Is Big Sur Dog Friendly :- During your next visit to Big Sur, bringing your pup along can enhance the adventure. While dogs aren’t permitted on State Park trails, they can accompany you on paved roads and select campsites within these parks. In Los Padres National Forest, dogs are welcome on all trails. Additionally, several beaches, such as Pfieffer Beach, Sand Dollar Beach, and Garrapata Beach, are dog-friendly.
As for accommodations, both Big Sur Lodge and Fernwood Campground & Resort cater to guests with dogs, offering pet-friendly lodging options. When it comes to dining, some restaurants in Big Sur also welcome four-legged companions in their outdoor seating areas.
To make the most of your trip, consider exploring specific hikes, beaches, campgrounds, hotels, and restaurants that allow dogs. This way, you can plan a memorable experience for both you and your furry friend while enjoying the breathtaking beauty of Big Sur.
Best Things To Do In Big Sur With Dogs:
Pfeiffer Beach :-
Is Big Sur Dog Friendly Pfeiffer Beach stands out as one of Big Sur’s top destinations, renowned for its stunning beauty and dog-friendly atmosphere. Spend a leisurely afternoon strolling along the shoreline, soaking in the picturesque scenery, and indulging in a beachside picnic with your furry companion by your side.
To access Pfeiffer Beach, depart from Highway 1 onto Sycamore Canyon Road, a winding path leading to the beach’s parking lot. Day visitors can park for $15. From there, follow the narrow trail down to the beach, where your pup can explore while leashed.
For photography enthusiasts, the sunset at Pfeiffer Beach offers a spectacular sight, especially with the iconic Keyhole Arch silhouetted against the ocean backdrop. Capture these breathtaking moments with the Sony a7c camera, known for its compact size and exceptional image quality, making it an ideal companion for travel, hiking, and adventure-filled road trips.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground :-
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground is a favored choice among campgrounds in Big Sur, offering a rustic retreat nestled amidst the redwood forest along Highway 1. With a variety of RV and tent sites available, surrounded by towering ancient redwoods, it promises a memorable camping experience in the heart of Big Sur.
While the campground maintains restrictions on where dogs can roam, there’s ample space for them to explore within the developed areas. Although they’re not permitted on the State Park trails, they’re welcome in designated areas such as the day use area, paved roads, and the Redwood Deck. You can even treat your furry companion to a delightful dinner experience on the back patio of the Homestead Restaurant near the park entrance.
For those seeking a different accommodation option, the pet-friendly Big Sur Lodge within the State Park offers comfortable overnight stays. Guests can bring up to two dogs for an additional pet fee of $50 per night. Ensure you inform the hotel staff in advance to arrange one of the pet-friendly rooms for your stay, ensuring a hassle-free experience for you and your furry friends.
Salmon Creek Falls :-
Salmon Creek Falls Trail stands out as one of the few dog-friendly trails in Big Sur, making it an excellent choice for those exploring the area with their furry companions.
This trail offers a relatively short round trip of just 0.3 miles, making it a convenient and quick adventure to add to your Big Sur itinerary while traveling along Highway 1.
While the trail itself is generally accessible for dogs, it’s essential to note that the final stretch leading to Salmon Creek Falls involves navigating across challenging terrain, including large boulders. This section may pose difficulties for some dogs, requiring careful consideration and potentially assistance from their owners.
For safety reasons, it’s crucial to heed any caution signs regarding Blue-Green Algae that may be present at Salmon Creek. While the waterfall may be tempting, it’s essential to prevent your pet from entering the water if signs of algae are detected, as it can pose health risks to your furry companion.
Sand Dollar Beach :-
Sand Dollar Beach is a stunning dog-friendly destination nestled in the heart of Big Sur, easily accessible from Highway 1, making it a must-visit spot for travelers with furry companions.
Upon arrival, visitors can park at the Sand Dollar Day Use Beach Lot for a nominal fee of $10 per day. Alternatively, free parking may be available along Highway 1, but caution is advised when crossing the highway.
A brief trail leads to an overlook offering panoramic views of Sand Dollar Beach and the vast Pacific Ocean. Descending approximately 100 steps from the overlook, visitors and their pups can explore the expansive shoreline bordered by picturesque ocean cliffs and distinctive rock formations.
Sand Dollar Beach is a beloved destination for surfers, families seeking beachside relaxation, and adventurers embarking on unforgettable Big Sur road trips. With its breathtaking scenery and dog-friendly atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot to create lasting memories with your canine companion.
Kirk Creek Campground :-
Kirk Creek Campground stands as a gem among California’s most picturesque camping spots, offering the added perk of being dog-friendly. For those seeking Big Sur’s dog-friendly camping options, Kirk Creek is unrivaled in its beauty and accessibility.
Perched along the stunning coastline, Kirk Creek Campground commands panoramic views that captivate visitors. Due to its immense popularity, securing Kirk Creek campground reservations well in advance (up to 6 months ahead) is strongly recommended. Each campsite is equipped with essential amenities including fire pits, picnic tables, and space for tents or vehicles.
During our fall visit, we were fortunate to find an available spot, allowing us to revel in the splendor of ocean bluffs and crystalline waters. Despite the absence of showers, the camping experience at Kirk Creek leaves you and your furry friend feeling refreshed and invigorated, with memories of a serene oceanside getaway to cherish.
Bixby Creek Bridge :-
Bixby Creek Bridge stands as a must-visit destination during your Big Sur road trip, offering an enjoyable stop for both you and your furry companion. At this picturesque location, you can park at a designated viewpoint and capture stunning photos of the expansive concrete bridge spanning across a deep river canyon.
Renowned for its scenic beauty and architectural magnificence, Bixby Creek Bridge holds the distinction of being the highest single-arch bridge globally, making it a coveted spot for photography enthusiasts across California.
Given its status as a roadside attraction, dogs are welcome here, allowing you to share the experience with your canine friend. However, it’s essential to keep your pet on a short leash to ensure their safety amidst the bustling crowds and steep cliff drop-offs.
What To Bring On a Big Sur Trip With a Dog
Here’s a comprehensive checklist of essentials to ensure a seamless and enjoyable Big Sur adventure for both you and your furry companion:
- Food and Water: Pack an ample supply of dog food for the duration of the trip, along with a portable dog bowl for easy access to water and food on the go.
- Hydration Essentials: Carry a water bottle for yourself and a collapsible water bowl specifically for your dog, ensuring they stay hydrated during hikes and beach outings. Consider investing in a dog water bottle with a built-in dispenser for added convenience.
- Pet Cleanup Supplies: Bring along a pet towel to wipe off any sand or dirt after beach excursions, and keep pet wipes handy for quick paw cleaning before entering the car.
- Harness and Leash: Opt for a 2 Hounds Harness with a shorter leash and dual clip-on points to ensure better control, especially in crowded areas where leash rules are enforced.
- Safety Gear: Equip your dog with an LED collar for enhanced visibility during evening hikes or camping expeditions, promoting safety and ease of tracking in low-light conditions.
- Comfort Items: Pack your dog’s favorite toys, a cozy blanket, and their bed to provide a sense of familiarity and comfort throughout the trip, helping them feel at ease in new surroundings.
- Cooling Vest: Despite the mild temperatures of the Central Coast, consider a cooling vest for your dog, particularly if they are prone to overheating even in moderately warm weather, ensuring their comfort and well-being during outdoor activities.
