Dog Friendly Activities in Monterey County

Booking a vacation with your dog has become more and more popular these days, and Monterey has become a hot destination for those looking to bring their furry friends along. There are a variety of dog friendly activities in Monterey from whale watching to shopping, we'll show you the several activities and locations where you and your pup can enjoy this destination.

Exploring the Great Outdoors

Monterey is known for its breathtaking beaches and vistas, and you'll be able to explore numerous parks and trails with your dog. Here are some outdoor activities to consider when you're here:

• Visit the scenic, white sand Carmel Beach. Dogs are permitted off leash and can enjoy the waves and sand.
• Take a stroll along the Monterey Coastal Recreation Trail. This trail offers stunning ocean views and stretches from Pacific Grove to Castroville.
• Enjoy the scenic trails at Jacks Peak Park.
• Explore the trails of Garland Ranch Regional Park, where they have some areas where dogs are allowed to walk off-leash.

Cafes and Restaurants

After exploring the outdoors, you may want to relax. There are many dog-friendly cafes and restaurants in the area. Check out these places where you can enjoy a meal with your dog:

• Jacks Monterey, our onsite restaurant welcomes dogs. Enjoy a delicious breakfast or dinner right here at the hotel.
• Peter B's, our on-site craft brewery, re-opening early summer 2025, offers pet-friendly dining on our heated patio.
• Alta Bakery & Cafe offers dog-friendly outdoor seating.
• Captain + Stoker is a dog-friendly coffee shop just a short walk from the Portola Hotel & Spa.

Dog-Friendly Beaches and Parks

Monterey features several beaches and parks that welcome dogs. Visiting these spots allows for fun in the sun and sand. Here are some great locations:

• Asilomar State Beach has gorgeous trails and a sandy beach towards the south end. Dogs are allowed on leashes on both the trails and beach.
• Dogs are allowed on Del Monte Beach.  Enjoy walks along the sandy shore.
• San Carlos Beach is dog-friendly, and the lawn area is perfect for dogs to explore.

Shopping with Your Dog

Monterey County offers dog-friendly shopping experiences. Many stores welcome dogs inside. Here are some popular shopping spots:

• Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea has various shops that allow dogs. Explore quaint streets and storefronts with your dog.
• Del Monte Shopping Center, a beautiful outdoor mall welcomes dogs in their stores.

Dog Friendly Activities in Monterey

Bringing our dog along for fun activities isn't difficult in Monterey. Check out these activities that allow dogs to join in on the fun:

• Bring your pet to Escape Room 831 where dogs are welcome to join the experience! 
• Take a whale watching tour with Monterey Bay Whale Watch where well-behaved dogs are welcome to join their trips.
• Bring your pup for a bike ride at Mad Dogs & Englishmen Bike Shop where you can rent a bike with sidecar to enjoy a ride along the coast. 

Dog-Friendly Accommodations

The Portola Hotel & Spa has dog-friendly accommodations in the heart of downtown Monterey. While staying oat our hotel, you'll be centrally located to several pet-friendly attractions, grooming services, pet daycare, and vet services making it so easy to bring out pet along. To make your trip with your best friend even more special, check out our Ultimate Pet Getaway Package, and to learn more about our pet-friendly rooms or to book your stay, visit our website or call us at (888)-222-5851.