Doheny State Beach in Dana Point draws nearly a million visitors yearly, and while dogs can’t set paw on the actual sand, there’s plenty of room for them in the campground and day-use picnic areas. The five-acre lawn has picnic tables and volleyball courts where you can settle in with your dog on a six-foot leash at your side, and it’s a genuinely pleasant spot to spread out a lunch and watch other beachgoers.

The northern section has a day-use surfing area if you want to stick around while surfers work the waves. Your dog will be fine resting on the grass or under an umbrella while you watch. The beachside paths offer decent walks with ocean views and sea breezes, and your dog gets to investigate the usual coastal smells along the way.

If you’re planning an overnight trip, the campgrounds put some sites within walking distance of the beach itself. Just know that after dark, your dog needs to stay either in your vehicle or tent—they can’t roam the campground unsupervised. It’s a reasonable setup if you want to combine camping with beach time without the hassle of dealing with sand and saltwater in your tent all night.

The tide pools at the northern end are worth exploring, especially if you time it for low tide. They’re interesting to poke around in, though watch your dog doesn’t get too curious or slip on the rocks. There’s a visitor center with aquariums showcasing local marine life—dogs aren’t allowed inside, but the grounds around it work fine for a walk before or after.

Parking is straightforward, and the setup makes sense for a day trip if you want picnic space and ocean access without worrying about your dog getting sandy or dealing with restrictions on the actual beach. Just remember to bring water and shade options since the lawn doesn’t have much natural cover.