STORIES ADOPT A DOG

Sun sand, and tail waggin’ good times

By: DogTrekker Staff
A pure white canine proudly standing on a sun-kissed beach, soft sand sinking beneath its paws, with the rhythmic dance of ocean waves playing in the background. Nearby, a figure strolls leisurely along the water's edge, making this an ideal setting for dog-lovers seeking leisurely activities with their pets. - Dogtrekker
Maya heads into the surf at Sunny Cove Beach.
Photo by Dave Kendrick.

If you and your pup don’t live on the coast, you probably crave some surf and sand from time to time. Start at Mitchell’s Cove, the number one dog beach in Santa Cruz.

It’s the first strand up the coast from the lighthouse on West Cliff Drive, where you can walk for miles with your leashed dog. 

Follow the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) along the Santa Cruz County coastline for 29 more miles of beautiful beachfront, including 15 beaches that welcome pups. Here’s your complete guide to the region’s dog-friendly beach scene.

 

Paw-some events for the dog days of summer

With summer in full swing, pup-friendly festivals are popping up across California. Lucky dogs can join their people for incredible winery events, block parties, baseball...
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Two dogs playfully chase each other across a Santa Cruz beach at sunset. The ocean reflects the warm golden light, with waves softly reaching the sand. A rocky cliff stands dark against the glowing sun, while clouds are scattered throughout the sky, enhancing the stunning view.

Surf and sand in Santa Cruz

California’s original surf town, Santa Cruz is equal parts beachy and woodsy with legendary surf breaks on the coast and
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A golden retriever runs through the shallow water at a California beach, a blue ball clamped in its mouth. Waves roll and crash behind the dog, whose wet fur suggests it has been swimming. The background features churning surf and a distant horizon.

California coasting with your dog

Summer in California means sandcastles, swimming, shoreline walks, and patio dinners at sunset – all with your dog in tow. As we look ahead to...
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dog running on the beach

Surf towns and sand on the Central Coast

California’s Central Coast is a sun-splashed adventure hub, especially during the dog days of summer. Start your voyage in
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Dog lying on bed

Pets welcome here: Santa Cruz (video)

From towering redwood groves to the surf-friendly shores of Santa Cruz County, California, see what makes this quintessential beach town so pet-friendly with Pets Welcome...
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Zayante and Meadow Trail in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park 

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Henry Cowell is a must. Locals and visitors alike love the beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Henry Cowell has it all.
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SEE MORE STORIES

Related Listings in Santa Cruz

Chef Avram prepares dinner for Maya at Chaminade Resort, Santa Cruz. Photo by Dave Kendrick.

The View, A Treeside Restaurant at Chaminade

The View is a dog-friendly treeside restaurant in Live Oak, California offering al fresco dining, overlooking Santa Cruz and the...
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Engfer's pizza offers a unique experience with its two contrasting halves. One side is adorned with ripe tomatoes, creamy feta cheese, and fragrant pesto. The other supports a savory mix of earthy mushrooms, spicy jalapeños, juicy sausage, and fresh spinach. Each half maintains its own character while sharing the same crisp crust. The pizza arrives on a metal tray that highlights the vibrant colors and textures of this carefully crafted dish. Perfect for enjoying with your furry friend in tow.

Engfer Pizza Works

Engfer Pizza Works in Santa Cruz is a favorite spot for dog owners seeking a relaxed, pet-friendly atmosphere. Dogs are...
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Seabright State beach on a sunny afternoon, Santa Cruz beach Boardwalk and wharf in the background, Santa Cruz, California

Seabright Beach

Seabright State Beach in Santa Cruz, California, is a welcoming destination for dog owners looking for a beach day with...
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German Shepherd at Mitchells Cove, Santa Cruz

Mitchell’s Cove Beach

Mitchell’s Cove Beach, located in Santa Cruz, offers a picturesque coastal retreat for both locals and visitors. Administered by the...
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