Carmel, A Dog Friendly Escape

Carmel has become one of the most popular vacation spots in the United States. Though it is a well-known fact, perhaps many people who travel there are not aware that it has also be named as the most dog friendly city in the nation. There are so many activities for people and their dogs that there is never a dull moment. For those dog lovers who just can't leave their best friends at home, Carmel is the perfect place for a vacation.

The small population of Carmel has been preserved by locals over generations and a few celebrities who want to make it their home. Out of only about 4,000 residents, the majority of them have dogs. Downtown Carmel has become very accommodating for this by having many shops and restaurants that welcome dogs.

Places to Stay

When visiting Carmel, the task of finding a dog-friendly hotel is practically effortless. There are more than 25 hotels and inns that welcome friendly dogs and their owners as guests. The most notable of these is Cypress Inn, owned by the highly-regarded actress Doris Day. There, dogs are allowed just about anywhere in the hotel, including on the patio, at the bar, and in the lobby by the fireplace. Its friendliness to dogs is evident with the Doggie Cocktail Hour offered daily at the bar. Other notable locations that allow dogs include Carmel Country Inn and Tradewinds Carmel.

Places to Eat

With more than 100 restaurants in beautiful Carmel, many have outdoor dining areas that also allow and accommodate for dogs. The welcoming ambiance and cottage style of PortaBella genuinely grants hospitality to dogs and provides them each with a special surprise. At Grasing's, dogs and their owners experience fine dining outside on the patio with some local organic cuisine. Probably the most widely familiar dog-friendly restaurant in Carmel is Forge in the Forest. Upon arrival dogs have a separate menu from which they can enjoy anything from the basic crunchy kibble to the six-ounce grilled New York steak.

Places to Visit

Aside from walking around town and along a coastal trail, dogs may want to have some more fun on vacation. The high status of dogs and their owners in Carmel has granted them the privilege to go out on Carmel Beach without a leash. As long as dogs are within range of voice command from their owners, they can run free and roll in the sand or jump in the water. Dogs are also welcome at Mission Trail Nature Preserve and Garland Ranch Regional Park for some hiking amongst beautiful nature. These offer wonderful views of native wildflowers, redwood trees, canyons, and woodlands, among other scenic views such as Monterey Bay and Point Lobos. These are fit for leisurely walking or rigorous exercise. Garland Ranch requires dogs to be on leashes while roaming the park.

Dogs will not be excluded when it comes to shopping in Carmel. The popular Carmel Plaza is a hospitable spot for dogs and their owners alike with many shops of various kinds allowing dogs to enter, and some have complimentary dog treats placed outside their doors. The most dog-friendly city in the nation would not be complete without some shops just for the dogs. A pleasurable stop for dogs includes Diggidy Dog, a shop just for them. This shop has many goodies for the traveling dog such as shampoo and skin care items, car seats, carrying bags, strollers, beds, plush and fetch toys, jackets, t-shirts, raised feeders, and pup stairs for the puppy or smaller dog.

While exploring Carmel Plaza the local attraction for dogs is the Fountain of Woof, where dogs can stop and quench their thirst. After a long day of shopping around town on the beach, dog owners can treat their four-legged friends to a spa treatment at Signature Paw Spa where options include massage, grooming, and other services, or they can be dropped there for the day or night while owners get some alone time. With no kennels and plenty of lounge time pets enjoy their leisure time, comfort and all around happiness.

A planned trip to Carmel is incomplete without bringing the fun-loving dog. The activities available for dogs and their masters are too many to enjoy in one visit. Having a meal, souvenir shopping, and walking on the beach can all be even more memorable with the family dog. The only challenging part is realizing when the vacation is over and won't be back again until next year. Making Carmel a frequent escape is the perfect relief for both dog and owner.

Enjoy learning about new and exciting destinations as Cher Burkett, freelance travel writer for Carmel Hotels shares her inside information and travel tips. To have Cher write exclusive content for your website or blog contact info@CarmelLodgingGuide.com.