Is Laguna Beach Dog Friendly? 2026 Update
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View 2 More +Depending on your age, you may associate Laguna Beach with a particular reality TV show that aired in the mid-2000s. Outside of this claim to fame, this Southern California city is famous for its miles of gorgeous coastal landscape. Laguna Beach dog owners will be happy to learn that all but one of the beaches within city limits are dog-friendly, with some seasonal restrictions.
Keep reading to learn how to enjoy the shores of Laguna Beach with your dog, including whether you’ll find any off-leash spots to explore. We’ll also give you tips to make your day at the beach with your pup safe and fun.
Laguna Beach Dog Rules
In Laguna Beach, dogs are allowed on the beaches all year round, except for one local spot, Thousand Steps Beach. Dogs are forbidden on this beach at all times.
Between June 15 and September 10, dogs are only allowed before 9:00 am and after 6:00 pm to avoid the crowds of tourists. Outside of the summer months, the city has no hourly restrictions on dogs enjoying the beaches. Dogs must be on a leash 6 feet or shorter during their beach day.
Does Laguna Beach Have an Off-Leash Dog Beach?
Unfortunately, Laguna Beach does not have a designated off-leash dog beach. Your only option for legal, public off-leash play in the city is at the Laguna Beach Dog Park, which is over 2 acres.
About 20 miles north of Laguna Beach is Huntington Dog Beach, where your pup can play off-leash. If you’re up for a day trip, Del Mar has seasonal off-leash dog beaches about an hour’s drive south of Laguna Beach. Even farther south, San Diego offers numerous off-leash dog beaches, including one of the oldest in the country.
Tips for a Safe and Fun Beach Day With Your Dog
Don’t forget your dog’s leash if you’re headed out to enjoy one of the 7 miles of beaches you’ll find in Laguna Beach. In addition, pack your waste bags just in case. Some beaches may have bags available, but you don’t want to be caught unable to pick up after your pup.
Other essentials to pack for your doggy trip to the beach include water for drinking and rinsing your dog off at the end of the day. Consider bringing portable shade, especially if the weather forecast calls for high temperatures. Snacks for you and your dog and dog-safe sunscreen should also make it into your bag.
Be respectful of other dogs and humans using the beach by not allowing your dog to bark excessively or approach other beachgoers. Not every dog enjoys the sand and crashing surf, so carefully monitor your pet’s reaction and mood. If they don’t seem to be having fun, call it a day and find another way to spend time with your dog.
Conclusion
In addition to having some of the most dog-friendly beaches in Southern California, Laguna Beach has much more to offer pups and their people. We mentioned the dog park already, but the city is also home to miles of beautiful hiking trails. You’ll also find dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, and stores in Laguna Beach. If you’re considering a California vacation with your dog, Laguna Beach might be your spot!
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Featured Image Credit: Anette, Pixabay
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Elizabeth Gray is a lifelong lover of all animals 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 the readers. Elizabeth lives in Iowa with her family, including her two furry 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.
