Dog-Friendly Beaches in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel is probably the most dog-obsessed small town on the California coast. Carmel Beach permits dogs off-leash under voice control, and the village behind it leans into it — patios put out water bowls, shops keep treats behind the counter, and hotels advertise dog beds as a matter of course. It is a short, walkable destination that works well as a one- or two-night stop.
Leash rules and seasonal restrictions
Carmel Beach allows dogs off-leash under voice control; owners must maintain control and clean up. Neighbouring Carmel River State Beach and Point Lobos have stricter rules — Point Lobos State Natural Reserve does not allow dogs on trails at all.
Rules change season to season — confirm with the city or county before you travel.
Beaches to check out
Carmel River State Beach
26478 Carmelo St, Carmel, CA 93923, USA
4.8
This mile-long beach offers bird watching opportunities & a popular scuba diving entry point.
Open in Maps →Carmel Beach
Carmel Beach, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921, USA
4.8
Curving white sandy beach backed by cypress trees known for surfing, dog walking & sunsets.
Open in Maps →Carmel Beach
Carmel Beach, California, USA
4.8
White sandy beach backed by a trail & cypress trees popular for dog walking, volleyball & surfing.
Open in Maps →Garrapata State Park
34500 CA-1, Carmel, CA 93923, USA
4.8
Park with 2 miles of beachfront & coastal hiking, including a 50-foot climb to a Pacific Ocean view.
Open in Maps →Asilomar State Beach
Sunset Dr, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, USA
4.8
Tranquil place featuring a 1-mi. stretch of sandy beach & rocky coves, along with a walking trail.
Open in Maps →Pfeiffer Beach
9101 Sycamore Canyon Rd, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA
4.6
Part of Los Padres National Forest, this beach is open for day use, with available paid parking.
Open in Maps →Mara Beach Carmel
Mara Beach Carmel, 26495 Scenic Rd, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, USA
4.8
Open in Maps →Mission Trail Park
Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921, USA
4.6
Former estate that is now a 33-acre nature preserve with 5 miles of trails through pine & redwood.
Open in Maps →Lovers Point Beach
Pacific Grove, CA 93950, USA
4.8
Quaint public beach with a rocky point break popular with surfers, swimmers & boaters.
Open in Maps →
Pet-friendly stays and dining in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Planning a trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea?
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