Dog-Friendly San Diego
San Diego surprised me. I visited in 2005 to look at colleges, but I barely remember that trip. I have been to Los Angeles several times as an adult, and that city is definitely not the place for me. I think I wrote of all of southern California because of my distaste for LA, but I am so glad I went back to San Diego this summer!
Two of my friends (and their sweet pup, Annie) moved to San Diego in early 2021. When I asked what their favorite dog-friendly spots were, Michael told me that every single place in the area allowed dogs. I was skeptical, since Michael frequently snuck Annie into places in New York that definitely do not allow dogs… But his statement was pretty accurate! The weather is so nice year-round that outdoor seating is absolutely everywhere. I encountered plenty of places that let Alice into their indoor spaces as well (many restaurants are set up with an indoor/outdoor feel anyway). Alice and I packed a lot into our four days in San Diego, and we would definitely return, any time of year!
Where to Stay / Getting Around
Because I stayed with friends, I don’t have any recommendations on hotels or AirBnBs. But I will share my favorite neighborhoods! We stayed in North Park, which had so many dog-friendly places along 30th St. The other neighborhoods that had a lot of dog-friendly spots around, where I enjoyed the vibe (at least from a tourist’s perspective) were Ocean Beach and Pacific Beach.
If you want to explore different parts of San Diego, a car is a necessity. My friends pointed out that it never takes more than about 20 minutes to get from one part of the city to another - this was pretty accurate as I was driving around those few days! Especially if you plan on getting out to La Jolla and Point Loma (and I highly recommend doing both), you will need a car. I did not have trouble finding parking, no matter where I went!
Alice on the Ocean Beach Boardwalk
Dog Beaches
If your dog loves beaches and swimming, they will be in heaven in San Diego! Alice is afraid of waves, and doesn’t like to play with new dogs… but we checked out a few dog beaches anyway. I’m slowly trying to get her over her fear of waves (still unsuccessfully), but we found some still water for her to enjoy too!
*Note: these first two beaches were the only places where we did struggle with parking a bit. Be patient, or expect to park a few blocks away.
You’ve probably heard of this one - it is widely considered to be the best dog beach in the United States! The beach is very large, but also quite packed, with beautiful views.
On Google Maps, this one is simply labeled “Dog Beach”. It was also very crowded, with some dogs that probably weren’t well-trained enough to be off-leash, so keep that risk in mind! Alice gets easily overwhelmed by large dogs who approach her suddenly/quickly, but I can scoop her up if I need to. Know your dog, know what their comfort level is!
This island is situated in the middle of Mission Bay, not far from Sea World. The dog park is gigantic, and has beaches on either side. The east part of the park has still water, while the west side has waves, and there is a trail system between them. Again, lots of off-leash dogs, but there’s a lot of space so it’s pretty easy to avoid them.
Things to Do / Places to See
This is one of the coolest parks I’ve been to with Alice. Being from a land-locked state, I don’t know all that much about oceans, coasts, etc. I had never really seen tide pools before! This trail in Cabrillo National Monument takes you right along some tide pools and cliffs, and the views of the Pacific Ocean are so gorgeous. Dogs can walk this trail with you, but cannot go into the tide pools in order to protect the creatures living within them. Dogs are not allowed in other parts of the park, but the tide pools are the main attraction. Do not miss it!!
It was a very warm day when we visited in July, and Alice got a little over-heated. But we found a sandy, shady, cave-like spot to rest and relax for a while. If you are visiting in the summer, definitely bring plenty of water for your pup! The “hike” is only about a mile, and isn’t strenuous, but there is little-to-no shade.
La Jolla is a beautiful seaside community known for its sea lions! When we were there in August, we saw so many sea lions sunbathing on the rocks and beach. The areas closest to the water were closed to humans in order to protect the seals, but you can view them from above with your pup from the path above La Jolla Cove!
The town is also very nice and we had a delicious lunch at Puesto La Jolla and picked up yummy, glittery treats at Sugar and Scribe Bakery.
San Diego’s large, central park is definitely worth a visit. This park is unique because it includes so many different things! Dogs aren’t allowed at the golf course, zoo, Japanese gardens, or the many museums in the park. But they are allowed around the botanical garden, some beautiful fountains, Alcazar Garden, the organ pavillion, the Spanish Village Art Center, the rose and desert gardens, the international cottages, and many trails!
We didn’t get to actually use the trails here because of time, but we did catch a gorgeous sunset over the water!
Where to Eat & Drink
Polite Provisions - North Park
One of the most beautiful bars I have ever seen, and their tasty cocktails are not to be missed! Dogs allows at outdoor tables - get there early, or you’ll be waiting a while.
La Doña - Ocean Beach
Excellent Mexican - dogs are allowed inside and outside!
Ocean Beach Brewery - Ocean Beach
Solid food, lots of beer options, and a fantastic view from the roof! The entire place is dog-friendly.
Fernside - South Park
Great food, very friendly, awesome drinks!
Fall Brewing Company - North Park
A wide selection of beers, dogs allowed inside and on patio.
Bivouac Ciderworks - North Park
Great for cider flights and snacks! Dogs allowed at the outdoor tables.
Station Tavern - South Park
Laid-back drinking spot with indoor/outdoor set-up.
Tender Greens - Liberty Station
I’m not sure what made the bowl I ordered here so good, but it was so good. Fast food spot with a dog-friendly patio.
Caffé Calabria - North Park
Coffee (and food) in a beautifully-decorated space, plus outdoor tables.
Better Buzz Coffee - Pacific Beach
Uniquely decorated, dog-friendly patio and good açaí bowls.
Working Class - North Park
Good, straight-forward food with a large dog-friendly patio.