Dog-Friendly Activities on the Coast in San Diego
- San Diego Beach Review
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
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San Diego is a dog-lover’s paradise, offering countless dog-friendly activities on the coast, from off-leash beaches to scenic oceanfront trails and pet-friendly parks with ocean views. Whether you’re a local or visiting with your pup, this guide covers the best dog-friendly places on the coast in San Diego.
Best Dog-Friendly Walks on the Coast in San Diego
Looking for a dog-friendly coastal walk with ocean views? These scenic routes are perfect for a leashed stroll with your pup:
1. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park – Point Loma
Why It’s Great: One of the most beautiful dog-friendly coastal trails in San Diego, featuring stunning ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and plenty of sea breezes.
Leash Rules: Dogs must be on a leash.
Pro Tip: Arrive at sunset for an unforgettable experience!
See our guide to Sunset Cliffs here.
2. Mission Beach Boardwalk (Ocean Front Walk)
Why It’s Great: A lively dog-friendly coastal walk that runs along Pacific Beach and Mission Beach, with beautiful ocean views and pet-friendly cafes.
Leash Rules: Dogs must be leashed and are allowed before 9 AM and after 4 PM.
Pro Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid crowds.
2. La Jolla Coast Walk Trail
Why It’s Great: A short but stunning dog-friendly hike with ocean views, passing by sea caves and the famous La Jolla Cove.
Leash Rules: Dogs must be leashed.
Pro Tip: Visit nearby Scripps Coastal Reserve for another scenic coastal walk.
Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in San Diego
Let your pup run free and splash in the waves at these off-leash dog beaches along San Diego’s coastline:
1. Ocean Beach Dog Beach
Why It’s Great: The most famous off-leash dog beach in San Diego, where pups can run, play, and swim freely.
Leash Rules: Off-leash at all times.
Pro Tip: Bring a towel—your dog will get wet and sandy!
See more on Ocean Beach here.
2. Del Mar Dog Beach (North Beach)
Why It’s Great: A dog-friendly beach near San Diego that’s perfect for pups who love to explore the sand and surf.
Leash Rules: Off-leash from Labor Day to June 15; leashed during summer months.
Pro Tip: Check tide times—low tide provides more space for running!
See here for more information on visiting Del Mar.
3. Coronado Dog Beach
Why It’s Great: Offers off-leash fun with incredible views of Hotel del Coronado and the Pacific Ocean.
Leash Rules: Off-leash in designated areas.
Pro Tip: Rinse stations are available to clean off sandy paws before heading home.
See for more information on Coronado here.
Dog-Friendly Parks with Ocean Views
Need a break from the beach? Try these dog-friendly coastal parks where leashed dogs are welcome:
1. Kate Sessions Park – Pacific Beach
Why It’s Great: A peaceful dog-friendly park with ocean views, perfect for a relaxing picnic with your pup.
2. Kellogg Park – La Jolla Shores
Why It’s Great: A large grassy area by the beach, great for a leashed walk with your dog.
3. Calumet Park – Bird Rock (La Jolla)
Why It’s Great: A hidden gem with breathtaking cliffside ocean views, picnic areas, and a relaxing environment for a leashed dog walk.
Pro Tip: One of the quietest dog-friendly parks on the coast—perfect for a peaceful sunset stroll.
Best Dog-Friendly Hotels on the Coast in San Diego
Planning an overnight stay? These pet-friendly oceanfront hotels offer comfort for both you and your pup:
1. Hotel del Coronado
Why It’s Great: Hotel del Coronado is a luxury pet-friendly hotel on the beach, with dog beds, treats, and easy access to Coronado Dog Beach.
2. Paradise Point Resort & Spa
Why It’s Great: Paradise Point Resort & Spa features bungalow-style accommodations with waterfront views and lush tropical gardens, and it welcomes dogs and offers pet-friendly amenities for a memorable stay.
Dog-Friendly Activity Tips & Safety
✔️ Check leash laws before visiting beaches and trails.
✔️ Bring fresh water for your dog—ocean water isn’t safe to drink!
✔️ Use pet-safe sunscreen for short-haired or light-colored dogs.
✔️ Watch for wildlife like seals, crabs, and seabirds.
✔️ Visit during cooler hours to avoid hot pavement on paws.
FAQs About Dog-Friendly Activities on the Coast in San Diego
Q: Are dogs allowed on all San Diego beaches?
A: No, only designated dog-friendly beaches like Ocean Beach Dog Beach, Del Mar Dog Beach, and Coronado Dog Beach allow off-leash dogs. All other beaches have restrictions on walking leashed dogs during the day. You can typically only walk a leashed dog outside the hours of 9am-4pm in the winter and 9am-6pm in the summer months. This is something that you can get a ticket for, so be careful.
Q: What’s the best time to visit dog-friendly beaches?
A: Early mornings or late afternoons are best to avoid crowds and hot sand.
Q: Do dog-friendly restaurants provide water bowls?
A: Most pet-friendly coastal restaurants offer water bowls, and some even have dog menus! Overall, many of the restaurants throughout San Diego with patios tend to be pet friendly.
Final Thoughts
San Diego offers endless dog-friendly activities on the coast, from off-leash beaches to scenic coastal walks and oceanfront dog-friendly cafés. Whether you're looking for a dog-friendly hike with ocean views, a relaxing beach day, or a delicious meal with your pup by the water, this city has something for every pet-loving adventurer.
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