The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in San Diego
- San Diego Beach Review
- Jul 21
- 3 min read
San Diego isn’t just paradise for people — it’s a pup’s dream too. With some of California’s most beautiful coastline, the city offers several dog-friendly beaches where your furry friend can splash in the surf, dig in the sand, and run free.
At-a-Glance: Dog-Friendly Beaches
Beach Name | Off-Leash? | Parking | Vibe |
Ocean Beach Dog Beach | Yes, 24/7 | Free lot and street | Laid-back |
Coronado Dog Beach | Yes, 24/7 | Free street | Scenic, family-friendly |
Fiesta Island | Yes, most areas | Free on island | Wide-open, peaceful |
Del Mar North Beach | Yes, Sept–June | Paid street and lots | Upmarket, active |
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Best Dog Beaches in San Diego
Ocean Beach Dog Beach
Location: West end of Voltaire Street, Ocean Beach
Off-leash: Yes, 24/7
Parking: Free lot and street parking
Vibe: Laid-back and friendly
Ocean Beach Dog Beach is an iconic spot where dogs of all shapes and sizes romp in the waves completely off-leash. Open 24/7, this wide stretch of sand at the mouth of the San Diego River is the most popular dog beach in town. Expect friendly crowds, a few food trucks nearby, and lots of tail-wagging action.
For more information on Ocean Beach, see our full beach review of Ocean Beach.
Coronado Dog Beach
Location: Far north end of Coronado Beach
Off-leash: Yes, 24/7
Parking: Free street parking (can fill up quickly)
Vibe: Scenic and family-friendly
Coronado Dog Beach sits just beyond the famous Hotel del Coronado. With postcard-worthy views and soft sand, it’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike. The waves here can be a little stronger than at OB, so keep an eye on smaller pups.
For more information on visiting Coronado Island and nearby attractions on the coast. View our beach review of Coronado Beach. Also be sure to check out our post on Things to Do on Coronado and Coronado Tours & Excursions to make the most out of your time!
Fiesta Island Off-Leash Dog Park
Location: Fiesta Island
Off-leash: Yes, most areas
Parking: Free on the island
Vibe: Wide-open, peaceful
If your dog loves to run, Fiesta Island is your best bet. This massive off-leash area offers calm bay waters and plenty of room to roam. It’s not fancy — no restrooms or shops — but for dogs who love space and water, it’s unbeatable.
Be sure to check out our full Mission Bay Guide for more information on enjoying all that the bay has to offer!
Del Mar North Beach (Dog Beach)
Location: 29th Street to Solana Beach border
Off-leash: Yes, September–June
Parking: Paid street and lots
Vibe: Upmarket and active
Del Mar’s North Beach, often called simply “Dog Beach,” is the northernmost stretch of Del Mar Beach. Off-leash rules apply from Labor Day through June 15; leashes are required in summer. The surf can get lively here, and it’s a beautiful place to watch the sunset.
See our full beach review of Del Mar Beach for information on waterfront restaurants and activities available in Del Mar!
Tips for Visiting San Diego Dog Beaches
Always bring waste bags and clean up after your pet.
Bring fresh water — salt water can dehydrate dogs.
Some beaches have stronger waves; keep an eye on small dogs.
Be respectful of other beachgoers and follow posted rules.
Be aware of the water quality. Coronado, OB, and Fiesta Island all are susceptible to poor water quality at times.
FAQ: San Diego Dog Beaches
Are dogs allowed on all San Diego beaches?
No, only designated dog beaches like Ocean Beach Dog Beach, Coronado Dog Beach, Fiesta Island, and Del Mar North Beach allow dogs off-leash. Some others allow leashed dogs at limited hours (typically before 9am and after 6pm in the summer months).
Which San Diego dog beach is best for off-leash play?
Ocean Beach Dog Beach and Coronado Dog Beach are fully off-leash 24/7 and very popular. Fiesta Island is also a favorite for wide-open space.
Do I need to pay to access dog beaches?
No entrance fees, but some areas like Del Mar have paid parking.
When can I bring my dog to Del Mar North Beach?
Off-leash is allowed from the day after Labor Day through June 15. Leashes are required in summer.
Final Thoughts
San Diego is one of the most dog-friendly beach towns in California. With these amazing beaches, you and your pup can enjoy sunny days, ocean breezes, and plenty of playtime on the sand — all without breaking the rules or missing out on the best spots. Grab the leash, pack your water and waste bags, and go explore the best dog-friendly beaches in San Diego.
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