Best On-Leash and Off-Leash Dog-Friendly Beaches in San Diego

As San Diego is one of the most dog-friendly cities in Southern California, it is important to know which beaches not just allow dogs, but if your dog is required to be on a leash at all times.  Various dog beaches have leash requirements, limited hours a dog can be roaming the beach, and particular areas of the beach to be designated pet-friendly environments.

While it may seem tempting to let your well-behaved dog off the leash when not a whole lot of people are around, be sure to double check the signs posted at the beach.

That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the best on-leash and off-leash dog beaches in San Diego today.  So, we’ll help you find which beach is right for you and your furry friend. 

Now, if you have a dog, here are the beaches for your canine to roam freely under voice command or safely on a leash.

Off-Leash Dog-Friendly San Diego Beaches

Fiesta Island on Mission Bay

Address: 1750 Fiesta Island Rd, San Diego, CA 92190

Off-leash times: 6:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M daily

Located on San Diego’s Mission Bay Park, Fiesta Island is a popular destination for water sports, recreational events, and races.  Don’t let your pups miss out on the fun too!  Dogs are allowed in all areas except for the Youth Campground and Least Tern bird nesting sites, which are seasonal.  In other words, your dog is free to roam anywhere outside of the fenced areas.  Most of the large park is filled with sandy dunes, hiking trails, and free space for your dogs to roam around and explore.  The calm bay waters also attract adventurous dogs to dive into the ocean.  Note, there is plenty of parking but, there are no water fountains or restrooms.

Dog Beach in Ocean Beach

Address: The Very End of Voltaire St, Ocean Beach, CA 92107

Off-leash times: 24 hours, daily

The Original Dog Beach in San Diego is one of the first official leash-free beaches in the United States.  This particular beach is one of the most popular in San Diego to bring you pups off-leash. Saturdays and Sundays can get busy.  So, if you prefer a more relaxed visit, come throughout the week during non-peak hours.

Coronado Dog Beach

Address: Ocean Court and Ocean Boulevard, Coronado, CA 92118

Off-leash times: 24 hours, daily

Across the scenic Coronado Bridge, at the northern end of the island, off-leash dogs are allowed to enjoy the beach at any time between Ocean Blvd and Ocean Drive in front of Sunset Park.  There will be signs stating the designated off-leash area at the north end of the beach.  We suggest parking along the north end of Ocean Boulevard outside of the naval base entrance.  Dogs must be kept on a leash from the parking areas to the designated off-leash area.  This is one of the most well-liked beaches because it is found to be a quieter spot to sunbathe and enjoy other amenities such as fire rings, beach chairs, picnic benches, surfing, and volleyball.

Del Mar Dog Beach

Address: 3200 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 92014

This stunning location runs about a half mile from 29^th Street to Solana Beach, giving your dog plenty of space to play fetch while their humans socialize.  Metered parking is available here but can be tough to find spots during the summer.  However, pay particular attention to the season you plan to visit. 

Main Beach Off-leash times:  The day after Labor Day through June 16, dogs are permitted off-leash from dawn to 8:00 A.M only.  Note, dogs are not allowed on Main Beach at any time from June 16 through Labor Day.

North Beach Off-leash times: The day after Labor Day through June 16, dogs are permitted off-leash at any time.  Also note, dogs must be leashed from June 16 through Labor Day except from dawn to 8:00 A.M.

On-Leash Dog-Friendly San Diego Beaches

La Jolla Shores Beach

Address: 8200 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037

Times when leashed dogs are allowed:  Dogs are allowed before 9:00 A.M. and after 4:00 P.M. from November 1 to March 31 and before 9:00 A.M and after 6:00 P.M between April 1 and October 31.

This very popular flat beach stretches over a mile.  Designated parking can be found in the La Jolla Shores Beach parking lot next to Kellogg Park which offers a small playground for kids and leashed dogs.

Pacific Beach

Address: 671 Ocean Blvd #601, San Diego, CA 92109

Times when leashed dogs are allowed:  Dogs are allowed before 9:00 A.M. and after 4:00 P.M. from November 1 to March 31 and before 9:00 A.M and after 6:00 P.M between April 1 and October 31.

Stretching from Crystal Pier to Pacific Beach Drive, you’ll find a ton of pooches wandering along the sands with their humans. Park in the residential streets on Law Street using the beach access point near the bathrooms to get to the dog friendly area. Another large beach with many locals walking or running here in the mornings and evenings.

Mission Beach

Address: Mission Boulevard and Ventura Place, San Diego, CA 92019

Times when leashed dogs are allowed: Dogs are allowed before 9:00 A.M. and after 4:00 P.M. from November 1 to March 31 and before 9:00 A.M and after 6:00 P.M between April 1 and October 31.

This long stretch of sand is backed by numerous vacation rentals, shops, and restaurants nearby.  This is perfect for you and your pet to stop by for a local spot to dine and shop.  Other amenities such as lifeguard towers, bathrooms, volleyball courts, and basketball courts are located in the southern part of Mission Beach.

Imperial Beach

Address: Imperial Beach Boulevard and Seacoast Drive, Imperial Beach, CA 91932

Times when leashed dogs are allowed: Dogs are allowed before 9:00 A.M. and after 4:00 P.M. from November 1 to March 31 and before 9:00 A.M and after 6:00 P.M between April 1 and October 31.

North of Palm Avenue allows leashed dogs accessible at Carnation Ave.  Avoid between Beach Boulevard and Palm Avenue.  Lastly, a long stretch of sandy beach in front of Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge can be accessed from the south end of Seacoast Drive.  This part of the beach is relatively close to the Mexico border where the Tijuana River empties into the ocean nearby, so we highly recommend staying out of the water due to sewage pollution in this area.

Seaside Beach at Cardiff State Beach

Address: 2504 S Coast Hwy 101. Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007

Times when leashed dogs are allowed: Dogs are allowed between 6:00 A.M. to 11:00 P.M daily.

Dogs on leash are more than welcome on this long, narrow beach.  This beach can be popular with surfers.  This is the only state beach in San Diego that allows dogs.  Camping is offered near San Elijo State Beach campgrounds.  Even though dogs are not allowed on the beach at the campgrounds, it’s a short walk to Cardiff State Beach.  Parking will be located at Seaside Parking Lot offering paid daily parking.

San Diego Dog Beach Etiquette and Tips

• Dogs must wear collars with current licenses.
• Pick up after your dog to ensure the beaches stay clean year-round.
• Make sure your dog is fully vaccinated.
• Carry fresh water for your dog to stay hydrated.
• Before going to off-leash beaches, be sure your dog responds to voice commands even during all the distractions and fun surrounding them.
• If your dog is aggressive or has not yet been properly socialized with other dogs or humans, do not take them to the beach.  Work on your dog’s training, socialization, and exposure to new things to improve their behavior.
• Watch your dog at all times and interfere if necessary.  Look for any signs that your dog might display to reduce any fights amongst other dogs.

Conclusion for the Best On-Leash and Off-Leash Dog-Friendly Beaches in San Diego

One of the most important considerations is to be sure to read the signs posted at each beach to ensure you are abiding by the rules and regulations.  Let your pup get the most out of their sandy experience here following the proper etiquette and tips.

As mentioned earlier, each dog beach, whether it be off-leash or on-leash, offers a great playing field for you and your pup to get some exercise and Vitamin D in. Take advantage and enjoy all the unique beaches that San Diego has to offer!

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