Top dog-friendly beaches in Santa Cruz

There’s a reason Santa Cruz is also known as Surf City. The abundance of beautiful beaches and sick surf mean thousands flock to frolic along these stunning shorelines. ‘But where are the dog-friendly beaches in Santa Cruz?’, we hear you ask. Great question! Well, as California is known for being a pro-pup state, it’s no surprise there are a fair few dog beaches in Santa Cruz. If your pooch is a salty sea dog who loves to strut along the sand, we’ve found some ideal idyllic beaches in Santa Cruz that allow dogs.

Santa Cruz itself is an excellent place for pooches, with plenty of pet-sitting activities available, but it’s always important to check beaches, bays, and parks are dog-friendly and pup-safe. We’ve done a bit of the leg and paw work for you with these options below, but do dig up your research before heading out.

Beach bark babies at the ready, let’s check the best dog-friendly beaches in Santa Cruz…

The best dog-friendly beaches in Santa Cruz

Manresa State Beach

Location: 1445 San Andreas Rd, Watsonville, CA 95076, USA

This beautiful expanse of beach is great for leisurely walks whilst your pup rolls around in the sand. Ideal for a whole day trip or sunset strolls, Manresa State Beach is popular with both locals and tourists. Although there is a $10 parking fee, it lasts for the entire day.

Mitchell’s Cove Beach

Location: Mitchell's Cove Beach, Santa Cruz, CA, United States

Overlooked by a rugged, craggy cliff face, Mitchell’s Cove Beach is one of the smaller dog-friendly beach options around Santa Cruz. However, with numerous rock pools, and sheltered nooks and crannies, and is great for those looking to beat the crowds.

New Brighton State Beach

Location: New Brighton State Beach, California, United States

Known for being an excellent spot for canine campers as well as walkers, New Brighton State Beach offers long hikes along the coastline. If your pup enjoys splashing in the sea and clambering over rocks, this is possibly the best beach for you both.

Santa Cruz Harbor

Location: 135 5th Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062, United States

Just off Twin Lakes State Beach is the Santa Cruz Harbor. This dog park with a beach is littered with local seafood restaurants and cafes, all of which open their doors to all doggos. If your pooch isn’t a fan of sand, this might be a great option for a daily walk whilst staying dry and relatively clean.

Sunny Cove Beach

Location: Sunny Cove Beach, Twin Lakes, CA 95062, United States

Tucked away near Black Point in Santa Cruz, Sunny Cove Beach boasts shelter, sun, surf, and peace. Whilst it may not be the best dog-friendly beach in Santa Cruz for lengthy hikes, it’s paw-fect for settling in the sand for a leisurely day of relaxing whilst your pup enjoys this safe sandy corner.

Its Beach

Location: LightHouse Field State Beach, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, United States

Arguably the best beach in all of Santa Cruz (according to locals, of course), Its Beach is technically a dog park with a beach offering a different rein of terrain for pups of all shapes, sizes, and mobilities. As this is a popular place for other pooches, if you’re snuffle is in a sociable mood, this could be a great day out for them and you.

Twin Lakes State Beach

Location: Twin Lakes State Beach, California 95062, United States

As the main beach in the Twin Lakes area, this is a popular place for humans and dogs to socialize. The Twin Lakes State Beach provides free firepits for people to commandeer (as long as you bring your firewood and respect the local rules).  If you’re looking for somewhere to spend the day or evening with the family or other pup parents, this may be the spot for you.

Seabright State Beach

Location: Seabright State Beach, Santa Cruz, CA 95062, United States

All though a well-visited beach, Seabright State Beach still hosts a calm and chilled atmosphere. This wide stretch of coastline allows people and pups to spread out and enjoy the sand and surf without feeling packed in with other visitors. And, of course, you can’t miss the sunset from this part of Santa Cruz - it’ll certainly have your tail wagging.