Carlsbad is a picturesque city located just north of San Diego and is known for being the home of the Legoland theme park along with many gorgeous beaches. Unfortunately for local pet owners, dogs are not allowed on Carlsbad beaches. However, many dog-friendly beaches are located within a short drive of Carlsbad. Here are the top six dog-friendly beaches in and around Carlsbad, CA in 2024.
The Top 6 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Carlsbad, California
1. Carlsbad Lagoon
| ️ Address: | 4750 Bayshore Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008 |
| Open Times: | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Cost: | Free |
| Off-Leash: | No |
- A saltwater lagoon located near the ocean
- Primarily used for boating, watersports, and fishing
- Leashed dogs are allowed but may not enter the water
- Also called Agua Hediondia Lagoon
- Bring your dog waste bags
2. Cardiff State Beach
| ️ Address: | 2500 S. Coast Hwy 101, Cardiff, CA 92007 |
| Open Times: | 7 AM–Sunset |
| Cost: | $12–$25/day parking fee |
| Off-Leash: | No |
- Popular surfing beach located south of Carlsbad
- Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet
- Restrooms are available
- Excellent swimming beach with warm water
- Restaurants and bars are located nearby
3. Del Mar Dog Beach
| ️ Address: | 3902 29th St, Del Mar, CA 92014 |
| Open Times: | 24 Hours |
| Cost: | Free |
| Off-Leash: | Yes, during designated times and seasons |
- Dogs on a leash are allowed on all Del Mar beaches with seasonal restrictions
- Off-leash dogs are allowed at North Beach except in the summer months
- All dogs must wear a license tag
- Bring your waste bags
4. Fiesta Island Dog Beach
| ️ Address: | 1750 Fiesta Island Rd, San Diego, CA 92109 |
| Open Times: | 4 AM–10 PM |
| Cost: | Free |
| Off-Leash: | Yes, in designated locations |
- Free parking, restrooms, and fire pits are found at this San Diego island park
- On-leash dogs are allowed on the whole island, off-leash in designated areas
- A popular spot for many outdoor activities on water and land
- Horses are also allowed on this island—watch your step!
5. Coronado Dog Beach
| ️ Address: | 101 Ocean Blvd, Coronado, CA 92118 |
| Open Times: | 6:30 AM–9 PM |
| Cost: | Free |
| Off-Leash: | Yes |
- Street parking only
- No restrooms on the beach, but some are available in a nearby park
- Beautiful views
- A spacious beach with soft sand
- Limited waste bags are available
6. Ocean Beach Dog Beach
| ️ Address: | 5156 W. Point Loma Blvd, San Diego, CA 92107 |
| Open Times: | 24 hours |
| Cost: | Free |
| Off-Leash: | Yes |
- Limited parking; get here early
- One of the first off-leash beaches in the United States
- Don’t bring your puppy until they’ve had all their shots
- Restaurants and bars are within walking distance
- Extremely popular beach and often crowded, especially on weekends
Conclusion
Carlsbad may not be the best spot to take your dog to the beach, but the city offers other perks for outdoor-loving pets and their people. The city maintains an extensive trail system that is dog-friendly and has over 60 miles of hiking trails. If you want to take your pup to the shore, some of the country’s best dog-friendly beaches are just a short drive away. Pack water, waste bags, and doggy sunscreen, and enjoy your day in the sun!
See also:
- Top 7 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Alabama: Off-Leash & On-Leash Places to Go
- 9 Awesome Dog Friendly Beaches in Lake Tahoe, Nevada
Featured Image Credit: Denise coyle, Pixabay
