Cayucos State Beach

Central California is home to some of the most beautiful stretches of coastline anywhere in the United States, and Cayucos State Beach is one of the true highlights. This spectacular dog-friendly beach boasts mild weather, a laid-back vibe, and some of the best scenery you'll come across on any Californian road trip.

Located in the sleepy, quaint village of Cayucos, Cayucos State Beach welcomes leashed dogs with open paws. There's a beautiful, wide stretch of sand for you and your canine companion to explore, and your pooch will love splashing around in the tide pools on a hot summer's day.

On-leash dogs are welcome on the area from the south end of Studio Drive in Cayucos to Cayucos Pier. It's a pretty paw-pular spot among dog lovers and families, which means there will be plenty of opportunities for your pooch to socialize and maybe even make some new friends.

This really is a gorgeous part of the world with plenty of breathtaking scenery to take in. You can admire a beachside sunset with your furry friend, take a stroll along the water's edge, and let the waves lap at your paws, or head further afield and explore the charms of this once-prosperous town. The beach also boasts a fishing pier that's lit for those who want to cast a line at night.

There is a parking lot and street parking available, along with picnic tables, play equipment, restrooms, and outdoor showers. As always, make sure to follow the posted rules and clean up after your dog whenever necessary. Showing courtesy to other beachgoers will also help ensure that this and other beaches remain dog-friendly now and into the future.

The next time you find yourself cruising along the central California coastline, make sure to take a detour to check out this wonderful pet-friendly beach — your dog will thank you for it!