By Suzie Rodriguez
June 10, 2010

California’s coast from San Simeon south to Oceano Dunes—a distance of about 70 miles—is one of the nation’s most beautiful summer playgrounds. Nearly always within sight of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll visit small towns and villages, revel in fresh sea breezes, and walk along endless sandy beaches while watching your pet at play.

First up, base yourself at an excellent dog-friendly accommodation. In San Simeon, the family-owned Best Western Cavalier Oceanfront Resort welcomes pets (and leashed dogs can cavort on the gorgeous 900-foot beach beside the property). And a few miles south, the VIP (Very Important Pooch) program at the ocean-view Cambria Shores Inn makes a fuss over pet travelers with canine breakfasts, special towels, ocean walk trails, and a lot more.

San Simeon is home to Hearst Castle, a major “must-see” historic estate. It does allow service animals on tours, but—alas!—no other pets. However, the Castle’s website refers visitors to local pet sitting options.

Now it’s time to head out to one of the Central Coast’s major attractions, the Elephant Seal Rookery at Piedras Blancas, where the giant creatures can be clearly viewed from the bluffs above. Your leashed dog will be just as fascinated as you by the wild goings-on at the sandy beach where the seals mate, give birth, and play.

Laid-back Morro Bay is a major hub for fishing and charter boats. Enjoy a just-caught seafood meal beside the water at Tognazzini’s Dockside Restaurant, whose owner says that “dogs may bring their two-legged companions” to dine at the outside patio. At Dorn’s Original Breakers Café, the favorite phrase among the staff is “We love dogs!” Then leash up your pet for a bracing walk along Morro Strand State Beach, with its stunning views of huge Morro Rock (a nautical landmark for centuries). Or, at nearby Montana de Oro State Park, exercise your leashed dog on easy-to-moderate trails over rugged cliffs and sand dunes.

Further south, lively Pismo Beach welcomes dogs on leashes to its wide and beautiful sandy beach—a great place to watch surfers catch the waves. Later, pet beside you, feast at Mo’s Smokehouse BBQ on the patio. From here it’s a short hop to Oceano Dunes State Park, where the 5.5-mile beach welcomes leashed dogs.