the beach is home

Ocean Beach's Dog Beach is a small stretch of sand where the San Diego River meets the Pacific Ocean. It's a 24-hour leash-free park where people and dogs alike run around and play in the sand and waves. There's no place like it. I meet locals and tourists regularly, even several folks who trek down from Orange and Riverside Counties with their dogs for the weekend just to visit (luckily there is a dog-friendly hotel at its heels).

My husband and I began visiting Dog Beach nearly 3 years ago. Not only was Ronnie my boyfriend back then, but we didn't even have a dog. My friend Carla drove her pooches here from Poway (20+ miles away) every Sunday for a little R&R, so we joined her every once in a while just to enjoy her company and dogs.

When our 2.5-year old French Bulldog, Tempest, joined the family in 2005, every Sunday became family day at the beach. Whether she ran in the waves or chased sand flies solo, or played chase and be chased with everyone from the MinPins to the Dalmations, it was one great hour or two each week we looked forward to. Quickly, it was every Sunday AND Saturday.

Now, we've got our 2nd Frenchie, Riptide, and the little rascals have me there every day. I say it's for them, but I'm the first to miss it if we're not there for a day.

This beach isn't for everyone, nor every dog, but it's a little slice of heaven for my family. I've met many a character (both canine and human). I'll introduce you to our beach friends and share stories of our visits, so stay tuned.