DogMapOn-leash only · Cardiff-by-the-Sea · 2400 Coast Hwy 101, Cardiff, CA 92007
Cardiff State Beach
Dogs welcome on a 6-ft leash — no off-leash here. A lovely leashed sunset stroll; no dogs on the adjacent San Elijo lagoon trails.
On-leash onlyThe facts
- Off-leashOn-leash only
- FencedNo — open
- WaterOcean surf
- Size~1 mi
- HoursOn-leash only · beach hours
- SurfaceSand
Parking & access
Paid state-beach lot off Coast Hwy 101.
About Cardiff State Beach
Cardiff State Beach is a paid on-leash only in Encinitas, California where dogs are welcome on-leash only. It's unfenced, with ocean surf. Size: ~1 mi.
Rules verified · source: California State Parks
Cardiff State Beach: FAQ
- Can my dog be off-leash at Cardiff State Beach?
- No — dogs are welcome at Cardiff State Beach, but must stay on a leash (≤ 6 ft) at all times.
- Is Cardiff State Beach fenced?
- No — Cardiff State Beach is open/unfenced, so reliable recall is recommended.
- Can my dog swim at Cardiff State Beach?
- Yes — Cardiff State Beach has ocean surf to swim in. Pack fresh water and check conditions before you go.
- Is Cardiff State Beach free?
- Cardiff State Beach is paid or ticketed — Paid state-beach lot off Coast Hwy 101.
- Where can my dog be off-leash right now?
- Open the live DogMap map — each spot shows whether off-leash is allowed at the current date and time, including seasonal and time-of-day limits.