Santa Cruz County, California, is a haven for pet owners seeking a getaway with their furry friends. Just a short drive from the Bay Area, this coastal paradise offers a plethora of activities perfect for a rejuvenating break, blending beachside relaxation, scenic hikes, and even camping under the stars – all while being incredibly welcoming to pets. This guide will walk you through creating the ultimate pet-friendly Santa Cruz experience, ensuring both you and your companion have an unforgettable time.
Day 1: South Bay Bites and Santa Cruz Mountain Trails
Navigating to Santa Cruz County: Driving Tips
The journey to Santa Cruz County is part of the adventure, but Highway 17, the most direct route from the Bay Area, demands caution. Known for its winding nature and sharp curves, this road requires focused driving. To ensure a smooth start to your pet-friendly Santa Cruz trip, consider these driving tips:
- Drive Defensively: Hwy 17 is notorious for its curves, some blind and poorly banked. Reduce speed and maintain full attention behind the wheel.
- Early Departure is Key: Aim to leave before 10 am, or even 9 am during heatwaves, to avoid heavy beach traffic, especially on weekends.
- GPS Navigation is Your Friend: Keep your GPS app active to preview upcoming curves and anticipate road conditions.
- Old Santa Cruz Highway Alternative: If traffic on Hwy 17 becomes congested, Google Maps may suggest rerouting via Old Santa Cruz Highway, often a quicker alternative.
Breakfast in Dog-Friendly Los Gatos
Before embarking on Hwy 17, start your day with a delightful breakfast in Downtown Los Gatos, a town renowned for its pet-friendly atmosphere. Los Gatos Cafe stands out as a local icon, offering a breakfast paradise with generous portions. Their extensive menu features everything from classic Benedicts to fluffy pancakes, ensuring a perfect start for every palate. While Los Gatos Cafe has another dog-friendly location, the Downtown spot boasts a charming patio ideal for enjoying your meal with your dog. Note that while dogs are welcome, they must remain on the ground.
Los Gatos Cafe is a popular spot, especially on weekends, and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early, around 8 am, can help minimize wait times. Their efficient service ensures food arrives quickly, even during busy periods. Popular dishes include “The Scramble” with its creamy Hollandaise, and the crab cake Benedict, both accompanied by perfectly seasoned herb potatoes. Don’t miss their gigantic cinnamon roll on weekends! Remember to bring cash as they are a cash-only establishment.
Alt text: Outdoor patio at Los Gatos Cafe with people enjoying breakfast, showcasing a pet-friendly dining experience in Los Gatos.
Alt text: Close-up of a breakfast plate at Los Gatos Cafe featuring eggs benedict and herb potatoes, highlighting the cafe’s delicious food.
For more dog-friendly breakfast and brunch options in the South Bay before heading to Santa Cruz, consider these alternatives:
Alt text: People enjoying brunch outdoors at a dog-friendly cafe, emphasizing the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for pets.
Alt text: A dog sitting patiently under a table at an outdoor cafe, showcasing responsible pet ownership in a public dining space.
Alt text: Variety of brunch dishes on a table at a dog-friendly restaurant, tempting viewers with delicious food options for a pet-inclusive meal.
Alt text: Happy dog being pet by its owner at a dog-friendly brunch spot, highlighting the joy of dining out with pets.
After breakfast, if time permits, explore the Los Gatos Farmers Market (Sundays, 9 am-1 pm) for local produce and treats. While dogs are not allowed inside the market, the nearby Town Plaza Park offers a dog-friendly space to relax. Alternatively, stroll through Downtown Los Gatos, browsing its unique boutiques and specialty stores, many of which welcome dogs. Popular pet-friendly spots include Lolli & Pops, Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company, and Moonstone Metaphysical.
Hiking with Your Dog at Land of Medicine Buddha
A short 30-minute drive from Los Gatos, Land of Medicine Buddha (LMB) provides a serene hiking experience in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This 108-acre retreat center in Soquel, bordering the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, welcomes visitors and their leashed dogs during public day hours (9 am-5 pm). Arriving early is recommended due to limited parking. The drive up Prescott Rd sets the tone for tranquility, leading you into a peaceful redwood forest.
LMB is imbued with a sense of calm, enhanced by prayer flags, prayer wheels, and temples. Remember to maintain a quiet atmosphere and keep dogs leashed at all times. The Eight Verses Trail is a popular, short meditative loop featuring Buddhist teachings. Along the trail, you’ll encounter the Mahabodhi stupa replica and eight signs with verses for contemplation, each with a bench for reflection. Trinkets left as offerings should be respectfully left untouched. This tranquil hike is suitable for all, regardless of religious background, offering a peaceful escape and a deeper sense of calm. For a longer hike, consider the 5.6-mile Buddha Loop Trail on a future visit.
Alt text: Entrance to Land of Medicine Buddha with prayer flags and lush greenery, inviting visitors to a spiritual and pet-friendly retreat.
Alt text: Ornate prayer wheels at Land of Medicine Buddha with a dog curiously sniffing, illustrating the dog-friendly aspect of this cultural site.
Alt text: Close-up of colorful prayer flags blowing in the wind at Land of Medicine Buddha, adding a vibrant spiritual element to the natural setting.
Alt text: Stone structures and temples within Land of Medicine Buddha surrounded by redwood trees, showing the harmonious blend of nature and spirituality.
Alt text: A dog and its owner walking along a path at Land of Medicine Buddha, enjoying the peaceful and pet-accessible trails.
Alt text: Golden bell at Land of Medicine Buddha with redwood trees in the background, symbolizing tranquility and mindfulness in a pet-friendly environment.
Alt text: View of a temple roof at Land of Medicine Buddha with prayer flags and surrounding forest, capturing the serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Alt text: Mahabodhi stupa replica at Land of Medicine Buddha under construction, an icon of peace and a point of interest on the pet-friendly trail.
Alt text: Sign with Buddhist verses along the Eight Verses Trail at Land of Medicine Buddha, providing meditative prompts during a dog walk.
Alt text: Trail path through a redwood forest at Land of Medicine Buddha, highlighting the natural beauty and pet-friendly hiking trails.
Alt text: Bench along the Eight Verses Trail inviting hikers to sit and contemplate, a peaceful rest stop on a pet-friendly hike.
Alt text: Sunlight filtering through redwood trees along the Eight Verses Trail, creating a tranquil hiking experience for people and pets.
Alt text: Dog sniffing the base of a redwood tree on the Eight Verses Trail, showcasing the natural exploration pets can enjoy.
Alt text: Another sign with Buddhist teachings on the Eight Verses Trail, part of the thought-transformation meditation experience on this pet-friendly path.
Alt text: View down a path on the Eight Verses Trail, illustrating the gentle slopes and serene environment suitable for hiking with dogs.
Lunch in Aptos: French-Italian Cuisine Welcomes Dogs
A short 15-minute drive from LMB in Aptos Village brings you to Mentone, a dog-friendly gem serving upmarket French-Italian cuisine in a casual setting. Created by David Kinch of the acclaimed three-Michelin-starred Manresa, Mentone focuses on high-quality, simple ingredients that deliver exceptional flavor. While reservations are recommended, especially for the popular dog-friendly patio open for weekend lunch (12-2 pm), walk-ins are welcome at the bar and communal tables. If patio seating isn’t available, shaded parking spots near the entrance allow dogs to relax comfortably in the car while you dine.
Must-try dishes include the Stracciatella with creamy cheese and Manresa Bread sourdough, the exceptional gnocchi, and any of their wood-fired pizzas with a chewy, light crust. The anchovy or ‘Nduja pizza are highly recommended. For a refreshing treat, order their frozen aperol spritz.
Alt text: Outdoor patio seating at Mentone restaurant in Aptos, showcasing a dog-friendly lunch spot with a relaxed ambiance.
Alt text: Stracciatella cheese appetizer with sourdough bread at Mentone, highlighting a delicious starter at this pet-friendly restaurant.
Alt text: Wood-fired pizza at Mentone restaurant, showing the restaurant’s specialty and culinary expertise in a pet-welcoming setting.
Alt text: Frozen Aperol Spritz drink at Mentone, a refreshing beverage option at this dog-friendly dining location in Aptos.
Alt text: Dog relaxing in the shade in a car while owners dine at a restaurant, an option for pet owners when patio seating is unavailable.
Alt text: Interior of Mentone restaurant with a view of the kitchen, showcasing the restaurant’s ambiance and culinary focus.
For dessert, skip Mentone’s offerings and head across the street to The Penny Ice Creamery. While Marianne’s is a Santa Cruz institution, Penny’s homemade, locally-sourced flavors offer a unique treat. Opt for a Mini Double Scoop in a cup with toasted marshmallow fluff and a free waffle cone. Flavor highlights include Verve coffee with chocolate almond praline and seasonal fruit flavors like blueberry orange graham jam. Penny’s also has locations in Palo Alto and Los Altos, though flavor selections may be limited outside Santa Cruz County.
Alt text: Variety of ice cream flavors at The Penny Ice Creamery, tempting viewers with delicious options in this Santa Cruz ice cream shop.
Other dog-friendly lunch patios in Aptos include: [insert list of other dog-friendly lunch spots in Aptos].
Beach Relaxation: Dog-Friendly Beaches in Santa Cruz County
Santa Cruz County is synonymous with beautiful beaches, and fortunately, many are dog-friendly. While the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is off-limits to dogs, numerous more enjoyable and pet-welcoming beaches await. Aptos beaches are excellent choices, requiring dogs to be leashed (max 6-foot leash).
Alt text: Expansive sandy beach in Santa Cruz County with gentle waves, inviting visitors to a relaxing pet-friendly beach experience.
Consider these dog-friendly beaches in Aptos and nearby Watsonville:
Alt text: Dog running on a dog-friendly beach in Santa Cruz, enjoying the freedom and open space with its owner.
Alt text: Dog playing fetch in the surf at a Santa Cruz beach, showcasing active fun for pets at the coast.
Alt text: People walking with dogs on a leash along a Santa Cruz beach, demonstrating responsible pet ownership in a public beach area.
Choosing a beach in Aptos or Watsonville positions you conveniently for your next stop.
Corralitos Brewing Company: Pet-Friendly Brews in Watsonville
After a beach afternoon, unwind at Corralitos Brewing Co in Watsonville, a local favorite. This brewery gained recognition at the Great American Beer Festival for its fruited wood barrel-aged sour beers. Located in a barn-like setting, Corralitos Brewing offers a small-town charm with wooden decor and a saloon-style patio. Dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio. Enjoy their diverse beer selection, including fruited beers, IPAs, and pale ales, and consider taking home a barrel-aged sour. Food trucks are often on-site during weekends. Corralitos Brewing opens at 5 pm Wed-Fri and 2 pm on weekends.
Camping at Uvas Canyon County Park: A Pet-Friendly Overnight Stay
Conclude Day 1 with a camping experience at Uvas Canyon County Park in Morgan Hill. Reservations are required at this Santa Clara County Parks gem. Note that park gates close at sunset with no re-entry, so secure dinner in Watsonville (e.g., Straw Hat Pizza) or at grocery stores before heading to the park.
Uvas Canyon County Park Details:
- Address: 8515 Croy Rd, Morgan Hill, CA 95037
- Dog Policy: Dogs are allowed throughout the park on a max 6-foot leash, but cannot be left unattended. Two dogs max per campsite.
- Cost: $34/night
- Weekend Availability: Medium. Fridays book 1.5+ months ahead (last-minute spots sometimes available); Saturdays book 3+ months ahead; Sundays available but book months ahead for long weekends.
- Campsites: 25
- Amenities: Flush toilets, free hot showers, potable water, ADA sites, trash bins, dog waste stations, picnic table, food locker, BBQ pits.
- RVs/Trailers: No RV hookups. Max 12-foot RV length due to space.
- Reservations: https://gooutsideandplay.org
- Check-in/out: 3 pm/1 pm
- Best Campsites: Sites 4, 6, 13, 17, 18, 19, or 22 offer a bit more space and privacy. All sites are well-maintained and shaded but closely spaced.
- Resources: Park Map, Campground Map
- Notes: Access via narrow road through Sveadal private resort – drive slowly. Parking reservation ($6) needed for pre-check-in or post-check-out parking. 7.2 miles of hiking trails, Uvas Creek Trailhead near campsite 12.
Uvas Canyon County Park, nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, is a lush escape with creeks and waterfalls flowing year-round. Reservations are essential for day use or camping. Dog-friendly campgrounds nearby include Mt. Madonna County Park, Manresa State Beach, and Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park.
Alt text: Campsite at Uvas Canyon County Park nestled among trees, showing a pet-friendly camping destination in Santa Cruz Mountains.
Alt text: Tent set up at a Uvas Canyon campsite with picnic table and forest surroundings, illustrating a typical pet-friendly camping setup.
Alt text: Campsite amenities at Uvas Canyon including picnic table, fire pit, and food storage locker, highlighting the park’s facilities for pet campers.
Alt text: Campground restroom facilities at Uvas Canyon County Park, indicating clean and accessible amenities for campers with pets.
Arrive at your reserved campsite (e.g., #12) by 6:30 pm. Campsites can feel close together, especially on busy weekends. Enjoy a relaxed evening – consider a pre-made dinner to avoid camp cooking. Remember bug spray or citronella candles. If time allows before sunset, take a short walk on the dog-friendly Uvas Creek Trail (0.6 miles out-and-back) near campsite #12.
Alt text: Camp chairs and a tent at a Uvas Canyon campsite, creating a cozy and relaxing pet-friendly camping scene.
Alt text: Dog resting outside a tent at Uvas Canyon campsite at dusk, showing a peaceful camping night with a pet.
Day 2: Waterfalls, Pies, and Coastal Wineries
Morning Waterfall Hike at Uvas Canyon
Start Day 2 with a refreshing morning hike to Uvas Canyon’s waterfalls. Camping offers a natural sleep cycle reset, making for an early and energized start. The Waterfall Loop Trail is a moderately challenging loop passing several waterfalls. Wear hiking boots with good grip due to rocky and potentially slippery trails. From the campground, the Uvas Creek Trail leads to the Waterfall Loop. Be prepared for a steep descent to Uvas Falls, the first waterfall.
Alt text: Trail sign at Uvas Canyon County Park marking the Waterfall Loop Trail, inviting hikers and their pets to explore scenic trails.
Alt text: Wooden staircase on a hiking trail at Uvas Canyon, part of the varied terrain on the pet-friendly Waterfall Loop.
Alt text: Hikers and a dog descending a rocky path towards a waterfall at Uvas Canyon, demonstrating adventurous hiking with pets.
Alt text: Wooden bridge over a creek on the Waterfall Loop Trail at Uvas Canyon, showcasing trail infrastructure for pet-friendly hiking.
Alt text: Lush green forest along the Waterfall Loop Trail at Uvas Canyon, highlighting the natural beauty of the pet-friendly hiking environment.
Alt text: Dog drinking water from a creek during a hike at Uvas Canyon, emphasizing hydration for pets on outdoor adventures.
During a recent visit, part of the Waterfall Loop near Swanson Creek was closed due to storm damage. However, the upper loop still offered views of Black Rock Falls, Basin Falls, and Upper Falls, each with unique charm.
Alt text: Black Rock Falls at Uvas Canyon, showcasing one of the waterfalls accessible on the pet-friendly hike.
Alt text: Basin Falls at Uvas Canyon, another waterfall viewable along the pet-friendly Waterfall Loop Trail.
Alt text: Upper Falls at Uvas Canyon, the highest waterfall on the loop, offering a scenic reward on the pet-friendly trail.
Alt text: Dog looking at a waterfall at Uvas Canyon, enjoying the natural scenery during a pet-friendly hike.
Alt text: Rocky terrain along the Waterfall Loop Trail at Uvas Canyon, indicating the need for proper footwear when hiking with pets.
Alt text: Hikers admiring a waterfall at Uvas Canyon, enjoying the natural beauty of the pet-friendly hiking destination.
Alt text: Dog walking on a trail with a waterfall in the background at Uvas Canyon, highlighting the pet-friendliness and scenic trails.
Alt text: Another view of a waterfall cascading at Uvas Canyon, showcasing the natural attractions on the pet-friendly hike.
You can choose a shorter hike (~1.8 miles) by turning back at Upper Falls or extend it to ~3.5 miles by looping back via Contour Trail. Contour Trail offers a different landscape, transitioning to drier shrubland, and is typically less crowded than the Waterfall Loop. Remember to pack out dog waste as there are no waste stations on the trail.
Alt text: View from Contour Trail at Uvas Canyon, showing a different landscape of shrubland compared to the forest trails, offering varied pet-friendly hiking experiences.
Gizdich Ranch: Fresh Pies and Pet-Friendly Picnic
After your hike, pack up camp and head to Gizdich Ranch in Watsonville, a 4th-generation family farm known for its fresh pies and U-pick fruits. Dogs are welcome in the picnic area and around the fields (leashed), but not in the U-pick rows. Enjoy a slice (or a whole pie!) in their shaded picnic area among apple trees. Pie flavors like Olallieberry, Dutch Apple, and Strawberry Rhubarb are highly recommended.
Alt text: Roadside sign pointing to Gizdich Ranch, guiding visitors to this pet-friendly farm and pie destination.
Alt text: Farm dog relaxing in the shade at Gizdich Ranch, illustrating the welcoming atmosphere for pets at this family farm.
Alt text: Interior of the farm shop at Gizdich Ranch, showcasing local produce and homemade goods available for purchase.
Alt text: Menu board at Gizdich Ranch listing pies, drinks, and other farm-fresh items, tempting visitors with homemade treats.
Alt text: Shaded picnic area with wooden tables at Gizdich Ranch, a perfect spot to enjoy pies with pets in a farm setting.
Alt text: Close-up of a homemade pie at Gizdich Ranch, showcasing the delicious baked goods available at this pet-friendly farm.
Alt text: Dog relaxing in the shaded picnic area at Gizdich Ranch while owners enjoy pie, highlighting the pet-friendly picnic experience.
Alt text: Fun photo stand-in at Gizdich Ranch, adding a playful element to the pet-friendly farm visit.
Alt text: Apple orchard at Gizdich Ranch in summer, showing the farm’s scenic landscape and fruit production.
Alt text: Fresh California strawberries for sale inside the shop at Gizdich Ranch, showcasing the farm’s berry offerings.
Lunch in Capitola: Cajun Creole with a Dog-Friendly Vibe
For lunch, experience a surprising culinary find in Capitola: Roux Dat Cajun Creole. This family-run, casual spot offers flavorful and affordable Cajun-Creole dishes. While spice levels cannot be adjusted, the stews are generally moderately spiced with hot sauces available for extra heat. The half & half large Roux Dat Stew allows you to sample two different stews like chicken, okra & sausage gumbo, or shrimp & corn étouffée. Don’t miss their beignets with rum sauce.
Downtown Santa Cruz Exploration: Pet-Friendly Stroll
Head west to Downtown Santa Cruz to explore its shops, restaurants, arts, and culture. Many downtown restaurants offer dog-friendly outdoor dining options if Roux Dat wasn’t your choice. Pacific Avenue and surrounding streets are ideal for a 1-2 hour walk with your dog. Consider a detour to the Santa Cruz Riverwalk along the San Lorenzo River levee, leading to the Beach Boardwalk. Downtown Santa Cruz offers various parking options, including free street parking (time limits) and paid parking ($1.25/hour). Locust St or Rincon Park often offer free street parking, though a short walk may be required.
Santa Cruz Mountains Wine Region: Dog-Friendly Wineries
Conclude your pet-friendly Santa Cruz weekend by exploring the Santa Cruz Mountains wine region. This region, often overshadowed by Napa Valley, produces exceptional Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, and Cabernets due to its high altitude, microclimates, and diverse soils. The Santa Cruz Mountains wineries offer a relaxed, less crowded experience with opportunities to meet winemakers. Many tasting rooms and vineyards are dog-friendly and do not require reservations.
Alt text: Vineyard in Santa Cruz Mountains with rolling hills and grapevines, showcasing the scenic wine region and potential pet-friendly wineries.
Bargetto Winery in Soquel, the oldest in the county, features a beautiful dog-friendly patio overlooking Soquel Creek. It’s a great starting point to discover Santa Cruz Mountain wines. Other dog-friendly wineries in the Santa Cruz and Los Gatos area [insert list of other dog-friendly wineries in Santa Cruz Mountains].
This itinerary provides a framework for a memorable pet-friendly Santa Cruz getaway, blending outdoor adventures, delicious food, and relaxing experiences for you and your beloved companion. Enjoy exploring this welcoming coastal region with your dog!
