Ascot Suites: Your Pet-Friendly Home Base

Ascot Suites is officially pet-friendly. The hotel allows up to two dogs per room, with a total limit of 40 lbs. There’s a pet fee of $25 per pet per night for your stay. Be aware: pets may not be left unattended in rooms.
Rooms designated pet-friendly are available on request. For best experience, bring your dog bed, bowls, and any comfort items to make the stay feel familiar.

Dog-Friendly Beaches & Outdoor Spaces

If your dog loves the sand and saltwater, there are a few great beach-options near Morro Bay where pups are welcome, though rules vary so always check signs.

• Toro Creek / Morro Bay Dog Beach (also called Morro Bay Dog Beach): This stretch of sand in **Cayucos, CA** is off-leash and great for letting your dog run free. It’s sandy, not heavily developed, and offers room for pups to splash in the surf.
• Cayucos State Beach: Leashed dogs are welcome here. Dogs can walk on the sand and enjoy the beach within leash rules. Great for a mellow beach day together.
• Morro Strand State Beach: This long stretch of beach is popular for walks and views. Note however that some parts may have restrictions (especially during bird nesting seasons), so check local signage.
• Montaña de Oro State Park: About 6 miles from Morro Bay, this area has coastline, dunes, and trails. Dogs are allowed in certain sections, particularly Spooner’s Cove Beach (on leash). Some trails allow dogs on leash; others are restricted so again, always check before entering.

Dog-Friendly Patios and Restaurants

Eating out with your dog is very doable in Morro Bay. Many restaurants offer outdoor patio seating where dogs are welcome, so you can dine with your pup beside you rather than leaving them behind.

• Blue Sky Bistro: Outdoor patio seating where dogs are welcome. Good mix of food + view.
• Dutchman’s Seafood House: Great for fresh seafood with your pup on the patio. Casual and friendly.
• Windows on the Water: Beautiful bay and harbor views from their deck/patio; dog friendly outdoors.
• Giovanni’s Fish Market & Galley: If you want something quick or casual, their outside picnic-table style seating makes it easy to bring your dog along.

Trails & Parks You Can Explore with Your Dog

Pups aren’t limited to beaches. There are some lovely walking trails and parks in and around Morro Bay that accommodate dogs (mostly on leash). These allow you and your pet to stretch your legs, soak in bay or ocean views, and enjoy the outdoors together.

• Estero Bay Bike Path: A paved path along the water. Great for walking or light jogging with your dog. Leash required. Nice scenery. (Note: check local rules for specific access points.)
• Sweet Springs Nature Preserve in Los Osos: Trails through eucalyptus and marshland; good for leisurely walks, birdwatching, and letting dogs explore, on leash. (Requires checking current access due to seasonal flooding or habitat protection.)
• Harbor Walk / Embarcadero areas: Many parts of the waterfront boardwalk and sidewalks are dog-friendly. It’s a great way to combine shopping, meals, and harbor views while your dog enjoys new smells and people watching.

Pet Policies & Things to Know Before You Go

To make sure your dog’s trip is smooth and everyone enjoys the experience, keep a few guidelines in mind:

• Leash laws: Most beaches and public spaces require dogs to be leashed unless otherwise posted. Off-leash areas are rare and often specific to certain beaches like Toro Creek. Always obey signage.
• Weight & breed restrictions: At Ascot Suites, dogs cannot exceed 50 lbs each. Two pets per room allowed.
• Pet fees and deposits: Ascot Suites charges $25 per pet per night, plus a $150 refundable deposit. Be sure to budget that in.
• Puppy plans: Bring poop bags, a leash, portable water bowl, and any safety gear. Some beaches are steep or rocky getting to the water. Don’t leave pets unattended in hotel rooms.
• Respect wildlife & habitat: Avoid disturbing nesting birds or marine mammals. Stay out of protected or regulated zones. Be aware of tide schedules to avoid getting trapped or stepping into hazards.

Sample Itinerary for Dog-Loving Visitors

Here’s a suggested half-day or full-day plan if you’re in Morro Bay with your dog:

• Morning: Start with breakfast at a café with outdoor seating (for example Blue Sky Bistro), followed by a walk on the Embarcadero or waterfront. Let your dog sniff around, watch boats, maybe see sea otters.
• Midday: Head to a dog-friendly beach like Toro Creek / Morro Bay Dog Beach to play off leash, splash in surf if weather allows. Pack water and snacks for both you and your pup.
• Afternoon: Explore a local trail or park such as Sweet Springs Nature Preserve or a stroll on the Estero Bay Bike Path. Rest at a shady spot. Stop for pet-friendly patio lunch or ice cream.
• Evening: Dinner on patio at a restaurant like Giovanni’s Fish Market or Windows on the Water. Then sunset view from the waterfront or rooftop at Ascot Suites, letting your dog rest close by.

Why Morro Bay is Great for Dogs

Morro Bay stands out because it blends natural beauty with community-minded amenities. There is wildlife to see, space to explore, and plenty of places where dogs are welcome. Compared to larger coastal cities, Morro Bay offers more relaxed rules, fewer crowds in many spots, and a slower pace—ideal for traveling with pets. Trail access, dog beaches, patios, and pet-friendly lodging combine to make it a strong choice for people who want to include their dog in the fun.

Where to Stay with Your Dog

If you are bringing your dog to Morro Bay, Ascot Suites is a reliable and welcoming option. With clear pet policies, central location near the Embarcadero and waterfront, reasonably priced pet fees, and first-floor pet-friendly rooms available, you can set up a comfortable base without sacrificing access. The rooftop deck is great for quiet time together, and close proximity to outdoor trails, beaches, and dog-friendly patios makes it easy to plan your dog-friendly adventures.