Top Dog Beaches in San Diego, CA

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Top Dog Beaches in San Diego, CA

Introduction

Fondly called “America's Finest City,” San Diego is blessed with puptastic weather and miles of sandy beaches. This city on the Pacific Coast has made sure that its canine residents and tourists don't miss out on its pawsome beaches. Most places allow pups during off-peak hours, and there are two designated leash-free areas just for doggos! So if your canine companion enjoys romping in the sun, sand, and surf, you know that they'll have a woofing good time in San Diego. Here are the top beaches where you and your best friend can go for a walk, watch the sunset, or meet other dogs!

#5 La Jolla Shores

Set in the community of La Jolla, La Jolla Shores is a gem of a beach that you can enjoy with your four-legged pal during off-peak hours. This mile-long stretch of sand welcomes leashed furry visitors between 6 PM and 9 AM from April through October, and between 4 PM and 9 AM from November through March. La Jolla Shores has really gentle waves during the summer, making it a furrific spot for a relaxing beachside stroll with Fido.

#4 South Mission Beach

Situated at the southern end of the Golden Strand, South Mission Beach is the widest beach in the city. Be sure to visit early in the morning, as furry beachgoers are only permitted until 9 AM. Or, you and Fido can stop by later in the day—leashed pups can go for a seaside stroll after 6 PM from April through October, or after 4 PM from November through March.

#3 Windansea Beach

Curious puppers will want to head to the picturesque Windansea Beach, where sandstone rocks and tide pools are waiting to be explored! Don't let Fido get too close to the water's edge as the waves here are strong, which is why it's such a pawpular surfing location! Leashed pooches are welcome on Windansea Beach during early morning hours before 9 AM and after 6 PM from April to October, or before 9 AM and after 4 PM from November to March.

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#2 Fiesta Island

Located in Mission Bay Park, Fiesta Island is a large island that has gone to the dogs, literally! Here, Fido can take a dip in the calm bay waters and play in the sandy dunes sans leash. There's also a 5-mile paved trail that goes around the island, allowing you and your pooch to enjoy a walk with views of Mission Bay and the San Diego skyline.

#1 The Original Dog Beach

Tucked at the northern end of the mile-long Ocean Beach is a sandy spot that's truly a pup's paradise! Dog Beach, as it is simply called, allows four-legged visitors to frolic in the sand without a leash. And as San Diego's only 24-hour beach for canine citizens, it remains one of the most pawpular destinations in the area! Don't forget to give Fido a rinse at the dog wash up the street after a fun day on Dog Beach!