South Main Street

Park Ave

Since Soquel is so close to the shore, it’d be a huge faux paw not to take a trip to the beach! New Brighton State Beach in Capitola is just two and a half miles from downtown Soquel, and your pooch is welcome to stroll on the sand alongside you, provided they stay on-leash. Pups can splash about in the shoreline surf, but unfortunately, though doggy-paddling is a huge draw for humans, paddling by dogs is not permitted. There’s plenty of parking, but you’ll need to pay -- though you and your buddy might end up thinking that $10 for the day was well worth it!

Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

If your four-legged pal loves hiking, you’d need to be barking mad not to bring them to the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park! Just on the border between Soquel and Aptos, this pawesome preserve features miles upon miles of trails, surrounded and shaded by tall pines and majestic redwoods. Fitter furry friends in search of a challenge might appreciate the Maple Falls trail, which features some steep inclines and breathtaking views over the eponymous waterfall. Less athletic animals needn’t feel left out, though -- there are plenty of hikes suitable for a less taxing walk! Signage is sparse, so look up a trail map before you go!

Huntington Drive

Make no bones about it -- a trip to Aptos Dog Park is sure to get your buddy’s tail wagging! The dog run is huge -- there’s space enough here for even the most energetic fur-balls to leap about to their hearts' content. There’s a separate area for small dogs and an "all dogs" area for bigg’uns and little’uns who just want to get along. Bags and water are provided, so just bring your pup and prepare to play! After you two have worked up an appetite, consider chowing down at Bittersweet Bistro. Their pizzas are the stuff of local legend, and doggy diners are welcome outside.

Meder

If you two are looking for a little variety in your off-leash activities, why not take a drive to Santa Cruz and check out the University Terrace Dog Park? The park isn’t as large as the one in Aptos, but there’s still enough room for your pooch to run around and tire themselves out in, and tired owners are sure to appreciate the shaded seating. University Terrace Dog Park has an added bonus -- some bright spark had the furrific idea of putting the off-leash area right next to the tennis court, so the regulars have ended up with an endless supply of free balls!