Located just up the Pacific Coast Highway from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is one of the most popular weekend getaway spots for residents of Angel City. Packed with gorgeous scenery, wineries, shopping, and restaurants, Santa Barbara has no shortage of things to do. It also happens to be a very dog-friendly town, including the beaches. Here are seven amazing dog-friendly beaches in Santa Barbara, CA, for you and your pup to visit.
The 7 Awesome Dog-Friendly Beaches in Santa Barbara, CA
1. Thousand Steps Beach
| ️ Address: | 1429 Shoreline Dr., Santa Barbara, CA 93109 |
| Open Times: | 24 hours |
| Cost: | Free |
| Off-Leash: | Yes |
- Do not worry; there are only about 150 steps down to the beach
- Usually underwater at high tide
- No facilities at this beach
- Neighborhood street parking only
- One of the best spots to watch the sunset in Santa Barbara
2. Mesa Lane Beach
| ️ Address: | Edgewater Way and Mesa Lane, Santa Barbara, CA 93109 |
| Open Times: | Sunrise–10:00 PM |
| Cost: | Free |
| Off-Leash: | Yes |
- Rarely crowded because tourists usually don’t visit
- No parking lots, restrooms, or other facilities
- Only accessible from above by a flight of stairs
- Usually underwater at high tide
3. Shoreline Park Beach
| ️ Address: | 1377 Shoreline Dr., Santa Barbara, CA 93109 |
| Open Times: | 7:00 AM– 7:00 PM |
| Cost: | Free |
| Off-Leash: | Yes, in designated areas only |
- Parking, restrooms, a playground, and picnic spots are available
- Access the beach by walking down a flight of stairs
- Off-leash play is allowed on the west side of the stairs
- The beach is usually underwater at high tide
4. Arroyo Burro Beach
| ️ Address: | 2981 Cliff Dr. Santa Barbara, CA 93109 |
| Open Times: | 8:00 AM–sunset |
| Cost: | Free |
| Off-Leash: | Yes, in designated areas only |
- Locals call this “Hendry’s Beach”
- Follow the signs to find the off-leash areas
- Restrooms, a restaurant, parking, showers, and a dog wash station are available
- A popular beach that can get crowded
5. Miramar Beach
| ️ Address: | 1500 Miramar Beach, Montecito, CA 93108 |
| Open Times: | 24 hours |
| Cost: | Free |
| Off-Leash: | No |
- Local beach near a famous resort and vacation homes
- No facilities on the beach
- Great spot for surfing and beach walking
- Public and street parking are available nearby
6. Summerland Beach
| ️ Address: | Evans Ave and Wallace Ave, Summerland, CA 93067 |
| Open Times: | 8:00 AM– Sunset |
| Cost: | Free |
| Off-Leash: | No |
- Located about 6 miles from Santa Barbara
- The only beach near Santa Barbara that allows horseback riding
- Multiple amenities are located in nearby Lookout Park, including a dog wash station and restrooms
- Walking distance to a dog-friendly cafe
7. West Ellwood Beach
| ️ Address: | 7686 Hollister Ave, Goleta, CA 93117 |
| Open Times: | 4:00 AM–10:00 PM |
| Cost: | Free |
| Off-Leash: | No |
- On-site parking, but it’s a hike to the beach itself
- Located near a butterfly preserve
- No facilities at this beach
- Beach glass is frequently present—watch your dog carefully
In Conclusion
Many of these dog-friendly Santa Barbara beaches have limited facilities available. It is best to pack your water, waste bags, shade, and snacks to be safe. Always follow posted signs regarding whether off-leash dogs are allowed. Be aware of the tide schedule as well because several of these spots are underwater at high tide. Santa Barbara is a beautiful destination for those who love to vacation with their dogs and enjoy a day at the beach!
Featured Image Credit: otsphoto, Shutterstock
The 7 Awesome Dog-Friendly Beaches in Santa Barbara, CA
