Top Dog-Friendly Hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea for a Perfect Vacation
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a dream destination for food and wine lovers, offering stunning coastal views, enticing boutique shops, restaurants, wine tasting rooms, and inviting hotels. This coastal town is also well-known for warmly welcoming four-legged travelers, making it an ideal destination for dog lovers, too. Whether you’re seeking luxury accommodations, cozy bed & breakfasts, or boutique stays with unique character, this picturesque town has plenty of options to cater to you and your pup. Read on to discover the top dog-friendly hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea, the perfect destination for relaxation and tail-wagging adventures.
Luxury Dog-Friendly Hotels
La Playa Hotel
Nestled in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, La Playa Hotel is a historic luxury hotel with timeless elegance and coastal charm. Thoughtfully reimagined in 2023 with an extensive $20 million renovation, guests can enjoy luxurious pet-friendly accommodations, breathtaking ocean views, and personalized service. Just a short walk from the beach and downtown, La Playa Hotel delivers a memorable setting for a romantic getaway or relaxing escape.
Pet Policy
Guests must inform the hotel they’ll be traveling with a pet prior to arrival and complete a pet registration form. No more than two pets are allowed and pets must weigh no more than 40 lbs., or no more than 75 lbs. combined for two pets. Guests traveling with pets will need to pay a $250 one-time, non-refundable pet fee with their reservation, and will stay in the pet-friendly Garden Patio guest rooms. Learn more about La Playa Carmel’s pet policy here.
Carmel Beach Hotel
Carmel Beach Hotel is a serene coastal retreat situated just steps from dog-friendly Carmel Beach. The newest property from award-winning Mirabel Hotel & Restaurant Group, Carmel Beach Hotel spans across seven historic buildings, features 26 guest rooms and suites, a wellness spa and fitness center, and provides terroir-driven seaside fare by Chef Justin Cogley. This is the ultimate destination for those looking for an intimate, tranquil seaside getaway and a beachfront hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Pet Policy
Though they’re happy to accommodate dog guest requests whenever possible, Carmel Beach Hotel has just four designated pet-friendly rooms. They’ll permit no more than two pets per room, weighing 25 lbs. each or less. There is a one-time fee of $250 plus taxes per dog. Review other pet policy requirements here.
Bed & Breakfasts and Inns
Hotel Carmel
A dreamy stop for travelers meandering the California coast, Hotel Carmel blends modern style with a cozy, laid-back vibe. Located in the ideal spot to take a bite out of Carmel, guests can access the shops, galleries, restaurants, and even Carmel Beach all on foot. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast served daily and stop for a drink and a bite to eat at Brophy’s Tavern, a pub-style restaurant adored by locals and visitors alike.
Pet Policy
Hotel Carmel welcomes pets in its well-appointed rooms with advanced notice prior to arrival. Up to two pets per room are permitted, and pets must weigh no more than 40 lbs. Two pets must weigh no more than 75 lbs. combined. Guests traveling with pets must complete a pet registration form and a one-time, non-refundable $250 pet fee will be added to the reservation. Review the full Hotel Carmel pet policy here.
Horizon Inn & Ocean View Lodge
For travelers seeking cozy accommodations with gorgeous views of Carmel Bay, look no further than the Horizon Inn & Ocean View Lodge. This pet-friendly property offers idyllic rooms, in-room breakfast baskets, and a relaxing outdoor hot tub. Its central location means guests have easy access to all the shops, restaurants, and wine tasting rooms they’d like to visit. With a complimentary happy hour from 4pm – 6pm daily, guests can snuggle up around the fire pit for great conversation and a glass of local wine.
Pet Policy
Dogs are welcome only at the Ocean View Lodge and the Annex. They must be registered with the hotel at check in and each pet will be assessed a $20 per night fee. Learn more here.
The Carmel Garden Inn
Voted one of 2020’s Top 100 B&Bs in the USA, Carmel Garden Inn is an inviting, pet-friendly boutique inn known for its lush gardens and warm hospitality. Each room features unique décor, cozy fireplaces, and private garden entrances, creating a serene oasis. Guests love the daily wine and cheese receptions, and the homemade granola at breakfast, making it a welcoming escape in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Pet Policy
Dogs are welcome in most rooms, except for three, and there is a $25 daily fee for one dog or $40 daily fee for two. Read The Carmel Garden Inn’s pet policy here.
Carmel Green Lantern Inn
A quaint and peaceful Carmel-by-the-Sea bed & breakfast, the Carmel Green Lantern Inn is equipped with seventeen cozy rooms and cottages. At walking distance from the beach, guests can fall asleep to the sounds of the ocean waves crashing along the shore and wake up rested and ready to explore. Many of their rooms feature fireplaces and private decks with ocean views, too.
Pet Policy
Carmel Green Lantern Inn accommodates dogs weighing up to 50 lbs. in a limited number of rooms. There is an additional cleaning fee for pet-friendly rooms. Contact the inn for more information.
Villa Mara
Villa Mara is a new sixteen-room boutique hotel tucked away in the Carmel Point neighborhood of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Approximately a mile away from the downtown stretch of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants, Villa Mara is close to Mara Beach and Carmel Mission with views of Pebble Beach Golf Links and Carmel Beach. With fire pits, an array of 400 plants adorning the landscape, seating vignettes, and custom water features, Villa Mara provides a tranquil atmosphere with a stylish aesthetic for those interested in a refined escape.
Pet Policy
The property welcomes dogs under 35 lbs. with a one-time fee of $150 per dog per stay. No more than two dogs are permitted per room. Advance notice that guests will be travelling with a pet is requested. View Villa Mara’s pet policy here.
Monte Verde Inn
Monte Verde Inn is a delightful European-style boutique inn located in the vibrant center of Carmel-by-the-Sea. With individually designed guestrooms featuring premium amenities, inviting fireplaces, and some rooms with ocean views or full kitchens, the inn exudes comfort. Guests enjoy personalized service, a complimentary breakfast basket, and a pet-friendly atmosphere, with Carmel’s beaches, shops, and restaurants all easily accessible.
Pet Policy
At Monte Verde Inn, dogs are welcome in all rooms. A maximum of two dogs are allowed per room with a $30 per night fee applied per pet. Check out their pet policy here.
Boutique and Unique Dog-Friendly Stays
Le Petit Pali
Le Petit Pali at Ocean Ave offers a captivating retreat in the heart of downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, just a short walk from Carmel Beach. Guests enjoy indulgent touches like a daily Champagne breakfast, homemade cookies, and evening Social Happy Hours with local wines and hors d’oeuvres. With complimentary parking, pet-friendly accommodations, and a focus on curated experiences, it’s perfect for a special getaway with a treat yourself vibe.
Pet Policy
Le Petit Pali is a pet-friendly Carmel-by-the-Sea boutique hotel through their bespoke pet program, the Pawlisociety. Inquire for specific fees and pet policy details.
Cypress Inn
Cypress Inn is a sophisticated, pet-friendly boutique inn brimming with classic Carmel charm. This historic property, co-owned by actress Doris Day, features elegant rooms, a cozy lounge, and a delightful courtyard perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. It’s a landmark for pet-friendly accommodations, welcoming dogs with open arms and extra amenities.
Located just moments from Carmel Beach, Cypress Inn treats guests to a tranquil experience with exceptional service and a welcoming atmosphere for both pets and owners.
Pet Policy
This dog-friendly Carmel-by-the-Sea hotel charges a $30 per night fee for one pet, $50 for two pets, and $70 for three pets. Review their pet policies here so you’re prepared for your visit.
Tradewinds Carmel
Tradewinds Carmel offers a peaceful retreat with a laid-back atmosphere and contemporary design. The hotel features unique, spacious rooms with modern amenities, including private patios and an outdoor pool. Its central location provides easy access to Carmel’s beach, art galleries, and dining options, making it a convenient destination with one-of-a-kind ambiance.
Pet Policy
As with other Lark Hotels properties, Tradewinds Carmel is a pet-friendly hotel that’s only able to accommodate dogs under 70lbs. They charge a $50 pet fee per dog per night. See Tradewinds Carmel pet policy for further details.
Stilwell Hotel
Stilwell Hotel combines a blend of vintage charm and contemporary convenience, offering guests a unique stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea. The hotel features stylish rooms with sleek furnishings, premium amenities, and a cozy atmosphere, making it ideal for both short and extended stays. The hotel’s award-winning Foray Restaurant serves up Modern American cuisine with locally sourced ingredients and is a fantastic dining option for those who don’t feel like meandering into downtown.
Pet Policy
Also part of the Lark Hotels portfolio, Stilwell Hotel has a similar $50 pet fee per dog per night with the same weight restrictions as the Tradewinds Carmel policy. Learn more here.
Other Dog-Friendly Places in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Pet-Friendly Restaurants
Since Carmel-by-the-Sea is a paradise for pet lovers, it should come as no surprise that there are a ton of bars, restaurants, and wine tasting rooms in town where you can bring your furry friend along for the fun. From outdoor patios to cozy cafes, you’ll find plenty of spots serving delicious meals where your dog can relax by your side. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, gourmet bites, or a casual coffee, Carmel ensures you don’t have to leave your four-legged friend behind. Explore this list of 60 restaurants and 18 wine tasting rooms to start planning your Carmel-by-the-Sea itinerary.
Pet-Friendly Beaches
You’re bound to hit the beach while visiting this picturesque destination, and luckily your dog can come, too! Carmel-by-the-Sea is home to stunning pet-friendly beaches where your furry companion can roam free. Carmel Beach, with its soft sand and breathtaking views, allows dogs off-leash, making it perfect for playful adventures. Whether running along the shore or watching the sunset together, these beaches ensure unforgettable moments for you and your pup. Explore more pet-friendly beaches and activities here.
Bring Your Furry Friend Wine Tasting at Morgan Winery
Pet-Friendly Tasting Experience
Carmel-by-the-Sea offers endless opportunities for unforgettable adventures with your furry companion, from charming pet-friendly hotels and restaurants to stunning beaches and world class wine tasting experiences. To top off your visit, stop by for a wine-tasting experience at Morgan Winery’s pet-friendly, heated patio. Relax with a glass of our exceptional wines while your pup lounges happily by your side—an ideal ending to a memorable getaway.
