The Big Red House is a vacation rental in Cambria with white water views and a location just three short blocks from the ocean—close enough that you can walk to the beach with your dog in a few minutes. The house sleeps seven guests across two bedrooms, a den with a Queen sofa bed, two and a half bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen. It’s wheelchair accessible, which matters if anyone in your group has mobility needs.

Dogs are welcome here with a refundable security deposit, though you’ll want to call ahead to confirm current pet policies before booking. Cambria itself is a good home base for exploring the Central Coast. The town sits in a Monterey pine forest and has the kind of low-key charm that works well for traveling with a dog—galleries and antique shops, many of which allow dogs inside, plus restaurants with patios where you can eat while your dog hangs out nearby. The beaches around here are relatively uncrowded compared to other California coastal towns, and there’s solid surf if that’s your thing.

Beyond Cambria proper, you’re positioned well for day trips. Hearst Castle is six miles north if you want to do a guided tour (you’d leave your dog at the house for that one). The Elephant Seal Vista Point is worth a visit—it’s a strange and memorable thing to see a colony of enormous seals just hanging out on a beach. Highway One and Big Sur are accessible from here if you want scenic driving time with your dog. The Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo wine regions are nearby too, though most wineries won’t let dogs roam the tasting rooms with you.

The house itself is described as immaculately clean, which matters when you’re renting with a dog. There’s a dining area and full kitchen if you want to cook some meals rather than eat out every night. Call ahead about the specific pet deposit amount and any breed or size restrictions that might apply to your dog.