Pet-friendly Santa Monica: restaurants, beaches & dog parks
Whether you’re house sitting in Santa Monica or visiting with your own furry companion, planning a joyful day out is easy with this curated guide. Discover top-rated dog-friendly restaurants, nearby beaches where pups are welcome, safe off-leash dog parks, and scenic activities perfect for bonding with your canine friend—all vetted and verified for pet lovers.
Dog-friendly restaurants in Santa Monica
Santa Monica boasts several welcoming eateries where well-behaved, leashed dogs are invited to join you on the patio. Always call ahead to confirm current policies, and remember to stick to designated outdoor seating areas.
- The Misfits Bar and Restaurant
Enjoy hearty comfort food or nourishing plant-forward dishes at this relaxed spot—just over a 15-minute walk from Santa Monica Pier.
Location: 225 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica - The Surfing Fox
This coastal gem goes above and beyond with a dedicated canine menu alongside fresh, locally sourced seafood for humans.
Location: 120 Colorado Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401 - The Whaler
A beloved neighborhood staple that welcomes pets and serves up delicious burgers, breakfast skillets, and crispy tuna rice.
Location: 101 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA - Ashland Hill
Brunch, dinner, or drinks—your dog is welcome on the chic outdoor patio while you enjoy classics like gourmet burgers, wings, and seasonal salads.
Location: 2807 Main St, Santa Monica, CA - The Curious Palate
Focused on sustainability and local craftsmanship, this third-floor eatery offers wholesome plates and more than 20 rotating craft beers on tap.
Location: 395 Santa Monica Pl, 3rd Floor, Santa Monica, CA - Blue Daisy
A favorite for weekend brunch, with a sunny outdoor area where dogs are welcome. Try their croissant sandwiches, artisan toasts, and specialty coffee.
Location: 609 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA
Dog-friendly beaches near Santa Monica
While dogs aren’t permitted on Santa Monica Beach itself, leashed dogs are welcome year-round on the adjacent boardwalk. For sandy paws and ocean dips, these nearby beaches offer official dog zones—most within an hour’s drive.
- Rosie’s Dog Beach (within Belmont Shore Beach)
A 46-minute drive southeast of central Santa Monica, this popular, sandy stretch lets dogs splash and play freely. Drinking fountains and shaded areas make it especially comfortable.
Location: 5000 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA - Huntington Dog Beach
About 55 minutes south along the coast, this iconic beach features gentle surf, dog-friendly restrooms, and multiple water stations.
Location: 20211 Huntington Bch Bike Trl, Huntington Beach, CA - Leo Carrillo State Beach
Head 55 minutes west along Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu, where dogs are welcome on the north side of this scenic, tide-pool-rich beach.
Location: 35000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA
Off-leash dog parks in Santa Monica
For safe, supervised off-leash time, Santa Monica’s fully fenced dog parks provide ideal spaces for running, socializing, and play—especially helpful if you’re house sitting or new to the area.
- Herb Katz Dog Park at Joslyn Park
Spanning 1.25 acres, this spacious park features separate zones for small and large dogs—perfect for energetic runs and relaxed lounging.
Location: 2300–2398 7th St, Santa Monica, CA - Airport Park Dog Park
Located inside Airport Park, this popular, open-air space gives dogs room to roam safely—conveniently close to downtown.
Location: 3201 Airport Ave, Santa Monica, CA - Memorial Park Dog Run
Compact but well-maintained, this downtown-adjacent run is ideal for quick fetch sessions or midday breaks.
Location: 1601 14th St, Santa Monica, CA - Pacific Street Dog Park
A great alternative when beach access isn’t possible—this fenced park offers open space for zoomies and play.
Location: Pacific Street, Santa Monica, CA
Dog-friendly activities in Santa Monica
From historic landmarks to oceanfront strolls, Santa Monica offers plenty of leash-friendly adventures that let you explore the city—and share the experience—with your pup.
- Third Street Promenade
Stroll this vibrant pedestrian mall hand-in-paw with your dog. You’ll find street performers, boutique shops, and numerous patios serving treats for both people and pets.
Location: 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA - Santa Monica Pier & Boardwalk
Walk the iconic pier and scenic boardwalk with your leashed dog. Enjoy ocean views, carnival energy, and snack stops—just remember: dogs aren’t allowed on the sand.
Location: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA - Palisades Park
Stretching over 26 scenic acres along Ocean Avenue, this lush, tree-lined park offers shaded paths, ocean vistas, and quiet benches—ideal for a peaceful walk.
Location: Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA - Venice Boardwalk
Just a 10-minute drive—or 40-minute coastal walk—from Santa Monica Pier, this lively stretch allows leashed dogs outside peak summer hours. Note: dogs are not permitted on the Venice Beach Boardwalk between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Location: Beach Pavilion, Los Angeles, CA
Tips for pet parents
Before heading out, always double-check current rules—especially for beaches and parks, as regulations can change seasonally. Pack water, waste bags, and a portable bowl. And for trusted local pet care support during your stay, visit furpetvo.com to connect with certified pet sitters and house sitters across Southern California.
