Off-leash options range from fully fenced neighborhood runs with double-gated entries to open multi-use city parks with designated off-leash boundaries. Some locations feature separate enclosures for small or shy dogs, agility equipment, and surfaced ground like turf or wood chips, while others are natural dirt trails near water. Knowing the enclosure style, shade availability, and ground surface helps you pick a spot suited to your dog's size and recall reliability.
-
Herb Katz Dog Park
2300-2398 7th St, Santa Monica, CA 90405
7:30am-8:30pm, maintenance times
-
Airport Park Dog Park
3201 Airport Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90405
-
Santa Monica Airport Dog Park
3201 Airport Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90405
-
DOG PPL
3440 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405-3302
-
Dog Park
2100 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90405-2216
-
DOG PPL - Dog Park, Bar, Cafe & Lounge
3440 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405, Santa Monica, CA 90401
-
Pacific Street Park
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Also in Santa Monica
- 6
- 5
- 4
- 4
More in Santa Monica and California
- All dog parks, shelters, trainers and boarding kennels in Santa Monica26
- Dog Parks & Off-Leash Areas across California598
Dog Parks & Off-Leash Areas near Santa Monica
- San Diego36
- San Francisco25
- Sacramento22
- Los Angeles21
- San Jose14
- Long Beach12
- Huntington Beach7
- Alameda6
Good to know
What is the difference between a fully fenced park and an off-leash area?
Fully fenced parks use perimeter chain-link or wood fencing, often with double-gated entry airlocks to prevent dogs from escaping when people enter or leave. Designated off-leash areas may rely on natural boundaries, trails, or voice-control rules without complete physical fencing. If your dog is prone to bolting or lacks strong recall, a fully enclosed park is usually the safer choice.
Are dog parks free to use?
Most public municipal dog parks are free to enter and open during standard park hours. Some county reserves or specialized private parks require daily entrance fees, annual permits, or keycard access to ensure user registration and park maintenance. Expect day passes at private or pay-to-play parks to typically run between $5 and $15 per visit.
Do dog parks separate large and small dogs?
Many modern parks feature at least two distinct fenced sections: one reserved for dogs under 25 or 30 pounds and another for larger breeds. Smaller neighborhood runs or rustic trail areas might only offer a single shared space for all sizes. Checking park layouts in advance helps prevent accidental play conflicts between dogs of vastly different weights.