Top 5 Best Dog-Friendly Beaches on the Monterey Peninsula
Looking for the best dog-friendly beaches on the Monterey Peninsula? Whether you're a seasoned local or visiting the beautiful Monterey Peninsula with your dog for the first time, you'll fall in love with all the beaches the Peninsula has to offer across Monterey, Pacific Grove, and Carmel!
This stretch of California’s Central Coast is not only breathtaking but it’s also one of the most dog-friendly regions in the state especially when it comes to the beaches! From off-leash paradises like Carmel Beach to peaceful on-leash gems like Asilomar State Beach and Carmel River State Beach, there’s a perfect coastal spot for every kind of dog (and their human). As your dog’s adventure guide, Monterey Dog has rounded up the top five must-visit dog-friendly beaches, including what makes each one special, what to know before you go, and why your companion will love them. So grab the leash, pack some treats, and get ready to explore the top five dog-friendly beaches on the Monterey Peninsula!
Looking for a complete list of dog-friendly beaches on the Monterey Peninsula? Check out one of these great resources:
Complete Guide to Dog-Friendly Beaches on the Monterey Peninsula
Complete Guide to Dog-Friendly Beaches in Monterey, California
Complete Guide to Dog-Friendly Beaches in Carmel, California
Carmel Beach
The best off-leash beach on the Monterey Peninsula
When it comes to dog-friendly beaches, few places rival the natural beauty and leash-free freedom of Carmel Beach, making it arguably the best dog-friendly beach on the Monterey Peninsula. Nestled just steps away from the storybook streets of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this wide, sandy stretch offers an unforgettable blend of scenic charm and off-leash adventure that draws dog lovers from near and far. With its powdery white sand, dramatic ocean vistas, and famously pet-friendly community, Carmel Beach is truly a paradise for dogs and their families.
One of the most remarkable features of Carmel Beach is that it’s one of the only true off-leash beaches in the entire region. All dogs are welcome to run, romp, and play freely without a lease, a rarity along the Central Coast. On any given day, you’ll see joyful dogs dashing into the waves, making fast friends, or chasing frisbees while their humans stroll along the water’s edge or relax on a beach blanket.
The beach is also thoughtfully equipped for pet parents: many of the main stairways along Scenic Road offer charming, publicly accessible dog water stations, so your furry friend can stay hydrated after a day of sand and surf. Waste bag dispensers and trash cans are also readily available, helping everyone do their part to keep this beloved beach clean and welcoming.
Carmel Beach is a must-visit for any dog owner, but it’s no secret. Expect large crowds on sunny weekends and during peak summer months. For a quieter, more serene experience, consider arriving early in the morning or visiting on a weekday.
Access points to the beach are scattered along Scenic Road, with several stone stairways leading down to the beach. While most entrances involve steps, the northern end of the beach near Ocean Avenue features a gentler slope, which may be more manageable for visitors with limited mobility.
Whether you're a local or just passing through, Carmel Beach promises a truly magical experience for dogs and people alike.
Pros:
Official off-leash beach with incredible scenery
Dog water stations at most access points
Cons:
Very busy during summer months and weekends
Access via stone stairways may be difficult for some dogs or owners
Asilomar State Beach
A local hidden gem perfect for dog-friendly sunset strolls
For nature-loving dog owners seeking a quieter, more relaxed coastal experience, Asilomar State Beach in Pacific Grove is a truly special destination. This scenic, dog-friendly beach on the Monterey Peninsula is known for its rugged shoreline, dramatic coastal views, and some of the most beautiful sunsets on California’s Central Coast.
Dogs are welcome here as long as they’re kept on leash, making it an ideal spot for peaceful, on-leash walks along the sand or adjacent trails. The beach itself is a narrow stretch of white sand framed by rocky outcrops, tidepools, and natural dunes. At low tide, it offers a patchwork of tiny coves and inlets to explore, giving your dog plenty of new smells and sights to investigate.
One of the highlights of visiting Asilomar with your dog is the accessible boardwalk and parallel dirt path that run through the protected dunes. These trails offer sweeping views of the ocean, easy walking for even the oldest of dogs, and excellent photo opportunities, especially during sunset when the entire sky lights up in shades of orange and pink. Whether you’re walking off brunch in Pacific Grove or capping off a day of adventure, Asilomar State Beach is perfect for a quiet, leashed stroll with your dog, especially if you catch one of its unforgettable sunsets.
Being at the tip of the Monterey Peninsula, Asilomar State Beach experiences more temperamental weather. In summer, the beach is often foggy, especially in the mornings, and winter brings stronger winds, which can make the shoreline feel colder than other dog-friendly beach options on the Peninsula. Also, the beach area becomes quite narrow during high tide, and dangerous during the winter storm season that brings huge waves, so for the best experience, check the tide charts before your visit.
You'll find free parking along Sunset Drive, with several well-marked beach access points and turnouts to park your vehicle. Or leave the car at home and take a walk along the Coastal Recreation Trail than spans from Monterey all the way to Asilomar State Beach.
Looking for an off-leash option? Head to the south end of Asilomar State Beach until you cross the stream that runs into the Pacific Ocean. You are now in Pebble Beach an in an off-leash area to run free with your dog!
Pros:
One of the most scenic sunset beaches on the Monterey Peninsula
Lots of tiny beaches to explore amidst the rugged shorelines
Cons:
Often foggy in the summer months and windy in the winter months
The beach gets very small during high tide
Spanish Bay (Moss Beach)
A serene, off-leash haven tucked between dunes and ocean views
If your dog loves the freedom to explore off-leash in a quieter, more secluded setting, Spanish Bay (also referred to as Moss Beach) might just be the Monterey Peninsula’s best-kept secret! Nestled within the iconic Pebble Beach area, between Asilomar State Beach and the scenic stretches of 17-Mile Drive, Spanish Bay offers a breathtaking, lesser-known coastal escape that both you and your dog will love.
Spanish Bay is especially cherished by local dog owners for its tranquil atmosphere, natural beauty, and off-leash access, something that’s surprisingly rare on the Peninsula. Dogs are allowed off-leash south of the small creek that divides the beach (north of the creek is Asilomar State Beach, an on-leash area). This wide, sandy expanse is perfect for energetic dogs who want to run, splash in the surf, dig in the sand, or simply take in the ocean breeze.
In addition to the beach itself, visitors can enjoy a scenic stroll along the boardwalk that runs parallel to the dunes and the world-renowned Links at Spanish Bay golf course. The elevated wooden path offers panoramic views of the Pacific and is ideal for a scenic walk if you’re not venturing down to the sand. It’s especially magical at sunset, when golden light dances across the waves, offering one of the most picturesque walks on the entire Monterey Peninsula.
That said, planning ahead is key. The southern part of the beach can become quite narrow during high tide, so it’s worth checking tide charts before you go. If you’re visiting for the first time, aim for low tide to ensure plenty of space for your dog to run and play. Access to Spanish Bay can also be a bit tricky if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Entering through the Pebble Beach gate requires a $12 vehicle entrance fee (refundable with a purchase at certain Pebble Beach businesses), but you can avoid the fee entirely by parking along Sunset Drive in Pacific Grove and walking in from the north side of the beach.
With its relaxed vibe, off-leash freedom, and jaw-dropping views, Spanish Bay is a hidden gem for dog-friendly beach adventures, perfect for those seeking something a little off the beaten path.
Pros:
Rare off-leash beach with stunning views
Less crowded than other popular beaches
Cons:
High tide limits beach access in some areas
Pebble Beach gate fee required for southern access
Del Monte Beach
A Monterey favorite for walks by the sea
Del Monte Beach is one of the most convenient and accessible dog-friendly beaches on the Monterey Peninsula, perfect for travelers and locals alike who want to enjoy a scenic shoreline walk with their dog. Located just minutes from Monterey Fisherman’s Wharf and historic Old Monterey, this beach offers the ideal combination of coastal charm and urban convenience.
This sandy stretch is a hidden gem tucked behind a row of dunes, giving it a surprisingly peaceful feel despite its central location. The beach is leash-required, making it a great option for dogs who are still in training or who do better on lead. The wide shoreline provides plenty of space for casual walks, sniffing sessions, and relaxed play. You’ll often see families, runners, and dog walkers enjoying the serene atmosphere, especially in the mornings and late afternoons.
For dogs (or people!) who aren’t fans of sand, the nearby Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail offers a paved, dog-friendly alternative with equally stunning ocean views. This scenic multi-use trail runs parallel to the beach and stretches for miles through Monterey, Pacific Grove, and beyond, making it a great option for leashed walks or longer outings with older dogs or strollers. Another perk of Del Monte Beach is its proximity to downtown hotels, pet-friendly restaurants, and cafes. It’s one of the few dog-friendly beaches within walking distance of major tourist areas in Monterey, making it perfect for a spontaneous beach detour during a day of sightseeing or a relaxing start to your morning before breakfast in town.
While Del Monte Beach typically stays calmer than nearby tourist hotspots, it can get busy on weekends, holidays, and during the summer. Be aware that although the beach is officially on-leash, it’s not uncommon to encounter off-leash dogs. Practicing good leash etiquette and having your dog under control will help ensure a smooth experience for everyone.
With its laid-back vibe, central location, and beautiful ocean views, Del Monte Beach is a favorite among dog lovers who want a beach day without straying far from Monterey’s main attractions.
Pros:
Walkable from Old Monterey and the Monterey Fisherman’s Wharf
Wide beach and nearby Costal Recreation Trail for varied activities
Cons:
Common to encounter off-leash dogs, despite leash laws
Can be noisy due to the nearby road and flight path overhead
Carmel River State Beach
A peaceful escape for nature-loving dogs and their families
For dog owners seeking a quieter, more nature-focused outing, Carmel River State Beach is a peaceful gem that offers a refreshing contrast to the bustle of Carmel Beach just up the road. Nestled at the southern end of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this scenic, leash-required beach sits between the Carmel River wetlands and the Pacific Ocean, creating a rich and ever-changing landscape of tidal lagoons, sand dunes, and dramatic coastal views.
Unlike more crowded dog-friendly spots, Carmel River State Beach invites a slower pace. Here, it’s less about off-leash running and playing and more about shared moments of calm, from sniffing driftwood along the shoreline to taking in the sound of waves and seabirds overhead. Your dog can enjoy the simple pleasure of walking beside you on leash, soaking in the quiet atmosphere while exploring this unique stretch of coastline.
One of the highlights of this area is the Carmel River wetlands, a protected habitat teeming with birdlife. It’s a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature photographers, and it adds an element of quiet wonder to your visit. Keep an eye out for herons, egrets, and even the occasional sea otter swimming near the mouth of the river. The gentle, natural beauty of the wetlands area is part of what makes this beach so special — and a wonderful environment for dogs who prefer sniffing over socializing.
If you and your dog are up for a longer walk, the Carmel Meadows Trail begins nearby and offers an easy-to-moderate coastal path with sweeping ocean views and cliffside vistas of Point Lobos and Carmel Bay. It’s an ideal extension for those wanting to stretch their legs while staying leashed and safe.
Parking is limited, especially on weekends and sunny afternoons, so plan to arrive early. You’ll find a small lot at the southern end of Scenic Road. Alternatively, if you’re staying in Carmel-by-the-Sea, the beach is within walking distance, and the scenic route through the quiet residential streets and cypress-lined paths makes for a lovely prelude to your visit.
Carmel River State Beach is perfect for dogs and humans who appreciate nature, calm, and quiet beauty. It’s a place to breathe deeply, reconnect with the landscape, and enjoy a slower rhythm of coastal life, all with your dog at your side.
Pros:
Peaceful, less-crowded alternative to Carmel Beach
Access to the Carmel Meadows Trail for extended walks
Cons:
On-leash only
Limited parking