Sun, sand, and wagging tails, that’s the magic of Huntington Beach, California. Known as “Surf City USA,” this coastal gem is a paradise for both surfers and pups who love the ocean. The area has warm weather most of the year, a lively boardwalk, and a famous dog-friendly beach where your four-legged friend can run free.
If you are planning a trip, we have rounded up the best dog-friendly beach spots and nearby parks in the Huntington Beach area so you and your pup can make the most of your coastal adventure.
🏖 Huntington Dog Beach
Description:
This 1.5‑mile shoreline gives well‑behaved pups room to zoom, swim, and socialize under close owner supervision. Sunset strolls here are pure magic. Huntington Dog Beach is the crown jewel for canine beach lovers in California. This sandy stretch along Pacific Coast Highway gives dogs the freedom to run off-leash, splash in the waves, and meet new furry friends. The beach is clean, spacious, and has stunning sunset views.
Know Before You Go:
Access: Along Pacific Coast Highway between Seapoint Street and 21st Street
Hours: Typically open daily from early morning to late evening
Amenities: Trash cans, dog‑waste bags, nearby restrooms; rinse stations close to the adjacent city beach
Parking & Fees: Metered oceanside lots and street parking along Pacific Coast Highway
Rules: Dogs may be off‑leash on the sand if under reliable voice control; keep leashed to and from the beach; current tags required; clean up promptly
Why pet owners love it:
- Wide sandy shoreline perfect for running
- Friendly, social atmosphere for dogs and people
- Beautiful Pacific Ocean backdrop for photos
🌊 Bolsa Chica State Beach
Description:
Dogs are not allowed on the sand here, but the paved multi‑use path is a great place for a breezy seaside walk with your pup on leash. Think ocean views without the sand cleanup. While Bolsa Chica State Beach itself is not off-leash, it is just a short drive from Huntington Dog Beach and offers a more relaxed setting for leashed beach walks. It is also close to the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, which is a great spot for a scenic stroll before or after your beach time.
Know Before You Go:
Access: Day‑use entrances from Pacific Coast Highway parking lots
Hours: Day‑use hours; gates and access times posted at entries
Amenities: Restrooms, concessions, showers for beachgoers
Parking & Fees: State beach day‑use rates apply
Rules: Dogs on a six‑foot leash on the path only; no dogs on the sand
Why pet owners love it:
- Easy parking and plenty of space to walk
- Beautiful coastal views
- Close to nature trails for added adventure
🏖 Corona del Mar State Beach (Newport Beach)
Description:
A scenic cove framed by a jetty and bluffs. Dogs are welcome during specific hours on leash, which makes quiet sunrise and golden‑hour visits especially lovely.
Know Before You Go:
Access: Ocean Boulevard to the lower lot; signed paths lead to the sand
Hours: Dogs allowed before mid‑morning and after late afternoon; not permitted during mid‑day peak hours
Amenities: Restrooms, seasonal snack bar, lifeguards in season
Parking & Fees: City lot with posted daily rates
Rules: Six‑foot leash required at all times; observe posted wildlife and tide‑pool protections
Why pet owners love it:
- Calm water and classic cove scenery
- Great light for photos at permitted times
- Easy pair with a mellow neighborhood walk
Whether your pup is chasing tennis balls on the sand, making friends at a local park, or enjoying a seaside stroll, Huntington Beach offers endless adventures for dogs and their humans.
🌅 Little Corona (Newport Beach)
Description:
A petite, photogenic cove just south of the main Corona del Mar beach. Tide pools and rock formations set the scene for a peaceful on‑leash beach wander during allowed hours.
Know Before You Go:
Access: Poppy Avenue path down to the cove; the return walk is a short, steady climb
Hours: Dogs permitted in the morning window and again after late afternoon; check posted signs
Amenities: Restrooms at the top of the path; no concessions
Parking & Fees: Neighborhood street parking where allowed
Rules: Six‑foot leash; avoid signed protected tide‑pool areas
Why pet owners love it:
- Intimate cove vibe with dramatic rocks
- Tide‑pool peeks at low tide
- Quieter than the larger beaches nearby
🌊 Laguna Beach City Beaches (examples: Main Beach, Aliso)
Description:
Laguna’s coastline offers multiple coves and long scenic stretches where leashed dogs are welcome, with seasonal hour rules during summer. Outside of peak hours, you get incredible views and a relaxed stroll.
Know Before You Go:
Access: Numerous signed access points along Coast Highway
Hours: In summer, dogs typically allowed early morning and evening; during the rest of the year, dogs are generally allowed throughout the day; verify on‑site signage
Amenities: Restrooms at major beaches; nearby cafes and parks
Parking & Fees: City lots and meters with variable pricing
Rules: Six‑foot leash; respect posted closures and wildlife zones
Why pet owners love it:
- Stunning coves and cliffside scenery
- Many options within a short drive
- Nice add‑on to a coastal trail or village stroll
Ready to plan your beach day with your best friend?
From off‑leash fun at Huntington Dog Beach to serene, leash‑friendly hours in Newport Beach and Laguna Beach, this coastline is built for wagging tails and sandy smiles. For more pet‑friendly travel tips and destination guides, check the Whisker Bark blog. If your pup could use travel‑ready gear like a comfy harness or a cozy travel bed, visit Whisker Bark to get outfitted for your next seaside adventure. 🐾
