Featured beaches
New Brighton State Beach
Capitola
Named for its British namesake, New Brighton State Beach in California is a scenic marvel that has attracted both humans and wildlife for generations, including those with four-legged companions.
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Surf and sand in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz pairs legendary surf breaks with towering redwoods and 17 dog-friendly beaches along its 29-mile coastline. Add wineries, breweries and a walkable downtown, and you have the perfect pup-friendly getaway.
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Waves away with your dog on the Central Coast
California's Central Coast is loaded with dog-friendly cabin and cottage lodging, from Santa Cruz and Monterey to Big Sur, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara. Here are favorite retreats for you and your pup along this scenic stretch of coastline.
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Living local in Santa Cruz County
Santa Cruz County keeps getting more dog-friendly. Dogs can now hike a 7-mile route at Big Basin Redwoods State Park, romp at Ozzi Memorial Dog Park near Capitola, and hang out at the Heart of Soquel Park.
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Santa Cruz County’s offbeat bounty
Looking for something offbeat in Santa Cruz County? Walk meditation trails at Land of Medicine Buddha in Soquel, hike through 300 acres of redwood forest at Chaminade Resort, or refuel at Dharma's vegetarian restaurant. Dogs are welcome at all three.
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Best beds for heads and paws
Santa Cruz County has more than 50 pet-friendly lodgings for every budget. Splurge at Chaminade Resort with its pooch patio and mountaintop trails, or keep it simple at coastal inns, KOA cabins, and vacation rentals near the beach.
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Sniff out some new places
Santa Cruz County keeps getting more dog-friendly. Dogs can now hike a 7-mile route through redwoods at Big Basin, play at the new Ozzi's Memorial Dog Park near Capitola, and enjoy bocce at Heart of Soquel Park.
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