Curator’s statement
Known for spectacular scenery, marine life and its food and wine scene, the Monterey Peninsula has something for everyone.
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Where to stay on the Monterey Peninsula
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Things to do on the Monterey Peninsula
The Lone Cypress
Monterey Bay Aquarium: Plan to spend several hours exploring this world-class attraction highlighting the regional marine environment. Go early in the day for fewer crowds. Dogs are not allowed.
Carmel Beach: An expansive white-sand beach where dogs can run and play off leash. Park on Scenic Road south of 8th Ave for quicker access to the beach.
Coastal trails: The stroller-friendly Monterey Bay Coastal Trail and Asilomar Trail, both in Pacific Grove, offer stunning views and opportunities for sea otter sightings and tidepool exploration. Try to park and start your walk near Lovers Point, one of the only spots on the West Coast where you can watch the sunrise over the water.
Wildlife viewing: Sea otters can be spotted close to shore along the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail or at Old Fisherman’s Wharf. Good places for tidepools are Point Pinos/Asilomar State Beach, Lovers Point and Point Lobos. Whale watching tours are available year-round.
Hiking: Excellent trails nearby in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (dogs not allowed) and Garrapata State Park (dogs allowed on the beach at Gate 19 and all trails leading to it).
17 Mile Drive: Scenic drive through Pebble Beach, famous for views of the Lone Cypress. Plan on dedicating a few hours for this drive with stops. A great option for a driving nap! There are picnic benches at points 6 and 8, so plan to bring supplies. Entrance fee is $12.25 per vehicle.
El Estero Park: A great first place to stop to burn some energy after a few hours in the car. The large Dennis the Menace playground has activities for kids of all ages (note, not dog-friendly, but there is an adjacent dog park).
Places to eat & drink on the Monterey Peninsula
Wild Fish: Their menu highlights local seafood and organic ingredients. Warm and inviting atmosphere, with a heated outdoor patio.
Dust Bowl: Large outdoor beer garden with a permanent food truck on site, located in the heart of Monterey.
Other Brother: Located in nearby Seaside, offers a full menu and multiple house-brewed beers on tap.
Hops and Fog: On the main street in Pacific Grove, their menu features local beers and pizzas.
Captain and Stoker: Great local coffee roaster, with locations in Monterey and Pacific Grove.
Stationaery: Great brunch option in Carmel, also with a take-away window for food and wine, perfect for that picnic outing.
Wine tasting: With over 65 tasting rooms in the region, and 20 within one square mile in Carmel, it may be difficult to know where to start. Carmel Plaza offers three casual tasting rooms, all with outdoor seating.
Need to know
All listed activities/lodging are dog-friendly unless otherwise noted.
Can be chilly year-round due to the frequent marine layer, so it’s best to dress in layers. The warmest weather occurs late summer through early fall.
Travel Advisor
Stacey Stubblefield
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Carmel-by-the-Sea page.