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Top 10 Pet-Friendly Destinations

No. 10: Carmel-by-the-sea, Calif.

With its stunning natural beauty, storybook architecture and thriving arts community, Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the West Coast. It's also one of the most dog-friendly communities in the country. Canines can frolic leash-free to their hearts content on beautiful Carmel Beach, provided they remain under voice control. They can also accompany their human companions on the Carmel Walking Tour, which includes the homes of famous artists, movie stars and literary figures who have lived in this seaside town.

Need a pet-friendly place to stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea? No problem. Most of the hotels here cater to canines, including the Happy Landing Inn, Tradewinds at Carmel and the Cypress Inn. There are also plenty of dog-friendly dining options in Carmel-by-the-Sea, including Portabella's on Ocean Avenue. If you like shopping with your pet, visit Carmel Plaza, where most stores welcome leashed dogs and some may even offer treats. If you go, look for the "Fountain of Woof," Carmel Plaza's designated "dogs only" drinking fountain.