Dog beaches and fun in the sun!
Lighthouse Field State Beach, Santa Cruz
Mitchell’s Cove Beach, Santa Cruz
Dogs are allowed off-leash at Mitchell’s Cove before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. The beach is easily accessed off West Cliff Drive via a staircase. Tides can change the size of the beach, and it is often full of kelp and other types of seaweed.
Manresa State Beach, Watsonville
Take the San Andreas Road exit off Highway 1 and follow San Andreas Road to Manresa State Beach. Dogs are only allowed at Manresa State Beach up the coast of the Uplands campground and must be leashed. The long, wide beach is great for strolls, dog swim/surf opportunities, and access points.
New Brighton State Beach, Capitola
Dogs are allowed on leashes on New Brighton State Beach. Take the Park Avenue exit off of Highway 1. Turn left on McGregor Drive and right into the park. The fun part about this beach is the picnic tables that have some shade, and the beach is spacious. Campsites are available as well!
Palm State Beach, Watsonville
Leashed dogs are allowed between Pajaro Dunes condos and houses but not up or down the coast from residences. On San Andreas Road, go past Manresa State Beach and continue past Sunset State Beach. Turn right on Beach Road toward the ocean to find Palm State Beach. It is a beautiful beach, but it can be windy.
Seabright State Beach, Santa Cruz
Dogs are allowed on leashes on the north side of Santa Cruz Harbor on 7th Avenue. I have walked there with dogs and owners do sometimes have dogs off leash, yet the dogs were very well behaved. I would say it is a good dog and dog owner spot. This spacious beach is close to the harbor and harbor paths, too. Parking is easiest in early and late day hours. Aldo’s Harbor Restaurant is nearby, where you can enjoy the harbor and ocean views.
Seacliff Beach and Rio Del Mar Beach, Santa Cruz
Another spot perfect for an all-day beach trip. Many beaches to roam and coastal paths are available on the Seacliff and Rio Del Mar State Beaches. Take the State Park Drive Exit off Highway 1 and head towards the ocean. Next to New Brighton Beach, it is great for long strolls. Currently, parking is free, but it does get crowded. Cafe Rio, Flats Bistro, and Pixie Deli have dog-friendly dining options, too.
Twin Lakes State Beach, Santa Cruz
Dogs are allowed on a leash on the east side of the Santa Cruz Harbor. Twin Lakes State Beach offers many beaches and is within walking distance of shops and restaurants. The excellent beach can get chilly, and many kids are usually here. Fire pits are available but can also be hazardous to running dogs. It is not my most recommended beach.
Sunny Cove Beach, Santa Cruz
Leashes must be a maximum of 6 feet, and dogs cannot be left unattended. This is a fun beach with great body surfing, but it is small. It is excellent for morning jaunts. I recommend it if you can get crowded visiting the area.
