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When Are Dogs Allowed on Laguna Beach? Everything You Need to Know

Liz Jurkowski
Jun 29
3 min read

As a long-time dog owner, I used to walk my sweet Misty along Laguna’s beaches almost daily. We had our regular route, regular crew, and regular smiles. It was our happy place.

But yesterday, my husband and I were soaking up the sun at Main Beach when we spotted a couple walking their large shepherd along the shoreline in the heat of a summer afternoon. The beach was packed. Kids running, frisbees flying, waves crashing. While the dog was on a short leash, it looked stressed, and so did the people trying to dodge around it.

So, let’s clear up when and where dogs are allowed on the beach in Laguna Beach — because the rules are real, and they’re in place for a reason.

🐾 Quick Rules: Dogs on the Beach in Laguna Beach

Dates	Time of Day	Dogs Allowed?
June 15 - September 10	Before 9:00 a.m. ✅	Allowed on leash
	After 6:00 p.m. ✅	Allowed on leash
	9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. ❌	Not allowed
September 11 – June 14	Any time ✅	Allowed on leash
Thousand Steps Beach	Not allowed Any time ❌	Dogs not allowed ever

📌 Source: City of Laguna Beach

Why These Rules Matter

Laguna Beach is a beloved destination for locals, tourists, and pups alike. But in the summer, our beaches are busy. Dogs weaving through umbrellas, toddlers, and surfboards isn’t fun for anyone, including your four-legged friend.

That’s why morning and evening walks are the perfect compromise. You’ll often see responsible dog owners out at dawn or just after sunset. The lighting is beautiful, the sand is cool, and it’s the best time to meet other “dog families.”

Long sandy beach at low tide in Laguna Beach. Houses flank the uphill side of the beach.

Favorite Dog-Friendly Walks in Laguna Beach

Even if midday beach play isn’t an option, there are still great ways to explore Laguna with your pup.

🐕 Heisler Park Walks: I used to stroll Misty past the cliffs and through the green grass here.
🐕 Treasure Island Bluff Trail: Dogs aren’t allowed on the beach below during peak hours, but the clifftop trail is a scenic option with benches and dolphin sightings. Explore Treasure Island or the bluff trail above Goff’s Cove.
🐕 Top of the World Trails: If your dog likes a bit of elevation, there are endless hiking loops with ocean views. My Top of the World hike.

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Dog Owner Tips for Visiting Laguna

Bring biodegradable waste bags — and use them. Laguna is strict about clean-up.
Keep dogs leashed — even during allowed hours.
Watch for signs — some stairways and access points have specific pet restrictions.
Avoid mid-day sand in summer — it gets too hot for paws! (And it’s against the rules).
My favorite pet friendly-hotel in Laguna Beach is Le Petit Pali. Check out my review.

Brown dog's face, with sandy beach in the background.

In Memory of Misty ❤️

This post is in honor of Misty, my beach-loving pup who passed away last year. Writing this brought back memories of sandy noses, wagging tails, and the little community of dogs and humans who walked our shores together.