Carmel by the Sea: A Coastal Gem of Enchantment
Discover the enchanting charm of Carmel by the Sea, where stunning beaches meet vibrant art and gourmet dining in a picturesque coastal town.
Carmel by the Sea is a picturesque coastal town in California known for its stunning beaches, charming architecture, and vibrant art scene. Visitors can explore quaint shops, indulge in gourmet dining, and enjoy breathtaking ocean views along the scenic coastline.
A brief summary to Carmel by the sea
- San Antonio Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, Golden Rectangle, California, 93921, US
- Monday 8 am-8:30 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-8:30 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-8:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-8:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-8:30 pm
- Sunday 8 am-8:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light for photography.
- Make sure to explore the hidden pathways and gardens that add to the town's charm.
- Check local event calendars for art walks and seasonal festivals to enhance your visit.
- Bring layers; the coastal weather can change quickly from sunny to foggy.
- Try to book dining reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Big Sur Village area, head north on Highway 1 (Pacific Coast Highway). After approximately 25 miles, you will reach the junction at Carmel Valley Road. Continue straight on Highway 1, and you will enter the city limits of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Once you arrive in the downtown area, you can walk along San Carlos Street, which will lead you to San Antonio Avenue, your final destination.
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Public Transit (Bus)
Take the Monterey-Salinas Transit Bus Line 22 from the Big Sur area. The bus will travel north on Highway 1. Get off at the Carmel Plaza stop. From there, walk along Ocean Avenue toward San Antonio Avenue. You will reach your destination in a few minutes.
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Bicycle
If you're cycling, start from Big Sur and take Highway 1 north. The ride is scenic but be cautious of the traffic. After about 25 miles, you'll reach Carmel-by-the-Sea. Once you enter the city, park your bicycle at a bike rack and walk to San Antonio Avenue to explore the area.
Discover more about Carmel by the sea
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
La Playa Hotel
0.3 km
Experience coastal luxury at La Playa Hotel in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where stunning ocean views and exceptional service await every traveler.
Carmel Sea Cradle
0.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Carmel-By-The-Sea at Carmel Sea Cradle, your perfect coastal getaway for relaxation and adventure.
Carmel Green Lantern Inn
0.5 km
Experience tranquility and charm at Carmel Green Lantern Inn, a cozy retreat in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea, ideal for relaxation and exploration.
Cypress Inn
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Cypress Inn in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where comfort meets elegance in a welcoming atmosphere perfect for travelers.
The court of the Golden bourgh
0.7 km
Discover the stunning architecture and rich history of the Court of the Golden Bourgh, a must-visit historical landmark in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
Carmel Bay Company
0.7 km
Explore Carmel Bay Company for exquisite home decor and unique furnishings in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
Tally Ho Inn
0.7 km
Experience the charm of Tally Ho Inn in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a cozy hotel perfect for your coastal getaway in California.
Carmel
0.7 km
Explore the enchanting charm of Carmel-By-The-Sea, where art, nature, and culture come together along California's stunning coastline.
Carmel Color House
0.8 km
Explore the artistic charm of Carmel Color House - a vibrant furniture store in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where coastal elegance meets unique design.
Doud Arcade
0.8 km
Discover Doud Arcade in Carmel-By-The-Sea: A unique shopping destination bursting with local artistry and coastal charm.
Carmel Classics
0.8 km
Explore Carmel Classics in Carmel-By-The-Sea for unique fashion that captures the coastal charm of California's artistic community.
First Murphy House
0.8 km
Explore the First Murphy House, a historical gem in Carmel-By-The-Sea, showcasing stunning architecture and rich local history.
WWI Memorial Bell Tower
0.8 km
Explore the WWI Memorial Bell Tower in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a historical landmark honoring the legacy of soldiers with serene beauty and rich architecture.
Carmel Jewelry Studio-Richard
0.9 km
Explore the artistry of handcrafted jewelry at Carmel Jewelry Studio, where every piece reflects the beauty of Carmel-By-The-Sea's coastal charm.
Carmel Visitor Center (Suite 219A)
0.9 km
Explore Carmel-By-The-Sea with the Carmel Visitor Center: Your gateway to stunning landscapes, rich culture, and local insights.
Unmissable attractions to see
Carmel Beach
0.0 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Carmel Beach, a serene coastal haven perfect for relaxation, exploration, and breathtaking sunsets.
Village of Fae
0.3 km
Explore the enchanting Village of Fae in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where art, culture, and natural beauty converge for an unforgettable experience.
Scenic Rd
0.4 km
Experience California's Scenic Road, where breathtaking coastal views and lush landscapes create unforgettable journeys.
Golden Bough Playhouse
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting performances at Golden Bough Playhouse, a premier performing arts theater in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Carmel Beach Walk
0.5 km
Experience the stunning coastal beauty and tranquility of Carmel Beach Walk in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a perfect escape for nature lovers and beachgoers.
Carmel Sunset Beach Viewpoint
0.5 km
Discover the mesmerizing beauty of Carmel Sunset Beach Viewpoint, where breathtaking coastal views and serene sunsets await every visitor.
Church of the Wayfarer
0.6 km
Explore the serene beauty of the Church of the Wayfarer in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a perfect blend of tranquility, art, and community spirit.
Ct of Golden Bough
0.6 km
Explore the enchanting Ct of Golden Bough in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where art, nature, and charm harmoniously intertwine.
Clinton Walker House - Frank Lloyd Wright
0.7 km
Explore the Clinton Walker House, a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece nestled along the stunning coast of Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
Sunset Center
0.7 km
Discover the Sunset Center in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a vibrant arts venue offering an array of performances and events in a stunning coastal setting.
Piccadilly Park
0.7 km
Experience the serene charm of Piccadilly Park in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a perfect blend of nature and tranquility for every traveler.
Winfield Gallery
0.7 km
Explore Winfield Gallery in Carmel-By-The-Sea for a captivating collection of contemporary art from talented local and national artists.
Harrison Memorial Library
0.8 km
Explore the serene and enriching environment of Harrison Memorial Library in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where literature and community come together.
The Valentine couple
0.8 km
Discover the romantic legacy of the Valentine couple at this charming museum in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where art and love intertwine beautifully.
Dawson Cole Fine Art
0.8 km
Discover the artistic heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea at Dawson Cole Fine Art, where contemporary masterpieces await your admiration.
Essential places to dine
Aubergine the restaurant at L'Auberge Carmel
0.6 km
Experience culinary artistry at Aubergine, where New American cuisine meets fine dining in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Terry's Lounge
0.6 km
Experience exceptional dining at Terry's Lounge in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where exquisite cuisine meets a cozy atmosphere.
Il Tegamino
0.6 km
Discover authentic Southern Italian cuisine at Il Tegamino in Carmel-By-The-Sea – where every dish is a celebration of flavor.
Portabella
0.7 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Portabella in Carmel-By-The-Sea - where local flavors meet Mediterranean elegance.
La Bicyclette Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience the charm of European dining at La Bicyclette Restaurant, where French and Italian flavors come together in a delightful ambiance.
Catch
0.7 km
Discover exquisite seafood dining at Catch in Carmel-By-The-Sea; where ocean flavors meet coastal charm.
Seventh & Dolores
0.7 km
Experience culinary excellence at Seventh & Dolores - where premium steaks meet charming coastal elegance in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Il Fornaio Carmel
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Il Fornaio Carmel, where delightful flavors meet stunning coastal views.
Cantinetta Luca
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Cantinetta Luca in Carmel-By-The-Sea – where every dish tells a story.
Dametra Cafe
0.7 km
Discover Mediterranean flavors at Dametra Cafe in Carmel-By-The-Sea – where every meal is a delightful journey through Greek and international cuisine.
Little Napoli
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian dining at Little Napoli in Carmel-By-The-Sea – where every dish tells a story.
Treehouse Café
0.7 km
Discover the flavors of Greece, Italy, and Thailand at Treehouse Café in Carmel-By-The-Sea - A culinary delight awaits!
Tuck Box
0.7 km
Discover Tuck Box in Carmel-By-The-Sea for delightful American cuisine amidst stunning coastal charm.
Pangaea Grill
0.7 km
Experience culinary excellence at Pangaea Grill in Carmel-By-The-Sea—where American flavors meet Asian inspiration in every dish.
Basil Seasonal Dining Italian Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience exquisite Northern Italian cuisine at Basil Seasonal Dining in Carmel-By-The-Sea - where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Collection
0.6 km
Explore The Collection in Carmel-By-The-Sea for unique women's fashion and accessories, capturing the spirit of coastal elegance.
Jane Austen At Home
0.6 km
Immerse yourself in literary nostalgia at Jane Austen At Home, a delightful gift and antique shop in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Jolie Carmel by the Sea
0.7 km
Discover unique accessories and artisanal treasures at Jolie Carmel by the Sea, a charming boutique in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Fleur'ever Boutique
0.7 km
Explore the charm of Fleur'ever Boutique in Carmel-By-The-Sea - a treasure trove of unique gifts and exquisite home decor.
Carmel Music Box Co
0.7 km
Explore vintage treasures and expert craftsmanship at Carmel Music Box Co in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where nostalgia meets artistry.
Belle Cose | South Ocean
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and beautiful home goods at Belle Cose, a charming gift shop in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
In the Bag Carmel
0.7 km
Discover your unique style at In the Bag Carmel, a charming women's clothing store in the picturesque Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
elizabethW Carmel
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and exquisite local crafts at elizabethW Carmel, a charming boutique in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Glacier Boutique
0.7 km
Discover the elegance and charm of Glacier Boutique, a premier shopping destination in Carmel-By-The-Sea, offering exclusive fashion and home décor.
Johnny Was
0.7 km
Explore the bohemian elegance of Johnny Was in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where unique women's fashion meets coastal charm.
Wittpenn's Antiques
0.7 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques, art, and unique finds at Wittpenn's Antiques in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a must-visit for vintage lovers.
Cage
0.7 km
Explore unique fashion pieces and high-quality apparel at Cage, a charming clothing store in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Nazar Imports
0.7 km
Explore Nazar Imports in Carmel-By-The-Sea for unique gifts and treasures from around the world, nestled in a charming coastal paradise.
Belle Cose | North Ocean
0.7 km
Discover exquisite jewelry, stylish hats, and women's fashion at Belle Cose in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea, where elegance meets coastal charm.
Old World Antiques
0.7 km
Explore Old World Antiques in Carmel-By-The-Sea for a unique journey through history with exquisite, curated treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bud's at La Playa
0.3 km
Experience the charm of Carmel-By-The-Sea at Bud's at La Playa, where exquisite cocktails and fine dining meet coastal elegance.
Sade's Cocktails
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Carmel-By-The-Sea at Sade's Cocktails, where exceptional mixology meets a cozy coastal ambiance.
Bar Napoli
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Italy at Bar Napoli, a charming bar and wine destination in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Galante Vineyards Tasting Room
0.7 km
Discover the exquisite wines and beautiful landscapes at Galante Vineyards in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a true treasure of California's wine country.
Mulligan Public House
0.7 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Mulligan Public House, Carmel-By-The-Sea's premier bar for craft beers and traditional pub fare.
Barmel
0.8 km
Experience the cozy charm and handcrafted cocktails at Barmel, the perfect bar for relaxation in beautiful Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Wrath Wines- Carmel Tasting Room
0.9 km
Explore Wrath Wines in Carmel-By-The-Sea for a memorable wine tasting experience surrounded by breathtaking coastal views.
O'CALLAGHAN'S IRISH PUB
2.2 km
Discover the heart of Ireland at O'Callaghan's Irish Pub - where traditional flavors meet vibrant community spirit in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Sunset Lounge
5.5 km
Experience the elegance of Sunset Lounge in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where breathtaking views meet exquisite cuisine in a luxurious setting.
Alfredo's Cantina
6.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alfredo's Cantina, Monterey's favorite cocktail bar with a lively atmosphere and exquisite drinks.
Britannia Arms
6.2 km
Discover Britannia Arms, a lively pub in Monterey offering a delightful mix of traditional dishes and local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
6.2 km
Indulge in artisanal cocktails and a cozy ambiance at The Whisky Club, Monterey's premier destination for whisky lovers and cocktail enthusiasts.
Compact Disco
6.3 km
Experience Monterey's nightlife at Compact Disco, where classic cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
6.5 km
Discover the Best of California Wines at Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant in Monterey – A Cozy Spot for Enthusiasts and Casual Drinkers Alike.
Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot
6.6 km
Discover craft beer in a historic train station at Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot, a lively brewpub in beautiful Monterey, California.
