California is made for beach days, and luckily, plenty of coastal spots welcome four-legged explorers, too. From dedicated off-leash stretches to scenic beaches where dogs can join you on leash, here are some of the best places to plan a beach day with your pup.
Always check the current local rules before you go. Dog access, leash requirements, hours, parking, and seasonal restrictions can change, and a beach that welcomes dogs may still require a leash outside a designated area.
Huntington Dog Beach: Huntington Beach, CA
National Dog Week: September 20–26, 2026
Huntington Beach is a great place to celebrate with your pup during National Dog Week. Check the city’s official announcement for current event details, schedules, and visitor guidance.
Huntington Dog Beach is one of Southern California's best-known dog-friendly coastal spots. Dogs are welcome in the designated beach area, including off-leash play under local rules. Bring fresh water, waste bags, and a leash for the walk from your car and for any areas outside the dog beach.
Rosie's Dog Beach: Long Beach, CA
Rosie's Dog Beach is a dedicated stretch where dogs can enjoy the sand and surf off-leash. It is a popular choice for social dogs, so keep an eye on your pup, respect the posted boundaries, and remember that regular leash rules apply outside the designated area.
Carmel Beach: Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Carmel Beach is famous for its relaxed, dog-friendly atmosphere. Dogs can enjoy the beach off leash when they remain under voice control, making it a beautiful option for well-trained pups and their humans. Pack a leash anyway, and follow posted signs near paths, roads, and protected areas.
Fort Funston: San Francisco, CA
Fort Funston offers dramatic cliffs, wide views, and designated areas where dogs may run off leash under Golden Gate National Recreation Area rules. The terrain can be steep and windy, so stay alert near cliff edges and check current National Park Service guidance before visiting.
Coronado Dog Beach: San Diego, CA
North of Coronado's main beach, Coronado Dog Beach gives dogs a designated place to enjoy the shoreline off-leash. It is a popular destination, so keep your dog close, clean up promptly, and use a leash everywhere outside the designated dog beach area.
How to Have a Better Dog Beach Day
- Check the rules before leaving: Confirm whether dogs are allowed, whether they must be leashed, and whether seasonal hours apply.
- Pack the basics: Bring water, a collapsible bowl, waste bags, dog-safe sunscreen, and a towel.
- Respect wildlife and other beachgoers: Keep dogs away from nesting birds, dunes, posted protected areas, and anyone who wants a quiet beach day.
- Know your dog's limits: Watch for hot sand, strong surf, rough waves, and signs of overheating.
- Leave no trace: Pick up waste and take your belongings with you when you leave.
Before You Go
Dog-friendly does not always mean completely off-leash. Rules differ by beach and can change with weather, wildlife protection, construction, or special events. Check the official city or park website on the day of your visit, and follow the signs when you arrive.
Official Resources
- City of Huntington Beach
- https://www.dogbeach.org/
- City of Long Beach: Rosie's Dog Beach
- City of Carmel-by-the-Sea
- National Park Service: Pets at Golden Gate National Recreation Area
- City of San Diego: Dog Beach
Beach days are better with your best friend. Choose the right shoreline, pack thoughtfully, and make room for plenty of sandy-pawed memories.