Carmel / Monterey: Dog-Friendly Guide + Itineraries
Who knew that the beaches in Carmel and Monterey could be so stunning? These dog-friendly coastal gems offer more than just scenic views — both towns are full of charm, unique local spots, and a laid-back vibe that makes it easy to unwind. 🐚☀️
Whether you’re strolling through Carmel’s art-filled streets or enjoying the ocean breeze in Monterey, you’ll find plenty to explore. And the best part? They're incredibly dog-friendly, so your furry friends can join in on the adventure too! 💎🐶
It’s the ideal destination to celebrate something special or just escape for a relaxing weekend getaway. Choose your own adventure with our dog-friendly guides covering all the best places to eat, stay, & play, or jump below to our itineraries!
WHERE TO EAT / DRINK
Stationaery (Carmel): Grab brunch for you & your dog (they have a dog menu!). Make a reservation before 10AM to make sure you can get the potato pancake! Yelp | Website
Dutch Door Donuts (Carmel): Freshly made donuts that were so light & delicious! The blackberry lime flavor glazed donut was the best, but honestly every flavor we’ve tried was delicious 🤤 Yelp | Website
Folktale Winery (Carmel): Pair the signature flight with the charcuterie board for the perfect afternoon tasting. While it’s pretty spacious, I would recommend making a reservation beforehand Yelp | Website
Chez Noir (Carmel): Celebrate a special occasion on their cozy patio & enjoy their delicious tasting menu Yelp | Website
Alvarado Street Brewery (Carmel/Monterey): Enjoy a beer on the cute patio (Monterey) or in the courtyard (Carmel) Website
Captain + Stoker (Monterey): Grab a coffee to charge up for the day Yelp
Ad Astra Bakery (Monterey): The baked goods were all delicious, but the breakfast sandwich really stood out to us! They also have coffee & other drinks, so it’s a great option for breakfast Yelp | Website
Stokes Adobe (Monterey): Relax on their cute patio and enjoy dinner & craft cocktails Yelp | Website
Potato pancake at Stationaery
Dinner & craft cocktails at Stokes Adobe
Fresh donuts at Dutch Door Donuts
WHERE TO STAY
Free bike rentals at Le Petit Pali
Stillwell (Carmel): Modern rooms that are within walking distance to all the shops & restaurants and a 5 min drive to the beach. Free parking Yelp | Website
Le Petit Pali (Carmel): Charming, cozy rooms within walking distance to all the shops & restaurants. They have bikes that are free to rent & breakfast is included. Free parking at Ocean Ave location Website
Portola Hotel & Spa (Monterey): 7 min drive from the Monterey Bay Aquarium & within walking distance to many restaurants, cafes & bakeries. Only 10 min drive to Carmel if you’re looking for a more affordable option. Free parking Yelp | Website
WHAT TO DO
Monterey Bay Kayak: Rent a double kayak for 4 hours ($38/person) and see the sea lions! They swim up pretty close to the kayaks 😮 Don’t forget to bring a life jacket for your pup! Yelp | Website
Carmel Beach: Run & play on the super beautiful, off-leash beach with the softest white sand! Be sure to bring a blanket for when you find a super nice spot to enjoy the sunset
Explore all the small shops & alleyways like Der Ling Lane
Mad Dogs & Englishmen Bike Shop: Rent a bike with a sidecar to ride along the beach and explore the famous 17-Mile Drive! Your dog is going to love the wind in their ears! Yelp | Website
Garland Ranch Waterfall Loop Hike: Immerse yourself in nature on this nice peaceful hike. If you go after the rainy season, you may get to see the waterfall! AllTrails
Tobi enjoying the comfy bed at Le Petit Pali
Watching the sunset at Carmel Beach
Captain Tobi kayaking in Monterey
2 DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1 —
🍳 Brunch at Stationaery
🥾 Hike Garland Ranch Waterfall Loop Hike
🍩 Eat fresh donuts at Dutch Door Donuts
👟 Explore all the small shops & alleyways like Der Ling Lane
🛏️ Check in
🍷 Pair the signature flight with the charcuterie board at Folktale Winery
🌊 Watch the sunset at Carmel Beach
DAY 2 —
☕ Grab a coffee at Captain + Stoker
🚣♂️ Rent a double kayak at Monterey Bay Kayak
🍺 Reward yourself with a beer at Alvarado Street Brewery
🍪 Enjoy a pandan roll from Taevada Treats
🍽️ Relax on Stokes Adobe’s cute patio for dinner & drinks