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Home>Dogs>Top 7 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Ventura, CA: Off-Leash & On-Leash Places to Go
Located just north of Los Angeles, Ventura is a laid-back beach town known as a surfing hot spot. Unlike Los Angeles County, where dogs are prohibited on most beaches, Ventura is much more relaxed about canines enjoying the surf and sand. Here are the top 7 dog-friendly beaches in and around Ventura, California, this year.
The Top 7 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Ventura, California
1. Surfer’s Point at Seaside Park
Popular, often crowded, surfing hotspot
Restrooms, parking, showers, bike path, and picnic tables are available
Located near Ventura County Fairgrounds and Ventura Pier
2. Harbor Cove Beach
Popular swimming location with minimal waves or current
Restrooms, parking, showers, and picnic tables are available
Walk to restaurants
Ideal for families with kids
Beautiful views
3. Marina Park Beach
Restrooms, parking, grills, a playground, and picnic tables are available
Beach access is best just north of the park
Large, grassy area for playing as well
Fishing is allowed off the dock–watch out for stray hooks
4. Hollywood Beach
Free street parking nearby or free lots near the harbor
Huge beach, rarely crowded
No waste bags available—bring your own
Restrooms, beach wheelchairs, and volleyball courts are available
Dogs are not allowed on the beach outside of posted hours
5. Silver Strand Beach
Small, neighborhood beach
Street parking only
You’ll share the space with surfers—be respectful
Restrooms are available
Bring your own waste bags
6. Oxnard Beach Park
Park with beach access
Beautiful view of the Channel Islands
Restrooms, athletic courts, grills, and a playground are available
Wheelchair access to the beach
Hotels and restaurants are nearby
7. Oil Piers Beach
A remote beach located just off the freeway
No restrooms or other facilities
Bring your own waste bags
Beautiful views
Conclusion
As you can see, Ventura is a wonderful place to be if you have a dog that loves the beach! To ensure your pup has an enjoyable day, remember to pack water, waste bags, dog sunscreen, and portable shade if needed. Follow all posted signs, including keeping your dog on a leash, even if you see others not obeying the rules. Be respectful of other beachgoers since all of the beaches are shared spaces, not dedicated dog beaches. And, of course, remember to pick up after your dog every time.
Featured Image Credit: freddie10, Pixabay
Written by
Elizabeth Gray is a lifelong lover of all creatures great and small. She got her first cat at 5 years old and at 14, she started working for her local veterinarian. Elizabeth spent more than 20 years working as a veterinary nurse before stepping away to become a stay-at-home parent to her daughter. Now, she is excited to share her hard-earned knowledge (literally–she has scars) with our readers. Elizabeth lives in Iowa with her family, including her two fur kids, Linnard, a husky mix and Algernon, the worldʻs most patient cat. When not writing, she enjoys reading, watching all sports but especially soccer, and spending time outdoors with her family.…Read more