Address:37.775988, -122.511314 Parking: Free parking lot at the address above, or at the end of Sloat Blvd. You can also park in the nearby neighborhood, or at either of the Lands End parking lots and walk down. The Ocean Beach parking lots close at 10 P.M. Hours: Not posted; parking lot closes at 10 P.M. Type: Beach Regulations: Dogs allowed on-leash Best time to visit: Summer CAUTION: Keep your dog on leash, as this ocean is known for powerful rip currents Description: This is a beautiful 3.5 mile long stretch of beach that offers one of the best places to watch the sunset. Although the waves are powerful, and the water is very cold, it's a fun place to soak up the sun or dip your toes in the water. You'll often see people playing ball with their dogs on the beach, away from the water. This is a great place to go for a scenic walk anytime of year, as long as it's not a windy day, because it's very cold and the sand blows upward. Off-leash regulations have changed over the years, and I've heard that the North end is off-leash, but if you cross Lincoln Way, leashes are required. However, because of the powerful currents, I would not recommend taking your dog off-leash. Restrooms on the North end of the beach are at the Beach Chalet. At the South end, there are resorts and showers in the parking lot at the end of Sloat Blvd. Bonfires are also allowed on this beach during certain times of the year, in certain areas, until 9 P.M. Fire pits are currently on a first-come basis, but the NPS has plans to require permits and fees in the near future. See link below for regulations: