The Pelican Inn sits right at the edge of Muir Beach, where the road meets the coast—a Tudor-style building that feels transplanted from the English countryside rather than perched above the Pacific. Inside, low dark beams, stone fireplace, and dim lighting create the kind of cozy atmosphere that makes you want to stay longer than you planned. The kitchen does solid British pub fare: fish and chips, steak and kidney pie, burgers, and a respectable wine list. It’s the kind of place locals actually return to, not just tourists passing through on Highway 1.

Dogs can join you on the patio, which wraps around the front and side of the building with both covered and open sections. The covered area has heat lamps, so even on cool Marin coast days the space stays comfortable. Water bowls appear without asking, and the staff treats dogs as regular guests rather than tolerated additions. Dogs stay outside on the patio—they can’t enter the dining room—but the patio seating is substantial enough that you won’t feel squeezed or secondary.

Muir Beach itself is a quiet residential community about 15 miles north of San Francisco on CA-1. The Pelican sits at 10 Pacific Way, where the main road curves through town. Parking is on-street and can get tight on weekends, but there’s usually space within a block or two. The patio opens year-round, though winter months are cooler and foggier. From here, you’re about 20 minutes from Muir Beach overlook and roughly 10 minutes north of Stinson Beach if you want to combine a meal with coastal hiking. The kitchen closes by 9 p.m. most nights, so plan accordingly if you’re coming after work.