[2024] Top 10 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Southern California in 2023 - Pet Follower | Pet Guides, Health & Gear Articles by Pet Lovers & Veterinarians

If sun, sand, and surf sound like your idea of a good time, Southern California is the place to be! Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, you can easily find a gorgeous beach to spend the day. The good news for dog lovers is that many of these beautiful beaches also welcome pups for both on and off-leash play. Here are the top 10 dog-friendly beaches in Southern California.

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The Top 10 Dog-Friendly Beaches in SoCal

1. Ocean Beach

One of the first dog beaches in America
Parking lots get crowded quickly
Showers, restrooms, trash cans, and picnic spots are available
Quick walk to breweries and restaurants

2. Coronado Dog Beach

Neighborhood street parking only
Long walk to get to the beach
Located next to a Naval Air Station
A dog foot wash station is available
A local favorite

3. Fiesta Island

Island park features a walking path and a fenced dog area with beach access
Watch out for horses and manure
Fire rings available
No permanent restrooms

4. Del Mar Dog Beach

🗺️ Address:	📍 3902 29th St, Del Mar, CA 92014
🕐 Open Times:	24 hours
💲 Cost:	Free
🐕 Off-Leash:	On the Main and North Beach, with seasonal and hourly restrictions

Visible license is required for all dogs
Follow signs carefully, dogs are prohibited on one stretch of beach in the area
No leashes longer than 6 feet are allowed
Portable restrooms only

5. Huntington Dog Beach

Dogs must be on a leash until reaching the beach
Water fountains, picnic area, waste bags, and restrooms are available
Well-maintained by a dedicated non-profit group
Busy highway nearby
Remove all used waste bags or risk a ticket

6. Rosie’s Dog Beach

The only dog beach in L.A. County
The free parking lot fills up quickly
Keep dogs on leashes while walking to the beach
Restrooms, trash cans, and limited waste bags are available
Beach may close due to weather conditions or special events

7. Leo Carillo State Beach

Great place to camp with your dog
Follow the posted signs—dogs aren’t allowed everywhere in the park
On-leash dogs only
Restrooms, showers, and a camp store on-site
Gorgeous scenery

8. Arroyo Burro Beach

Known locally as Hendry’s Beach
Follow signs carefully to find the off-leash area
Located in gorgeous Santa Barbara
Dog wash station, restrooms, and picnic spots are available

9. Surfer’s Point at Seaside Park

You’ll share the beach with surfers and windsurfers
No off-leash dogs are allowed
Restrooms, showers, and picnic areas are available
Walk to the Ventura Pier

10. Carmel Beach

Located in one of the most dog-friendly towns in the country
Stay on the marked paths when walking down to the beach
Dog waste bags are provided
Surfers and swimmers also share the space

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Conclusion

However you and your dog are enjoying one of these 10 Southern California beaches, be sure to be respectful of others who are sharing the space. Not everyone loves being approached by dogs, so always maintain voice or leash control of your pup. Pack water, snacks, doggy sunscreen, and extra poop bags just to be safe before heading to the beach. Remember that dogs can become overheated quickly so stay aware of the weather and give your pup plenty of breaks in the shade as needed.

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Featured Image Credit: Ivonne Wierink, Shutterstock