When it comes to Southern California, Laguna Beach is one of the most popular and sought-after coastal getaways, and after experiencing it for ourselves, we can hardly offer a rebuttal.
The unique topography is made up of golden beaches, ocean side bluffs, sea caves, lush wilderness, and many more breathtaking sights. With so much to see, this seaside gem is a must for your California travels, especially if you’ll be visiting with pets!
While not all areas of Laguna Beach are pet-friendly, there are plenty of outdoor activities and points of interest to experience with your four-legged friends that make a getaway to this premier coastal destination worth your while.
Ready to experience Laguna Beach and its dog-friendly activities and attractions? Here is your ultimate guide for things to do and places to stay with your pets in Laguna Beach!
Before emBARKing on your next pet-friendly getaway, be sure to claim a FREE copy of our handy dandy Doggie Packing Checklist! Not only do I use this very same checklist to ensure I’m prepared for a trip with my own dog, but so do hundreds of other pet parents around the country!
It’s a great way to stay organized and ensure your precious pup will have everything they need to stay happy and healthy during your travels. Download yours today to instantly receive the checklist and start packing for your next trip today!
6 Top Laguna Beach Dog-Friendly Activities
1. Main Beach Park
A visit to Laguna is hardly complete without visiting the beach itself, and luckily for dog owners, pups are permitted at the Main Beach Park during select hours all-year-round!
From June 15th to September 10th, dogs are permitted on public beaches between the hours of 9 am and 6 pm, making the beach an ideal spot to enjoy an early morning walk or watch the sunset with your pup.
Dogs are welcome anytime during the remainder of the year as long as they’re on-leash, so you and the entire family (members with paws included) can spend the day taking in the stunning views across the water, soaking in the Southern California sun, and taking advantage of the amenities such as picnic areas, a basketball court, children’s playground, and more.
2. Laguna Beach Dog Park
The Laguna Beach Dog Park is a highly-maintained off-leash area supplying ample shade and grassy terrain for your dogs to freely run and play. It’s also a great place for both humans and canines to make new friends!
*Quick Note* The Laguna Beach Dog Park is closed on Wednesday for routine maintenance.
3. Heisler Park
If you and your fur babies enjoy long walks surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery, then you won’t want to leave Heisler Park off your list! A dog-friendly trail meanders alongside the bluffs from Cliff Drive to Aster Street, creating an oceanfront park complete with lovely gardens, shops, art sculptures, and picnic areas. It’s a great way to spend a laid back afternoon with your dogs in Laguna Beach.
4. Huntington Dog Beach
There are several seaside parks in Laguna that permit on-leash dogs, but if your pup prefers to freely explore, then a visit to the nearby Huntington Dog Beach may be in order. In fact, this is one of the most dog-friendly beaches in Southern California and the only off-leash dog beach in Orange County, CA!
Maintained by the Preservation Society of Huntington Dog Beach, this slice of shoreline has plenty of offer both canines and their humans such as complimentary doggie waste bags, drinking fountains (for dogs and their people), a grassy area with picnic tables, restrooms, and even a souvenir shop (open only on weekends).
This is also the site of the wildly popular Corgi Beach Day, which takes place each spring and fall! Whether or not you have a corgi, all dogs are welcome to attend this PAWsitively unforgettable beach bash!
5. Top of the World
Formally known as Alto Laguna Park, Top of the World is a popular spot among locals and provides its lucky visitors with panoramic views of the hills and the Pacific Ocean.
Although only the main trail to Top of the World is pet-friendly, it’s a nice and shady walk to take with your furry best friend, and the views from the top alone will make the journey worth it!
6. Crystal Cove State Park
Crystal Cove State Park is one of my favorite spots in Laguna Beach! Located just off the Pacific Coast Highway, this natural seashore features 3.2 miles of beach, 2,400 acres of wilderness, and some of the most scenic walking trails in the area.
In order to protect the wildlife and natural resources in the park, dogs are not permitted on the park’s beaches or backcountry trails. However, they are welcome to join you on the paved bluff trail on the coastal side of the Pacific Coast Highway.
The three-mile multi-use trail offers incredible views of the beaches and Laguna’s beautifully carved bluffs and cliffs. Needless to say, you definitely won’t want to forget your camera.
Laguna Beach Dog-Friendly Restaurants
From upscale establishments to casual cafes, Laguna Beach offers a wide variety of dining options, many of which are also open to your four-legged companions. Here are some of the most popular dog-friendly restaurants in Laguna Beach that you won’t want to skip.
The Cliff
If you’re in search of oceanfront dining in Laguna Beach, one must-visit restaurant is The Cliff. This beachside hotspot is known for its world-class menu, 180-degree ocean views, and an unsurpassed dining experience that extends to furry patrons.
The multi-level patio is open to dogs and their humans so you can all enjoy a great meal together accented with stunning views and live music (offered six nights a week).
Kitchen in the Canyon
This popular eatery is a great place to enjoy a hearty breakfast before a full day’s adventures or grab an energizing lunch after a morning hike with your pup!
Kitchen in the Canyon features delicious pastries, soups, sandwiches, salads, and fresh juices, so take your pick and unwind in their pet-friendly outdoor seating area.
Watermarc Restaurant
Serving lunch and dinner seven days a week, Watermarc Restaurant is the place to be for contemporary-style food paired with tasty cocktails.
Their innovative approach to food shines through in each menu selection, and the broad selection is sure to satisfy any craving you might have. Plus, the dog-friendly patio overlooks the Pacific Coast Highway!
Alessa Laguna
Some of the best Italian food in Orange County, CA is served at Alessa Laguna!
The award-winning chef was born in Naples, Italy and has since brought his culinary talents to the shores of Southern California. Dogs are welcome to join you on the outdoor patio as you indulge yourself in cheese ravioli or veal marsala.
Laguna Beach Dog-Friendly Hotels
A majority of the pet-friendly lodging options in Laguna Beach is made up of vacation rentals, so I highly recommend checking out sites such as Airbnb or Vrbo if you plan to bring your pup along.
If you prefer the feel of a hotel stay, no worries! You still have options! Here are some dog-friendly Laguna Beach hotels to check out…and then check into!
Montage Laguna Beach
Nestled on a coastal bluff above the Pacific Ocean, Montage Laguna Beach is a true beachfront sanctuary and one of the more upscale hotels in Laguna.
The hotel welcomes a maximum of two dogs up to 45 pounds for an additional $200 fee. Since only rooms with patios are dog-friendly, it’s highly recommended to call the hotel before booking your trip to ensure one of these rooms will be available.
Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa
For a unique lodging experience in Laguna Beach, Casa Laguna is highly recommended! The castle-like seaside enclave of historical buildings has been restored into a beautiful village of cottages, villas, and lush landscaping.
The hotel welcomes a maximum of two dogs up to 40 pounds for an additional fee of $100. Water bowls and waste bags will also be made available for your furry friends.
Pacific Edge Hotel on Laguna Beach
The Pacific Edge Hotel is you and your dogs’ little stretch of coastline that offers the best of Southern California beaches.
Up to two dogs of any size are welcome for an additional $100 per stay, and you’ll be able to take advantage of the nearby dog beach and park. Plus, the friendly staff will make your pup feel welcome with complimentary treats and bowls!
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We hope this guide has helped you plan the ultimate trip to Laguna Beach and its dog-friendly attractions! Which are you most excited to try with your dog first?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below and don’t forget to check out nearby dog-friendly destinations such as the San Diego dog beaches and Coronado Island, CA!
