California’s coastline stretches over 800 miles, and scattered along it are dozens of beaches where dogs are welcome to run, dig and splash. From the rugged north coast to the sunny southern strands, here are some of the top dog-friendly beach destinations in California.

1. Fort Funston Doggie Beach, San Francisco: This sandy stretch on San Francisco’s southwestern edge offers wide views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s one of the Bay Area’s most popular off-leash spots, with a large sandy area below the bluffs where dogs can sprint, socialize and chase tennis balls for hours. The steep sand-ladder trail down to the beach is part of the fun — most dogs charge down it without a second thought. Parking fills up on weekends, so arrive early.
2. Baker Beach, San Francisco: Baker Beach is another dog-friendly option in San Francisco. It’s a sandy beach with stunning Golden Gate Bridge views and plenty of room for dogs to run and play. The north end of the beach allows off-leash dogs, while the south end requires leashes. Wind can pick up in the afternoon, so bring a jacket for yourself and keep an eye on smaller dogs near the surf.
3. Montara State Beach, Half Moon Bay: Montara State Beach is a picturesque beach south of Pacifica that offers wide views of the rugged coastline. It’s a popular spot for dogs to run, swim and enjoy the sun. The beach is accessible via a short trail from the parking lot, and leashed dogs are welcome. The waves can be strong here, so keep water-shy dogs closer to the sand.
4. Kiva Beach, South Lake Tahoe: Kiva Beach is a crystal-clear freshwater beach at South Lake Tahoe, with a sandy shoreline that’s perfect for dogs to play on. The off-leash section is clearly marked, and the shallow entry makes it ideal for dogs who prefer wading to full-on swimming. The water is cold year-round — that’s Tahoe for you — but most dogs barely notice.
5. Garland Ranch Regional Park, Carmel: This large park in Carmel Valley is a great place for dogs to run and explore. Its hiking trails and scenic views make it a solid choice for a dog-friendly day trip. Dogs can go off-leash on most trails, and the Carmel River runs through the park — a perfect spot for a mid-hike cool-down.
6. Carmel Beach, Carmel: Carmel Beach is a famous sandy beach in Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for its soft, white sand and gorgeous sunsets. Dogs are welcome off-leash here, and the beach is wide enough that even on busy days there’s room to throw a ball. After your beach session, walk into the village — Carmel is one of the most dog-friendly towns in California, with water bowls outside shops and dogs welcome in many stores.

These are just a few of the many dog-friendly beach destinations in California. A few tips before you go: always bring fresh water (saltwater isn’t good for dogs to drink), rinse your dog off after ocean swims to remove salt and sand, and check local leash rules — they can vary by beach section and time of year. Pack a long-line leash for beaches that require one, and don’t forget the poop bags. Now grab your pup and hit the sand.