8 Amazing Dog-Friendly Beaches in Los Angeles, CA 2024: Off-Leash & On-Leash Places to Go
For a city that’s otherwise very welcoming to our canine companions, Los Angeles offers surprisingly few dog-friendly beaches. Most of the closest and most well-known coastal destinations in LA County—like Santa Monica and Venice Beach—ban leashed dogs from the sand entirely.
But don’t pack up your pup’s beach towel just yet! With a short drive from downtown LA, you’ll find eight fantastic beaches where dogs are not only allowed but enthusiastically welcomed—some even offering off-leash freedom. All locations are verified for 2024 access and updated regulations.
1. Rosie’s Dog Beach
- 📍 Address: 5000 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803
- 🕐 Hours: 1 hour before sunrise–10:00 pm
- 💲 Parking: $2/hour
- 🐕 Off-Leash: Yes, daily from 6:00 am–8:00 pm
This is the only officially designated off-leash dog beach in Los Angeles County—and it’s just 25 miles south of downtown LA. Dogs must be under strict voice control at all times, whether on or off leash. On-site amenities include restrooms, limited waste bags, and convenient parking. Remember: dogs are permitted only during designated hours, so plan accordingly.
2. Granada Beach
- 📍 Address: 5100 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803
- 🕐 Hours: 1 hour before sunrise–10:00 pm
- 💲 Parking: $2/hour
- 🐕 Off-Leash: Yes—in designated areas, 8:00 am–6:00 pm
Just north of Rosie’s Dog Beach, Granada offers more flexibility for leashed walks along the shore before heading into the off-leash zone. Keep your dog on leash until reaching the designated area. Amenities include restrooms and some waste bags—but watch for cyclists on the adjacent bike path. Note that this shared space sometimes hosts community events, so check local notices before visiting.
3. Leo Carillo State Beach
- 📍 Address: 35000 E. Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
- 🕐 Hours: 8:00 am–10:00 pm
- 💲 Parking: $12/day
- 🐕 Off-Leash: No
One of the most scenic stretches of coastline near LA, Leo Carillo sits just up the coast in Malibu. While off-leash access isn’t permitted, leashed dogs are welcome in clearly marked areas—including parts of the beach and picnic zones. Free street parking is often available along PCH, and on-site facilities include restrooms, outdoor showers, fresh water, and a camp store. Always follow posted signage to stay compliant.
4. Staircase Beach
- 📍 Address: 40000 E. Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
- 🕐 Hours: 8:00 am–10:00 pm
- 💲 Parking: $12/day
- 🐕 Off-Leash: No
This secluded gem requires a short but steep descent down a narrow staircase—so it’s best suited for agile, confident dogs. There are no restrooms, water stations, or waste bag dispensers, so come fully prepared: bring water, towels, shade, and plenty of biodegradable waste bags. It’s a favorite spot for surfers, making it lively and photogenic—but keep your pup safely away from active surf zones.
5. Sycamore Cove Beach
- 📍 Address: 9000 E. Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
- 🕐 Hours: 8:00 am–sunset
- 💲 Parking: $12/day
- 🐕 Off-Leash: No
Nestled inside Point Mugu State Park, Sycamore Cove is a peaceful day-use beach perfect for quiet beachcombing with your leashed companion. The park campground is dog-friendly, and amenities include grills, picnic tables, restrooms, and ample parking. While dogs aren’t allowed on hiking trails within the park, the beach itself offers gentle waves and soft sand. As with other remote spots, bring your own waste bags—none are provided.
6. Silver Strand Beach
- 📍 Address: 206 Ocean Dr., Oxnard, CA 93035
- 🕐 Hours: Dogs allowed before 9:00 am and after 5:00 pm
- 💲 Parking: Free (but fills quickly)
- 🐕 Off-Leash: No
About an hour north of LA, this charming neighborhood beach offers free parking and easy access—but spaces vanish fast on weekends. You’ll share the shoreline with surfers, volleyball players, and anglers, so keep your dog leashed and attentive. Restrooms and outdoor showers are available nearby, and it’s just a short walk to a friendly local tavern if you’d like to extend your outing.
7. Huntington Dog Beach
- 📍 Address: 100 Goldenwest St., Huntington Beach, CA 92648
- 🕐 Hours: 5:00 am–10:00 pm
- 💲 Parking: $2/hour (paid lot); limited free street parking nearby
- 🐕 Off-Leash: Yes
A beloved destination about 40 miles south of LA, Huntington Dog Beach draws pups and owners alike with its wide, open shoreline and reliable off-leash access. Facilities include restrooms, picnic tables, water stations, and limited waste bags. Be aware that the path down to the sand is steep—making it less ideal for senior dogs or those with mobility concerns.
8. Del Mar Dog Beach
- 📍 Address: 3902 29th St, Del Mar, CA 92014
- 🕐 Hours: 24/7 access; dog-friendly hours vary seasonally
- 💲 Parking: Free street parking available at most locations
- 🐕 Off-Leash: Yes—with seasonal and location-based restrictions
Best for weekend getaways, Del Mar is roughly two hours south of LA—but well worth the trip. North Beach is the most consistently dog-friendly section, though leashed dogs are welcome at most beaches in town with varying rules. Amenities differ by location, so always check signs upon arrival. Bring your own waste bags, and consider stopping by FurPetVo (furpetvo.com) for travel-ready gear, cooling vests, and sun-safe dog sunscreen before you go.
Final Tips for a Safe, Happy Beach Day
If driving out feels like too much, remember that LA is home to dozens of excellent off-leash dog parks and scenic hiking trails—many just minutes from your doorstep. Wherever you go, always:
- Follow posted leash rules and respect seasonal restrictions
- Keep your dog hydrated with fresh water (never seawater)
- Provide shade and dog-safe sunscreen—especially for light-coated or thin-haired breeds
- Check sand and pavement temperatures—hot surfaces can burn sensitive paws
- Bring waste bags and dispose of them properly
No matter which beach you choose, a little planning goes a long way toward keeping tails wagging and adventures joyful—all summer long.
