Have you ever wanted to hit the beach with your furry best friend by your side?
Well, you’re in luck!
California is home to some of the most amazing dog-friendly beaches, where you and your pup can run, play and splash in the waves together.
Imagine the joy of watching your dog sprint across the sand, ears flapping in the wind, while you soak up the sun and enjoy the ocean breeze.
In this article, we’re revealing the top dog-friendly beaches in California that are perfect for you and your canine companion.
Keep reading to learn about these fantastic places!
1. Coronado Dog Beach, Coronado
Coronado Dog Beach in Coronado is a paradise for dogs and their owners as it has a leash-free zone where dogs can play in the sand and surf all year round.
Located on the western part of Coronado Municipal Beach, this dog-friendly spot is known for its stunning views of the historic Hotel del Coronado and Point Loma skyline.
Dogs are welcome to play off-leash, making it the perfect place for them to socialize and burn off energy.
With free parking nearby, it’s a must-visit for any dog lover looking for a fun day out.
2. Dog Beach, San Diego
Dog Beach in San Diego is a dog-friendly paradise where dogs can run and play off-leash every day 24/7.
Located in the Ocean Beach neighborhood, this sandy paradise stretches over 100 yards and is perfect for a fun day out with your furry friend.
Known for its lively atmosphere, Dog Beach is a favorite spot for both dogs and their owners to socialize and enjoy the beautiful California coastline.
With nearby parking and plenty of friendly dogs to meet, it’s a must-visit!
3. Dog Beach, Del Mar
Dog Beach in Del Mar is a fantastic spot where dogs can run off-leash from the day after Labor Day through June 15th.
Located north of Del Mar City Beach, this scenic beach is known for its soft sand, inviting waters and the annual Surf Dog-A-Thon event.
During the summer months, from June 16th to Labor Day, dogs must be leashed but they are still allowed off-leash from dawn until 8 AM.
With nearby hiking trails offering stunning views and a natural wading pool at the San Dieguito River Mouth, it’s a perfect destination for both dogs and their owners to have a blast.
4. Huntington Dog Beach, Huntington Beach
Huntington Dog Beach in Huntington Beach is a dog-friendly paradise where pups can play off-leash and splash in the waves.
Located between Seapoint Street and 21st Street, this beach is famous for its beautiful sandy shores and active community of dog lovers.
It’s the perfect spot for dogs to socialize, run free and even catch a few waves.
With amenities like doggy waste bags and nearby parking, it’s perfect for a carefree day out!
5. Rosie’s Dog Beach, Long Beach
Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach is a dog-friendly spot where dogs can run and play off-leash from 6 AM to 8 PM daily.
Located along Ocean Boulevard between Granada Avenue and Roycroft Avenue, this 2.9-acre beach is the only designated off-leash dog beach in Los Angeles County.
Named after a beloved Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Rosie’s Dog Beach offers soft sand, gentle waves and plenty of space for dogs to socialize and have fun.
With amenities like doggie waste bags and nearby showers, it’s the perfect spot for a day of sun and surf!
6. Arroyo Burro Beach, Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara’s Arroyo Burro Beach, also known as Hendry’s Beach, allows dogs off-leash in designated areas, specifically south of the creek.
Please note that dogs must be leashed in other parts of the park.
This beach is renowned for its stunning winding coastline, gentle surf and the surrounding tall bluffs that lead to scenic parks and trails like the Douglas Family Preserve.
You can also enjoy various activities such as bodyboarding, fishing and paddle boarding, making it a fun spot for the whole family.
7. Olde Port Beach, San Luis Obispo
Olde Port Beach in San Luis Obispo is a dog-friendly gem where pups can play off-leash under their owners’ voice commands.
Located just west of downtown Avila Beach, this scenic spot offers soft sand and a relaxing atmosphere away from the crowds.
Known for its gorgeous views and easy access with a ramp, it’s perfect for a fun family day out.
With space for small boat launches and the soothing sound of waves, it’s an ideal place for dogs and their owners to enjoy the sun and surf!
8. Cayucos State Beach, Cayucos
Cayucos State Beach in Cayucos is a dog-friendly spot where dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
This charming beach is known for its six miles of beautiful sandy shoreline, perfect for surfing, swimming and enjoying stunning views of Morro Rock.
The historic Cayucos Pier, built in 1875, is a popular attraction for fishing and taking in epic sunsets.
With amenities like picnic areas, restrooms and outdoor showers, it’s an ideal destination for a fun and relaxing day by the ocean.
9. Carmel Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel Beach in Carmel-by-the-Sea is a dog-friendly beach where pups can run off-leash under their owners’ control.
This stunning beach is known for its beautiful white sands, excellent surfing conditions and breathtaking sunsets.
Locals love to gather here for community events like the annual sandcastle contest or simply to enjoy a picnic while watching the sunset.
10. Seabright State Beach, Santa Cruz
Seabright State Beach in Santa Cruz is another top spot where leashed dogs can enjoy the sand and surf all day long.
Located between the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the harbor, this beach is known for its calm waves, making it perfect for swimming and playing fetch with your furry friend.
With amenities like waste bags, fire pits and picnic areas, it’s a fantastic spot for a fun-filled day by the ocean.
11. Fort Funston Beach, San Francisco
Fort Funston Beach in San Francisco is a dog-friendly paradise where pups can run off-leash and explore the sandy shores.
Known for its stunning 200-foot sandy cliffs and breathtaking views, this beach is a favorite spot for both dogs and their owners.
Fort Funston offers miles of trails that are great for hiking with dogs, hang-gliding opportunities and remnants of World War II military structures.
Don’t forget to bring a jacket, as the beach can get windy, but the fun and adventure are guaranteed!
12. Baker Beach, San Francisco
Baker Beach in San Francisco is a dog-friendly gem where dogs can roam off-leash under voice control north of Lobos Creek.
South of Lobos Creek, dogs must be kept on a leash.
This beach is famous for its breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the rugged cliffs of the Presidio.
You can also enjoy picnicking in the designated areas with tables, grills and restrooms tucked in a charming cypress grove.
13. Kiva Beach, Lake Tahoe
Kiva Beach in South Lake Tahoe is a top spot where leashed dogs can enjoy the sandy shoreline and splash in the water.
Situated by Taylor Creek, this beach offers stunning views of Mount Tallac and a relaxing atmosphere perfect for picnicking and sunbathing.
You can explore the nearby hiking trails, learn about local vegetation and enjoy the less crowded, serene setting compared to other beaches in the area.
With free parking and a visitor center with restrooms, Kiva Beach is a fantastic spot for a fun day out with your furry friend!
14. Big River Beach, Mendocino
Big River Beach in Mendocino is a dog-friendly paradise where leashed pups can enjoy the sandy shores and gentle waves.
Located where Big River meets the Pacific Ocean, this beach is perfect for sunbathing, kayaking and exploring the scenic estuary.
You can even launch canoes and kayaks or take a leisurely stroll along the sand, all while soaking in the stunning views of Mendocino Bay.
15. Moonstone Beach, Trinidad
Moonstone Beach in Trinidad is a dog-friendly paradise where dogs can run off-leash under voice control!
This stunning beach is known for its breathtaking views of rocky coves and plenty of sand for playing.
Whether your dog loves to fetch sticks or splash in the waves, there’s something for every furry friend to enjoy.
With nearby tide pools, scenic trails and even rock climbing opportunities, Moonstone Beach is the perfect spot for a fun day under the sun with your four-legged buddy!
Recap
- Coronado Dog Beach, Coronado
- Dog Beach, San Diego
- Dog Beach, Del Mar
- Huntington Dog Beach, Huntington Beach
- Rosie’s Dog Beach, Long Beach
- Arroyo Burro Beach, Santa Barbara
- Olde Port Beach, San Luis Obispo
- Cayucos State Beach, Cayucos
- Carmel Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea
- Seabright State Beach, Santa Cruz
- Fort Funston Beach, San Francisco
- Baker Beach, San Francisco
- Kiva Beach, Lake Tahoe
- Big River Beach, Mendocino
- Moonstone Beach, Trinidad
