The Pawfect Guide to Dog Beaches in SoCal

The day of the dog is officially upon us. Southern California is one of the most popular places in the world where Fido takes precedence over so many pet owners. With endless loving dog owners living on the beautiful California coast there of course must be plenty of beaches for all of their furry friends to roam day in and day out. Endless California coastline makes for numerous sandy beaches up and down the Pacific Coast Highway giving Cali based pups a wide variety of surf and sand! Unfortunately not all Southern California beaches are pet friendly but since there is enough sand to go around there is always a dog friendly beach within 30 minutes of most cities. We started in LA and drove south to highlight 10 great beaches for you and your pet to share some fun in the sun!

Leo Carrillo State Beach, 35000 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu

This 1.5-mile strip of Malibu coast has made its fair share of appearances in Hollywood films so if you frequent here you just may see your pup’s favorite spot in an upcoming flick. Leashed dogs are allowed everywhere, but be aware that dogs are not allowed in the area between towers two and three which is the busiest part of the beach.

 Rosie’s Dog Beach, Long Beach

Dogs are allowed off leash here on this 4 acre beach. This unfenced site in Belmont Shore has a strict rule though, only one dog allowed per adult. Daily hours are 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. between Granada and Roycroft avenues in Belmont Shore.

Huntington Dog Beach, Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach

Surf City, USA of course has to be home to a dog beach! Dogs are allowed off leash here and this mile of white sandy beach is a favorite hang out for many locals and visitors alike. When the surf is up the beach is shared evenly between surfers, dogs and dog lovers which makes for the perfect So Cal summer day!

Del Mar – North Beach (a.k.a. Dog Beach)

The only dog beach in North San Diego County, this Del Mar beauty is a perfect spot to let your dog gallop through the salty shoreline!  Dogs are allowed off leash seasonally but be aware of the date restrictions as September through June are the only months dogs are allowed to roam freely.

San Diego Dog Beach, Fiesta Island, Mission Bay

This large sandy island in Mission Bay is doggie heaven as there are endless sand (3+ square miles) trails, sand dunes and lots of water to spend the day swimming in. The calm waters of Mission Bay are very inviting and make for the perfect family beach day.

San Diego Dog Beach – Ocean Beach

Located in northern Ocean Beach, “the original” Dog Beach is one of the most popular places to take your dog in San Diego County. With a beautiful backdrop and the Pacific surf to roll in, Dog Beach is a top favorite and we can easily see why.

Coronado Dog Beach, Ocean Boulevard, Coronado

Located on the northern end of Coronado Beach this stretch of sand sees a constant stream of dogs and has a great reputation for responsible dog owners. One of the cleanest beaches in San Diego County with sweeping views of Point Loma makes this one of our personal favorite beaches in Southern California!