Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. in Monterey sits right on the water with views of Monterey Bay, and you can actually bring your dog along to the outdoor patio. It’s an easy walk from the Monterey Bay Aquarium if you’re spending the day exploring the area with your dog.

The restaurant focuses on seafood—shrimp dishes especially, as you’d expect from the name—and the patio gives you that classic coastal vibe without feeling pretentious. The location is genuinely excellent for combining a few activities in one afternoon. You can walk the aquarium, grab lunch here, and let your dog experience the bay air and people-watching that comes with waterfront dining in Monterey.

They’re straightforward about their dog policy: well-behaved dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio. It’s worth calling ahead if you’re planning to bring your dog, just to confirm they have availability on the patio and to let them know your dog will be joining you. Patio seating can fill up, especially on weekends and during peak tourist season, and they might need to know in advance depending on how busy they are that day.

The restaurant has that established chain feel—it’s part of a larger group—so you know what you’re getting in terms of service standards and menu consistency. The seafood is solid, portions are generous, and the view itself is part of what you’re paying for. Eating with your dog on a Monterey Bay patio on a clear day is a nice way to spend a few hours without having to choose between exploring the area and bringing your dog along. Just time your visit to avoid the peak afternoon crowds if you want a more relaxed experience with easier patio access.