Visiting that Dog Mecca Called Carmel

If you've ever traveled with your pet, you probably know that it takes some advance planning to ensure a fun and hassle-free vacation. There are different definitions of "pet-friendly", however Carmel-by-the-Sea is the standard that many pet destinations should aspire to. Many of the hotels are indeed pet-friendly, but the grande dame is the Cypress Inn, which is co-owned by animal lover, Doris Day. Your pet is welcome anywhere in the hotel, even in the dining areas.

This beautiful hotel in the heart of Carmel is easy walking distance to great restaurants, fabulous galleries and shopping. Best of all, it is a few blocks from the famous Carmel Beach on Ocean Avenue, where you will find dog lovers and their loyal canines frolicking in the waves.

The Cypress Inn offers a terrific breakfast that you can enjoy in front of a cheery fireplace with your pet or on the lush garden courtyard. The hotel also hosts a daily happy hour, where guests as well as the locals enjoy a cocktail with their canine buddies. Cats are welcomed at the Inn as well. The staff keeps a scrapbook of the pet guests who have stayed at the hotel. Many are frequent visitors and stay in touch via Christmas cards to the staff between visits.


The Cypress Inn provides a list of all the pet-friendly restaurants and stores in the area. Most establishments welcome pets as long as they are on a leash and well-behaved. To stay on the good side of the health department, many restaurants allow dogs in their outside dining areas but not inside. Some will let you bring your dog in if it is in a carrier, but it is always best to ask first. If you would like to leave your pet at the hotel, a staff member will either pet-sit for you or arrange for a sitter to take care of your pet


San Jose is the closest large airport to Carmel and is a scenic 80-mile drive. Petfriendly.com offers a list of pet-friendly hotels, attractions, restaurants and shops in the Carmel area.