Southern California is home to some of the world’s most famous tourist attractions, including Hollywood and Disneyland. You’ll also find miles of gorgeous coastline and sandy beaches just waiting to be explored. Dog lovers will be happy to learn that many of these ocean side spots welcome canine as well as human visitors. Here are 10 amazing dog friendly beaches in Southern California.
The 10 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Southern California
1. Rosie’s Dog Beach
Located south of Los Angeles
Keep dogs on a leash until reaching the beach
Parking is available but fills up quickly
Restrooms and trash cans are available
Bringing your own poop bags is recommended
2. Arroyo Burro Beach
The entire park is dog-friendly
Off-leash play restricted to one area
On-site dog wash station
Picnic spots, restrooms, showers, and a restaurant are located near the beach
3. Surfer’s Point at Seaside Park
Famous surfing spot
Only leashed dogs allowed
Dog-friendly hiking trails located nearby
Picnic spots, restrooms, and showers are available
4. Huntington Dog Beach
Dog and human water fountains are available
Parking fee
Keep dogs on a leash until reaching the beach
Dogs must be under strict voice control
Don’t leave full poop bags behind
5. Del Mar Dog Beach
All dogs must wear a license on their collar
Leashes must be 6 feet or shorter
The north side of the beach is off-leash except in summer
Dogs must be under voice control
6. Dog Beach San Diego
The “original” dog beach in America
Get here early—parking lots fill up quickly
Restrooms and trash cans are available
Located near restaurants and breweries
7. Coronado Dog Beach
No parking lot, street parking only
Dog waste bags are available
Beautiful views
Restrooms on site
8. Fiesta Island
Features a large, fenced dog park area with beach access
Free parking lot available
Generally calm waves
Also popular for biking and beach bonfires
9. Leo Carillo State Beach
One of the only dog-friendly beaches in Malibu
Dogs only allowed in campgrounds, day-use areas, and north beach
Restrooms, showers, camp store on site
No off-leash area
Gorgeous scenery with unique rock formations and caves
10. Carmel Beach
Dogs must be on a leash everywhere but the beach itself
Bluffs are vulnerable to erosion, stay on the marked paths
Dog waste bags are provided
No lifeguards
Popular surfing spot
Wrapping Up
Rules can change, so before you head out to any of these 10 beaches, please confirm local regulations regarding dogs . Make your beach day as safe as possible by packing water, doggy bags, treats, and even portable shade. Be aware of the heat and make sure your pup stays cool and hydrated, especially short-nosed breeds like French Bulldogs and Pugs. Most of these beaches aren’t dog-specific, so be respectful and responsible by keeping your dog under control and picking up after them.
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Featured Image Credit: Larina Marina, Shutterstock