DO

Bring Your Dog or Horse – Carmel Valley is home to Garland Ranch Regional Park and the 4,000+ acres is open daily and bursting with picture worthy scenery, various levels of trails popular with hikers and bike riders as well as for horseback riding. Please pay attention to signs while exploring this dog friendly park because not all of the trails permit mountain biking or allow dogs to be off their leash. We also advise you to bring your own water but there are several water fountains placed throughout the park for both you and your four legged companions. Many tasting rooms in Carmel Valley are also dog-friendly for the perfect après-hike refreshment.

Wine Taste – There are several premier-tasting rooms in the Carmel Valley and most of them are within walking distance of one another. Many of the wineries are open daily and welcome walk-ins.  For a large party, a phone call in advance is much appreciated to let them know you plan to visit.

Ride the MST Grapevine Express - Let the Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) Grapevine Express take you on the journey without the hassles of driving or parking. Every hour the Grapevine Express transports passengers from downtown Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea down Carmel Valley’s wine corridor ending in quaint Carmel Valley Village, where clustered tasting rooms invite guests to leisurely stroll from one location to another. For greater flexibility, buses circulate every hour to take you further on your tour or to return to downtown Monterey or Carmel-by-the-Sea.

DON’T

Drink and Drive – Please enjoy the tasting rooms Carmel Valley has to offer but make sure to have a sober driver or plan ahead before you go down The Valley. There are several chauffeur services and taxi companies in the area. Plan ahead and be safe.

Touch the Poison Oak – This is a toxic plant that is found in Garland Ranch Park as well as along the side of the roads. Look for the triple leaf pattern, with prominent veins and a shiny surface. During the summer and fall, the leaves take on reddish hues. Try to avoid this plant and if you come in contact, wash the area immediately with cold water and soap.

Start Fires – California is experiencing a serious drought. Because of this we ask that you please be mindful of our beautiful golden hillsides. Please do not dispose of cigarettes outside and please refrain from starting any type of fire (fireworks included) while visiting Carmel Valley and it’s rural surrounding areas.

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