A Coastal Sanctuary for Me and My Dogs
Every summer, while fireworks boom across Santa Barbara and send my dogs into hiding, I pack up the car and head north with Seven and Paige Turner for our annual tradition—a getaway to dog-friendly Morro Bay. It’s the one place we can count on for peace, ocean breezes, and adventures that are just as fun for my dogs as they are for me.
Nestled along California’s Central Coast, Morro Bay is a charming seaside town where dogs are not only welcomed but celebrated. From off-leash beaches to dog-friendly patios and scenic hikes, it’s become our refuge every 4th of July.
Where We Stay: The Inn at Morro Bay
Our trip always begins at the Inn at Morro Bay, a pet-friendly hotel tucked inside Morro Bay State Park. The inn overlooks a quiet bird sanctuary, and the dogs love joining me for breakfast on the patio.
The location is unbeatable—trails wind right out the door, and the Museum of Natural History and Morro Bay Golf Course are within walking distance. After a day of play, we return to French Country-style guest rooms that feel cozy and relaxed, perfect for winding down together.
Off-Leash Joy at Toro Creek Dog Beach
The highlight of our stay is always Toro Creek Dog Beach, where Seven and Paige Turner can finally run free. They race along the sand, chase waves, and mingle with other dogs, their tails flying with joy. The beach stretches wide and open, with sand dollars dotting the shoreline and the Pacific rolling in gently.
Before heading back into town, we always stop at Lemos Feed & Pet Supply for a quick rinse at their self-serve dog wash station—a lifesaver for sandy paws.
Eating Out with Dogs in Morro Bay
Dining in Morro Bay is easy with dogs in tow. Many restaurants along the Embarcadero have patios where pups are welcome. Some of our go-tos include:
- Top Dog Café Bar – A dog-themed coffee bar where breakfast is served all day and the coffee is as good as it smells. The best part? Your pup can devour their very own pup cup while you savor your latte—it’s the kind of place where both of you leave with tails wagging.
- Blue Skye Bistro, The Dutchie, Bayside CaféandRose’s Bar & Grill – Great spots for seafood with bay views for you and your pooch.
We also love wandering the shops along the waterfront. Many stores keep water bowls by the door and welcome friendly pups inside.
TIP: While you’re walking the Embarcadero, keep an eye out for the adorable sea otters that have made the calm waters of Morro Bay their home.
Adventures Beyond the Beach
Morro Bay offers so many dog-friendly activities that no two visits feel the same. A few favorites of ours:
- Kayaking or paddleboarding in the bay, with the dogs perched at the bow.
- Black Hill Trail, a gentle climb with sweeping views over the bay.
- Harbor and Estuary Trail, perfect for a leisurely stroll with plenty of wildlife spotting.
- For a challenge, the Cerro Alto Trail in Los Padres National Forest rewards with one of the best views on the Central Coast.
TIP: I keep the dogs leashed in forested areas to protect both them and the wildlife.
Slow Days and Special Spots
When we want to take it easy, Morro Bay has us covered. Sometimes we rent a small boat from Bay Cruisers and circle Morro Rock together, or take a sunset cruise with Lost Isle Adventures, where leashed dogs are welcome. Or we head to nearby Paso Robles to the quaint countryside vineyard and tasting room Sculpterra Winery and Sculpture Garden, which also has an extensive sculpture garden.
Why We Keep Coming Back
For me, Morro Bay is more than a vacation—it’s a lifeline. Every July, instead of dreading fireworks, I look forward to sand between my toes, salt air in my lungs, and the joy of watching Seven and Paige Turner live freely. It’s become our healing ritual, a place where we reconnect with nature and each other.
As you can see, Morro Bay is more than just a destination; it’s a dog-friendly paradise where your four-legged friends can join in the adventure. So, pack your bags, grab your leash, and explore the magic of Morro Bay together. Your paw-fect getaway awaits in this coastal haven, where peace is possible—even on the noisiest holiday of the year. Woof!
If you enjoyed reading about our annual Morro Bay tradition, I’d love for you to join me on my Substack page, where I share more heartfelt stories about life with my dogs, our adventures, and the healing power of the human–animal bond. It’s a space filled with paws, purpose, and plenty of love—I’d be thrilled to see you there.