Los Angeles is known for its stunning coastline and vibrant beach culture. However, for dog owners, finding beaches where your furry friend can join in on the fun can be challenging. Among the roughly 70 miles of coastline in LA County, there's actually only one official off-leash dog beach. But don't worry! We've compiled this comprehensive guide to the best dog-friendly beaches in and around Los Angeles where you can enjoy sun, sand, and surf with your four-legged companion.
Off-Leash Dog Beaches
Rosie's Dog Beach
· Location: Long Beach (5000 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach)
· Hours: Daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
· Fun Fact: Rosie's is the only officially designated off-leash dog beach in LA County. The four-acre waterfront spot is named after the area's late local canine celebrity, Rosie the English bulldog.
· Amenities: Large parking lot, clean restrooms, showers, and waste bins
· Tips: Bring fresh water and a towel, as dogs can get pretty sandy! The beach area is marked by cones rather than fences, so ensure your dog responds well to voice commands. Pro Tip: Bring enticing dog treats to ensure that you have your dog's attention!
Huntington Dog Beach
· Location: Huntington Beach (Between Seapoint Street and 21st Street)
· Hours: Daily, dawn to dusk
· Fun Fact: While not technically in LA County, this OC beach is always buzzing with off-leash puppers. The wide sandy beach and slow-breaking waves make this a perfect spot for oceanfront fun on four legs.
· Amenities: Several parking lots above the bluff along Pacific Coast Highway
· Tips: A short drive up Goldenwest you'll find the Park Bench Cafe where you can get a meal and hang out with your pooch. This beach hosts the annual Surf City Surf Dog competition!
Granada Beach
· Location: Long Beach (Near Rosie's Dog Beach)
· Leash Policy: Off-Leash (in designated areas)
· Details: Situated just north of Rosie's Dog Beach, Granada Beach is part of Belmont Shore Beach and offers another dog-friendly environment. The official dog zone is between Roycroft and Argonne Avenues along Ocean Boulevard.
· Tips: Since the area isn't fenced, make sure your dog responds well to voice commands and stays within the designated zone. Don't forget the dog treats to ensure your dog is rewarded for responding to your call!
On-Leash Dog Beaches
Leo Carrillo State Park (North Beach)
· Location: Malibu (35000 W. Pacific Coast Highway)
· Leash Policy: On-Leash
· Fun Fact: Named after actor Leo Carrillo, the park offers scenic coastal views and tide pools. Dogs are allowed on the North Beach section, which is a wide, family-friendly beach with parking right on the beach.
· Amenities: Parking lot, restrooms, picnic areas
· Tips: Between North Beach and Leo Carrillo's South Beach, there's a rocky area known as Sequit Point with tide pools and fun caves to explore – best visited at low tide.
Leo Carrillo State Park (South Beach)
· Location: Malibu (35000 W. Pacific Coast Highway)
· Leash Policy: On-Leash
· Fun Fact: This area is rockier than North Beach and features cavernous areas with tidal pools and caves to explore.
· Tips: If exploring the rocky areas with your dog, consider bringing doggie booties to protect their paws from rough edges.
Staircase Beach
· Location: Western Malibu (part of Leo Carrillo State Park)
· Leash Policy: On-Leash
· Details: A secluded beach that requires walking down a steep, narrow path to reach the sand. This beach is a famous spot for surfers, but dogs are more than welcome too!
· Tips: Due to the steep access, this beach might not be ideal for elderly dogs or owners with mobility issues.
Dockweiler Beach
· Location: Playa del Rey (7313 S. Marine Ave.)
· Leash Policy: On-Leash (Limited Dog-Friendly Areas)
· Fun Fact: Dockweiler is known for its beach bonfires and beautiful sunsets. While dogs are limited to specific areas, it's a great spot for a scenic walk.
· Tips: Visit during off-peak hours for a quieter stroll. This laidback beach is situated northwest of LAX Airport at the north end of Dockweiler State Beach.
El Segundo Beach
· Location: El Segundo
· Leash Policy: On-Leash
· Fun Fact: Less crowded than other LA beaches, making it perfect for dogs who prefer a calmer environment.
· Tips: Pack a picnic and enjoy the laid-back vibe with your pup.
Point Fermin Park
· Location: Palos Verdes Peninsula (807 Paseo Del Mar, Los Angeles)
· Leash Policy: On-Leash (park only, not beach)
· Details: While the beach below is off-limits to dogs, the park along the bluff offers a great place for walking dogs with picturesque views of the lighthouse.
· Tips: The linear park along the bluff on West Paseo Del Mar is excellent for leashed walks with panoramic ocean views.
Essential Tips for a Pawsome Beach Day
· Know the Regulations: LA County has strict leash laws – a maximum 8 feet (2.5 m) in length for everywhere except designated off-leash zones.
· Bring the Essentials: Always pack fresh water, snacks, shade options, waste bags, and a towel for your dog.
· Protection: Consider dog-safe sunscreen, especially for short-haired breeds.
· Identification: Ensure your dog wears identification and license tags on their collar at all times.
· Clean Up: Always clean up after your dog to help keep these beaches dog-friendly for everyone.
· Voice Control: If visiting off-leash areas, make sure your dog responds reliably to voice commands.
· Check Tide Schedules: For beaches with tide pools, check tide schedules to plan your visit accordingly.
· Rinse Off: Rinse the salt and sand off your dog before heading home to keep them comfortable.
Why So Few Dog-Friendly Beaches?
Los Angeles County has relatively few dog-friendly beaches compared to other coastal regions. Among the roughly 70 miles of coastline, there's only one off-leash dog beach (in Long Beach) in all of L.A. County. This limitation is primarily due to concerns about waste management, environmental impact, and the high volume of human visitors to these popular beaches.
However, if you're willing to drive a bit further to Orange County or Ventura County, you'll find more options for beach adventures with your four-legged friend.
With these dog-friendly beaches, you and your pup are sure to have a fantastic time enjoying the LA coast. Happy beach day!