California is home to two of the best beaches in the nation for dogs, according to USA Today.

The publication recently released its list of the top 10 dog-friendly beaches in the United States in 2024.

“Dog-friendly beaches offer slices of paradise where you can share the joy of sun, sand and surf with your furry friend,” USA Today said. “Many of these beaches provide amenities like cleaning stations and water fountains, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable experience for both pets and owners.”

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Here are the top spots where dogs can make a splash in California:

Blue skies came out during a break in the rain on Sunday in Pismo Beach, where Shaun Perisho and dog Bodie strolled along the shore at low tide. David Middlecamp dmiddlecamp@thetribunenews.com

Where are the best beaches for dogs in California?

According to USA Today, Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach is a top spot “for those in search of an early morning recreation area in the southern reaches of Los Angeles County.”

The beach, which landed at No. 6 on the publication’s top 10, boasts an 4.1-acre off-leash recreation area.

“Balmy California weather and soft sand” are among the draws at Coronado Dog Beach in San Diego County, No. 9 on USA Today’s list.

“Dogs are welcome to surge through the surf without a leash, while gorgeous coastal vistas can be found as far as the eye can see,” the publication said.

What are the top 10 dog-friendly beaches in the US?

These are the top 10 dog-friendly beaches in the United States, according to USA Today:

  1. Jupiter Dog Beach in Jupiter Florida
  2. Seaside Beach in Seaside, Oregon
  3. Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis, Maryland
  4. Freeman Park in Carolina Beach, North Carolina
  5. Cannon Beach in Oregon
  6. Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach
  7. Fort De Soto Park in Tierra Verde, Florida
  8. Port Aransas Beach in Texas
  9. Coronado Dog Beach
  10. Nags Head in North Carolina

How did USA Today come up with rankings?

To come up with USA Today’s Best 10 Readers’ Choice Awards for 2024, a panel of experts selected nominees across a number of categories.

The publication’s readers then voted for their favorites.

USA Today readers have also ranked the best dog-friendly parks, dog bars and pet-friendly hotels in the nation.

Two California spots are on USA Today’s list of the top 10 dog-friendly beaches in the nation. Andrew Pons on Unsplash
Sarah Linn is an assistant editor and reporter on the California Service Journalism Team, working with journalists in Sacramento, Modesto and San Luis Obispo. She previously served as the Local/Entertainment Editor of The Tribune in San Luis Obispo, working there for nearly two decades. A graduate of Oregon State University, she has earned multiple California journalism awards.