Scotts Valley, Santa Cruz, Aptos / Capitola, and Watsonville have local dog parks or beaches. Santa Cruz City does not have any fenced dog parks currently but does have a few unfenced parks and beaches; however some of the surrounding areas have fenced dog parks. The County of Santa Cruz Redevelopment Agency is looking at adding dog parks: Anna Jean Cummings Park (not The Farm Neighborhood Park) and Floral Park, both still in the planning stages.

The Lighthouse Field and Its Beach were closed as of November 15, 2007 to off leash use because the City of Santa Cruz's 30 year lease ran out and management reverted back to the State. The State is not allowing off leash use but the city would like to purchase this property. It should also be noted that Santa Cruz is not a fully dog friendly city; there are certain beaches and some sidewalks (Main St) in downtown do not allow for dogs at all. The State also owns Rio del Mar and Seacliff State Beach and require all dogs to be leashed.