Ocean Beach (Stairwell 21 to Sloat Boulevard)

Dogs on a leash from July 1 to May 15. Off-leash the rest of the time

Snowy Plover Protection Area: 6-foot leash from July 1 to May 15. Voice control the rest of the time.

Source: National Park Service, Golden Gate NRA Superintendent's Compendium. Checked October 28, 2026.

Shorebird nesting areas can close to dogs at short notice. Follow the signs at the beach.

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Golden Gate National Recreation Area: the rule in full

Under the 1979 Pet Policy, dogs may be leashed or under voice control at Fort Funston (except the 12-acre closure in the northwest) and Ocean Beach. In the Ocean Beach Snowy Plover Protection Area, from Stairwell 21 south to Sloat Boulevard, dogs must be on a leash of 6 feet or less from July 1 to May 15 (36 CFR 7.97(d)). Pick up after your dog.

Dog walks nearby

• Cross Marin TrailDogs on a leash all year

Nearby beaches

• Ocean Beach (north of Stairwell 21)Off-leash dogs allowed all year
• Fort FunstonOff-leash dogs allowed all year
• Kehoe BeachDogs on a leash all year
• Mitchell's CoveOff-leash dogs allowed midnight to 10am and 4pm to midnight, all year. Dogs allowed the rest of the time (local leash laws apply)
• Carmel BeachOff-leash dogs allowed all year