Spoil your pup by including them in your next beach vacation! San Diego offers some of the coolest places for you and your dog to visit. Not only will you find some of the best dog beaches here, but there are so many more options that include Instagram-worthy restaurants, rooftop entertainment and charming historical parks.
Before you leave, make sure to download your free San Diego pet-friendly travel guide download below!
Morning Glory
Kick off your day by grabbing breakfast at one of the most popular restaurants in downtown San Diego with your pup.
Morning Glory not only provides a menu filled with some very delicious choices, but the incredible beauty of this restaurant will make all your breakfast dreams come true!
You cannot make a reservation, and the line gets long quickly so if you don’t want a long wait with your dog I would recommend getting here at least 30 minutes before it opens.
Dogs are allowed, but can only be seated outside on the patio. We did enjoy our time outside basking in the beautiful San Diego weather.
Make sure to keep a close eye on your dog! We made the mistake of stepping away for a minute, while his leash was tied to the table and he managed to escape from his collar to come find us. Luckily, he was a big hit amongst the crowd and got lots of pets.
Original Dog Beach
The first beach to ever allow dogs off-leash in the United States can be found at Ocean Beach in San Diego! This place has been a bayside retreat for dogs since 1972 and is a place that is not to be missed.
Due to its popularity, you will find a lot of dogs here which makes for the best kind of play date! This is one of the best things you can do with your dog in San Diego.
IMPORTANT: It can be dangerous for dogs to drink salt water, and if they are consuming in large amounts it can be fatal. Please make sure your dog is staying hydrated, so they are not resorting to drinking the sea water.
For more information on salt water poisoning view details from the American Kennel Club here.
Balboa Park
Looking to take your dog on a walk? Go to Balboa Park! This beautiful 1,200-acre historical park is filled with things that you and your dog will enjoy!
You will find 17 museums here, an array of gorgeous gardens and mesmerizing architecture. Dogs are not allowed in the museums or the Japanese Friendship Garden, but the rest of the park is very dog-friendly!
One of the best things to do with your dog in San Diego is to take them to one of the two dog parks located here! One dog park is located on Balboa Dr at El Prado on the south side of Cabrillo Bridge and the second dog park can be found at Morley Field located northwest of the tennis courts.
Make sure to keep your dog leashed unless you are at one of the designated off-leash dog parks.
Spanish Village Art Center
The star of Balboa Park, a CUTE colorful cobblestone village packed with over 200 talented artists! Admission is free and the experience is priceless, so grab your wallet and do some shopping while your dog takes in the vibrancy of this charming place.
The Spanish Village Art Center is open every day from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm (excluding Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Year’s Day).
If you are looking to get a tour of the art center and learn all about the fascinating history here, make sure to take a FREE tour with Spanish Village Historian, Jeffrey Iles.
Hydrobike Rentals
If you are looking to get some exercise in for yourself while including your dog, rent a hydrobike! These bikes are a fun way to get some cardio in while admiring the ocean with a front-row seat. Because who really wants to make a trip to the gym while on vacation?
Best part is dogs can ride on these bikes for free!
For bigger dogs, I would recommend renting the tandem hydrobike to make sure your dog has the space they need.
Our 80-pound dog wasn’t a fan of these, so he stayed behind with Grandpa but we saw other dogs on the water that loved it!
Rooftop Cinema
Can you imagine a better way to end your day than watching a movie on a rooftop that overlooks the beautiful city of San Diego? Rooftop Cinema Club hosts “wooftop” movie nights for you and your dog once a month. The dates vary, so make sure to check their website.
TIP: Make sure to book your tickets in advance, because tickets sell out quickly! We booked three weeks in advance and the only tickets left were for an 11:00 PM showing.
The Waverly
This coastal restaurant will steal your heart with its elegant bohemian interior and savory food. The patio is dog friendly and provides cozy seating for you and your pup.
You can make a reservation online, so you can secure the date and time you want.
The Waverly is located just 1 mile from the San Elijo Beach, although this beach is not dog-friendly.
If you are stopping in for brunch I highly recommend ordering the Funfetti Pancakes, Creme Brulee French Toast, or Avocado Toast, and make sure to get a side of bacon to spoil your pup!
Del Mar Dog Beach
This beach is set against the beautiful bluff in Del Mar and makes this beach the most scenic coastal place to take your dog. The size of this beach can change dramatically, so it may be helpful to check the tide before you go.
Parking is not free and more difficult to find, so be prepared to carve out some time to find parking especially during the busier summer months.
Don’t forget to sign-up below to get a free itinerary jam-packed with the best things to do with your pup around San Diego. You will even find some places on the itinerary that were not included above!
I don’t want to brag but the travel guide below might make you lose your mind. It will, like it definitely will.