SANTA CRUZ

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY SAYS, “LET’S CRUZ,” TO YOU AND YOUR FURRY FRIEND

What could be a more exciting bonus for a dog on vacation than a romp in a park among glorious trees, running through the surf on a sun-streaked dog-friendly beach, or chilling out at a local winery or restaurant that welcomes pets? Santa Cruz County welcomes furry visitors with open paws, and there are lots of places for your pup to relax: from budget-conscious properties, elegant resorts, hip and cool boutique hotels, and cozy B&B Inns. Sit, stay!

What better way to begin your Santa Cruz adventure than checking out a surfing exhibition with Skylar, a famous local Surfer Dog, and his human dad, Homer. You’ll find Skylar and Homer surfing most mornings on one of the pet friendly Santa Cruz Beaches. Then, take a stroll along a pet friendly beach yourself, such as Its Beach on West Cliff Drive, Mitchell’s Cove or dog friendly State Beaches. Santa Cruz County has over 29 miles of beautiful coastline to explore.

There’s so much to see and do, including discovering the exquisite handcrafted glass creations by Annieglass, a unique shop and crafts center where special workshops combine craft making with enjoying a local craft beer or wine. And, to add to the fun, pets are welcome! Of course.

Want more adventure? It’s “All Aboard” for people and pets that want the fun and excitement of a steam engine railroad that invites pets to join in the fun of a ride on the Roaring Camp Railroad. This one-of-a-kind train ride features open cars so you can see the breathtaking views of magnificent redwoods as the train winds its way through a forest and up a mountain. The Roaring Camp Railroad not only offers visitors a remarkable railroading experience, it also features a replica of an Old West gold mining town complete with gem mining, costumed guides and story tellers and restaurants. There are even hiking trails to explore. And your dog is welcome to travel back in time with you to discover it all.

When it’s time to unwind, “Let’s Cruz” to one of the many outstanding pet friendly wineries. The Alfaro Family Winery offers tastings in their pet friendly tasting room and a magnificent view of their vineyards, where guests can enjoy fine wines on the patio. Leashed pooches enjoy the best vintage water and treats.

If its craft brews you crave, drop into Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing, whose motto, “Think Organic, Drink Organic” tells you about the quality of the local hand-crafted ales they brew and serve. Ample outdoor seating and their laid-back attitude about pets make them a great spot to unwind with your dog. You might even get to meet the owner’s dog, Pete, a rescue and one of the most congenial dogs of all time. Pete is so friendly that he is actually used as a companion dog to help other rescue dogs feel more comfortable around people and other pets.

There are many pet friendly places to stay, but this one goes all-out for pets. It’s a ruff life at Chaminade Resort & Spa where dogs are greeted with open arms, treats, and access to the resort’s restaurant patios. There’s a Pooch Patio Menu with a variety of appetizing options that even humans will be drooling over. Sensational Salmon, Peanut Butter Bacon Pup Cakes, and Raw Ground Beef Muttballs are just a few doggie favorites. Don’t forget to explore the convenient 3+ miles of trails onsite where your pup can sniff through the eucalyptus and redwoods. And, there’s always a romp on the lawn beside the patios. Pet friendly accommodations feature hardwood floors, an outside private patio and a woodland setting.

To find out more about pet friendly Santa Cruz County check out visitsantacruz.org.