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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Santa Barbara's best

Dog-friendly beaches

Your dog is part of the beach day, and that isn't up for debate. You need a stretch of sand where your companion is just as welcome as you are.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated May 2026
01
Arroyo Burro Beach County Park image 1
Arroyo Burro Beach County Park image 2
Arroyo Burro Beach County Park image 3
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Beachfront setting bordered by high cliffs offers panoramic ocean views and casual vibe with friendly dogs off leash. Picnic areas and a beachfront restaurant provide indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the water. Dog washing stations and water bowls support a dog-friendly atmosphere.

A dog-friendly beach with both leash and off-leash areas welcomes many happy pups. Calm waters make it great for swimming and tide pooling, while nearby bike paths add to the outdoor fun.

A large off-leash dog beach lets dogs run freely and play. Both leash and leash-free areas exist, making it great for walks or letting dogs have fun.

People are saying

"It's a great dog friendly beach for letting your dog run free."

"The ocean views from the restaurant are spectacular."

"This beach is a great place to let your dog run free."

Good to know

1

Dogs are allowed, with a designated off-leash area available.

2

There is free parking, but it can be tricky to find a spot.

3

Visitors should be aware of tar on the beach and in the water.

02
Shoreline Park image 1

Park on a bluff offers breathtaking ocean views and a panoramic sunset backdrop. Atmosphere stays serene and peaceful, with clean, well-maintained amenities including playgrounds, picnic tables, and BBQs. Space suits families, dog walkers, and those seeking a calm outdoor escape.

Clean, beautiful shore with private beach spots and refreshing wind. Easy access via stairs and trails from the park with excellent ocean views and multiple parking options.

Ocean and harbor views create a scenic backdrop for walking dogs. Plenty of space lets dogs run around and play while leashes drag on the ground.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the beautiful ocean views from the bluff."

"It's a great place to walk your dogs and see other people with pets."

"I loved the beautiful, panoramic ocean views from the beach."

Good to know

1

Parking at Shoreline Park is limited, so arrive early.

2

There is free parking available at Shoreline Park.

3

The park is sometimes used for special events, so check the schedule.

03
Hendrys Beach image 1

Beach features black silt sand, rocks and boulders, and close-up ocean views. It has a dog-friendly area with off-leash space and a dog wash facility. Crowds vary, with fewer people late in the afternoon and more on weekends.

A small, local-only beach with off-leash dog areas and a dog wash on-site. It offers unique rocks and sea glass along with a restaurant right on the beach.

A clean, off-leash area lets dogs run freely on the left side of the beach. An on-site dog wash adds convenience, and most dogs there are well behaved.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful beach, and it's dog friendly with off-leash areas."

"This beach is great for dogs, with a separate off-leash area."

"I found the parking available to be convenient and plentiful."

Good to know

1

Hendrys Beach has a dog-friendly area on one side and a separate area for people.

2

Parking is free and there are plenty of spaces, but it can sometimes be full.

3

The bathrooms at Hendrys Beach are clean and available.

04
Marina Beach Motel image 1

Recently remodeled rooms and a beautifully maintained courtyard create a modern, cozy atmosphere. The place stays quiet and peaceful, with minimal traffic noise that stops at night. Free bicycles and beach amenities add a family-friendly, active vibe to the calm setting.

Just a short walk from the beach, the spot offers free bikes and towels for quick rides along the shore. The location suits easy beach strolls and nearby shopping trips.

Rooms have no terrible odor often found in pet-friendly spots. Location sits near a park and quiet streets good for dog walks. Patio rooms include a kitchenette, handy when traveling with dogs.

People are saying

"The breakfast here had a great variety of options."

"It's just a short walk to the beach from here."

"This motel is dog friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and located right in front of the room.

2

Breakfast and bicycle rental are included in the price.

3

The motel is pet friendly, allowing guests to bring their pets.

05
Leadbetter Beach image 1
Public beach

Sandy beach with incredible ocean views and a glassy surface that reflects the surroundings. The atmosphere is relaxing and lively, with many people enjoying picnics, grilling, and yoga on grassy areas shaded by palms. It welcomes families and dogs, offering easy parking and nearby dining options.

Wide sandy shore offers great walking and plenty of space for kids and dogs. Clean beach features breathtaking views with a cliff and nice homes behind it, plus bathrooms for convenience.

Pets roam off leash throughout the area. The beach welcomes both dogs and kids with open space for walking and playing.

People are saying

"This beach is beautiful and offers breathtaking views."

"It's a great spot for picnics with plenty of space and tables."

"It's nice and dog friendly here."

Good to know

1

Avoid swimming within 50 yards of drains or runoff at Leadbetter Beach.

2

Parking is easily accessible and close to the beach.

3

Leadbetter Beach is a great spot for picnics and gatherings without needing a reservation.

06
Casa Jardin image 1

Stylish, minimalist hotel offers a cozy, modern atmosphere with luxurious finishes and thoughtful amenities like a kitchenette and espresso machine. Quiet neighborhood enhances a calm, safe vibe ideal for restful stays. Compact spaces feel like home rather than typical hotel rooms.

Walking distance to the beach makes it easy to get there anytime. The spot is about a mile from the shore, close enough to rent bikes or grab food nearby.

Allows dogs and welcomes four-legged friends. Offers a pet-friendly environment suitable for stays with dogs.

People are saying

"It's so comfortable being able to walk everywhere from here."

"The rooms are modern, clean, and feel so spacious."

"This place is so dog friendly, they welcomed my pup with open arms."

Good to know

1

Parking is available behind the unit for guests.

2

The property is located within two short blocks from downtown.

3

The kitchen is fully stocked with necessary items and spices.

07
Ala Mar Motel image 1

Motel offers ocean views and Spanish-style rooms with unique character. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and cozy to occasionally noisy, with a laid-back vibe and access to beach activities. Evening amenities include complimentary wine and appetizers on a relaxing patio or terrace.

Located just across the street, the beach is a 1-minute walk from the motel. Some rooms offer a private jacuzzi overlooking the beach, providing a great view and easy access to the sand.

Rooms accommodate dogs well with options like first floor access to ease mobility for pets struggling with stairs. The motel maintains a dog friendly environment throughout.

People are saying

"It's right across the street from the beach."

"I loved the nice view of the ocean from the balcony."

"This place is great for dogs; it's totally dog friendly."

Good to know

1

Expect safety concerns due to broken locks and reports of intruders.

2

A $25 property fee is added on top of the booking price.

3

The motel offers a continental breakfast from 7:30 to 10am on weekdays.

08
Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel image 1

Boutique beachfront hotel with light and bright rooms and charming decor creates a relaxed vibe. Small, refreshing pool sits close to some ground-floor rooms. Guests enjoy ocean views and easy access to the beach just steps away.

Just steps from the coast, the beach sits across the street with easy access via a corner hotel pass. The area features clean sand, a nearby park, and is perfect for morning and evening strolls.

Rooms include pet-friendly options with features like a kitchen or fireplace. Staff handle issues like ants promptly and provide dog treats in plastic bags. Nearby areas offer plenty of spots to walk dogs with a $25 per night pet fee.

People are saying

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful with everything."

"The bed was so comfortable and the room felt cozy."

"This place is dog friendly, with plenty of spots nearby to walk them."

Good to know

1

The hotel offers limited free on-site parking, but spots fill up quickly.

2

Expect to pay around $300 per night during peak summer season.

3

Housekeeping service is not provided during your stay.

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