Carlsbad

Parks, Trails & Beaches

Carlsbad State Beach – A bluff-backed beach great for surfing, swimming, and scenic walks with your leashed pup.
Agua Hedionda Lagoon – A tranquil spot for paddleboarding, kayaking, and walking trails with leashed dogs.
Poinsettia Dog Park A well-kept, fenced dog park with shaded benches and agility features.
Alga Norte Community Park Dog Park – Large artificial turf off-leash area with dog-friendly design and separate zones.

Restaurants & Cafés

Park 101 – Multi-level community hangout with casual eats and a dog-friendly patio.
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar – Pet-friendly patio and an actual dog menu with rice, chicken, and hamburger options.
Ember & Rye – Upscale yet relaxed, with patio seating that welcomes furry companions.
7 Mile Kitchen – Pizza, burgers, and milkshakes with ocean views and outdoor dog seating.

Activities & Attractions

The Flower Fields – Iconic springtime blooms, with walking trails and plenty of photo ops.
Carlsbad Premium Outlets – Pet-friendly outdoor shopping destination that allows leashed dogs.

Local Events & Causes – Catch rotating seasonal events in Carlsbad Village, including food truck nights, sunset concerts, and dog-friendly farmers markets.

Rancho Santa Fe

Parks & Trails

Turtle Head Mountain Trail – Scenic canyon views and a moderately challenging hike with dogs on leash.                                            Black Mountain via Glider Point Trail – Hilly loop with panoramic outlooks, ideal for active dogs.
Lusardi Creek Loop – Shady, creekside hiking for a mellow walk with your pup.

Restaurants & Cafés

Mille Fleurs – A French bistro-style patio that is elegant and welcoming to dogs.
Rancho Santa Fe Bistro – A casual café known for breakfast and brunch, with sidewalk tables for pets.
Morada Restaurant – California cuisine at the Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, with tranquil outdoor seating for pets.
O67 Bistro – Modern American fare in a relaxed, dog-friendly setting.

Activities & Attractions

Helen Woodward Animal Center – Animal rescue center offering pet adoption, therapy animals, and public education.
San Diego Polo Club – Hosts polo matches and equestrian events where leashed dogs are welcome.

Local Events – Look out for seasonal garden tours, equestrian showcases, and animal adoption fundraisers at community venues.

a furry beach baby

Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Parks & Beaches

Cardiff State Beach – A popular and scenic beach where dogs are allowed on leash. Great for a sunset walk or relaxing day on the sand.

Restaurants & Cafés

Pacific Coast Grill – Coastal fare with an oceanfront view and a pet-friendly patio. A favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Events

Cardiff Dog Days of Summer – Annual community event featuring dog contests, vendors, adoption agencies, live music, and food trucks.

Del Mar

Parks & Beaches

Del Mar Dog Beach – A beloved off-leash beach during designated seasons. One of the best coastal areas for dogs to swim and play.

Restaurants & Cafés

Coral Del Mar – Upscale dining with California-inspired dishes and shaded dog-friendly seating.
Sbicca – Ocean-view restaurant with sidewalk seating for dog-lovers and great wine options.
Tamarindo Latin Kitchen – Modern Latin fusion dishes served on a vibrant pet-welcoming patio.

Events

Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon – Held annually at Dog Beach and hosted by Helen Woodward Animal Center. A surf competition where dogs hit the waves for a great cause.

Solana Beach

Parks & Trails

While Solana Beach itself has fewer designated dog parks, nearby coastal trails and community streets make for scenic leashed walks, especially around the Cedros Avenue Design District.

Restaurants & Cafés

Rustic Root – Known for creative small plates and a dog-welcoming outdoor seating area.
Sunny Side Solana – Bright brunch spot with friendly service and a casual patio open to dogs.

Events

Solana Beach hosts seasonal art walks, local food and wine events, and craft fairs where leashed dogs are generally welcome.