Noyo Beach, Mendocino County

By: DogTrekker Staff

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Photo by @finnbodey.

Noyo Beach, Mendocino County. Legal places to romp off-leash with your dog are few and far between on Mendocino County’s gorgeous coastline, but one place you can unclip and let your pup run free is Noyo Beach Off-Leash Dog Area in Fort Bragg.

Noyo is small and not postcard pretty (think dark sand and scattered rocks), but it’s conveniently situated right in town. Your dog won’t care how it compares to other Mendo strands as she romps until her tongue hangs out and her belly is covered with sand.

Another off-leash option is much larger Seaside Beach, six miles north of town. Be sure to observe the signage and stay south of the Ten Mile River, as protected snowy plovers nest on the other side.

Many other beaches in Mendocino County welcome dogs so long as they stay leashed. Standouts include the beaches at Mendocino Headlands State Park, Big River Beach and Van Damme State Beach.