Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Top 9 Dog-Friendly Beaches Around Capitola, CA: Off-Leash & On-Leash Places to Go

chocolate labrador at the beach

If you’re planning a beach trip in Capitola, California, there’s no reason your dog should miss out. Though there is only one dog-friendly beach in Capitola itself, fortunately, there are plenty of beaches nearby in Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Aptos, and Davenport—some of which are less than a 10-minute drive away. Read on to find out what your options are for a beach trip with your pooch in and around Capitola.

divider dog paws 4 oct 2024

Top 9 Dog-Friendly Beaches Around Capitola, California

1. New Brighton State Beach, Capitola

️ Address: 1500 Park Avenue, Capitola, CA, 95010
Open Times: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Cost: $10 parking fee, bus parking fees $50 and $100 depending on the number of passengers
Off-leash allowed? No

  • Popular camping spot for tents and RVs
  • Hiking trails along forested bluffs
  • Stunning views of Monterey Bay
  • Pacific Migrations Visitor Center in the campground which includes a park store
  • Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times


2. Seabright State Beach, Santa Cruz

️ Address: East Cliff Drive and Mott Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA, 95062
Open Times: 6:00 am to 10:00 PM
Cost: Free parking on surface streets in the neighborhood
Off-leash allowed? No

  • Sandwiched between the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and the Santa Cruz Harbor
  • Views of boats around the Santa Cruz Harbor and Walton Lighthouse
  • Dogs must be kept on a leash
  • Bonfires are permitted in fire rings provided by State Parks
  • Free parking available


3. Mitchell’s Cove Beach, Santa Cruz

️ Address: West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060
Open Times: Sunrise to sunset
Cost: Free
Off-leash allowed? Yes, before 10:00 AM and after 4 PM

  • Off-leash hours before 10:00 AM and after 4:00 PM, at other times dogs must be kept on a leash
  • Famous for its low congestion and quieter vibes
  • You may be able to spot migrating gray whales, other sea animals, and birds
  • Lighthouse Field State Beach (another dog-friendly beach) is nearby
  • Heads-up: this beach may not be accessible during high tide


4. Lighthouse Field State Beach, Santa Cruz

️Address: West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060
Open Times: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Cost: Free
Off-leash allowed? No

  • Lighthouse State Beach is the Uypi tribe’s (an Ohlone Tribe) homeland
  • Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet
  • Hiking, biking, and running trails are available
  • Great spot for glimpsing sea lions and Monarch butterflies
  • Free parking available


5. Manresa State Beach, Watsonville

️Address: 1445 San Andreas Road, Watsonville, CA, 95076
Open Times: 8:00 AM to half hour after sunset
Cost: $10 parking fee, $50 and $100 fee for bus barking depending on the number of passengers
Off-leash allowed? No

  • Sweeping cliff, sand, and sea views
  • Tent camping is an option from mid-May through October, but unfortunately, RVs are not permitted
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife including white-crowned sparrows, California gray whales, sea otters, dolphins, and brush rabbits
  • Be careful not to disturb Western Snowy Plover nests—this is a federal law violation


6. Twin Lakes State Beach, Santa Cruz

️Address: East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, CA, 95062
Open Times: Sunrise to sunset (day-use area)
Cost: Free parking in the off-season, summer parking permit required
Off-leash allowed? No

  • Schwan’s Lake, which is adjacent to the park, is the place to go if you’re a fan of birdwatching
  • The downtown Santa Cruz small craft harbor is located approximately in the center of Twin Lakes Beach
  • Dogs are required to remain on a leash
  • You can purchase a summer parking permit from the kiosk across from the beach
  • Schwan Lagoon is a hiking trail within Twin Lakes Beach


7. Rio Del Mar State Beach, Aptos

️Address: Rio Del Mar, Aptos, CA, 95003
Open Times: 8:00 AM to sunset (day-use area)
Cost: Free parking in the town center, $10 for platforms area parking
Off-leash allowed? No

  • Dogs are required to remain on a leash no longer than 6 feet
  • If you enjoy a casual stroll and taking in some views, check out the promenade
  • Aptos Creek ends at Rio Del Mar Beach and forms a lagoon in summer
  • Convenient location with nearby restaurants and markets
  • Keep an eye out for whales, sea lions, dolphins, and various birds


8. Seacliff State Beach, Aptos

️Address: State Park Drive, Aptos, CA, 95003
Open Times: 8:00 AM to sunset
Cost: $10 parking fee, $50 and $100 for buses depending on the number of passengers
Off-leash allowed? No

  • A popular beach for swimming and picnicking
  • RV access to the campground
  • The USS Palo Alto concrete ship is at the end of the pier
  • Dogs are allowed on this beach on a leash no longer than 6 feet


9. Davenport Beach, Santa Cruz

️Address: 446 CA-1, Davenport, CA, 95017
Open Times: Sunrise to sunset
Cost: Free parking
Off-leash allowed? No

  • Dogs are allowed on Davenport beach but not on nearby Scott Creek beach
  • At the base of the cliffs, you might be able to spot shallow caves and unusual rock formations
  • Moderately congested
  • A good spot for whale and bird watching
  • Check out the tide pools on the south side

divider dog paws 4 oct 2024

In Conclusion

So, if you’re planning a getaway in Capitola and/or its surrounding areas, we hope this guide has helped you pick out where you’d most like to go with your canine companion. When visiting any of these beaches, we recommend double-checking the rules on taking dogs with you in case of any future changes. Also, don’t forget to pick up after your dog before you leave to help keep the beaches clean and pleasant places for everyone.


 Featured Image Credit: Carolina García, Pixabay

Want content like this delivered to you?

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

News, insights, expert advice, and everything dog

* By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

How Much Exercise Does My Poodle Need? Puppy, Adult & Senior Dog

Who can resist the adorable Poodle? This dog breed is extremely popular due to its looks, lack of shedding, and hypoallergenic claim (no...

How Much Does a Havanese Dog Shed? Everything You Want to Know

The Havanese is a small, fluffy, and lovable pup that makes an excellent companion. As with many breeds, the question of shedding may...

Waggle Pet Monitor Pro+ Review 2025: An Expert’s Breakdown

Have you ever rushed through the grocery store because you left your pet in the car on a sunny day? Or taken your...

Subi: Our Unexpected Rescue

Welcome to the Wednesday Dogs of Dogster! Every Wednesday, we share a story from one of our Dogsters. This week is about Amanda...

More related

How Many Dogs Are You Allowed to Own? Location & Legalities Explained

For most pet parents, one dog is all they need. However, for some of us, even two pups aren’t enough. Owning multiple dogs...

Male vs. Female Corgis: What’s the Difference? (With Pictures)

The Corgi is a popular small breed of dog that has a long, thick body accompanied by short legs and large, pointed ears....

Can Dogs Eat Pistachios? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

Pistachios are a favorite food among humans that are rich in protein, fiber, and vitamin B6. They are popular in salads, desserts, and...

Can Dogs Eat Croissants? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & Alternatives

Although croissants don’t contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs, it’s still not recommended for dogs to eat them. So, you don’t have...

Keep reading

13 Best Dry Dog Foods in the UK of 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

When it comes to keeping your dog healthy, high-quality food is a must. Dry food, in particular, can play an important role in your pet’s diet. This popular choice offers several benefits, including helping to keep your companion’s teeth healthy...

dog with a food bowl

10 Best Slow Feeder Dog Bowls in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Some dogs eat their food entirely too quickly, leading to abdominal discomfort to medical emergencies, like bloat (also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus) and choking. To slow down your dog’s eating habits, you may consider trying a slow feeder bowl. These...

dog eating from a slow feeder bowl

Can Dogs Eat Hot Pockets? Vet-Verified Facts & Safety Guide

Hot Pockets are convenient snacks that come in a variety of flavors. While humans can enjoy eating all the different kinds of Hot Pocket recipes, none of the recipes are recommended for dogs to eat. It’s unlikely for dogs to...

Can Dogs Eat Hot Pockets

The Honest Kitchen Essential Clusters – Don’t Call It Kibble!

As a veterinarian and owner of five (yes, five) dogs, finding a pet food that delivers outstanding nutrition and high-quality ingredients has always been important, but finding one that doesn’t cost the earth, require me to commit to a subscription,...

The Honest Kitchen_EssentialClusters_4

Wag vs Taste of the Wild Dog Food: 2025 Pros, Cons & What to Choose

So, your vet has just advised you that your dog should go on a grain-free or limited grain diet as it is either allergic or sensitive to the grains in its food…now what? The world of dog food is complicated...

Dogster_Dog Food Wag VS Taste of the Wild

9 Best Dog Foods for Schnauzers in 2025: Vet-Approved Reviews & Top Picks

The key to having a healthy Schnauzer, like any other dog breed, is to ensure that their diet is 100% balanced and rich in the vitamins and minerals they need to thrive. That said, many Schnauzers are susceptible to pancreatitis...

Gray Schnauzer eating food at natural sunlight

Can Dogs Eat Applesauce? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

Treating your dog sometimes takes a little creativity when you’re out of their usual fare. We know apples make for a healthy snack, but what about their more kid-friendly cousins, the jars of applesauce? While not all varieties are suitable,...

Can Dogs Eat Applesauce

Can Dogs Eat Pine Cones? Vet-Verified Facts, Risks & What to Do

Dogs are omnivorous animals, which gives us a bit of leeway in terms of extra treats we can feed them in addition to their regular dog formula. However, dogs sometimes take a fancy to weird things like non-edible bits and...

Can Dogs Eat Pine Cones