Esplanade Beach

Esplanade Beach is the only off-leash, dog-friendly beach in Pacifica. Your dog will love you for bringing them to this beach. The narrow beach is located beneath the Esplanade Avenue in Pacifica, CA, under a steep and fast-eroding bluff with some access points. You will find the Lands End Apartment complex, also known as Esplanade Dog Beach because it is designated as an off-leash area. It is just 25 minutes from the city, and 15 to 20 minutes from San Mateo.

Dogs are off-leash on the north end of the beach; you need to keep Fido on-leash at all other areas. From dog walking to beach walking and fishing to surfing, there are many good activities at this beach for both your and your doggo. There is a lot of running space at this huge beach and it’s almost never crowded.

Note that winter storms ravage the beach and that the whole area is wet at high tide. Avoid swimming here, as the undertows can be dangerous. Dog owners are reported to be good at cleaning up after their dogs at Esplanade Beach. You should do the same; poop bags are available at the top. Pick up some bags before you head down the ramp for the beach. Also, make sure to properly judge whether the tide is too strong for your dog. A life vest is a good idea in case a small wave catches your dog off guard.

The beach remains closed on Sundays and Tuesdays. Overall, the beach has a cozy and intimate feeling. This is the result of the beach being rather closed off by rocks on both sides. This effect is stronger during high-tide. From the breath-taking panoramic view of the ocean to ample running space, you and your dog will love many things about Esplanade Beach.