Undoubtedly, the major draws to southern California is the proximity to the ocean and the year round perfect weather. If you’re a pup parent, you probably know there’s nothing better than taking your canine kid to the beach for a frolic in the sea and a roll in the sand. With roughly 70 miles of stunning shorelines, however, Los Angeles itself is lacking in beaches that are dog friendly.
While you can try to sneak your pooch onto any beach of your liking, you run the risk of getting your beach day cut short and slapped with a hefty fine. The good news, though, is that there are a few beaches near L.A. that allow you to bring your dog, both on and off leash, without getting into any trouble.
When a day at a bark park just won’t suffice and your furry friend is yearning for some sand between their paws and a salty sea breeze through their fur, here are the pet-friendly beaches near L.A. for a totally pawsome day by the water.
Remember to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated and clean up after your furry friend, leaving only paw prints in the sand behind.
1. Rosie’s Dog Beach
Best For: Social pups and off-leash roaming
The only off-leash dog beach in L.A. and undoubtedly one of the most popular doggy beaches, this long stretch of sand on Long Beach is a pooch’s paradise. Named after the late local canine celebrity, Rosie the English bulldog, Rosie’s Dog Beach stretches 4 acres on prime waterfront real estate between Granada Avenue and Roycroft Avenue and is open between 6 am and 8 pm every day.
While not fenced, there are signs and most likely many other dogs to let you know you’re at the right spot. This beach is usually busy, so it’s great for those social pups to make new furry friends or for you to chat up a fellow pup parent.
Waste bags are provided in dispensers, but it’s encouraged to bring your own. There are also public restrooms and showers to clean up your pup before jumping in the car. Park on the street for free or in the parking lot for $1 per hour.
2. Leo Carrillo State Park
View this post on Instagram
Best For: Camping adventures or day trips
So much more than just a dog beach, Leo Carrillo State Park is a great place to camp, hike, surf, or explore magical tide pools and coastal caves along the stunning California coastline in Malibu.
Open from 8 am – 10 pm, this state park is the ultimate spot for an adventurous day trip with your canine companion, however, we highly recommend camping out for the night for the full experience. Make sure to reserve your campsite at least two days in advance to ensure you have a spot.
Dogs are allowed in the day-use area of the park, campground, and North Beach, located just north of lifeguard tower 3, and must be kept on a maximum 6-foot leash at all times. Parking in the lot is $3 per hour, maxing out at $12 for the whole day. Alternatively, you can find free parking along the Pacific Coast Highway and access the beach by the stairs.
3. Huntington Dog Beach
Best For: The ultimate doggie beach day near L.A.
While not technically in Los Angeles, Huntington Dog Beach is just across the county line in Orange County, and it’s too good not to mention. Located between Seapoint Avenue and 21st Street, this 1.5-mile stretch of sand is open from 5 am – 10 pm providing endless hours of fun in the sun for you and your pooch.
Dogs are allowed to roam freely sans leash on the beach, however for their safety, they must be leashed entering and exiting the sand. The beach provides free waste bags in case you forgot yours and there are drinking fountains for both humans and their canine counterparts. There’s also plenty of parking in two big metered lots to choose from that charge $2 an hour.
The wide beach, slow breaking waves, and grassy picnic area makes this beach the ideal place to post up for a day with your salty sea dog. The beach also regularly hosts dog meet-ups as well as the annual Surf City Surf Dog competition so be sure to check the calendar for the next activity coming up for you and your pooch to partake in.
More to Explore With Your Pooch
- 7 Pet-Friendly Hotels in Flagstaff, Arizona
- 12 Cozy Pet-Friendly Cabins in Pigeon Forge, TN
- 11 Cozy Pet-Friendly Cabins in Colorado
- 8 Ultra Chic Pet-Friendly Hotels in Miami, Florida
Doggy Check In is reader-supported and may earn a commission when you book or purchase using our links.
