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

Nestled on California's Monterey Peninsula, Carmel-by-the-Sea beckons travelers with its coastal allure and enchanting landscapes. Located a mere 11-minute drive from Monterey City, this charming town unfolds like a dream, enticing visitors to explore its fairy-tale setting. With its storybook charm, the town evokes the magic of a European hamlet, inviting you to wander its charming downtown and bask on its stunning sandy shores. As you embark on this captivating journey, Carmel-by-the-Sea promises a spellbinding fusion of rugged terrains, dramatic rocky shores, and lush forests, all converging to create an unforgettable backdrop for your adventure. Here, we unveil a curated itinerary that spans remarkable destinations, each offering a unique facet of Carmel's allure. From pristine beaches to historic missions, from captivating viewpoints to iconic bridges, this coastal gem will leave you in awe.

1. Carmel Beach : Carmel Beach, nestled along the cove of Carmel Bay, is a pristine and secluded stretch of soft white sand on California's Monterey Peninsula. Its unique beauty lies in its pristine shoreline, rocky bluffs, and the Pacific waves crashing against the coast. This half-mile beach, located at the foot of Ocean Avenue, is ideal for various activities, from sunset bonfires to leisurely walks and dog-friendly fun. The picturesque Monterey Cypress trees that dot the shoreline add to its distinct charm. As one of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in the nation, Carmel Beach offers a tranquil escape for beachgoers and surfers alike.

2. Carmel River State Beach : Carmel River State Beach is a haven for nature enthusiasts, located at the mouth of Carmel Valley. This one-mile beach features a unique bird sanctuary in a lagoon where the Carmel River meets the sea. Birdwatchers will spot various waterfowl and songbirds, including the Great Blue Heron and the Brown Pelican. The beach's soft sands are perfect for strolls, and its calm waters are ideal for diving and kayaking, despite brisk currents and hazardous surf. This beach's natural beauty and abundant wildlife make it an inviting destination for leisurely walks and picnics, attracting visitors with its incredible views.

3. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve : Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, often referred to as the "crown jewel" of California State Parks, is a pristine wilderness known for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and diverse marine life. It offers breathtaking ocean vistas where the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean meet rocky bluffs and outcrops. The reserve features scenic hiking trails through forests of Monterey Pines and Cypress trees, leading to marine terraces, tide pools, and fields of vibrant wildflowers. Visitors can witness marine mammals, with sea lions often resting on offshore rocks along the Sea Lion Point Trail. Point Lobos has been a source of inspiration for artists and photographers, while scuba divers explore its colorful underwater seascape and diverse marine life.

4. China Cove : China Cove, nestled within Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, is a picturesque hidden gem with turquoise-tinted waters that glisten beneath the sky. Its name originates from the distinctive pink house known as the China House, a landmark for mariners entering Newport harbor. Pristine waves lap at the sandy shore of this beautiful cove, inviting visitors to relax in its tranquil surroundings. China Cove offers a serene and sun-dappled escape, adding to the natural beauty of Point Lobos Reserve.

5. Monastery Beach : Monastery Beach, situated on California's Central Coast just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, boasts stunning scenery and activities that don't involve swimming due to its strong rip currents and sleeper waves. Although it may appear like any other Californian beach with typical Pacific surf, swimming here is discouraged. However, Monastery Beach's beauty is undeniably captivating, making it an enticing destination for those who appreciate its untamed and rugged charm.

6. Pebble Beach Golf Links : Surrounded by the enchanting Monterey pine and cypress trees, Pebble Beach Golf Links is a legendary 18-hole golf course offering a coastal setting on rocky bluffs overlooking the crashing surf. Regarded as the country's premier public golf course, it has hosted six United States Open Championships since 1919. Pebble Beach Golf Links is open to the public, allowing guests of Pebble Beach Resorts to reserve tee times up to 18 months in advance. Golfers and spectators alike are electrified by the course's unique challenges and exquisite beauty. With its coastal location and lush surroundings, it's a golfing paradise that offers unforgettable experiences for all.

7. Pescadero Point : Pescadero Point, found on the renowned 17-Mile Drive, offers captivating views of ghost trees and natural wonders. Positioned as the 13th point on this picturesque drive, it's situated at the southern tip of the peninsula. Monterey cypress trees cling to the cliffs, and a board advises against activities such as fishing and picnicking to protect the area. The elevated point overlooks the sea, where zigzag rocks and stones contribute to the soothing sounds of crashing waves, creating a mesmerizing experience.

8. Lone Cypress : The Lone Cypress, an iconic Monterey cypress tree in Pebble Beach, has stood proudly on a granite rocky headland overlooking Carmel Bay for over 250 years. Positioned along the 17-Mile Drive between Cypress Point Club and Pebble Beach Golf Links, it's one of North America's most photographed trees. Surrounded by its rare brethren, the Monterey cypress, the Lone Cypress is a symbol of the Monterey Peninsula, much like the pyramids are to Egypt or the Eiffel Tower to Paris.

9. 17 Mile Drive : The 17-Mile Drive offers a scenic journey through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove on the Monterey Peninsula, tracing the Pacific coastline past famous golf courses, grand mansions, and natural wonders like the Lone Cypress, Bird Rock, and the 5,300-acre Del Monte Forest of Monterey Cypress trees. This privately owned road charges an $11.25 fee per vehicle for entry. Along the drive, you'll discover 17 marked spots, with must-see attractions including Spanish Bay Beach, Point Joe, China Rock, Bird Rock, Cypress Point Lookout, The Lone Cypress, Ghost Trees at Pescadero Point, and Pebble Beach Golf Links. Most visitors enter through the north gate and travel south to explore these remarkable stops.

10. Monterey Aquarium : Just a short 10-minute drive or a scenic hour-long journey via the 17-Mile Drive from Carmel lies the Monterey Bay Aquarium, located at the ocean's edge on historic Cannery Row. This renowned institution offers a glimpse into marine life, showcasing adorable penguins, playful southern sea otters, puffins, sea turtles, sharks, jellies, and a diverse array of fish. The aquarium's observation decks provide sweeping views of the bay and ocean, perfect for whale-watching and wildlife spotting.

11. Mission Ranch Restaurant : The Mission Ranch and Restaurant, set amidst idyllic countryside near the sea, occupies the grounds of a 19th-century dairy farm. Owned by actor Clint Eastwood, the longtime Carmel resident and former mayor, this acclaimed hotel offers luxury accommodations, tennis courts, a fitness club, and fine dining. The historic farmhouse and hayloft have been transformed into luxurious guest rooms, while ranch-style houses offer additional accommodations. The Mission Ranch Restaurant boasts stunning views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, complemented by live piano music nightly. This unique establishment offers a charming blend of history, natural beauty, and culinary excellence.

12. Bixby Creek Bridge : Bixby Creek Bridge, also known as Bixby Bridge, graces the Big Sur coast of California, earning its reputation as one of the state's most photographed bridges. Its aesthetic design, graceful architecture, and stunning setting make it an iconic structure. This reinforced concrete open-spandrel arch bridge offers serene views of the Pacific Ocean and the crashing waves below. Located 120 miles south of San Francisco and 13 miles south of Carmel on State Route 1, it's a remarkable testament to engineering and design, blending harmoniously with its natural surroundings.

13. Carmel Mission Basilica Museum : The San Carlos Borroméo de Carmelo Mission, founded by Father Junipero Serra in 1770, stands as one of California's most captivating Spanish mission sites. It remains an active parish church and features the Basilica, a National Historic Landmark completed in 1797. Visitors can admire the mission's exterior, complete with a garden courtyard and Moorish-style domed bell tower. The Carmel Mission Museum houses various collections showcasing treasured artifacts and the monument's history.

14. Garland Ranch Regional Park : Garland Ranch Regional Park, spanning 3,464 acres, is a public recreational area located in Carmel Valley, California. Owned and managed by the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District, this park offers diverse landscapes ranging from 200 to 2,000 feet in elevation. It's a dog-friendly destination, popular for leisure hiking, with breathtaking views around every turn. The park features the Carmel River, Garzas Creek, a redwood canyon, and a delightful waterfall. Historic buildings scattered throughout the park allow visitors to step back in time and experience Carmel Valley's past. It's also a favored location for horseback riding, birdwatching, and geocaching, making it a versatile outdoor destination.

Tags

• 17 mile drive
 
• carmel beach
 
• carmel by the sea beach
 
• carmel by the sea travel guide
 
• carmel california
 
• carmel california tour
 
• carmel village california
 
• carmen by the sea
 
• point lobos california
 
• what to do in carmel by the sea
 
• 10 Amazing Things To Do In Carmel By The Sea
 
• carmel cottages
 
• things to do in carmel
 
• carmel by the sea things to do
 
• carmel ca
 
• top things to do in carmel by the sea
 
• things to do in carmel by the sea
 
• best places to visit in carmel by the sea
 
• usa