The Best Dog Beaches in Santa Cruz: Where to Find Them

Seeker Editors

If you're a dog owner in Santa Cruz, you know that finding a good beach to take your furry friend can be a challenge. Fortunately, Santa Cruz has several dog-friendly beaches that provide the perfect setting for your four-legged companion to run, play, and cool off in the water. From wide expanses of sand to rocky coves, the beaches on this list offer something for every type of dog and owner. So grab your leash, some sunscreen, and a ball or frisbee, and check out our list of the best dog beaches in Santa Cruz, California!

Tags: Beach Access, Beaches, Dog Friendly

  • Blacks Beach in Santa Cruz, United States

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      Black's Beach in Santa Cruz, California is a picturesque and secluded beach located near the UC Santa Cruz campus, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. Dogs on a leash are allowed on beach before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m. from April 1 through October 31; and before 9 a.m. and after 4 p.m. from November 1 through March 31.

  • Lighthouse Field State Beach in Santa Cruz, United States

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      You can bring your dogs on a leash to the first beach located north from the Lighthouse on West Cliff Drive. Access to the is easy — just follow the stairs that lead down from the cliffs to find a spacious and secluded area for you and your pup. If you're a local, you probably already know that this beach is a popular spot for dog owners, and is often referred to as the "dog beach" in Santa Cruz.

  • Sunny Cove Beach, United States

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      This beloved spot lives up to its name by providing a beautiful, sun-soaked cove that is nestled between towering coastal cliffs, offering a peaceful getaway from the nearby road. Dogs are welcome! But they must be kept on a leash no longer than 6-feet in length and cannot be left unattended.

  • Twin Lakes State Beach in Santa Cruz, United States

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      Twin Lakes State Beach, located in close proximity to various shops and restaurants, offers an expansive beach area for you and your furry friend to explore. Leashed dogs are welcome on the eastern side of the Santa Cruz Harbor.

  • Seabright Beach in Santa Cruz, United States

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      Seabright is an expansive beach with plenty of sand, providing ample space for you and your pup to relax and enjoy the scenery. You can bring your dogs on a leash to the northern side of the Santa Cruz Harbor at 7th Avenue. With breathtaking views of the Harbor, Walton Lighthouse, and Wharf area, this location has become a favorite among both locals and visitors alike.

  • Mitchell's Cove Beach in Santa Cruz, United States

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      At Mitchell's Cove, you can let your dogs run free off-leash before 10am and after 4pm. Situated near West Cliff Drive and Almar Avenue, the beach offers a stunning view of the ocean. You can access the beach by using stairs that lead you down from the cliffs to the sandy shore.