Limantour Beach Dog Rules: Allowed Area, Leash Policy and Map
Dogs are not permitted throughout all of Limantour Beach. They are allowed only within a designated section of South Limantour Beach, southeast of the main parking lot.
The permitted section begins where the main Limantour Beach access path reaches the beach. From that point, dogs may travel southeast, or to the left when facing Drakes Bay, toward Coast Camp. The permitted area ends where rocky outcrops begin rising above the sand south of Coast Campground.
Dogs must remain on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Posted closures and temporary wildlife-protection measures may further restrict access.
Where Dogs Are Allowed
- On the direct access path leading south from the main Limantour Beach parking lot to the beach
- On the beach southeast of the main access path
- To the left when facing Drakes Bay from the main beach entrance
- Along approximately 2 miles, or 3 kilometers, of South Limantour Beach
- From the main beach access point to the rocky outcrops south of Coast Campground
Being near Coast Camp does not mean dogs may enter the campground. Dogs and other pets are prohibited inside Coast Campground.
Where Dogs Are Prohibited
- West of the main Limantour Beach access path
- On Limantour Spit
- Beyond the rocky outcrops south of Coast Campground
- Inside Coast Campground
- On most trails beginning at the Limantour Beach Trailhead
- In wildlife-protection areas marked as closed
- In any area temporarily closed by the National Park Service
Do not use the general rule “dogs are allowed at Limantour Beach.” Permission applies only to the designated South Limantour Beach section.
Official NPS Dog-Area Map
The National Park Service map shows the Point Reyes beaches where leashed pets are permitted. Check the marked South Limantour Beach boundary before beginning your walk.
Leash and Control Requirements
- Use a leash no longer than 6 feet, or 1.8 meters.
- Keep the leash attached and under physical control at all times.
- Do not allow a dog to run loose, even when the beach appears empty.
- Do not use the beach as an off-leash exercise area.
- Do not tie a dog to an object and leave it unattended.
- Do not allow persistent barking or other unreasonable noise.
- Keep dogs away from birds, seals and other wildlife.
- Collect all dog waste and remove it from the beach.
A long line that extends beyond 6 feet does not meet the park’s leash requirement.
Finding the Permitted Section
- Park in a designated Limantour Beach parking area.
- Use the main beach access path at the south end of the main parking lot.
- Follow the path directly to the beach.
- When facing Drakes Bay, turn left and travel southeast.
- Remain on the sandy beach within the designated section.
- Turn around before reaching the rocky outcrops south of Coast Campground.
Do not turn right after reaching the beach. The area to the west of the main access path, including Limantour Spit, is closed to pets.
Trails and Coast Camp Restrictions
Most trails beginning near Limantour Beach do not permit pets. The exception relevant to a beach visit is the direct path leading south from the main parking area to the permitted beach section.
Dogs may not be taken onto nearby hiking trails simply because they begin close to a dog-permitted beach. Pets are also prohibited inside Coast Campground, including when their owners hold a camping permit.
Follow all trailhead signs rather than assuming a leash makes a trail pet-friendly.
Wildlife Closures Can Change Access
Point Reyes protects nesting birds, resting marine mammals and other sensitive wildlife. Temporary, seasonal or emergency closures can override the normal pet boundary.
- Read all signs at the parking area and beach entrance.
- Do not cross ropes, fencing or symbolic closure markers.
- Keep dogs well away from shorebirds and marine mammals.
- Leave the area if wildlife reacts to the dog’s presence.
- Check official closure notices on the day of the visit.
Parking and Beach Access
Limantour Beach is reached by following Bear Valley Road to Limantour Road. The final drive is narrow, winding and hilly.
The main parking lot is closest to the access path used to reach the dog-permitted section. Parking and regular entrance to Point Reyes National Seashore are free.
Parking demand can be higher on weekends, holidays and days with favorable weather. Park only in designated areas and do not block gates, roads or emergency routes.
See the Limantour Beach parking guide for parking capacities, lot surfaces, toilet locations and walking routes.
Water and Beach Safety for Dogs
- There are no lifeguards at Point Reyes beaches.
- Cold water can affect dogs as well as people.
- Rip currents, rough surf and unexpected waves remain possible.
- Keep the leash short when walking near the water.
- Do not allow a dog to chase birds into the surf.
- Do not assume smaller-looking waves mean the water is safe.
- Bring fresh drinking water and do not rely on natural water sources.
- Check paws for cuts, thorns, hot sand or debris after the walk.
Before Visiting With a Dog
- Bring a leash measuring no more than 6 feet.
- Bring waste bags and carry filled bags out of the beach area.
- Pack sufficient fresh water for both the dog and handler.
- Review the official map before arriving.
- Check current wildlife closures and beach conditions.
- Use the direct path from the main parking lot to the beach.
- Turn southeast after reaching the sand.
- Remain outside Limantour Spit, nearby trails and Coast Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed everywhere at Limantour Beach?
No. Dogs are allowed only on the designated South Limantour Beach section southeast of the main parking lot. They are prohibited west of the main access path, including on Limantour Spit.
Where does the dog-permitted section begin?
It begins where the main parking lot’s direct access path reaches the beach. When facing Drakes Bay, turn left and continue southeast.
Where does the permitted section end?
The permitted section ends where rocky outcrops begin rising above the sand south of Coast Campground, approximately 2 miles or 3 kilometers southeast of the main access point.
Can dogs enter Coast Campground?
No. Pets are prohibited inside Coast Campground, even though the designated dog-permitted beach section extends toward the beach near the campground.
Can dogs use the trails near the parking lot?
Dogs are prohibited on most trails beginning at the Limantour Beach Trailhead. They may use the direct path from the main parking area to the permitted beach section while restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
Can dogs be off leash on the beach?
No. Dogs must remain on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times, including within the designated pet-permitted section.
Can wildlife closures change the dog rules?
Yes. Temporary, seasonal or emergency closures may further restrict pet access. Posted signs and current National Park Service closure notices take priority over the normal boundary.
Information last checked: July 21, 2026. Pet boundaries and wildlife closures may change. Confirm the current rules and posted signs before entering the beach.
