Are you and your dog in the mood for some beachside fun? If you’re in the Bay Area and want to visit some of the best dog beaches around, you’re in luck, because we’ve put together a great list of choices. Whether you’re in the mood for something secluded, wildly popular, or a wildlife haven, there’s something here for you. And, of course, your dog is welcome to come along.
Click the map below for more information on each location, and scroll down to learn more about the best the Bay Area has to offer in dog-friendly beaches.
Top 13 Dog-Friendly Beaches in the Bay Area
- Point Reyes
- Baker Beach
- Fort Funston
- Lands End Beach
- Crissy Field Beach
- Ocean Beach
- Buchanan Dog Beach
- Stinson Beach
- Pacifica State Beach
- Muir Beach
- Bolinas Beach
- Esplanade Beach
- Point Isabel Dog Park
1. Point Reyes
- Point Reyes National Seashore offers plenty of dog-friendly coastline to explore, including Kehoe Beach, Limantour Beach, and Point Reyes/Great Beach (in designated areas)
- be sure to avoid areas closed to human/dog access during nesting and pupping seasons; check with park staff for more information when you visit
- dogs must be leashed at all times
2. Baker Beach
- a free and popular beach with a view of the Golden Gate Bridge; consider coming early or on weekdays for easier parking
- swimming is not recommended and Baker Beach, due to rip tide
- dogs must be leashed
3. Fort Funston
- a beautiful cliffside beach destination, popular for its wildlife and gorgeous views
- swimming here is not recommended
- your dog is welcome to play off-leash
4. Lands End Beach
- a short hike will take you to this secluded and dog-friendly beach
- if you feel uncomfortable with nude sunbathing, steer clear; some call this beach “Swimsuits End”
- your dog is welcome to play off-leash
5. Crissy Field Beach
- a popular beach with iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge
- if you’re hungry or want a coffee, this beach is close to food, drinks and other attractions
- dogs are allowed off-leash in designated areas
6. Ocean Beach
- a great spot for a beachside stroll, kite-flying, and bringing your dog to play
- dogs are allowed off-leash in designated; try to arrive at low tide to ensure access to all available areas
- due to strong currents, swimming is not recommended
7. Buchanan Dog Beach
- a small, quiet beach near the Albany Bulb, perfect for swimming
- be sure to bring anything you might need, including baggies and water for you and your dog
- dogs are welcome to play off-leash
8. Stinson Beach
- a popular beach for swimming, water sports, volleyball and hang-gliding
- if you’d like to rent some of your own gear to play with, check out the nearby shops that rent equipment for use on the beach
- dogs must be leashed, and certain areas are off-limits to dogs; check the beach’s website for more information
9. Pacifica State Beach
- a large and busy beach, popular for surfing, fishing, and beach-combing
- for more information on the park and its rules, visit this website
- dogs must be leashed
10. Muir Beach
- a secluded beach, popular with locals
- bring your binoculars for wale sightings, and to get a close-up view of the shorebirds; consider taking a nearby hike to see more natural habitats and protected species
- dogs are allowed off-leash in designated areas
11. Bolinas Beach
- a quiet beach for water sports, bird-watching and sunbathing (popular with locals)
- consider arriving early or on a weekday, as the beach can get busy on the weekends
- your dog is welcome to play off-leash
12. Esplanade Beach
- enjoy a secluded and dog-friendly beach; you may need to ask a local where to find beach access points
- consider coming at low tide to get the most out of your beach experience, and keep an eye out for whales
- your dog is welcome to play off-leash
13. Point Isabel Dog Park
- a large park, popular for bird-watching, fishing, flying kites, running (the list goes on)
- dogs are allowed off-leash in designated areas; be sure to leash your dog on streets and in parking lots
- if you’d like to grab you dog a toy or a treat, check out the dog-friendly shop and cafe onsite
Too busy to get your dog to the beach for some much-needed exercise? Rover is here to help. Check out our dog-walkers in the Bay Area.
