Carmel, CA

Play: Welcome to Monterey Bay’s pooch paradise. Centrally located Carmel City Beach has delightfully soft sand and refreshingly few land mines—poop bags are provided. Scenic Rd. from Ocean Ave. to Martin Way; ci.carmel.ca.us

Stay: This tree-shaded village has dog-loving hotels—the Cypress Inn ($$; 30 per night pet fee; www.cypress-inn.com) is most famous, while The Vagabond’s House (from $178, including breakfast; dogs $30/night; vagabondshouseinn.com) is another great choice.

Shop & eat: Spoil your pooch at pet store Diggidy Dog (Ocean Ave. and Mission St.; 831/625-1585). The shopping center Carmel Plaza has a dogs-only watering spot, the Fountain of Woof (www.carmelplaza.com). For dog-friendly dining, we like Casanova ($$$$; www.casanovarestaurant.com) and the Forge in the Forest ($$$; www.forgeintheforest.com).