Guide to Carmel - 2026–2027

Romp in the Sand. Take a sunrise walk on Carmel Beach and watch the sky fill with color. Scan for dolphins in the surf while throwing the perfect Frisbee toss or lob a ball in the fine white sand. Dogs can be leash- free on the beach if under voice control. Finish your outing with coffee on the outdoor patio at The Carmel Coffee House and Roasting Company. Take to the Hills. Garland Ranch Regional Park in Carmel Valley is an outdoor playground with a variety of trails. Waterfall Trail has lots of steps to get Fido good and tired or take Mesa Trail for a leisurely ramble. Dogs under visual or voice control can be off leash and there is plenty to sniff and see. Have lunch at the Barnyard Shopping Village on your way back to civilization. VillageWalkabout. Stroll the charming streets and browse the boutiques—most shops welcome well- behaved dogs inside.When hunger strikes, pull up a patio chair at nearly any restaurant in town, many of which offer dedicated dog menus so your four-legged companion can dine in style too. Don’t miss Diggidy Dog on Ocean Avenue or Carmel Dog Shop on Lincoln for toys, treats, and adorable outfits—your pup may never want to leave! Scenic Vistas. Carmel River State Beach can be accessed from Scenic Drive. Keep your dog on leash while views over rocky outcrops take your breath away. Point Lobos State Reserve is easily viewed in the distance from this beach and marine life can be spotted in the bay off Monastery Beach.Then see and be seen at Carmel’s best- known dog-friendly spot, Cypress Inn, where Rover can sprawl out in the courtyard. Fun is Your Mission. Start at the trailhead across from Carmel Mission and meander Mission Trail. The soft wood chips make a run a good option here and the incline gives you a good workout. Offshoot trails pro- vide sensory and visual appeal for both you and your dog and you can even spot the Carmel Mission bell tower. Back in Carmel, have lunch or dinner outside at Little Napoli. Daily – Keep Carmel dog-friendly by always picking up after your pet. Dog-Friendly Kelli Uldall E X P L O R E T H E M A G I C O F C A R M E L