Santa Barbara isn’t just a beautiful place for humans—our dogs love it here too! From beaches to parks to outdoor cafes, this city is packed with places where your furry friend is more than welcome. If you’re looking for the best dog-friendly spots to take your pup, we’ve got you covered. We bring Bruno and Oliver everywhere! Here are the top five places in Santa Barbara that your dog will love as much as you do.

1. Hendry’s Beach (Arroyo Burro Beach)

If your dog loves the beach, Hendry’s Beach is where you need to be. It’s one of the most popular dog-friendly beaches in Santa Barbara, and there’s a specific off-leash area where your pup can run free and splash in the waves. The vibe here is super laid-back, and you’ll see plenty of other dog owners enjoying the coastal views while their dogs have a blast.

Plus, there’s a self-serve dog wash station right at the parking lot, so for $10 you can clean up your sandy pup before heading home.

• Pro Tip: Check out The Boathouse for a meal or a drink afterward—they’ve got dog-friendly outdoor seating!

2. Douglas Family Preserve

Right up the hill from Hendry’s Beach, Douglas Family Preserve is an off-leash haven for dogs. It’s a huge, scenic area with miles of trails, stunning ocean views, and plenty of room for your dog to explore. The park is dog-friendly throughout, and it’s great if your pup loves a good hike or needs to burn off some energy. There are benches along the way where you can relax while your dog roams.

This place is especially beautiful during golden hour, so grab your leash and take in the sunset with your furry friend.

3. The Funk Zone

If you want to mix a little art, wine, and outdoor fun, head to The Funk Zone. This hip area of town is full of tasting rooms, breweries, and outdoor art galleries—and most of them are super dog-friendly! Many of the wine tasting rooms here welcome dogs to hang out with you on the patio, so you can enjoy a glass of local wine while your dog lounges at your feet.

It’s a great spot to wander around, check out the street art, and enjoy a laid-back afternoon with your pup by your side.

• Pro Tip: Bring a water bowl for your dog—some places have them, but it’s always good to have your own just in case!

4. Elings Park

Elings Park is another fantastic dog-friendly spot that offers a little bit of everything. It’s a huge park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and plenty of open space for your dog to run around. While some parts of the park require leashes, there’s a dedicated off-leash area where your dog can play freely. The views from Elings are incredible too—you can see the ocean from many of the trails.

It’s perfect for a mellow day out, whether you’re hiking or just lounging in the grass while your dog enjoys the space to roam.

5. Inspiration Point

For the hiking enthusiasts, Inspiration Point is a local favorite that’s dog-friendly and offers some of the best views in Santa Barbara. This moderate trail is about 3.5 miles round-trip and takes you through lush, shady areas before opening up to stunning panoramic views of the city and coastline. Dogs need to stay on-leash here, but it’s the perfect spot for a morning or afternoon hike if your pup loves to get out and explore the trails.

• Pro Tip: Bring plenty of water for both you and your dog—there’s not much shade at the top!

Now, go and spoil them rotten!

The Dirty Dog Wash & Goods

This boutique offers a range of unique, handmade pet goods along with self-serve and professional dog washes. It's a local favorite for both pampering and pet products.

Website: thedirtydogsb.com​

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Boss Dog Art Department

Another great spot for unique and art-inspired dog products. This boutique focuses on high-quality and often artistic pieces for your pets, making it a fun place to shop for something special.

Website: bossdogart.com​