Beaches That Allow Leashed Dogs in San Diego

The beach is a popular retreat for people as well as their four-legged companions. Finding a dog-tested and approved beach in San Diego isn't tricky. Per the City of San Diego, leashed dogs are allowed on beaches, sidewalks and in parks from 6 p.m. (this time changes to 4 p.m. from November 1 through March 31) until 9 a.m. Aside from the 11 public beaches listed at SanDiego.gov, there are beaches that are more dog oriented and even allow off-leash activities.

  1. Ocean Beach

    • Opened in 1972, Ocean Beach's Dog Beach is the oldest and one of the most popular dog beaches in San Diego. Dogs are permitted off leash anytime on these 38 acres. After a romp in the sand, owners may want to head two blocks away to the Dog Beach Dog Wash for a self-service dog wash. Dog Beach Dog Wash also offers nail trimming, dog treats and training classes.

      Ocean Beach
      West Point Loma Blvd. and Voltaire St.
      San Diego, CA 92107

    Fiesta Island

    • With calm waters and ample dunes to play on, Mission Bay Beaches' Fiesta Island is a 97-acre leash-free dog park and is the largest in San Diego. According to SanDiego.com, this beach is open 24 hours per day and is the least crowded of the dog beaches, even on weekends.

      Fiesta Island
      1500 Fiesta Island Rd.
      San Diego, CA 92109

    North Beach Coronado

    • The North Coronado Dog Beach features picturesque views and strong surf for water-friendly dogs. This wide, sandy beach allows off-leash dogs year-round.

      North Beach Coronado
      300 Ocean Blvd.
      Coronado, CA 92118

    Del Mar Beach

    • Del Mar Beach features the North Beach area, which is also referred to as "Dog Beach." Unleashed dogs are allowed from the day after Labor Day through June 14. From June 15 through Labor Day, dogs must be restricted to a six-foot leash, according to the City of Del Mar. In the main beach area, leashed dogs are allowed from the day after Labor Day through June 14, but dogs are prohibited all other times of year. Leashed dogs are permitted year-round in the South Beach area.

      Del Mar Beach
      29th and Ocean Front
      Del Mar, CA 92014

    Tips for Success

    • The City of San Diego reminds all dog owners to help keep the beaches clean by picking up after their pets. Waste bags are available on many dog-friendly beaches but owners should pack their own as a precaution. Dogs are required to be legally licensed and well behaved on the beaches. Dogs should remain leashed until in a designated off-leash area. More popular beaches increase the odds of encountering other dogs that may be aggressive. Owners should take precautions to ensure pet safety and a good time for all.