As a Santa Cruz real estate agent, I'm not just passionate about finding people their dream homes - I also love helping residents and visitors alike discover the best our beautiful county has to offer. For many of us (myself included!), that includes finding perfect spots to enjoy with our four-legged family members. Here's my curated list of the best dog-friendly beaches in Santa Cruz and best dog-friendly hiking trails in Santa Cruz, each offering a fun outdoor experience for you and your furry friends.
Dog-Friendly Beaches:
1. Santa Maria Beach/Corcoran Beach: Tucked away from the bustling main beaches, Santa Maria Beach is a local favorite for dog owners. This secluded spot allows leashed dogs year-round, providing a peaceful environment for a relaxing stroll or a game of fetch and killer sunsets. Dogs are required to be on leash or else you risk a potential fine, however many people do let their well-behaved dogs off leash throughout the day. Parking is limited which is part of what keeps this beach from being packed like other beaches in Santa Cruz.
📍 Location: Santa Maria Beach is at end of 19th avenue and connects to Corcoran Beach which is across from the radio towers at Corcoran Lagoon. Live Oak Area, Santa Cruz, CA
2. Seacliff State Beach: Seacliff State Beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue with the famous cement ship. Dogs on leashes are welcome, making it a perfect spot for history buffs and their canine companions. Seacliff opens up to 12 miles of pristine beaches perfect for walking and beach combing.
📍 Location: State Park Drive, Seacliff Area, Aptos, CA
3. Seabright Beach: Nestled between the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Santa Cruz Harbor, Seabright Beach welcomes leashed dogs year-round. It's an excellent spot for sunset walks and offers stunning views of the lighthouse.The wide, flat beach is perfect for leisurely walks, and the area is less crowded than some other beaches. It is also accessible via the Yacht Harbor.
📍 Location: East Cliff Drive at Seabright Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA
4. Its Beach: Off-Leash Paradise! Also known as "Dog Beach," Its Beach is a favorite among local dog owners. This small cove allows dogs off-leash during specific hours, providing a rare opportunity for free play in the waves. You pup will love the freedom to run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a beautiful setting. This is one of my favorite beaches to bring my dogs to, but make sure to check the tides before going! Parking can be tough during peak times on weekends due to its proximity Steamers Lane surf spot.
📍 Location: West Cliff Drive near Lighthouse Field, Santa Cruz, CA
5. Privates Beach: Exclusive Canine Getaway. While access no longer requires a paid key card, Privates Beach maintains its exclusivity and is worth mentioning for its dog-friendly policy and secluded atmosphere. Dogs are welcome on leash, offering a more exclusive beach experience. Like Its Beach, make sure to check the tides before going or you wont have much beach to play on. There are also stairs down to this beach.
Why your pup will love it: Less crowded than public beaches, providing a quieter environment for shy or older dogs.
📍 Location: End of Opal Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA
Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails:
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park in Felton offers several dog-friendly trails that showcase the beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet and are not allowed on the Redwood Grove Loop Trail. Specific dog-friendly trails include:
Pipeline Trail: This 6-mile out-and-back paved trail is perfect for a leisurely walk with your pup, offering views of redwoods and the San Lorenzo River
Meadow Trail: An easy, scenic option for dogs and their owners
Graham Hill Trail: Another dog-friendly trail within the park
Powder Mill Fire Road: Accessible for leashed dogs, providing a different park perspective
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park: While more limited in dog-friendly areas, Nisene Marks offers some great options:
Aptos Creek Fire Road: A wide, accessible trail for leashed dogs
Aptos Rancho Trail: One of four single-track trails below the steel bridge where dogs are welcome
Vienna Woods Trail: An excellent starting point, featuring trees, wildflowers, and creek views
Nisene Marks Pogonip Open Space: This local favorite backing up to UCSC offers several dog-friendly trails:
Rincon Trail: An easy downhill stroll leading to the Spring Box Trail
Spring Box Trail: Features a unique spring-fed koi pond (remember, no doggy dips allowed)
Other Dog-Friendly Hiking Spots
West Glenwood Open Space Preserve: Offers dog-friendly trails
Loch Lomond Recreation Area: Seasonal access to 12 miles of trails surrounded by redwoods
Watsonville Wetlands: Over seven miles of city trails winding through 800 acres of freshwater wetlands
Roaring Camp: Adjacent to Henry Cowell, Roaring Camp offers some fantastic trails and is dog friendly, just be aware these trails might not be ideal for skittish dogs as the steam train can be loud. For non-skittish dogs, they are even allowed on the train!
Remember to always clean up after your pet and respect local leash laws and park rules. These dog-friendly beaches and hikes not only provide a great way to enjoy Santa Cruz's natural beauty but also offer a glimpse into the lifestyle that makes our community so special. It is also a great way to meet other dog-lovers in the community.
As a Santa Cruz real estate agent, I'm always excited to share these local gems with clients. Whether you're a resident or considering moving to Santa Cruz, these beaches and trails are just one of the many reasons why living here is so rewarding. If you're interested in exploring Santa Cruz real estate opportunities or have any questions about our beautiful coastal community, don't hesitate to reach out.
Top Santa Cruz real estate agent Ace Woods brings a fun and educational approach to real estate in the Santa Cruz area, with the goal of helping families build wealth through real estate.
Selling a home in Santa Cruz? I will help you prep your home for sale with no up front costs so that you can get top dollar when you sell your biggest asset.
Buying a home in Santa Cruz? I will help you become the strongest buyer possible, with an arsenal of financing options, off-market homes, as well as a competitive spirit to help write that winning offer.
Call or email Ace for a free consultation to discuss your real estate goals at 831-419-5852 or ace@dreamcatchproperties.com.
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