Best Dog Beaches in Carmel By The Sea

Mara Beach is a stunning beach located in Carmel-by-the-Sea in California. It stretches approximately 500 yards and is known for its soft, white sand and crystal clear blue waters. The beach provides spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing and surfing. One of the highlights of Mara Beach is that it is dog-friendly, allowing dogs on leashes unlike most other beaches in the area. It is equipped with basic amenities like restrooms, showers and picnic tables. The beach has limited parking with only street parking available, so visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot. Mara Beach is best known for its magnificent sunsets, especially striking during the winter months.

Located in the southern part of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve - Gibson Beach - also known as Sandy Beach - is a large beach with light brown sand. The beach is situated below steep oceanfront bluffs and the shoreline around the beach is rocky. 

Located below the blufftop Carmel Meadows housing community, Carmel Meadows Beach is a wide west-facing beach that is a part of a state park called Carmel River State Beach. The beach has light brown sand and the water near it has strong waves and frequent rip currents.