Paws and Reflect: Pet-Friendly Spots in Carmel

Carmel is renowned as one of the pet-friendliest towns on the California coast. Dog lovers far and wide travel to Carmel for the abundance of hotels, restaurants, beaches, and boutiques that make special allowances for Fido. 

Carmel locals may think they know all the best spots, but there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The Crossroads Carmel in particular is home to a dazzling variety of restaurants, shops, and services that will be perfectly pleasing to your pet pooch. 

From pet food emporiums to sanctuaries of holistic healing to beautiful off-leash beaches, here are the best pet-friendly spots in the Crossroads and around Carmel.

Eat + Drink

You want to take your canine best friend along everywhere you go. But finding quality pet-friendly restaurants and reliable pet food retailers can be hard. 

Fortunately, Carmel is chock-full of restaurants, bakeries, and bars that gladly welcome dogs, and The Crossroads is Carmel’s haven for furry friends.

Sweet Reba’s

You already know Sweet Reba’s as the best bakery in Monterey County. You might not know that this legendary sweetshop also serves up scrumptious, homemade dog treats. 

Stop by Sweet Reba’s for one of owner Reba Wilson’s famous “pupcakes” – a delicious confection of almond butter, banana, and molasses made special for dogs.

R.G. Burgers

R.G. Burgers grills up some of the most tender and delectable beef burgers in town. Next time you’re in the mood for a sizzling, satisfying bite, take your dog along. R.G. Burgers has a spacious, pet-friendly patio and happily takes plain patty orders for Fido to snack on.

Sea Harvest Fish Market + Restaurant

Sea Harvest Fish Market + Restaurant is another Crossroads favorite with a roomy, pet-friendly patio. Chow down on freshly caught red snapper and trout while your favorite furry friend enjoys the breeze and makes some friends of their own.

Pet Food Express

When it’s time for Fido’s full dinner, stop by Pet Food Express at the Crossroads Carmel. This one-stop-shop has everything – dog food, treats, toys, and more. Pet Food Express’s inventory runs the gamut from top-of-the-line fresh food alternatives to classic kibbles.

Rest + Rejuvenation

Life in Carmel happens at a different pace. Though locals work hard, they rest and relax even harder. 

While you indulge in some much-needed self-care at Monterey Bay Bodyworks or Heidi’s Studio, check out these paws-itively perfect temples of health and healing for your dog.

Suds ‘N Scissors

Suds ‘N Scissors is a full-service pet spa and groomer conveniently located at the Crossroads. Treat your dog to a bath, trim, or shave-down, and get 15% off your first visit. The highly trained staff at Suds ‘N Scissors can cut fur in custom styles and even dye your canine’s coat vivid shades of their favorite color.

Peninsula Animal Hospital

In case of accident or injury, Peninsula Animal Hospital is ready to restore your pooch to perfect health. And Dr. Cohen and Dr. Sherrill offer even more services – physical exams, vaccinations, nail trimming, tick and foxtail removal, and more.

Shop

Carmel’s boutiques, vintage stores, and gift shops are always teeming with one-of-a-kind finds. Why shouldn’t your canine companion get in on the fun? Here are our favorite places to shop for, and with your dog.

Mopane

Mopane’s founder, Susie Bauer, fell in love with the majestic elephants of Botswana and has dedicated her life to helping them. If you’re a true animal lover, take your dog to Mopane to shop fair trade hand-made goods, which include beautiful home goods and chewable woven dog toys. 

You can even adopt a baby elephant through Mopane’s connection with the Elephant Havens Orphanage in Botswana.

Dogma

Dogma is probably best considered a rest and rejuvenation retreat for your dog. The trained professionals at this canine chiropractic center use cutting-edge chiropractic science and holistic practices to rid dogs of the physical, emotional, and psychological problems that ail them.

But the Dogma team has also developed a full line of all-natural pet products that you can shop in-store and online. From shampoo and anti-itch spray to pain management, dermal, and digestive support tinctures, Dogma’s medicinals will give your pup a new lease on life.

Explore

Take advantage of the unbeatable natural scenery by planning a Carmel outdoor adventure day with your pup. There are plenty of pet-friendly places to visit and services that can enhance the experience.

If you need a new pair of running shoes or some breathable activewear before you hit the road, check out The Treadmill at The Crossroads for excellent outdoor gear and apparel. Without further ado, here are our top tips for exploring Carmel with your dog.

Big Sur Adventures

Bicycling is one of the best ways to get outdoors and see Carmel in all its beauty. Big Sur Adventures offers bike rentals and tours of the entire Monterey Peninsula, from a tour of Big Sur’s Old Coast to a family-friendly tour of scenic 17-mile drive.

Skip the 2.5-hour tour (way too much for your furry friend on foot) and pick up a bike for the afternoon. Take your dog down to Carmel Beach or along Scenic Road overlooking the water. You’ll both get great exercise while getting your fill of Carmel’s stunning natural beauty.

Pet-Friendly Getaways

  • Carmel Beach: Carmel Beach is Monterey County’s premier off-leash beach. Make sure your dog is friendly, well-trained, and vaccinated before setting them loose, because they’re about to make a dozen brand new best friends.
  • Mission Trail Park: This pristine nature preserve also allows off-leash dogs, provided they heed their owners’ vocal commands. Explore five miles of winding, wonderful trails through Carmel’s lush coastal flora.
  • Garrapata State Park: If you’re looking for a more rigorous outdoor experience, take your dog down to Garrapata State Park. Leashed dogs are allowed on the park’s winding trails and switchbacks, and Garrapata’s Vista Point provides one of the most dramatic views of Monterey County’s rocky coast.

Round of A’Paws for Our Furry Friends

In Carmel, dogs are treated like VIPs everywhere they go. From a stroll through downtown to a run along Carmel Beach to a shopping spree at the Crossroads, your dog will be welcomed with open arms.