Del Mar Dog Beach

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About

At 3902 29th St in Del Mar, CA 92014, Del Mar Dog Beach is one of the most popular off-leash dog beaches in San Diego County, drawing pet owners from across the region to a wide stretch of sand near the mouth of the San Dieguito River. The beach runs north of 29th Street to the Solana Beach border and operates under seasonal leash rules set by the City of Del Mar. During the off-season, from the day after Labor Day through June 15, dogs are allowed off-leash throughout the north beach area as long as they remain under voice control. From June 16 through Labor Day, off-leash access is limited to dawn until 8:00 a.m., with leashes required the rest of the day. Penalties for leash law violations start at $285, and all dogs must wear a license tag on their collar at all times. The beach features wide, shallow waters and soft sand that slopes gently into the ocean, making it safer for dogs of all sizes to wade and play. Paid parking is available in lots near Camino Del Mar, and street parking with meters can be found in the surrounding blocks. Volleyball courts, public restrooms, and hiking access along the nearby bluffs round out the amenities. Each year the Helen Woodward Animal Center hosts its Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon nearby, an annual dog surfing competition that has become one of Del Mar's signature events. The adjacent San Dieguito River mouth creates a natural wading pool popular with kids and dogs alike, and the San Dieguito County Park sits just inland along Lomas Santa Fe Drive for families looking to extend a day outdoors with hiking trails and playgrounds. Stock up on treats and supplies before your visit at DEXTER'S DELI - Del Mar, a neighborhood pet shop known among local dog owners. Del Mar Dog Beach holds a 4.7-star rating on Google with over 1,700 reviews and remains a bucket-list destination for dog lovers visiting Southern California.