Exploring Big Sur with your dog is an incredible experience filled with stunning views, pristine beaches, and iconic coastal views. There aren’t many options when it comes to staying in Big Sur with your dog, so we decided to take a day trip while we were staying in Carmel.

This guide takes you through a perfect day of must-see dog-friendly spanning 12 stops driving south from Carmel towards San Simeon. The drive is only an 1-hour one way, but with all the stops it makes for a full day of dog-friendly fun.

Stop-by-Stop Itinerary for Your Dog-friendly Day in Big Sur

1. Garrapata Beach and Calla Lily Valley

Start your day at Garrapata Beach, a beautiful and less crowded beach perfect for an early morning walk with your dog. The beach offers stunning coastal views, and the terrain is a mix of sandy stretches and rocky areas. Leash up your dog and enjoy a refreshing stroll along the shoreline. Don’t forget to bring a towel and some water for your dog.

If you visit during the spring, the Calle Lilies will be in bloom in the valley. You’ll make your way past the lilies to get to the beach. Be prepared for crowds – especially on the weekends – and lots and lots of mud. If you want to explore the Calle Lilies towards the back of the valley, wear tall boots you don’t mind getting dirty, and ensure you keep your dog a safe distance away from the flowers as Calle Lilies are poisonous if ingested.

• Distance from Carmel: 10 miles (approximately 15 minutes by car)
• Parking: Free parking is available along the shoulder of Highway 1, this small shoulder fills up fast and it’s easiest to pull off here when traveling South
• Entry Fee: Free
• Terrain: Sandy beach with rugged coastline and easy trails, Calla Lily Valley can be very muddy

2. Bixby Bridge

Next, drive to the iconic Bixby Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges in California. There are several pullout areas on either side of the bridge where you can park and take in the breathtaking views. No matter what side you park on, make sure you cross to the other to see the bridge from both angles. This spot is perfect for some memorable photos with your furry friend. Just be mindful of the traffic and keep your dog on a leash for safety.

• Distance from Garrapata Beach: 3.2 miles (approximately 5 minutes by car)
• Parking: Free parking in small pullouts near the bridge, the best spot to turn off is on the ocean side on the north end of the bridge (largest parking area)
• Entry Fee: Free
• Terrain: Paved/dirt viewpoint areas

Grab a bite at Big Sur River Inn, where you can DIY a picnic from the Big Sur River Inn’s General Store. The store has several snacks and beverages including a build-your-own burrito bar. Their kitchen also serves bowls, tacos, sandwiches, and smoothies, and there’s an ice cream bus at the other end of the property to treat yourself to a sweet treat. There is free parking available on-site. Enjoy your meal in the outdoor seating area by the river (bring a blanket), and then snag an Adirondack chair, dip your toes in the river, and relax from a day of adventuring.

Note: Dogs are not allowed in the General Store, so it’s best to visit with another person. 

• Distance from Little Sur View Point: 6.9 miles (approximately 10 minutes by car)
• Parking: Free parking available on-site
• Entry Fee: Free
• Menu Options: Burritos, tacos, bowls, sandwiches, smoothies, ice cream, drinks

8. Henry Miller Memorial Library

Part cultural landmark, part quirky roadside stop, the Henry Miller Memorial Library is a peaceful redwood-shaded property that feels like stepping into a creative time capsule. While dogs aren’t allowed inside the bookstore, they’re welcome to explore the outdoor grounds with you on leash.

It’s a great stop to stretch your legs, browse the garden area, and soak up the literary-meets-Big-Sur energy. If you’re road-tripping with your dog, this is an easy, relaxed pause from the dramatic cliffside viewpoints.

Pro Tip: Check their events calendar — they occasionally host outdoor music and community gatherings

• Distance from Pfeiffer Beach: 4.2 miles (approximately 12 minutes by car)
• Parking: Free
• Entry Fee: Free
• Terrain: Dirt/paved, wooded area

9. Seal Beach Overlook

Seal Beach Overlook is one of the best wildlife-viewing stops along Highway 1 — especially during elephant seal season. From the elevated viewing platform, you can safely observe seals lounging, sparring, and vocalizing along the shoreline below.

Dogs aren’t allowed on the beach itself, but they’re welcome in the designated overlook areas on leash. It’s an easy and educational stop that adds something different to your Big Sur day — and usually sparks a lot of curious head tilts from your pup.

Pro Tip: Bring binoculars if you have them

• Distance from Henry Miller Memorial Library: 2.5 miles (approximately 5 minutes by car)
• Parking: Large parking lot pull off
• Entry Fee: Free
• Terrain: Paved viewpoint

10. Partington Cove

While the full hike to Partington Cove isn’t dog-friendly, you can still enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery from the roadside pullout and upper trail entrance. A short walk down the initial portion of the trail offers sweeping views of the rugged Big Sur coastline, turquoise water, and dramatic cliff faces — without committing to the full descent to the cove.

The trail drops quickly, so even heading a short distance down gives you elevated vantage points that photograph beautifully. If you’re traveling with your dog, this makes for a quick scenic stop to stretch your legs, soak in the views, and capture those classic Highway 1 coastal shots before continuing your day trip.

• Distance from Seal Beach: 3.3 miles (approximately 6 minutes by car)
• Parking: Free parking along Highway 1 if available
• Entry Fee: Free
• Terrain: Paved viewpoint

11. McWay Falls

Continue your journey to McWay Falls, one of Big Sur’s most iconic sights. There is a $10 parking fee at the designated lot, but since dogs are not allowed on the trail I’d recommend finding free parking along Highway 1. You can enjoy the view from the highway, but the viewpoint is a little tricky to find. The small pull-off is actually before the park entrance on the coastal side of the highway and there is a guardrail right in front of the best viewing area.

• Distance from Partington Cove: 1.9 miles (approximately 3 minutes by car)
• Parking: Free parking along Highway 1 if available
• Entry Fee: Free
• Terrain: Paved viewpoint

Tips and Considerations

1. Leash Requirements: Keep your dog on a leash at all times, especially near cliffs and crowded areas.

2. Water and Snacks: Bring plenty of water and snacks for both you and your dog to stay hydrated and energized.

3. Waste Bags: Always carry waste bags and clean up after your pet to keep these beautiful locations pristine.

4. Weather: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Coastal areas can be cooler and windy and the fog is very unpredictable in the summertime.

5. Timing: Start your day early to avoid crowds and secure parking at popular spots. It’s best to visit on a weekday.

With this guide, you’re all set for an unforgettable day exploring Big Sur with your dog. From iconic views and scenic beaches to relaxing river-side with some tasty treats, Big Sur offers plenty of dog-friendly experiences for a day of exploring the area. Happy adventuring!