveling with dogs. It’s a convenient setup if you want to spend the day exploring the nearby coast and then return somewhere comfortable. The location gives you easy access to walking around the bluffs and beaches in the area—Seascape is in a quieter part of Santa Cruz County compared to downtown, with plenty of space to stretch your legs between courses.

The restaurant doesn’t require reservations but calling ahead during peak season (weekends and holidays) is a smart move so you can figure out wait times and confirm they have outdoor seating available. Their website has current information about menu items and any seasonal adjustments to their dog policy. Plan to spend a few hours here if you’re making an evening of it—the location and views alone are worth lingering over dinner.