Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Top 10 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Southern California in 2026

dog lying in the beach

If sun, sand, and surf sound like your idea of a good time, Southern California is the place to be! Whether you are 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 on and off-leash play. Here are the top 10 dog-friendly beaches in Southern California.

dogster face divider

The Top 10 Dog-Friendly Beaches in SoCal

1. Ocean Beach

Address: Dog Beach, San Diego, CA 92107
Open Times: 24 hours
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes
  • 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

Address: 100 Ocean Blvd, Coronado, CA 92118
Open Times: 6:30 AM–9 PM
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes
  • 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

Address:  1750 Fiesta Island Rd, San Diego, CA 92109
Open Times: 4 AM–10 PM
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes, in certain areas
  • 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
  • A 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

Address: 100 Goldenwest St, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Open Times: 5 AM–10 PM
Cost: $2/hour parking
Off-Leash: Yes
  • 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

Address: 5000 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803
Open Times: 6 AM–8 PM
Cost: Free, with some metered parking
Off-Leash: Yes
  • 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
  • The beach may close due to weather conditions or special events

7. Leo Carillo State Beach

Address: 35000 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Open Times: 8 AM–10 PM
Cost: $12/day parking fee
Off-Leash: No
  • Great place to camp with your dog
  • Follow the posted signs—dogs are not allowed everywhere in the park
  • On-leash dogs only
  • Restrooms, showers, and a camp store on-site
  • Gorgeous scenery

8. Arroyo Burro Beach

Address: 2981 Cliff Dr. Santa Barbara, CA 93109
Open Times: 8 AM–sunset
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes, in designated areas only
  • Known locally as Hendry’s Beach
  • Follow signs carefully to find the off-leash area
  • Located in gorgeous Santa Barbara
  • Dog wash stations, restrooms, and picnic spots are available

9. Surfer’s Point at Seaside Park

Address: Shoreline Dr, Ventura, CA 93001
Open Times: 5 AM–6 PM
Cost: $4 parking fee
Off-Leash: No
  • 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

Address: Ocean and Scenic Ave, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Open Times: 24 hours
Cost: Some parking may be metered
Off-Leash: Yes, dogs must be under voice control
  • 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

Dogster divider_v3_NEW_MAY_24_

Conclusion

Whenever 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.

You might also be interested in:


Featured Image Credit: Ivonne Wierink, Shutterstock

Want content like this delivered to you?

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

News, insights, expert advice, and everything dog

* By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.


How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.


Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Is a German Shepherd Good for a First-Time Dog Owner? The Surprising Answer!

German Shepherds are one of the most popular dog breeds in America. They’re known for their bravery and strong loyalty. However, this dog...

Cymbiotika Dog Supplements Review 2026: An Expert’s Breakdown

As a dog mom myself, one of my top goals is to provide my pup with the most optimal life possible – from...

Why Does My Dog Sleep With Their Tongue Out? 10 Vet-Reviewed Reasons

Our pups can do some pretty cute (and kind of weird) things when they’re asleep. Whether it’s twitching paws while they dream about...

Do Dogs Get Sore Muscles From Exercise? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

If you notice your dog acting gingerly after playing, it could lead you to wonder if they are sore. After all, humans can...

More related

Does Dog Food Attract Roaches? Facts & How to Keep Them Away

There is nothing that roaches won’t eat. Besides pesticides, particularly those designed to be effective against roaches, roaches can and will eat almost...

Brusselranian Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care, & Facts

The Brusselranian is a mixed dog breed that combines the Brussels Griffon and the Pomeranian dog breeds. As with any mixed breed, it...

Can Dogs Eat Roast Beef? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

Dogs need meat as a regular part of their balanced diet. Meat provides a great source of protein, vitamins and minerals for dogs...

Returning a Dog to the Shelter: Vet-Approved Facts & Guide

It can happen to anyone. A sinking feeling, a disconnect, the realization that the dog you recently adopted from the shelter just isn’t...

Keep reading

Victor Dog Food vs Bully Max: Our 2026 Comparison – Pros, Cons & What to Choose

With the number of dog food brands out there, you are bound to stumble across similar brands in your search for the best option. At first glance, it seems that only the packaging is different, while the ingredients, nutrition, and...

Dogster_Dog Food Victor VS Bully Max

Can Dogs Eat Clam Chowder? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

If you have prepared a hearty bowl of clam chowder, you will undoubtedly notice your dog’s nostrils flaring and tail wagging at the irresistible smell. And while it’s cold out, you may wonder if it’s okay for your companion to...

Can Dogs Eat_Clam Chowder

How Much Should a French Bulldog Eat? Vet Explained Puppy to Adult Feeding Guide

Getting a new puppy is always so exciting! You have this little bundle of fur just wanting to eat, sleep, and play with you. As a veterinarian, we often get asked how much food is appropriate to be feeding a...

french bulldog eating or drinking from a bowl

5 Ollie Dog Food Alternatives in 2026: Comparison & Reviews

When it comes to your dog’s health, Ollie pet food is one fresh-food brand that is becoming increasingly popular. This brand is on a mission to feed dogs with only the best and freshest ingredients available. Unfortunately, as they grow...

dog eating wet food

Can Dogs Eat Mango? Vet-Approved Safety & Feeding Tips

No matter what you’re eating, your dog likely stares on with envy. Most dogs love to eat what their humans eat, but dogs have no idea if the food is good or bad for them or possibly even downright toxic—this...

Can Dogs Eat Mango

Coconut Oil Dog Treats: 7 Vet-Approved Homemade Recipes

Coconut oil seems to be a miracle cure and go-to for many things these days. This nutrient-dense ingredient can easily replace other less-healthy oils in meals, and we can even safely share this neutral, hypoallergenic substance with our canine counterparts....

beagle dog having treats

Why Does My Dog Eat My Hair? 10 Possible Reasons (Vet-Reviewed)

Ever caught your canine companion munching on your hair and wondered why? It’s not a gourmet meal, after all. This behavior, while strange to us, is anecdotally quite common and can be attributed to various causes. From their inherent grooming...

woman carrying smiling dog

10 Best Fresh Dog Food Delivery Services in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks

Dog food subscription and delivery services are a convenient way to buy food for your pet, and while they are generally slightly more expensive, they do take most of the hassle out of shopping for your pal’s meals. Luckily, there...

Finny opening the door with the farmers dog delivery