Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming coastal town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, relaxation, and adventure. Below is a guide to help you discover the best things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California.

Things to Do in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Here are the best things to do in Carmel by the Sea. Enjoy your trip!

Explore Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos is a must-visit for its rugged coastal landscapes and to watch wildlife. From birds to sea otters, you can find an abundance of animals throughout the park.

This park does get crowded quickly, you can expect a brief wait to get into the park on weekends, especially during pleasant weather. Opt to start your day early, arriving just before the park opens to avoid a wait and find parking with ease.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve Hiking Trails

South Plateau Trail to Bird Island: This easy trail takes you to the Bird Island Lookout. This is perfect for anyone who enjoys birdwatching.

Cypress Grove Trail: This short loop provides spectacular views of the rugged coastline and the iconic Monterey cypress trees.

Go Hiking in the Carmel Area

Carmel is surrounded by amazing hiking opportunities, with trails that showcase the area’s natural beauty. Here are some recommended trails:

Calla Lily Valley: A hidden gem in Garrapata State Park, this hike offers beautiful views of seasonal Calla Lilies from February to April. You can also enjoy direct access to the beach from this trail.

Sobranes Canyon Trail: Located in Garrapata State Park, this trail offers a moderately challenging hike that takes you from seasonal wildflowers to the redwoods

Garrapata Bluff Trail: Another trail in Garrapata State Park, that’s short and sweet! This hike offers breathtaking coastal views and is great for all fitness levels.

Explore Carmel’s Fairytale Cottages

Take a self-guided tour of Carmel’s historic fairytale-like cottages. These whimsical homes, designed by Hugh Comstock in the 1920s, feel straight out of a storybook. Some of the homes are very close to one another making it easy to walk from one to the next.

Relax at Carmel Beach

Carmel Beach is one of the more popular beaches in the area. It’s a perfect spot for picnics, sunset views, and to relax after a day in the downtown area. The beach is also dog-friendly, as well as most places in the downtown Carmel area.

Explore Carmel by the Sea Downtown

Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea is absolutely charming and picturesque. Here are some ways to explore:

Walk the Courtyards & Passageways: Carmel is known for its hidden courtyards and passageways. No need to do much planning in the area, pick a spot, walk around, and allow yourself to get a little lost.

Visit the Library: Stop by the Carmel-by-the-Sea Library, an institution since 1906, to appreciate its historic charm.

Visit the Carmel Mission Basilica

The Carmel Mission Basilica was founded in 1770 and is a National Historic Landmark. The mission also has beautiful gardens which are available to visit during operating hours.

Enjoy A Scenic Drive

Carmel is the gateway to some of the best scenic drives in California. Here are two drives that are worth the visit:

17-mile Drive: A famous route through Pebble Beach that offers breathtaking coastal views. Enjoy the drive as you pass landmarks such as the Lone Cypress, Spanish Bay, and more

Highway 1 to Big Sur: For a longer drive, head south on Highway 1 towards Big Sur. Be sure to make a day or half-day out of it and stop along the way. Check out Bixby Bridge, and Pfeiffer State Beach, and make your way to the iconic McWay Falls.

Wine Tasting in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Carmel is home to several outstanding tasting rooms and nearby wineries. Two local favorites are:

Folktale Winery: Nestled in the Carmel Valley, this winery offers a beautiful garden setting at a storybook-like establishment.

Morgan Winery: Located in Carmel’s Crossroads Shopping Center, Morgan Winery is known for its sustainable winemaking process and quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Where to Eat in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel boasts a variety of great dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Here are a few favorites:

La Bicyclette: A cozy bistro offering French-Italian cuisine made with local ingredients. Lunch and dinner are served every day and breakfast is available Friday – Sunday. Weekends can get busy so opt to make a reservation over the phone or in person (no reservations can be made online).

Casanova Restaurant: A romantic spot serving French-Italian cuisine. This popular spot books up quickly for weekend dining service so make a reservation on OpenTable.

Mission Ranch: This hotel and restaurant has quite a history and was preserved and restored by former Carmel Mayor, Clint Eastwood. And the restaurant on-property is one of the most stunning spots to dine on the Monterey Peninsula. Come for the food and stay to watch the grazing sheep.

Treehouse Café: A charming café with outdoor seating in the heart of Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea. Treehouse Café offers an eclectic menu that ranges from Greek to Thai with a variety of seafood dishes.

Stationæry: A trendy spot known for its farm-to-table menu, serving seasonal dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Indoor dining and outdoor dining is available.

Pacific’s Edge: Located at the top of the Hyatt Carmel Highlands, Pacific’s Edge offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Where to Stay in Carmel, California

Carmel offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury hotels to charming inns:

L’Auberge Carmel: A 5-star boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown, known for its historic charm. This bucket list-worthy hotel is worth the splurge.

Carmel Mission Inn: A relaxed, budget-friendly option located near Carmel Mission, offering modern rooms, a pool, and on-property dining.

Carmel Valley Ranch: Set on 500 acres in Carmel Valley, this luxury resort features an organic garden with seasonal lavender, a vineyard, a spa, and more. This is perfect for a relaxing girls’ getaway or couples retreat.

I hope you found this Things to Do in Carmel-by-the-Sea guide helpful. Enjoy your next getaway to this charming California seaside town.

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