Things to Do in San Diego with Dogs: The Ultimate Pet-Friendly Guide

San Diego is a sun-soaked playground for dog lovers, offering miles of coastline, scenic hiking trails, and welcoming spots for pups to join in the fun. Whether you’re coming for a long weekend or a month-long adventure, this city makes it easy to explore with your four-legged friend by your side. With HomeExchange, you can find a cozy, pet-friendly home where your dog will be just as welcome as you are. From beachside cottages to spacious family homes with fenced yards, it’s the perfect way to make your San Diego stay feel like home. Here’s your guide to the best dog-friendly places in San Diego.

Bask in San Diego’s Dog-Friendly Beaches

Few places in the U.S. rival San Diego when it comes to dog-friendly beaches. Here are three must-visit sandy spots where tails wag nonstop.

Dog Beach (Ocean Beach)

One of the most famous off-leash beaches in the country, Dog Beach is pure canine paradise. Located at the west end of Voltaire Street in Ocean Beach, it’s open 24/7, so you can watch the sunrise or let your pup run free at sunset. The gentle waves are perfect for water-loving dogs, and the friendly community of locals means you’ll leave with new friends, both human and canine.

Fiesta Island Park (Mission Bay)

This expansive off-leash area is a mix of sand dunes, calm waters, and wide-open space where dogs can sprint to their heart’s content. Fiesta Island is also a great spot for picnics, paddleboarding, and enjoying Mission Bay’s scenic views. If your dog loves the water, bring a floating toy for some fetch in the bay.

Coronado Dog Beach

Situated at the northern end of Coronado Beach, this off-leash haven offers stunning views of Point Loma and the Hotel del Coronado. If you're looking for things to do in San Diego with dogs, the waves here are a bit stronger, making it ideal for confident swimmers. On a clear day, you’ll have postcard-worthy backdrops for photos of your pup splashing through the surf.

Embrace the Great Outdoors with Your Dog

San Diego’s mild climate and diverse landscapes mean there’s always somewhere beautiful to explore together.

Balboa Park

Known for its museums and Spanish-style architecture, Balboa Park is also a dog lover’s dream. There are two off-leash areas: Morley Field and Nate’s Point Dog Park, and dozens of trails where leashed dogs are welcome. The gardens, fountains, and shady pathways make for a perfect afternoon stroll.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

If you’re after jaw-dropping ocean views, this coastal park delivers. Dogs must stay leashed, but the dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and golden sunsets more than make up for it. Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic as the sun dips below the horizon.

Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve

Escape the city without leaving San Diego at this lush canyon park. For things to do in San Diego with dogs, the 7-mile out-and-back trail takes you through forests, past streams, and ends at a seasonal waterfall. It’s a peaceful and scenic route, perfect for dogs who love long walks.

Discover Pet-Friendly Attractions & Tours

Not every dog-friendly activity in San Diego involves sand and hiking—there are plenty of city adventures too. Check out our picks for the top dog-friendly places in San Diego.

Seaport Village

This waterfront area blends shopping, dining, and green spaces, all while being leashed-dog friendly. Enjoy a harbor-side walk, stop for an ice cream, and watch the street performers while your pup relaxes at your feet.

Cabrillo Tide Pools Coastal Trail

Part of Cabrillo National Monument, this short trail leads to rocky tide pools where leashed dogs can join you. It’s one of the best dog-friendly things to do in San Diego, offering a unique, educational outing where you might spot crabs, sea anemones, and small fish in the pools.

SUP Pups & Aqua Adventures

For water-loving dogs, paddleboarding on Mission Bay is a must. SUP Pups offers dog-friendly paddleboarding lessons complete with canine life vests, so you and your pup can glide across the water together.

Eco Boat Rentals

If you’d rather stay seated, rent a pedal boat or hydro-cycle from Eco Boat Rentals. Dogs are welcome aboard, and the calm waters make for a relaxing ride around the bay.

Sip & Dine at Dog-Friendly Spots

San Diego’s food scene is as welcoming to pups as it is to people. If you're looking for dog-friendly things to do in San Diego, here are two open and thriving spots to check out.

The Local (Pacific Beach)

The Local Pacific Beach - San Diego

The Local brand was born over 15 years ago with the opening of The Local Eatery & Drinking Hole in downtown San Diego. In the summer of 2014, the dream of bringing The Local to the beach…

The Local Pacific Beach logo top - Homepage

Known for its laid-back vibe, The Local offers outdoor seating that’s perfect for enjoying craft beer and pub favorites with your pup nearby. It’s especially lively in the evenings with live music and sports on TV.

Sally’s Fish House & Bar

Sally’s Waterfront Dining

Experience the best of bayfront dining at Sally’s Waterfront Dining—bold Baja flavors, fresh seafood, craft cocktails & stunning views of San Diego Bay.

Sally's Waterfront DiningMay 21

Located along the waterfront, Sally’s offers a full dog menu—yes, really! Your pup can enjoy a salmon dinner or a “pupcake” while you feast on fresh seafood with a view of the marina.

Why HomeExchange is the Perfect Pet-Friendly Stay

When you travel with a dog, finding the right place to stay makes all the difference. With HomeExchange, you can swap homes with other members—many of whom are pet lovers themselves—so you don’t have to leave your furry friend behind.

Instead of squeezing into a hotel room, you’ll enjoy the space and comfort of a real home, complete with a kitchen, yard, and maybe even a basket of dog toys waiting for you. Your host can also share local tips, like the best off-leash parks or pet-friendly cafés nearby.