One of the park’s pluses is the lack of wood chips on the ground. Human and dog hydration is provided by a pair of water fountains, but that’s the limit to the amenities here-no poop bags, bathrooms, toys or rakes. There is parking nearby, and the City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Dept. It’s an average-sized park, with trees that provide shade and make for a nice place to sit, drink a Verve coffee, and watch puppies at play. Park goers typically do their own thing, and the communal atmosphere seen at other County dog parks isn’t as big here. Mimi opened its gates in 2013, and now two- and four-legged residents of downtown Santa Cruz frequently fill the park during lunch breaks and after work. All in all, Mitchell’s is the go-to spot for locals craving a morning or evening playdate at the beach with their dog. Frequently there are young children who pet dogs without permission. The beach is gateless, waste bags are not provided, and there is not a separate play area for small dogs. Also, sometimes the tide rolls in and makes the small beach even smaller. The same smells that drive pups crazy can be torture for humans. There can be an abundance of seaweed and accompanying flies. There are a few things to consider before a trip to Mitchell’s Cove Beach, though. Leash laws have never really been enforced, but it is technically illegal to have your dog off leash during the day. Parking is pretty limited on West Cliff Drive, especially during summer months. It’s a smaller beach that feels secluded, and isn’t crowded until after 3 PM, when the regulars come out to play. But those in the know walk down the hidden staircase at the end of David’s Way, and enjoy a half-mile-long stretch of sand dotted with rocks and alcoves, and is perfect for dogs. Most tourists go down the street to Its Beach, also known as “The Dog Beach” on Yelp and Google. Mitchell’s Cove tends to attract locals because it can be hard to find if you’re from out of town. The Cove is pretty crowded during off-leash hours with dogs of all shapes and sizes playing at the water’s edge, rolling in the sand and mounds of seaweed, and having an absolute blast. Officially a State Park, Mitchell’s Cove is the only beach in the County where dogs can run free, unencumbered by leashes-most of the time-before 10am and after 4pm. Whether you’re a newly ticketed refugee in search of a new home, or are a longtime dog park connoisseur looking to try out a hot new park, enjoy this guide to dog parks in Santa Cruz County. Some of the best are Chanticleer Dog Park, Scotts Valley Dog Park, Aptos Dog Park, and the sole dog beach in town, Mitchell’s Cove. The good news is that there are a lot of dog parks to try out in Santa Cruz County. Is there an area for small dogs? Are the fences high enough? Do I feel safe here? Are people being responsible for their dogs? Location, amenities, maintenance, safety, and the dogs and owners that frequent the parks are all considerations for finding the right dog park. Luckily, canine refugees can find sanctuary in one of Santa Cruz’s many dog parks.įinding the right dog park can be a bit of a balancing act for both a dog and its human. With fewer safe outdoor spaces for dogs to exercise, play and socialize, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for pet owners to say on the right side of the law. The penalties for disobeying leash laws in these “No Paw Zones” can be up to $300, and Animal Control is stepping up enforcement efforts around the County. Along with Wilder Ranch State Park’s Victorian homes, barns, living history demonstrations and tours, the park offers 34 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails.One by one, Santa Cruz County’s beaches are becoming off limits to off-leash dogs. Explore remnants of old lime kilns at The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park or Fall Creek. Hikers will love Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park with its mellow, just-under-a-mile loop trail or the more challenging Pipeline Trail, which runs parallel to the San Lorenzo River. Centrally located within Capitola-by-the-Sea, Capitola Beach is the de facto playground for the charming village. Santa Cruz’s Main Beach connects prominent county landmarks: the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the Santa Cruz Wharf, and the mouth of the San Lorenzo River. Whether you’re looking to swim, camp, soak up the sun, or hike there’s a local spot that’s sure to inspire.įor beach-goers, the craggy cliffs of Davenport, the sandstone arch at Natural Bridges State Beach and the wide expanse of Sunset State Beach all offer plenty of options to catch some surf and sun. Santa Cruz County offers 29 miles of scenic coastline and over 14 state parks and beaches.
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