Pet-Friendly Santa Monica | Dog-Friendly Restaurants Santa Monica

Whether you’re house sitting as a pet sitter in Santa Monica or you’ve got a pooch of your own, planning a day out with your canine companion is made simple with this guide. Below, find the low-down on pet-friendly Santa Monica, and find a list of restaurants, beaches, dog parks and activities perfect for bonding with your furry friend.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Santa Monica

Santa Monica is home to a fair few pet-friendly restaurants - just be sure to check beforehand, keep your dog on a leash and stick to the dog-friendly dining sections only.

The Misfits Bar and Restaurant

Enjoy comfort food or opt for a healthy option at this dog-friendly restaurant that’s just over a 15-minute walk from Santa Monica Pier.

Location: 225 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica

The Surfing Fox

This restaurant takes its dog-friendliness to the next level with a canine menu for dogs - as well as the fare for us humans that celebrates local fish.

Location: 120 Colorado Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States

The Whaler

A true locals joint, The Whaler welcomes pets, and offers up mouthwatering favorites including burgers, breakfast skillets and tuna on crispy rice.

Location: 101 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA

Ashland Hill

Stop for brunch, dinner or drinks and dine with your dog on the stylish outdoor patio, choosing from classics like burgers, wings and salads.

Location: 2807 Main St, Santa Monica, CA

The Curious Palate

This spot prioritises locally-sourced ingredients from artisan producers, so stop by for a wholesome plate of sustainable goodness, and choose from over 20 craft beers on tap.

Location: 395 Santa Monica Pl 3rd Floor, Santa Monica, CA

Blue Daisy

Sit outside with your dog at this popular brunch restaurant in Santa Monica, and choose from croissant sandwiches, toasts, eggs and an artisan coffee menu.

Location: 609 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA

Dog-friendly beaches in Santa Monica, CA

Santa Monica beach does not allow dogs, but leashed dogs are welcome on the boardwalk at any time. Below, we’ll list the dog-friendly beaches near Santa Monica, so that you and your pooch don’t have to travel far to enjoy the ocean breeze.

Dog-friendly beaches near Santa Monica

Rosie’s Dog Beach (designated dog zone within Belmont Shore Beach)

Just a 46-minute drive from central Santa Monica, Rosie’s Dog Beach is popular with local dog owners, and the perfect sandy beach for dogs and their humans to have a splash.

Location: 5000 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA

Huntington Dog Beach

Within a 55-minute drive south along the coast from Santa Monica is Huntington Dog Beach - a dog-friendly beach complete with drinking fountains and even surfing waves.

Location: Huntington Beach, 20211, Huntington Bch Bike Trl, Huntington Beach

Leo Carrillo State Beach

A 55-minute drive west along the coast from Santa Monica is Leo Carrillo State Beach, where dogs are welcome on the north side.

Location: 35000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA

Rosie’s Dog Beach

Off-leash dog parks in Santa Monica

If you’re looking for somewhere more contained to walk your dog, or you’re house sitting in Santa Monica, a dog park is a sensible option. Many of the local dog parks are fully fenced, so they’re the perfect place to let your dog off the leash and safely socialize with other canines.

Santa Monica’s dog parks:

Herb Katz Dog Park at Joslyn Park

Herb Katz dog park spans 1.25 acres, so it’s the perfect size for a good runaround. Explore the areas for small or large dogs to keep your canines safe and comfortable.

Location: 2300-2398 7th St, Santa Monica, CA

Airport Park Dog Park

Located within airport park, this dog park is popular with locals as it’s a contained, spacious area where dogs can run free safely, not far from the centre of town.

Location: 3201 Airport Ave, Santa Monica, CA

Memorial Park Dog Run

This dog run is on the smaller side, but it’s perfect for a short game of fetch in a fenced area - especially if you live close to downtown.

Location: 1601 14th St, Santa Monica, CA

Pacific Street Dog Park

Head to Pacific Street Dog Park if your pooch is in need of a run - as remember, dogs aren’t allowed on Santa Monica beach.

Location: Pacific Street, Santa Monica, CA

Dog-friendly activities in Santa Monica

Third Street Promenade

If you’re new to the area, explore downtown Santa Monica and stroll along Third Street Promenade with your dog on a leash. You’ll find heaps of restaurants with dog-friendly patios, street performers and stores.

Location: 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA

Santa Monica Pier & Boardwalk

It’s not a trip to Santa Monica without exploring the boardwalk - so whether you’re house sitting or you live locally, take a walk with your dog on a leash. Be sure to follow local rules and remember that dogs aren’t allowed on the beach in Santa Monica.

Location: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA

Palisades Park

For stunning views of the ocean and shaded walkways, head to Palisades Park which stretches over 26 acres along Ocean Avenue.

Location: Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA

Venice Boardwalk

Just a 10-minute drive from central Santa Monica or a 40-minute stroll along the coast from Santa Monica Pier is Venice Boardwalk. It’s the perfect place for a leashed walk - just be aware of the restrictions. Dogs aren’t allowed on Venice Beach Boardwalk between 11am and 8pm on Saturday, Sunday and holidays between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Location: Beach Pavilion in, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Tips for pet parents

Know your beach restrictions. Remember that dogs aren’t allowed on Santa Monica beach - just the Pier on a leash - so travel west or south down the coast if you’re looking for a beach walk with your pooch.
Explore the local food scene. Santa Monica is teaming with dog-friendly restaurants, bars and cafes - just call ahead to double check the rules.
Get your vacation pet care sorted. While your city is filled with things to do with your dog, consider where your pooch will spend their time next vacation. And as vets agree pets are happier at home, consider welcoming an in-home pet sitter to take care of your furry friends while you’re away. Click below to find out how.

Pet sitters in Santa Monica

How it works

Tips for pet sitters

Stroll the city with a leashed furry friend. During your pet sitting adventure, it’s important to follow local rules and keep your new pet pal on a leash while you explore the city together.
Come prepared with all the right gear. It’s important to come prepared with poop bags and plenty of treats when leaving the house with your canine companion (and water if you’re going on a long walk).
Explore Santa Monica through house sitting. So, fancy seeing the sights of Santa Monica, and exploring the Californian coastline with a new furry friend for company? Click below to find out how house sitting works.

House sitting in Santa Monica

How it works

More dog-friendly travel guides near Santa Monica

Thinking about house sitting near Santa Monica, 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.

Pet-friendly Santa Monica - FAQs

Are dogs allowed at Santa Monica beach?

No, dogs are not allowed on Santa Monica beach, but there are dog-friendly beaches nearby, including Rosie’s Dog Beach, Huntington Dog Beach and Leo Carillo State Beach.

Are dogs allowed at Santa Monica Pier?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Santa Monica Pier, but they should be kept on a leash at all times.

What are the rules for dogs on the Santa Monica boardwalk?

Dogs are welcome on Santa Monica boardwalk at any time, but they must be kept on a leash.

Are dogs allowed on the public transport in Santa Monica?

Yes, but they must be transported in a carrier on the Big Blue Bus and the Metro E line. Always check ahead of time and consider an alternative form of transport if bringing your dog.

What's the closest dog beach to Santa Monica?

The closest dog beach to Santa Monica is Rosie’s Dog Beach, in Long Beach.