Dog-Friendly Carlsbad: Restaurants, Beaches & Parks

Whether you’re house sitting as a pet sitter in Carlsbad or you and your pup already enjoy life in this coastal community, you’ll find no shortage of dog-friendly adventures. From relaxed patios and scenic trails to dog parks and nearby beaches, this guide to dog-friendly Carlsbad highlights all the best spots for exploring with your four-legged friend.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Carlsbad

There are plenty of dog-friendly restaurants in Carlsbad, CA – whether you’re craving fresh seafood with a view of the Pacific or burgers and a bowl of fries, there’s something for everyone.

Windmill Food Hall

With a spacious dog-friendly patio and more than ten gourmet food vendors under one roof, Windmill Food Hall is perfect for when everyone wants something different. Grab a seat outside, explore the variety of menus, and enjoy a casual outing with your furry companion.

Location: 890 Palomar Airport Rd, Carlsbad, CA 92011

Dini’s by the Sea

Grab a beer and watch the sun set over the Pacific from the dog-friendly terrace of this American bar & grill. Pups can enjoy a bowl of iced water while their paws are on the floor, and you can choose from a menu of meat and seafood.

Location: 3290 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Shorehouse Kitchen

Give us a doggie menu of honey-cured bacon bits and grilled chicken breast, and we’re sold! This beloved brunch spot has a wonderfully dog-friendly patio and serves all the classics along with sandwiches, soups, and salads.

Location: 2833 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Crackheads Carlsbad

Picnic tables adorn the pet-friendly outdoor area here, complete with fire pits and doggie water bowls. Come for comforting smash burgers, loaded tots, and their famous breakfast sandwich.

Location: 430 Carlsbad Village Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Vigilucci’s Seafood & Steakhouse

Enjoy authentic Italian dishes and award-winning service as you watch the sun go down from the dog-friendly outdoor seating.

Location: 3878 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Cafe Elysa

Order at the counter, then take a seat on the dog-friendly patio, which is mostly covered. Expect a menu of classic brunch dishes and fresh pastries.

Location: 3076 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Gregorio’s Restaurant

Order some plain chicken for the pooch and take a seat on the dog-friendly patio to enjoy handmade pizzas and specialty pasta along with meat and fish dishes.

Location: 300 Carlsbad Village Dr Ste 208, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Naked cafe

This restaurant focuses on whole foods for its breakfast and lunch dishes. There are pancakes, scrambles, wraps, and salads, plus a special doggie menu!

Location: 300 Carlsbad Village Dr Suite 107A, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Dog-friendly beaches in Carlsbad

Unfortunately, there’s no designated dog beach in Carlsbad, and local regulations are strict – bringing a dog to one of the city beaches can result in a hefty fine. That being said, there are several great dog-friendly coastal spots just minutes away – read on to find out more!

Carlsbad Lagoon Dog Beach, Carlsbad, CA

Often mistaken for a proper dog beach, Carlsbad Lagoon (Agua Hediona Lagoon) has more limited pet access than the nickname suggests. Leashed pups are allowed in designated walking areas, but they’re not permitted in the water.

Location: Lagoon Pl, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Cardiff State Beach, Encinitas

Just a short drive south of Carlsbad, Cardiff State Beach is one of the closest dog-friendly options. Four-legged furries are welcome at Cardiff Reef and Seaside Beach as long as you stay south of Tower 16 and keep your pup on a 6-foot leash.

Location: Encinitas, CA 92007

North Beach, Del Mar

Del Mar’s North Beach has nearly two miles of sand for pups to play on. Seasonal rules apply: during the summer (June 16 – Labor Day), dogs must be leashed during daytime hours, but they can run off-leash early in the morning. Outside of summer, off-leash play is allowed throughout the day.

Location: 3902 29th St, Del Mar, CA 92014

Ocean Beach Dog Beach, San Diego

One of the most iconic dog beaches in the country, Ocean Beach Dog Beach was the first official off-leash dog beach in the U.S. Pups can run freely, splash through the shallows, and meet plenty of furry friends.

Location: Dog Beach, San Diego, CA 92107

Fiesta Island Dog Park, San Diego

This Mission Bay favorite has plenty of leash-free terrain – perfect for energetic pups who need room to roam. The calm bayside water is great for dogs who enjoy swimming.

Location: 1750 Fiesta Island Rd, San Diego, CA 92109

Hikes & dog parks in Carlsbad, CA

There are plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors with your four-legged friend in Carlsbad, from dog parks made just for pups to nature-filled hiking trails.

Alga Norte Dog Park

This 30,000-square-foot park is fully fenced and filled with agility equipment, shaded seating areas, and separate enclosures for small and large pups.

Hours: Daily 8 am – 10 pm

Location: 6565 Alicante Rd, Carlsbad, CA 92009

Ann D. L’Heureux Dog Park

This fully fenced dog park has all the essentials – water fountains, poop bag dispensers, and lots of room for pups to play and socialize.

Hours: Daily 8 am – 8 pm

Location: 2700 Carlsbad Village Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92010

Poinsettia Dog Park

This small Carlsbad dog park is clean and well-kept, with natural grass, separate play areas, and an especially friendly crowd. There’s also tons of parking.

Hours: Thu – Tue 8 am – 10 pm, Wed 12 – 10 pm

Location: 6600 Hidden Valley Rd, Carlsbad, CA 92011

Hosp Grove Park

Keep Fido on the leash to explore this shady grove of towering eucalyptus trees. The trails wind through quiet woodlands with ocean views along the way.

Hours: Daily 6 am – 10 pm

Location: Jefferson St, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Maxton Brown Park

Located in Carlsbad Village, Maxton Brown Park has on-leash walking paths and benches overlooking Buena Vista Lagoon.

Hours: Daily 7 am – 10 pm

Location: 500 Laguna Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Batiquitos Lagoon Trail

This relaxed 3.4-mile trail runs through a protected ecological reserve with wetlands, wildlife, and birdwatching opportunities. Dogs must remain on leash to preserve the habitat.

Location: Unnamed Road, Carlsbad, CA 92011

Lake Calavera Trail

For a bit more challenge, head to this 4.9-mile loop featuring volcanic rock formations, coastal sage scrub, and sweeping views from the top. Shade is limited, so plan your outing for early mornings or cooler days.

Location: Tamarack Ave, Carlsbad, CA 92010

Dog-friendly bars in Carlsbad

Last but not least, there are a number of craft breweries and cozy pubs in town where you can grab a drink and maybe even some food with your pup beside you.

American Heroes and Brew

There’s a dog-friendly menu of burger patties, chicken breast, bacon, and pups are welcome to join on the patio while you dig into burgers and sandwiches in front of the game.

Location: 300 Carlsbad Village Dr #120, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Pure Project Carlsbad

Bring your pup and grab a couple of dog treats from the hostess station while enjoying a rotating lineup of high-quality craft brews. There’s no food menu here, but you’re free to order from local restaurants or bring your own.

Location: 2825 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Hennessey’s Tavern

This Irish-style pub has a comfortable, dog-friendly outdoor area, daily food deals, and a welcoming neighborhood feel.

Location: 2777 Roosevelt St, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Carruth Cellar

This award-winning winery sources its grapes from Northern California. Sip a flight, share a bottle, or pick up some to take home – all with your dog by your side.

Location: 2727 State St #110, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Tips for pet parents: Important things to know about Carlsbad, CA

Know the beach rules. Carlsbad’s beaches are not dog-friendly, and fines can be steep. Stick to nearby dog-friendly beaches or enjoy the city’s parks and trails instead.
Bring waste bags everywhere. Not all parks and trails provide bags, so pack extras.
Plan ahead for trips away. Truly relax while you’re away knowing your four-legged family member is safe and happy at home with their loving, verified sitter. Discover thousands of in-home pet sitters who exchange pet care for a place to stay on their travels – tap the link below to learn more.

Connecting with pet sitters in Carlsbad

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Tips for pet sitters

Check for wildlife advice. Carlsbad’s nature reserves are home to birds, coyotes, and other wildlife. Keep dogs leashed and on the path to avoid disturbances or unsafe encounters.
Be mindful around the Flower Fields. The Carlsbad Flower Fields are not dog-friendly (except for service animals), so plan accordingly during the spring bloom.
Explore Carlsbad as a pet sitter. Want to explore Carlsbad like a local, with a pup by your side? Exchange loving pet care for a place to stay, and you’ll never want to travel any other way! Click below to find out how to start your pet sitting adventure.

House sitting in Carlsbad

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More dog-friendly travel guides near Carlsbad, CA

Thinking about house sitting near Carlsbad, visiting a nearby town with your canine companion, or welcoming a pet sitter soon? Explore our travel guides below for dog-friendly places to visit, along with local tips and advice.