top of page

Best Dog Beaches and Parks in San Diego

It’s not always easy to find nice public areas where dogs of all shapes and sizes can roam freely. Thankfully, our city flaunts plenty of dog parks & beaches in San Diego that pups can wag their tails about. From southern scenic beaches to lush grassland in North County, your four-legged friend won’t be the only one who wants to stay for another game of fetch.

Del Mar Dog Beach (North Beach)

A popular spot for locals and their pups, Del Mar Dog Beach is located on the north end of Del Mar Beach. 9 months out of the year from September to June, dogs are able to run leash-free around the North Beach area, which stretches from 29thStreet to the Solana Beach border in Del Mar. On August 13th 2018, new adjustments to leash laws will allow dogs to roam freely year-round from dawn to 8 a.m. anywhere north of 29th Street. Rise early for a cool morning walk or enjoy a sunset Frisbee toss with your favorite furry companion.

Coronado Dog Beach

Photo via Flickr

One of the best dog beaches in San Diego for scenery, Coronado Dog Beach is located on the western side of the beach, where dogs can be leash-free year-round. Signs for the dog-friendly zones are marked along Ocean Blvd. from Sunset Park to the U.S Naval Station border. Coronado Dog Beach is amongst locals’ favorite dog beaches and parks as it offers some of the best views in South San Diego. Soak in a majestic backdrop of the Hotel Del Coronado, or gaze further north at the scenic skyline of Point Loma while your canine friend roams freely around the beach. As Coronado is a popular destination for tourists, be sure to keep your dog leashed when traveling to the beach and don’t forget to pick up after your pup!

Grape Street Dog Park

Amongst the largest of three dog parks in Balboa Park is the Grape Street Dog Park offering a leafy five acres for dogs to run, play, and mingle with their friends. Located at the intersection of Grape Street and 28th Street in South Park, the Grape Street Dog Park is tucked away in a quiet residential area making it a very pleasant spot for dogs and their owners to come and relax. Eucalyptus trees outline the lush open fields sprinkled with shaded benches, dog water fountains, and even a doggy playground.

Ocean Beach

Photo via Flickr

Nationally recognized as the Original Dog Beach in San Diego, Dog Beach in Ocean Beach was amongst the first leash-free beaches in the country and stands as a proud landmark in the local community. Located at San Diego’s river mouth at the end of Interstate-8, Dog Beach attracts dogs and their families all hours of the day, even after sunset. Don’t forget to bring a leash so you can browse all the nearby restaurants like the popular O.B Noodle House, or one of the locals’ favorite spots for a slice, Pizza Port.

Kate Sessions Park

Photo via Flickr

Kate Sessions Park is a lush 79-acre park nestled between the border of Pacific Beach and La Jolla on Soledad Road. This family and dog-friendly space boasts striking views of the Pacific Ocean, Mission Bay, and Downtown San Diego. Named after a local horticulturist and “the Mother of Balboa Park,” Kate Sessions Park attracts many families looking to enjoy a scenic picnic, summer BBQ, or just a walk in the park. Despite its requirement for dogs to be leashed, this grassy favorite is a great spot for dog-owners to enjoy a scenic jog with their pup or relax under one of the many beautiful trees lining the park.

Looking for a home near one of these off-leash parks? Reach out to me and let's get you and your best friend started.

Thanks for visiting my site!

Tamara Z, GRI, CNE, REALTOR - Ascent Real Estate


Featured Posts

bottom of page