Carmel Beach
One of California's few genuinely off-leash beaches — dogs allowed unleashed under strict voice command per city code CMC 6.08.015(B).
The rules, verified
- Off-leash allowed only under voice command (CMC 6.08.015(B))
- Handler must carry a leash and be able to leash the dog quickly
- Dog no more than 25 feet away at any time
- Dog must return to within 3 feet on command
- Leash required at Carmel River Beach and on the Scenic Pathway
- Waste bags provided at beach access stairways
Set by City of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Rules change — posted signage and the current ordinance always take precedence over this page.
More like this: beaches where dogs can actually run free · dog beaches without a summer ban
Map & directions
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors — loads on demand.
Nearby & related beaches
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William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach
Leash required Year-round✓ California State Parks · verified 2026-06
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Kings Beach SRA — Dog Beach area
Restricted area Year-round✓ California State Parks · verified 2026-06
-
Rosie's Dog Beach
Off-leash zone Year-round✓ City of Long Beach Parks, Recreation & Marine · verified 2026-06
-
Huntington Dog Beach
Leash required Year-round✓ City of Huntington Beach · verified 2026-08
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Verified against: City of Carmel-by-the-Sea — official source (checked 2026-08-30).
Rules change between checks. Spotted an update, or want this listing corrected or removed? Tell us — actioned within 7 days.