Key Takeaways
- The Top 7 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Los Angeles
- Leo Carrillo State Beach
- Staircase Beach
If you’re looking to enjoy a day at the beach in Los Angeles, you’ll find miles of public shore access that’s just a quick drive or public transit ride away. However, dog owners who want their pets to join them will have limited options. Many of the beaches nearby don’t allow even leashed canines. Fortunately, as long as you have access to a car, beach access is an easy (traffic-dependent) drive from most parts of the city. Here are the top dog-friendly beaches in and around Los Angeles.
The Top 7 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Los Angeles
1. Leo Carrillo State Beach
- Located in Malibu, just up the coast from LA
- Follow posted signs, as dogs are not allowed in all areas
- Showers, camp store, restrooms, and campground available
- Bring your own waste bags
- A popular spot for surfing, windsurfing, and exploring the unique landscape of tide pools and caves
2. Staircase Beach
- A remote beach located just north of Leo Carillo
- Narrow, rocky path to reach the shoreline
- No restrooms, trash cans, or water at this beach
- Bring your own waste bags
- A popular spot for surfing
- Google Maps directs you to the parking lot
3. Sycamore Cove Beach
- Day-use beach located in Point Mugu State Park
- Picnic tables, restrooms, grills, and trash cans available
- Bring your own waste bags
- Dog-friendly campground also located in the park
- Dogs are not allowed on hiking trails
4. Granada Beach
- Small dog beach just south of Los Angeles
- Parking, restrooms, trash cans, and limited waste bags available
- Look for cones marking the off-leash areas
- Volleyball courts and a bike path also located at this beach
- Beach often hosts volleyball tournaments and other special events
5. Rosie’s Dog Beach
- LA County’s official and largest off-leash dog beach
- Parking, restrooms, trash cans, and limited waste bags available
- Keep dogs on leash until reaching the beach
- Shared beach space, so be respectful of other beachgoers
- Dogs are not allowed outside of posted hours
6. Huntington Dog Beach
- Located in Orange County, about 1 hour south of L.A.
- Parking, restrooms, trash cans, picnic tables, and water available
- Keep dogs on leash until reaching the beach
- Don’t leave used waste bags behind
7. Del Mar Dog Beach
- Located about 2 hours south of Los Angeles, so best for weekend trips
- Dogs allowed on all beaches, with hourly and seasonal restrictions
- Mainly street parking, usually free
- No leashes longer than 6 feet
- Bring your own waste bags
Conclusion
Before any trip to the beach near Los Angeles, be prepared to keep your pup cool and hydrated. Pack water for drinking and rinsing your dog, along with shade, doggy sunscreen, and waste bags. Always keep your dog under control, pick up after them, and follow all posted regulations. With so few dog-friendly beaches close to Los Angeles, the last thing that you want to do is let your pup be a nuisance!
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