If you’re traveling with man’s best friend on the Pacific side of the country, consider sharing some surf time together. Southern California's wide, sandy beaches are fun for everyone. Some allow dogs, but only if they're kept on a leash at all times.

First, obey the rules. Dogs must have valid state licenses and required shots. Visitors are usually limited to one dog per adult person. Dogs must be in good medical condition and not aggressive. Clean up thoroughly after dogs. Obey time limits. Bring fresh water and dog snacks. You may prefer beaches where dogs can run free, and enjoy the sand and water without restriction. Here are some great off-leash dog beaches in Southern California. Rosie's Dog Beach (1 Argonne Ave, Long Beach, CA 90803. www.longbeach.gov) This is the only off-leash beach in the Los Angeles area. It's a relatively small park-like area along the shore near Belmont Pier, with parking is on Ocean Boulevard. A short stroll away are Long Beach's Second Street shops. All are dog-friendly, and many offer snacks, food and other pet-related items. Rosie's Dog Beach hours are from 6 AM-8 PM.

Coronado Dog Beach (100 Ocean Boulevard, Coronado, CA 92118. www.coronado.ca.us) The leash-free area is designated on the western beach, on Ocean Boulevard from Sunset Park on Ocean Drive to the Coronado Naval Air Station. There are parking areas on Ocean Boulevard several hundred yards away, and strict local law requires keeping dogs on leashes until within the designated dog beach area.

Fiesta Island Off-leash Dog Park (Fiesta Island Road, San Diego CA 92123. www.fidosd.org) Much of this island in San Diego's Mission Bay, across from Sea World, is a fenced-off, designated leash-free area. A local organization provides free bowls and water. For dogs in this free-run zone, the fun is limitless, while for humans, the sand, surf and cityscape views are absolutely beautiful. Hours are from 4 AM-10 PM.

Huntington Beach Dog Beach (100 Goldenwest St., Huntington Beach CA 92648. www.dogbeach.org) The no-leash area is located along the Pacific Coast Highway. Membership and donations are solicited, but not required. Dogs are permitted off-leash in the water and on the wet sand in a designated beach area.

Because of the popularity of the no-leash beach, it gets crowded on weekends. Vendors sell doggie treats, water, bowls and other pet needs. There are two lots and street parking nearby, with automated meters, cost $2 per hour. An all-year parking meter permit is available. The park is open from 5 AM to 10 PM.