10 Best Off-leash Dog Parks in San Diego

If you’re wondering whether the off-leash dog parks in San Diego are worth visiting, local dog parents will tell you they are. The city is called “America’s Finest City” and is home to some of the country’s finest dog-friendly beaches and leash-free areas. We made a list of some of the parks you should visit.

1) Fiesta Island Dog Park

1750 Fiesta Island Rd, San Diego, CA 92109

Fiesta Island is a peninsular park within Mission Bay. It’s one of the most popular locations for local charity walks, bike races, and other events. 

However, the entire island isn’t only good for events. It’s also dog- and horse-friendly, which makes it an awesome destination for fur parents.

You’ll find the designated off-leash area, commonly known as Fiesta Island Dog Park, along Fiesta Road. It’s home to fenced-in meadows with plenty of space for dogs to run around and play. 

You can also let your dog play on the beach. Just make sure you clean up after Fido. The dog park is open from 6 A.M. to 10 P.M.

2) Coronado Beach & Dog Park

Ocean Blvd, Coronado, CA 92118

Nothing beats a day out on the beach with your dog, so don’t miss a chance to bring your fur baby to Coronado Beach & Dog Park. 

You’ll find it directly across Sunset Park on Ocean Boulevard. It offers plenty of space where your dog can play on the white sand. You can also let Fido go for a swim and make new canine friends.

Get your camera ready, especially if you visit during summer, so you can capture the best moments of your dog. 

3) Del Mar Dog Beach

3902 29th St, Del Mar, CA 92014

Del Mar Dog Beach stretches from 29th Street north all the way to Solana Beach. Your dog can run off-leash along this stretch, except during summer when they must be on a leash. 

You’ll find plenty of other dog lovers on the beach, so make sure you keep a close watch on your dog. You must also ensure your dog has an updated license and vaccination records.

Parking is available nearby. And you can enjoy other activities on-site, like fishing, playing volleyball, and surfing.

4) Doyle Dog Park

8100 Cargill Ave, San Diego, CA 92122

Doyle Dog Park has separate areas for big and small dogs. Both are spacious enough to accommodate frequent and new visitors. 

You’ll find the dog park along Cargill Avenue in La Jolla. It’s open from 6 A.M. to 11 P.M. 

Don’t miss a chance to explore the rest of the park. It’s packed with excellent amenities like a basketball and sand volleyball court. 

There’s also a playground on-site with several swings, slides, and climbing structures. There’s a fenced children’s play area, too, in case your kids just want to run on the grass. Clean restrooms are also available on-site.

5) Kearny Mesa Leash-Free Dog Park

3170 Armstrong St, San Diego, CA 92111

Kearny Mesa Leash-Free Dog Park is a 1-acre off-leash dog park just a stone’s throw away from the Kearny Mesa Recreation Center. 

It doesn’t have separate areas for big and small dogs, but it’s spacious enough to accommodate regulars and new visitors. 

The dog park is also lighted so that you can visit at night. There’s also a water station for Fido and a drinking fountain for humans.

6) Nate’s Point Off-Leash Dog Park

2500 Balboa Dr, San Diego, CA 92103

Nate’s Point Off-Leash Dog Park is the most unique dog park on this list, as it’s open 24 hours. It’s also one of the most popular off-leash areas in San Diego. 

It offers 2.4 acres of securely fenced space with a drinking fountain. There are also picnic tables on-site where you can relax or enjoy a snack before heading home.

7) Canine Corners Dog Park

Washington St, La Mesa, CA 91942

There are three large separate areas available at Canine Corners Dog Park. All three securely fenced areas are spacious enough to accommodate dogs of different sizes.

Drinking water is also available on-site. The park also has several shady spots where you can rest your feet.

8) Maddox Park

7825 Flanders Dr, San Diego, CA 92126

If you’re looking for a neighborhood park where you can relax with your canine, go to Maddox Neighborhood Park. 

Its off-leash dog park offers plenty of space, picnic tables, and breathtaking views of the Rattlesnake Canyon. 

The park is also home to a children’s play area with a gazebo. You and your family will love it here because it’s quiet and it very rarely gets crowded.

9) Orpheus Park

482 Orpheus Ave, Encinitas, CA 92024

Orpheus Park is another neighborhood park in San Diego with a designated off-leash area. 

The dog park is open every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, from 6 A.M. to 7:30 A.M. and 3 P.M. to 8 P.M. You can also bring your dog to the park on Sundays from 6 A.M. to 9 A.M. and 3 P.M. to 8 P.M.

Other amenities available at the park include picnic facilities and a children’s play area.

10) Little Italy Dog Park

254 W Date St, San Diego, CA 92101

Little Italy Dog Park is another San Diego dog park where you can let your dog run and play off-leash. 

Its surface is artificial grass that is regularly maintained. Fur parents who have been there say it’s one of the best dog parks in San Diego that they’ve ever been to. 

There’s a separate area for small dogs, and there are also several tennis balls on-site. 

You’ll find a lot of park benches where you can rest. There are also water bowls around the park, so you’re sure your dog stays hydrated while playing. 

The dog park is tucked away in Little Italy, just a stone’s throw away from downtown San Diego.

All in all

Dog parks and beaches aren’t only the canine-friendly places you can visit in San Diego. There are also several local restaurants, dog bars, art centers, and coves where you can bring your fur baby. 

Just make sure you bring dog park essentials like poop bags, a backup leash, plenty of water, and your dog’s bowl. Make sure your dog also has updated vaccinations and licenses. If you’re looking for more places to take your dog swimming, we’ve made a list of California dog water parks you can visit.