Best Dog-Friendly Beaches near Los Angeles: Travel Guide
There’s nothing quite like spending a day at the beach with your dog—watching them joyfully run through the sand, splash in the waves, and bask in the sunshine. Fortunately, near Los Angeles, there are some fantastic dog-friendly beaches where you and your furry friend can enjoy the ocean together. From off-leash areas where your dog can roam free to scenic coastal walks, these beaches offer the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable day of fun, relaxation, and adventure with your four-legged companion.
If you're ready to plan your next beach day with your dog, here are the top dog-friendly beaches near Los Angeles that offer the perfect mix of fun and relaxation for both of you.
1. Rosie’s Dog Beach, Long Beach
Imagine a sunny day where your dog can roam free on soft sand, splash in the waves, and enjoy the beach as much as you do. Rosie's Dog Beach in Long Beach is the perfect destination for dog lovers. It’s one of the few beaches in the Los Angeles area where dogs can run off-leash, making it a haven for pups who love freedom. The relaxed atmosphere and wide-open space ensure that both you and your furry friend can enjoy a stress-free day by the ocean.
How to get there: Located off Ocean Boulevard, it’s easily accessible by car, and there’s ample parking nearby. You can take the Metro Blue Line to Downtown Long Beach and then a short ride on local buses.
Rules: Dogs are allowed off-leash in designated areas between Granada Avenue and Roycroft Avenue from 6 AM to 8 PM. Make sure your dog is well-behaved and always within sight.
Entry fee: Free to enter, but parking is metered.
Amenities: Restrooms, showers, and dog waste bags are available. There are also nearby cafes and restaurants that are dog-friendly.
2. Huntington Dog Beach, Huntington Beach
For an unforgettable beach day with your pet, head to Huntington Dog Beach, where your dog can play in the surf while you relax with scenic views. This two-mile stretch of beach is ideal for dogs who love to swim and chase the waves. You’ll also find plenty of fellow dog lovers, making it a great place to socialize.
How to get there: Located along Pacific Coast Highway between Seapoint and 21st Streets, it’s an easy drive from LA. There’s paid parking nearby, or you can take the Orange County Transit bus from downtown Huntington Beach.
Rules: Dogs can be off-leash as long as they’re under voice control. Clean up after your pet and keep them in the designated dog area.
Entry fee: Free, but parking is metered or in nearby lots.
Amenities: Water stations for dogs, restrooms for owners, and waste bags are provided. Beach volleyball courts are nearby if you’re up for a game.
3. Leo Carrillo State Beach, Malibu
Nestled in Malibu’s rugged coastline, Leo Carrillo State Beach is a gem for those who want to enjoy a day in nature with their dog. While dogs must stay on-leash, the scenic trails and rocky tide pools make it an ideal spot for a peaceful hike followed by some beach time. The beach offers breathtaking views of the Pacific and is far less crowded than other nearby spots.
How to get there: Located on Pacific Coast Highway about 28 miles from Santa Monica, you’ll need to drive here. Parking is available in state park lots.
Rules: Dogs must remain on-leash at all times and are only allowed on certain sections of the beach and trails. Be mindful of wildlife in the area.
Entry fee: $12 for parking in the lot, but free to enter on foot.
Amenities: Picnic areas, restrooms, and rinse-off stations. There’s a campground nearby if you want to extend your stay and enjoy a full weekend with your dog in nature.
4. Dockweiler Beach, El Segundo
If you’re looking for a more relaxed, family-friendly spot that welcomes dogs, Dockweiler Beach is an excellent choice. While certain areas are dog-friendly (on-leash), this beach offers a wide, sandy shoreline perfect for beach games and picnics and bonfires. You can even watch hang gliders soar over the bluffs as you walk along the coast with your pup.
How to get there: Just south of Playa del Rey, Dockweiler Beach is a short drive from LAX. There’s ample parking at the beach for a fee.
Rules: Dogs must stay on-leash and are only allowed in designated areas. Make sure to clean up after your pet.
Entry fee: Parking is $10-13, depending on the season.
Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, fire pits, and showers are available. There’s also a paved bike path if you want to take a scenic ride along the coast.
5. Will Rogers State Beach, Pacific Palisades
If you’re searching for a quieter, dog-friendly beach with stunning views of the Pacific,Will Rogers State Beach is a hidden gem. While dogs must be on-leash, the wide sandy shoreline offers plenty of space for a peaceful walk with your furry companion. This beach is known for its laid-back atmosphere, making it a great escape from the busier spots in LA. Plus, with the nearby mountains as a backdrop, it’s perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy moments with your pup.
How to get there: Located off Pacific Coast Highway in Pacific Palisades, Will Rogers State Beach is easily accessible by car, with plenty of paid parking available. You can also take a Metro bus to Sunset Boulevard and walk a short distance to the beach.
Rules: Dogs must be kept on-leash at all times. The beach is ideal for leashed walks and relaxing, but dogs are not permitted in the water.
Entry fee: Free to enter, but parking costs $9-12, depending on the season.
Amenities: Restrooms, showers, and picnic areas are available. The beach also has volleyball courts and a bike path for added fun.
Each of these dog-friendly beaches near Los Angeles offers something unique, from off-leash areas to scenic trails, making them ideal destinations for dog owners looking for the perfect beach day. Whether you're visiting Huntington Dog Beach or hiking along the shores of Leo Carrillo State Beach, these spots ensure both you and your dog can relax, explore, and enjoy the beautiful Southern California coastline.