Bellows Plumbing, Heating & Sewer

Best Dog Beaches of Santa Cruz

Friday 4/2/2010

Pretty much everyone I know has a dog, except poor old me. Since I was young I had dreamt about being able to take my own dog to the beach or walking around the neighborhood or to be greeted at the door with overwhelming love after a long day. It is the one absent memory of my childhood that is hard to come to terms with. I am still waiting for the day I can get a dog of my own. But thankfully over the past few years I have been able to enjoy quality time with my favorite dog of all, Boomer. Boomer was rescued back in 2006 by my sister and her husband, Chelsea & Jason, from SPCA.
He is the sweetest gentlest dog who continues to amaze me with his endless energy.

With my sister and her husband being avid travelers, I have been appointed weekend babysitter, which I gladly accept. One of my favorite things to do with Boomer is take him to the beach to burn off some steam. Here in Santa Cruz it has been difficult to find a beach that is dog friendly and actually allows you to take your dog off the leash. Boomer and I have explored the coastline of Santa Cruz and have compiled a list of our top 3 “dog friendly” beaches that are a great place to enjoy some time with your pet.

1. Santa Maria Beach, located off of East Cliff Drive near 17th ave.

This beach is a perfect getaway for pets and their owners. Leashes are not required at this beach, which makes it enjoyable for not only you but for your dog as well. With dozens of dogs running up and down the beach, it’s a sure fine place to let loose and not worry about park rangers driving up to ticket you.

2. Its Beach, located off of West Cliff Drive
This is not a large beach, but it is big enough for your water loving dog to take a dip in the water and get lots of sand between his or her paws. Dogs must be on leash at all times, which is a downfall, but it allows you to engage more with your dog. The beach is located on West Cliff Drive, just north of the Lighthouse, and south of Columbia Street.

3. New Brighton State Beach, located of Park Ave in Capitola   

Dogs on leash are allowed at this beach which offers a wide strip of sand. You can do the Old Cement Ship loop which offers great exercise for you and your dog. But do be cautious of the many dead seals on this beach. Boomer has been known to take a jab at their bloated bodies.

I hope to see you fellow dog lovers at these beaches. I’m sure I’ll run into you with Boomer one of these days.

Posted: by Jessie B
Tags: Santa Cruz, Fun