Carmel-by-the-Sea is consistently ranked one of the most dog-friendly communities in all of America. The artsy hamlet between Monterey and Big Sur boasts loose leash laws, broad beaches, a walkable village, pet boutiques, urban wine tasting rooms and excellent eateries. No leashes are required on the one-mile expanse of cypress-lined Carmel Beach, the city’s most popular beach where pups can frolic to their heart’s content.
Find solitude and serenity at lesser-trafficked Carmel River State Beach, where leashes are required and the lagoon creates a rich habitat for bird watching. Mission Trail Nature Preserve serves up woodsy vibes on a three-mile on-leash trek through the park’s 34 shaded acres.
In town, water bowls and leash hitching posts line the streets in front of eclectic shops and restaurants. The grandest watering hole is Carmel Plaza’s Fountain of Woof, a dedicated doggie drinking fountain, which sets the stage for the quintessential Carmel photo op. Must-shops include Cottage of Sweets with its doggy treats section as well as Diggidy Dog, a vast pet boutique.
You’ll be spoiled with plentiful patio dining options. When it comes to splurging on a nice dinner out, Grasing’s Coastal Cuisine has been a community darling for decades and small, well-behaved pups are also welcome on the patio at Michelin-starred standout Chez Noir.
More than half of Carmel’s 40-plus accommodations are pet friendly. A boutique newcomer, Le Petit Pali at Ocean Avenue exudes style and charm. Carmel’s first hotel, the modestly priced Pine Inn is a local landmark located in the action. And Doris Day’s iconic Cypress Inn hosts a “yappy hour” for pups.
