Dog Friendly Beaches in California

Welcome to the Golden State, where the sun is shining, the waves are crashing, and the beaches are beckoning not just for humans, but for our four-legged friends too! California is home to some of the most picturesque dog-friendly beaches, where your furry companion can frolic in the surf, dig in the sand, and bask in the warm sun.

So, pack your sunscreen, grab your pup’s favorite beach toy, and check out our list of top dog-friendly beaches in California.

1. Huntington Dog Beach, Huntington Beach

Location: Pacific Coast Highway between Seapoint Street and Goldenwest Street, Huntington Beach, CA

Hours: 5:00 am – 10:00 pm daily

Huntington Dog Beach is a 1.5-mile stretch of pure doggy paradise. Known as “Dog Beach,” this popular spot features soft sand, gentle waves, and plenty of room for your pup to roam off-leash. You’ll find amenities such as dog waste stations, picnic tables, and public restrooms, making it an ideal beach day destination for the entire family.

2. Rosie’s Dog Beach, Long Beach

Location: 5000 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA

Hours: 6:00 am – 8:00 pm daily

Rosie’s Dog Beach, located in the Belmont Shore neighborhood of Long Beach, is the only legal off-leash dog beach in Los Angeles County. This four-acre waterfront haven allows pups to play in the surf and socialize with other furry friends. Parking is available in the nearby lot, and you’ll find various restaurants and shops within walking distance.

3. Carmel Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea

Location: Scenic Road and Ocean Avenue, Carmel, CA

Hours: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm daily

Carmel Beach, nestled in the charming village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, is a beautiful white sand beach where dogs can run off-leash as they please. This picturesque location offers stunning views of Pebble Beach and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. After a day at the beach, explore the dog-friendly Carmel village, with its unique shops, galleries, and eateries that welcome canine companions.

4. Fort Funston Beach, San Francisco

Location: Fort Funston Rd, San Francisco, CA

Hours: Open 24 hours

Fort Funston Beach, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, is a favorite among San Francisco’s dog owners. This beach offers a wide expanse of sand for off-leash play, with towering cliffs providing a stunning backdrop. The area also features an extensive network of trails perfect for a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike with your furry friend.

5. Ocean Beach Dog Beach, San Diego

Location: W. Point Loma Blvd and Voltaire St, San Diego, CA

Hours: Open 24 hours

Ocean Beach Dog Beach, located in San Diego, is a 24-hour off-leash dog beach where your pup can splash in the surf and play with fellow canines. This lively beach offers a large area for dogs to roam and is famous for its dog surfing events. Amenities include dog waste stations and nearby parking, making it a convenient and enjoyable spot for a day at the beach.

6. Montrose Dog Beach, Santa Cruz

Location: W Cliff Dr and Swanton Blvd, Santa Cruz, CA

Hours: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm daily

Montrose Dog Beach is a popular off-leash dog beach in Santa Cruz, offering stunning views of the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Monterey Bay. The beach is equipped with dog waste stations, and the nearby Lighthouse Field State Beach provides additional trails for leashed walks. With nearby restaurants, shops, and attractions, Montrose Dog Beach is a perfect destination for a dog-friendly day trip.

7. Fiesta Island, San Diego

Location: 1590 E. Mission Bay Dr, San Diego, CA

Hours: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm daily

Fiesta Island, located within Mission Bay Park, is a large sandy island boasting a designated off-leash dog area that covers the majority of the island. With calm bay waters and plenty of space to roam, your pup is sure to have a blast at this unique beach spot. The island also offers picnic areas, fire pits, and a scenic 5-mile loop for walking, running, or biking with your leashed furry friend.

8. Baker Beach, San Francisco

Location: 1504 Pershing Dr, San Francisco, CA

Hours: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm daily

Baker Beach, situated within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, is a stunning mile-long beach with unbeatable views of the Golden Gate Bridge. While dogs must be leashed in the central and eastern portions of the beach, the western section allows off-leash play. The beach is equipped with restrooms and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for a day out with your pup.

9. Arroyo Burro Beach, Santa Barbara

Location: 2981 Cliff Dr, Santa Barbara, CA

Hours: 7:30 am – sunset daily

Arroyo Burro Beach, also known as Hendry’s Beach, is a favorite among dog lovers in Santa Barbara. The beach features an off-leash dog area on the east side, where your pup can enjoy the surf and sand, while the rest of the beach requires dogs to be on-leash. Amenities include restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and the Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach, a pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating.

10. Del Mar Dog Beach, Del Mar

Location: 3200 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA

Hours: 24 hours during off-peak season (after Labor Day through June 15th)

Del Mar Dog Beach, also known as North Beach, is a beautiful stretch of coastline in Del Mar that allows off-leash dogs during the off-peak season (from the day after Labor Day through June 15th). During the peak season, dogs are still welcome but must be on a leash. The beach offers a picturesque setting for you and your furry friend to enjoy, with the Del Mar bluffs as a backdrop and ample space for running and playing.

Welp, that’s about it

California’s dog-friendly beaches offer unforgettable experiences for both you and your four-legged friend. Soak up the sun, splash in the surf, and create lasting memories with your canine companion at these top dog-friendly beaches in the Golden State.

Remember to always respect local beach rules and regulations, keep your pup safe, and leave nothing behind but pawprints in the sand.

Please note that rules and regulations may have changed since writing this, so always check the latest information before visiting.