🐾 Top 6 Dog-Friendly Beaches Near Santa Cruz (Where Locals Actually Go)

🐾 Top 6 Dog-Friendly Beaches Near Santa Cruz (Where Locals Actually Go)

By Lisa Bibbee | Coldwell Banker Realty
📲 831.295.0065 | 🌐 homebylisab.com

One of the first things many of my clients ask when moving to Santa Cruz County is:

“Where can I take my dog to the beach?”

And I love that question — because Santa Cruz is an incredibly dog-friendly place to live. From morning beach walks to sunset strolls with paws in the sand, coastal living here truly includes the whole family (four-legged members included).

As a local, top-producing Realtor®, I also know this:
Dog-friendly beaches aren’t just lifestyle perks — they’re part of what makes Santa Cruz luxury real estate, Capitola beach homes, and Aptos oceanfront living so desirable.

Here are the Top 6 dog-friendly beaches near Santa Cruz — the ones locals rely on, love, and return to again and again.

Always check posted signage for current leash rules and seasonal wildlife protections.

🐕‍🦺 1. Mitchell’s Cove Beach (Santa Cruz)

The most famous dog beach in Santa Cruz

If you ask locals where to take your dog, Mitchell’s Cove is almost always the first answer.

Located along West Cliff Drive, this beach is known for its relaxed vibe, soft sand, and welcoming attitude toward dogs.

Why locals love it:

Easy access from West Cliff
Long, walkable shoreline
Friendly dog-loving community
Stunning sunset views

This beach is especially popular with residents living near West Cliff luxury homes and coastal Santa Cruz neighborhoods.

🐾 Perfect for: Social dogs, long walks, sunset adventures

🐾 2. Its Beach (Westside Santa Cruz)

Where dogs, surfers, and locals coexist beautifully

Its Beach sits just below Lighthouse Field and is one of the most laid-back beaches in Santa Cruz County.

This is where you’ll see dogs trotting beside surfers carrying boards, locals chatting barefoot, and people who truly live the coastal lifestyle.

Why it stands out:

Wide beach at low tide
Surfer-friendly energy
Incredible ocean views
Casual, no-rush atmosphere

For buyers exploring Santa Cruz luxury real estate, especially on the Westside, Its Beach is a huge lifestyle bonus.

🐾 Perfect for: Dogs who love space, ocean air, and relaxed vibes

🐕 3. Lighthouse Field Beach

Clifftop views + beach access = perfection

Technically part of the West Cliff area, Lighthouse Field offers both grassy open space and beach access — making it ideal for dogs who like variety.

This is a favorite for morning walks, especially for residents who want quick outdoor time without a long drive.

Highlights:

Open grassy areas
Easy beach access
Coastal walking paths
One of the best whale-watching spots in town

Living nearby means your daily dog walk feels like a postcard.

🐾 Perfect for: Quick walks, scenic strolls, morning routines

🐾 4. Twin Lakes State Beach (Santa Cruz / Live Oak)

A quieter, more neighborhood-oriented option

Twin Lakes is beloved for its wide shoreline, gentle waves, and easy parking — especially near the harbor.

While leash rules can vary, this beach is commonly used by locals for relaxed dog walks during quieter hours.

Why people love it:

Less tourist traffic
Calm water
Harbor nearby
Easy access from residential areas

For buyers considering Seabright or Live Oak homes, this beach is part of daily life.

🐾 Perfect for: Calm walks, older dogs, harbor lovers

🐕 5. Rio Del Mar Beach (Aptos)

Dog-friendly coastal living at its finest

Aptos residents know how special Rio Del Mar Beach truly is. Wide, sandy, and beautifully maintained, it’s one of the most enjoyable beaches for both humans and dogs.

This beach is especially popular with owners living in Aptos oceanfront homes and nearby neighborhoods.

Why it’s a favorite:

Long, flat shoreline
Family-friendly atmosphere
Easy walking
Gorgeous coastal scenery

Living near Rio Del Mar means spontaneous beach walks become part of everyday life.

🐾 Perfect for: Long walks, sunrise strolls, peaceful beach days

🐾 6. Seabright Beach (Selective Areas)

A local favorite with neighborhood charm

Seabright Beach offers a strong community feel and is often used by locals walking dogs during low-traffic times.

With views of Walton Lighthouse and proximity to the harbor, it’s a charming, functional beach for daily walks.

What locals enjoy:

Neighborhood access
Harbor views
Walkable surroundings
Friendly coastal energy

Buyers looking at Seabright or harbor-adjacent luxury homes often love this daily convenience.

🐾 Perfect for: Routine walks, locals-only energy, calm outings

🏡 Why Dog-Friendly Beaches Matter in Real Estate

When clients are choosing between neighborhoods, dog-friendly beaches often tip the scale.

Homes near these beaches offer:

Higher lifestyle satisfaction
Strong long-term desirability
Better resale appeal
A true sense of community

This is one reason Santa Cruz luxury real estate continues to attract buyers who value quality of life as much as the home itself.

🌊 Living the Coastal Life — Paws Included

Santa Cruz County isn’t just beautiful — it’s welcoming, relaxed, and genuinely dog-friendly.

When you live near the right beach, your dog becomes part of your daily coastal rhythm — and that’s a luxury you feel every single day.

🤝 Looking for a Dog-Friendly Home Near the Beach?

Whether you’re searching for Capitola beach homes, Aptos oceanfront properties, or luxury neighborhoods near Santa Cruz’s best dog beaches, I’d love to help.

Love Where You Live.

Call/Text: 831.295.0065
Website: homebylisab.com
Lisa Bibbee | Coldwell Banker Realty | CalDRE#02348001

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