Dogs at the beach--a trip to Cambria

July 8, 7:46 AMLA Travel with Pets ExaminerPatricia Hughes

There is so much to do and see in this area, I can't possibly cover it in just one article. So let us first get checked into our hotel, and then we can plan the trip from there.

Cambria is well known for being very dog friendly, and one of the places I go back to year after year is the Cambria Shores Inn on Moonstone Beach Drive.

Each January a group of us..and our dogs..meet there for about four days and storm the beaches--and the wineries, and the restaurants, and the--well, you get the idea. Even four days isn't enough to see all the area has to offer.

The Inn has recently been remodeled, and their prices have gone up, as everything seems to have done recently. What hasn't changed is their "dog hospitality".  It's all about dog comfort once you arrive. They do have rules, such as mandatory cleanup and no barking zones. That's only reasonable, and respects everyone's rights.

Directly across the street is a boardwalk that runs the length of Moonstone Beach and is frequented at all hours by walkers with and without dogs. The end of January is NOT warm, so we pack and dress accordingly. It is also at ocean's edge, and the wind can get belligerent. As always, know where you are going, research it, and plan accordingly.

Our days usually start with a walk, timing our return to the room with the arrival of a basket of goodies and coffee delivered to the room. Well, the coffee is already IN the room--as is a small refrigerator. It's also served in the office any time.

I have to say that if there is anything I would change about this place it's that the breakfast is the same every morning. Tasty, but no variation. But that's minor considering the view we enjoy while eating it. By this time we- all of us and our dogs- are gathered outside eating and planning our day. Largely, the day's activity depends on the weather at that time of the year. On the possible agenda:  wine tasting,  moonstone hunting,  driving to the dog beach and playing,  checking out the elephant seals, (hoping to see one give birth),  exploring for new lunch stops...it goes on.

I don't mean to suggest that this is the only--or even the best--place to go in Cambria. There are MANY dog friendly inns and hotels--and even restaurants. Cambria Shores Inn doesn't even know I'm writing about them, although I think I will tell them.

In fact--time for a disclaimer here- my link list provides only possible suggestions for places for gear,lodging, or information. If you're here on the computer, you know how to find your way around. My purpose is to tell you where I or my friends have gone, and what we have enjoyed.

That being said, one of the most enjoyable things I know of is a perfect sunset. In another article, we will explore the area more fully. For now--this was our view as we enjoyed cocktails and conversation from our lawn chairs. No matter what the weather, it's always a good day here!