It might surprise some that, in such a small city, so many restaurants allow dogs access into their establishments. Some might be further surprised to hear that our very own beach allows dogs to run freely, without a leash. Yet, both of these are the case; Carmel’s dogs are given a very free rein, as the city’s culture is strongly welcoming of their open presence.   A number of restaurants have patios which dogs are allowed to inhabit, like Il Fornaio and Little Napoli, and some restaurants let dogs roam all of the premises, (on a leash), such as the Cypress Inn. Restaurants like Forge in the Forest, and the Hog’s Breath Inn even offer dog menus, so that the furry friends can enjoy a small meal alongside their owners.   In the business district, there are several accommodations made for dogs and their owners, like poop bag dispensers on many street corners, and dog treats and water bowls offered at the entrances to businesses along Ocean Avenue. The two pet stores, Diggidy Dog and The Dog House, also have many goods for our four-legged companions, like treats, dog food, tennis balls and dog toys of many varieties.   Out of all of the entertainment that Carmel offers, the Carmel beach employs the most liberal dog policy of them all: complete autonomy. The dogs are given the power to run as they please, mingling with other canines, dashing up and down the length of the beach whole, dipping their feet in the water, retrieving their owners’ ball or frisbee, or being interviewed for the Pine Cone’s “Sandy Claws” section.   Carmel has prided itself on being one of the most dog-friendly cities in the Monterey County, and their track record looks good so far.   Contributed by J. Faxon

Believe it or not, movie star Clint Eastwood used to be Mayor of Carmel;  He was elected on April 8th, 1986 after defeating incumbent Charlotte Townsend: 2166 votes to Townsend's 799.  During his tenure he made several marked improvements to the Carmel area; he installed additional public restrooms, added stairways leading to the beach, and expanded the local library. As mayor, there was a definite increase in tourism visiting the area. Despite these successes many local residents have some choice words to say about Eastwood's tenure... but you'll have to ask the locals yourself if you want to hear them.

Carmel is known as a quaint, bohemian town loved by artists and recognized around the world. However, there are a few quirks to this berg that visitors may be unaware of. Come along as we learn about a few of them. 1. Did you know you needed a permit to wear high heels? Were you planning on walking Ocean Avenue in your fancy stilettos? Think again. In 1963, Carmel created a law prohibiting high heels taller than 2 inches. While you wont get a ticket for rocking your pumps, officially you need a permit. You can pick one up at City Hall, free of charge! It's the uneven sidewalks created by all the beautiful trees that blanket the city, which create uneven, ridged sidewalks that necessitated the law. But where else can you get a permit for high heels? 2. Only unique dining establishments in this town. Adding to Carmel’s upscale atmosphere, all chain restaurants have been banned from downtown limits. But don’t let that dissuade you because Carmel offers a variety of cuisines for whatever fits your fancy. More room for wine tasting and elegant dining! 3. We all (don’t) scream for ice cream! Disclaimer! This law is no longer in effect, but it’s still quite interesting. At one point in the 1980s, there was a prohibition of the sale and consumption of ice cream within the downtown limits due to concerns of sticky sidewalks. But don’t worry, the law went out of effect many years ago. Now, you can pop into most of the coffee shops along Ocean Avenue and expect to find a frozen treat! 4. Clint Eastwood was the mayor? Yes, you read that right. Clint Eastwood was elected in 1986 with the campaign slogan “Bringing the Community Together.” Maybe it’s not a law, but it still deserves to make this list. In fact, one of his main accomplishments was eradicating the ice cream law previously mentioned! While it has been many years since Eastwood left office, it is still a fun talking point for anyone who hasn’t heard this fact. Carmel may have a plethora of unusual rules and laws but rather than detract from its reputation, it is all part of what makes it such a special place! Contributed by E. Foster