TOP 10 Dog friendly coastal area in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Welcome to Gate 1 - Garrapata State Park, a stunning natural retreat located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Nestled along the iconic Highway 1, just 6.7 miles south of Rio Road and 18 miles north of Big Sur, our park offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Garrapata State Park boasts two miles of breathtaking beachfront, perfect for coastal hiking and exploring. A 50-foot climb rewards visitors with a mesmerizing view of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a federally protected marine area teeming with wildlife. Discover diverse coastal vegetation as you traverse trails that lead from sandy shores into dense redwood groves. The park's Soberanes Point features magnificent coastal headlands, where sea lions, harbor seals, and sea otters can be spotted frolicking in the waters, while California gray whales grace us with their presence during their annual migration.