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Top five things to do when vacationing with dogs in Monterey County, CA

If you are anything like me, your dog is your life. #dogsarekidstoo am I right? But vacationing with dogs can be extremely daunting. Where to stay? Where will you eat? What will you do all day? When I first decided to take my Husky, Maverick, with me on a trip to the Central Coast of Monterey County, Ca, I could not find much research on the area’s dog friendly vacation destinations. But what I did know was that I wanted to get away, and I wanted Maverick with me. So, I set off to make the most of it with Maverick in tow. I was happy to quickly learn that Monterey County was home to some of the most dog friendly vacation destinations I’d ever been. Since that first trip, we have been back multiple times when we needed to get away from the cruel 100 degree + temperatures in the Central Valley. Each time, we have been delighted to discover new dog friendly trails, beaches, and restaurants.

Monterey County, located on the Pacific Coast of California, encompasses over 10 cities as well as numerous communities and unincorporated areas. Scenic drives along the coastline- including Big Sur, HWY 1-, and a 17-Mile drive to Pebble Beach, have made the county famous across the world.

The coastline, enveloped with million-dollar homes boasting spectacular ocean views, leaves no doubt that Monterey County is ranked in the top 10 of America’s most expensive places to live.

It has been the home of movie stars such as Doris Day, Betty White, and Clint Eastwood (who was Mayor of Carmel by the Sea for 2 years).

Perhaps it was the draw of these famous movie icons that have made Monterey County the dog friendly vacation destination it is today. Actress and animal activist Doris Day, lived in Carmel Valley until her death in 2019. She co-owned the dog friendly boutique hotel, the Cypress Inn for more than 20 years. Americans Golden Girl: Betty White, owned her home in Carmel Meadows for 40 years. She was not only a member of the Monterey Bay Aquarium but was heavily involved with supporting the Monterey Bay SPCA.

Whether you go for the day or stay for the week, Monterey County has a plethora of activities for dog lovers. To help you experience some of the best activities Monterey County has to offer, here is my list of the top five things to do on vacation with dogs to Monterey County, California.

#5: Enjoy a meal at The Grill at Point Pinos, Pacific Grove

After all the walking, shopping, playing, and hiking, you will likely be ready for a peaceful lunch. Although there are several pet-friendly restaurants and cafes in the area with patio seating, none provide the quality meals and relaxing patio space found at The Grill at Point Pinos. Positioned between the 9th and 10th hole of the Pacific Grove Golf Links, the Grill boasts an award-winning menu, breakfast served all day and excellent views. They also have a special menu just for mans best friend. I have taken Maverick to a few restaurants in the more popular areas of town, all extremely busy, which makes Maverick too excited to enjoy a meal. At The Grill, the patio area is small but spread out allowing a more relaxing and quiet dining experience. My personal recommendation: Caesar Salad with Tri-Tip. 

 

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HOURS:

Espresso Bar & Grab n’ Go: 7am-3pm Daily
Brunch & Lunch Service: 8am-3pm Daily
Bar/Grab n’ Go: 4-5pm Daily
Cocktails All Day, Every Day!