Discover the best dog beaches in Orange County with Toby and me! From the expansive shores of Huntington Dog Beach to the community vibe of Long Beach Dog Beach, enjoy fun-filled days of off-leash play and ocean adventures with your furry friend.
Orange County, California, is known for its beautiful beaches and dog-friendly spots, making it a perfect destination for a beach day with your furry friend. Toby and I recently visited two of the best dog beaches in the area: Huntington Dog Beach and Long Beach Dog Beach. Here’s a detailed account of our fun-filled days at these fantastic locations.
Huntington Dog Beach
Our favorite was Huntington Dog Beach, located along the Pacific Coast Highway between Seapoint Street and 21st Street. This beach is a paradise for dogs, offering a mile of coastline where they can run, play, and splash in the waves off-leash. There are multiple parking areas along the Pacific Coast Highway. You have to pay parking here by the amount of time you’re going to stay. You can use one of the machines to pay or by app, which are indicated by signs in the parking lot.
As soon as we arrived, Toby couldn’t contain his excitement. We parked at one of the parking lots and then walked along the cement path that went down towards the beach. There are two main areas that lead you to the beach, and once you hit the sand, you could let your dogs off-leash and run freely. I wouldn’t recommend taking your dogs off-leash from the parking lot because right next to the walkway is a bike path, and there are lots of cyclists.
Huntington Dog Beach is a really long stretch of the shore.The beach was bustling with dogs of all sizes and breeds, all having the time of their lives. The sandy shoreline provided plenty of space for running and playing fetch, while the gentle waves were perfect for a refreshing dip.
We spent about an hour and half, walking along the beach, digging in the sand, and socializing with other dogs. Toby made several new friends, and it was a joy to watch him run freely and enjoy the open space. The beach is also a great spot for enjoying the scenic views of the ocean.
Long Beach Dog Beach
On a separate day, we also visited the Long Beach Dog Beach, also known as Rosie’s Dog Beach. This beach is located between Roycroft and Argonne Avenues, and like Huntington, it’s an off-leash haven for dogs. The beach is named after a beloved bulldog, Rosie, and it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Long Beach Dog Beach is a smaller stretch of sand compared to Huntington, but it’s equally enjoyable. The beach is clean and well-maintained, with ample space for dogs to run and play. The waves here are gentle, making it a safe spot for dogs to swim and splash around. The beach was filled with happy dogs, all enjoying the freedom to roam off-leash. There are plenty of dog waste stations and fresh water fountains, ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone. Toby made fast friends with several other dogs, and it was heartwarming to see him play and interact with such enthusiasm.
After some time of beach fun, we decided to explore the nearby Belmont Shore area. This vibrant neighborhood is filled with dog-friendly cafes, shops, and restaurants, making it a perfect place for an afternoon. We found a cozy café with a dog-friendly patio and enjoyed a delicious meal while Toby relaxed at our feet.
Our visits to Huntington Dog Beach and Long Beach Dog Beach were unforgettable experiences. Both beaches offer a safe and enjoyable environment for dogs to play and socialize off-leash. Huntington Dog Beach, with its expansive shoreline and amenities, is perfect for a full day of beach fun. Long Beach Dog Beach, with its smaller, community-focused vibe, offers a more intimate beach experience. Remember to bring plenty of water, snacks, and waste bags to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone. Watching Toby run freely and enjoy the ocean was a highlight of our trip, and I’m sure your furry friend will love it too.