With Dogs
Off-leash play at Olde Port Beach, early and late hours on the main beach, and leashed walks on the Bob Jones Trail.
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- Off-leash beach
- Olde Port Beach, any time, under voice control
- Avila Beach
- Dogs before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m. only
- No dogs
- Fisherman's Beach, Pecho Coast Trail, the farmers market
- Trails
- Bob Jones Trail and Sycamore Crest Trail, on leash
Avila is a good beach town for dogs if you know the rules. One beach is off-leash all day, the main beach is open to dogs in the morning and evening, and the main walking trail welcomes leashed dogs. The rules below come from the Port San Luis Harbor District's beach regulations.
Dog beaches
Olde Port Beach
The dog beach. Dogs can be off-leash under voice control at any time of day. It's a sheltered cove between downtown and Harford Pier, with soft sand and calm water. Small boats launch here too, so watch for vehicles on the sand. See Olde Port Beach.
Avila Beach (downtown)
Dogs are allowed off-leash under voice control before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m. daily. Between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., only service dogs are allowed. Morning walks here before the crowds arrive are one of the best things about Avila. See Avila Beach and the promenade.
Fisherman's Beach
No dogs. See Fisherman's Beach.
Dog-friendly trails
- Bob Jones Trail: about 2.5 miles each way, mostly flat and shaded. Leashed dogs are welcome.
- Sycamore Crest Trail: a short, steep climb to ocean views from Sycamore Mineral Springs. Dogs are welcome. Park off the resort lot. See hiking.
- Shell Beach Bluff Trail: a flat, paved bluff walk just south of Avila. Check posted leash rules.
Where dogs can't go
- Pecho Coast Trail to Point San Luis Lighthouse: no pets.
- The Friday farmers market: no pets.
- Avila Hot Springs campsites: no dogs.
- Avila Beach between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., except service dogs.
Tips for the day
Afternoons on the main beach are off limits, so plan a morning beach walk, a midday trail or a drive out to Olde Port Beach, and an evening walk on the sand at sunset. Keep dogs well away from sea lions and harbor seals. For dog-friendly places to stay, see hotels and vacation rentals, and ask about pet policies when you book.
Local tips
- Bring water and a bowl. There's little shade on the sand.
- Pick up after your dog and carry extra bags; the beaches are busy and small.
- Keep your dog away from sea lions and seals on the beach or rocks.
- Do the Bob Jones Trail early on summer weekends, before bikes and strollers crowd it.
Frequently asked questions
Are dogs allowed on Avila Beach?
Yes, before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m. daily, off-leash under voice control. Between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. only service dogs are allowed.
Is there an off-leash dog beach in Avila?
Yes. Olde Port Beach, between downtown and Harford Pier, allows dogs off-leash under voice control.
Are dogs allowed on the Bob Jones Trail?
Yes, on a leash.
Can dogs go on the Point San Luis Lighthouse hike?
No. Pets aren't allowed on the PG&E Pecho Coast Trail.
