Garrapata State Park and Beach

Garrapata State Park is a beachfront park in the northern area of the famous Big Sur coastline that offers great scenic views, miles of hiking trails, and many opportunities to experience the flora and fauna that populate this once-massive redwood forest. While your pup may love a hiking adventure, in this park, dogs are only allowed on Garrapata Beach. 

Entrances and parking for this pawrific park are along Highway 1, with the beach located down gates 18 and 19. Here, you'll find trails that wind their way from the parking lots to the beach that your pup will love. Gate 17 also leads to the beach, but the trail here is steep and isn't recommended.

Garrapata Beach features two miles of furbulous coastline, with the Doud Creek running through the middle to empty into the ocean. Best to get your splash on in the creek, as the surf on the coast is dangerous. Swimming and wading in the ocean, or climbing on rocks is prohibited due to hazardous conditions that can make it deadly. Your dog can romp through the sand with you, or get in some rays, but must remain on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. Take a stroll on the beach with your adventure pup to discover little coves, nooks and caves. Marine life abounds along Big Sur! In the winter, you can see whales migrating. Kelp beds off shore are often home to adorable sea otters, while sea lions like to gather near the coastline.

There are no restrooms near the beach, so be prepared. Restrooms for the humans can be found between gates 8 and 9, and between gates 10 and 11, but note that dogs are not allowed in these areas. Be sure to bring clean-up bags for your pup, and always stoop and scoop. Drinking water to share with your beach dog is essential too.

While the backcountry in the redwood forest can get hot in the summer, on the beach, the climate stays rather moderate between 50 to 65 degrees throughout the year. Always pack a few extra layers for those cool mornings, or just in case the weather decides to be unpredictable.

For a gorgeous day kicking up the sand along the Big Sur coastline, head to the Garrapta State Park and Beach with your pup today!