7 Wonderful Dog-Friendly Beaches In Monterey, CA (2026 Guide)

Monterey, California is a prime destination for ocean lovers everywhere. Known for its abundance of marine wildlife and being home to the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, this area is a great place to visit and enjoy whether you are a local Californian or a tourist enjoying your time away from home.

There’s no doubt that our beloved dogs make the best company on any adventure, so it’s important to find dog-friendly areas that will allow you to enjoy a beach day with your furry best friend in tow. Keep reading to learn more about the best dog-friendly beaches in and around Monterey and what they have to offer.

The 7 Wonderful Dog-Friendly Beaches In Monterey, CA

1. Monterey State Beach

• Dogs are allowed on leashes at Monterey State Beach south of the Monterey Tides Hotel.
• Dogs are not permitted on the beach north of the Monterey Tides Hotel.
• There are plenty of flat areas of the beach that are perfect for going for a walk or jogging with your pup.

2. Del Monte Beach

• Del Monte Beach is a hidden gem that is considered an extension of Monterey State Beach.
• This is a very family-friendly and dog-friendly area to visit with free street parking.
• The strip of beach features a boardwalk, pathways through sand dunes, and picnic areas.
• Simply follow the one-way road up Surf Way to Tide Avenue and park along the street next to the dunes directly behind the beach.
• Dogs are allowed to enjoy the beach as long as they are kept on a leash.

3. Carmel River State Beach

• This mile-long beach area is a great place to walk your dog and enjoy sightseeing.
• You get the best of both worlds with the ocean on one side and the Carmel River Lagoon on the other.
• The beach features soft, white sand and typically isn’t too crowded.
• This is a great area for bird watchers and kayakers.
• Monastery Beach is a 1/3-mile area of Carmel River State Beach and is considered dangerous for swimmers, waders, and divers.
• Owners must keep their dogs on a leash at all times.

4. Garrapata State Park

• Dogs are only allowed on the beach at Gate 19 at the south end of the park and on the trails leading to it.
• Features 2 miles of beachfront with plenty of areas for coastal hiking.
• This is a great area for spotting wildlife like sea lions, otters, and whales during migration.
• Dogs must remain on a leash at all times.

5. Carmel City Beach

• Carmel City Beach is the only off-leash dog-friendly beach in the Monterey area.
• Here, you will find restrooms, volleyball courts, and fire pits.
• This area is great for sunbathing, fishing, wildlife watching, bonfires, and taking a stroll with your pup.
• This part of the coast is often cloudy but can get busy on sunny days.

6. Asilomar State Beach

• Asilomar State Beach offers public access to the rocky coast and dune habitat of the Monterey Peninsula.
• This dog-friendly beach features a 1-mile walking trail, called the Asilomar Coast Trail, that is open to everyone.
• You can even visit the Dune Boardwalk with your pup as long as you keep them on a leash.
• Dogs are allowed on beaches, trails, and conference grounds. Dogs are not allowed in conference ground buildings.
• The public restroom is located at the Phoebe Hearst Social Hall across the street from the beach.

7. Lovers Point Park

• Lovers Point Park is a 4.4-acre landscaped community park.
• Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach and the trails at Lovers Point Park.
• This is part of Carmel River State Park and features free parking and onsite restrooms.
• This area is great for sunbathing or going for a walk along the beach with your four-legged family members.

Conclusion

Most of the dog-friendly beaches in and around Monterey, California will require that you have your dog on a leash. The one exception to the rule is Carmel City Beach, which is a great place to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach with your dog. Depending on what you want to get into, there are plenty of destinations that will suit your needs. Don’t forget to bring along all your beach-day necessities, and don’t forget to pack those poop bags also!