Del Mar’s North Beach, or “Dog Beach” is one of the few places in San Diego County where dogs can run and play leash-free for nine months out of the year. The city of Del Mar has an established reputation as a dog friendly city, and both locals and tourists alike enjoy bringing their furry best friends to this two mile stretch of sand and surf. Dogs that are friendly and non-aggressive are welcome, and on the weekends, and during the summer months, the beach is a very popular to be.
Dog Beach is also home to the annual Surf Dog Surfathon, one of the largest dog surfing competitions in the country, sponsored by the local Helen Woodward Animal Center. Dogs and their owners can compete for trophies in different events, and admission is free. Animal lovers can also learn more about adopting homeless dogs and cats in need, and local agility and obedience trainers often attend to provide free demonstrations and mini-lessons for prospective students and their human parents.
When visiting Del Mar’s Dog Beach and other beaches as well, be sure to keep the city’s leash laws and other facts in mind:
- On North Beach, dogs can run leash free after Labor Day but must be leashed between June 15th and Labor Day
- On the Main beaches, dogs are not allowed June 15th through Labor Day. After Labor Day, until June 14th, dogs are allowed, but must be leashed at all times.
- Dogs are allowed year-round on South Beach, but must be leashed at all times.
For dog owners, and dog lovers, it is clear that the city of Del Mar offers many unique opportunities. To learn more about dog beach, dog access in the city’s parks, and the leash laws, visit the Chamber of Commerce website.