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Looking for things to do in Carmel? I have your complete guide to soaking up every sunshine-filled moment with a comprehensive list of restaurants, activities and places to stay in Carmel.
Nestled along the Northern California coastline, Carmel, affectionately named Carmel-by-the-sea, is a true seaside gem from the charming storybook cottages to the sweeping ocean views. While in Carmel you can slow down and meander through the courtyards, stroll down cobblestone streets and enjoy some of the best restaurants and boutiques.
While Carmel has so much to offer the everyday traveler, one of the things you won’t find in Carmel is street addresses. To help you navigate the city, I included crossroads for the restaurants and highly recommend stopping to get a map at the Carmel Visitor Center in the Carmel Plaza at Ocean Avenue between Junipero & Mission Street.
Where to Stay in Carmel, California
La Playa Hotel
La Playa Hotel is a hidden oasis just waiting for your arrival, just minutes away from sandy Carmel Beach. From cozy to easily accessible rooms, there’s a room for every kind of adventurer Don’t miss out on the irresistible freshly baked cookies, they’re heavenly! One of the perks of La Playa is the boxed breakfasts they offer. You’re ready to roll and start the day right with a croissant, yogurt, granola, and fruit. It’s included in the room rate and available from 7 AM to 10 AM every single morning.
*This hotel is pet friendly per hotel policy.
Old-school California living is what you’ll find at Hotel Carmel. You will be within walking distance of Carmel Beach and the downtown area, which is known for its galleries, shops, and restaurants. The hotel is recognized for its coastal and cozy accommodations and intimate ambiance.
Carmel Valley Ranch
This is a great hotel for families as it offers the convenience of larger hotel amenities without sacrificing the charm and allure of a boutique hotel. Located in the heart of central California’s wine country and only 9 miles from Carmel Beach, you will be amazed at the variety of experiences you can enjoy. Carmel Valley Ranch offers complimentary and paid activities like kids camp, photography workshops, candle making, honey tasting, astrology workshops, and dozens more! Check out the activity experience list here! If you are looking for a more relaxing itinerary, on-site there is a golf course, full spa, market with espresso bar, creamery, multiple restaurants, and pools. Even if you never leave the ranch, you’ll have plenty to explore!
*This hotel is pet-friendly per hotel policy.
The Carmel Mission Inn is inviting any time of year. Enjoy a heated pool and Jacuzzi in all seasons, dine at the on-site restaurant Shearwater Tavern, and wander through the serene gardens. When you are ready for more adventure, you are nearby to some of the best outdoor activities like Point Lobos State Reserve, boat and board rentals, and hiking in Big Sur.
*This hotel is pet-friendly per hotel policy.
Villa Mara Hotel
If you are seeking a romantic, adults-only atmosphere, Villa Mara is known for their quiet and luxurious amenities right in Carmel Point, one mile from downtown Carmel. Villa Mara offers bikes available for guest use and you will be minutes away from the local shops and restaurants. While no two rooms are exactly alike, most guest rooms feature a balcony or patio, complimentary minibar, ocean views and Greek island-inspired details.
*This hotel is pet-friendly per hotel policy.
Where to Eat in Carmel, California
Historically, Carmel was known for appeasing more traditional palate preferences that were French and Italian-inspired. With a new influx of chefs drawn to Carmel, there is more focus on seasonal menus and more innovative cuisine options.
Stationaery prides itself on building strong relationships with local farmers that allow them to bring the freshest ingredients to your table. The cuisine is a variety of California comfort food and they are available for brunch or dinner. I highly recommend the asparagus with hazelnuts, aioli, chili, and cured egg yolk, as well as the strawberry and olive salad, and finish with the citrus & olive oil cake!
Located between San Carlos and Mission Streets in San Carlos Square.
Tuck Box
This storybook cottage, now over 80 years old, serves breakfast & lunch including some amazing scones & homemade marmalade with tea. Stop by for a late afternoon tea and scones before you leave Carmel.
Located on Dolores Street between Ocean and 7th Avenue
Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro
I recommend the burrata and salads to go with their awesome beer flights. The Monterey beer is a light lager that is perfect for the beach. Enjoy casual American food with a great outdoor patio for a laid-back meal.
Located in Carmel Plaza at Ocean and Mission Street
Terry’s Lounge
This dog-friendly hot spot is known for its classic cocktails and vintage Hollywood atmosphere inspired by Doris Day’s son and lounge namesake, Terry Melcher. California cuisine made from fresh locally sourced ingredients are the highlight of the menus for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Located at the Cypress Inn on the corner of Lincoln and 7th Avenue
Il Tegamino
Settle in at this cozy Italian restaurant known for its homemade pasta and classic Italian dishes. It’s often recognized for its authentic flavors and friendly service. Reservations are highly recommended as the small dining room fills up quickly.
Located on the south side of Ocean Avenue between Lincoln and Monte Verde, in the Courtyard behind Cottage of Sweets.
Forge in the Forest
From creative small plates to hearty entrees, Forge is as magical as it sounds. The garden patios set the tone for a relaxed and casual dining experience that boasts itself on more than just good food. They even have a select menu for the dogs who are dining in.
Located on the Southwest corner of 5th Avenue & Junipero
Casanova
Cozy and romantic French and Italian cuisine is the staple at Casanova. The building has a long history to Carmel and connections to Van Gogh, this is a Carmel favorite stop!
Located on 5th Ave between Mission & San Carlos
Dametra Café
This Mediterranean restaurant is awarded the #1 restaurant in Carmel by Tripadvisor and is known for its lively atmosphere, live music, and flavorful dishes. Be ready to indulge in Mediterranean favorites like moussaka and spanakopita along with pizzas and pastas infused with coastal flair.
Located on the corner of Ocean Avenue and Lincoln St
5th Avenue Deli
Looking for a quick stop on the lighter side? 5th Avenue Deli has a menu full of assorted sandwiches and breakfast items that are made to order or prepared and ready to go! Perfect for packing sandwiches to enjoy on the trails or at a picnic on the beach.
Located on 5th Avenue. between San Carlos and Dolores
Grasing’s
Enjoy fresh seafood and California-inspired dishes that focus on using local ingredients and seafood. For brunch, lunch, or dinner, guests praise Grasing’s for the impeccable wine list and thoughtful surf and turf menu.
Located on the Northwest corner of 6th Street and Mission Street
Rise + Roam Bakery and Pizzeria
This artisanal bakery and pizzeria uses organic flours and quality ingredients. From breads, pastries, pizza, sandwiches, salads, and small-batch coffee, you can dine in or take it to go.
Located at the Northeast corner of Seventh Avenue and Mission Street, outside of the Carmel Plaza
Seventh & Dolores
This steakhouse offers a modern vibe and a great patio in the back. I recommend starting with the miso-roasted Brussels Sprouts.
Located at the corner of 7th Avenue and Dolores Street
Things to do in Carmel, California
Stroll Ocean Avenue
Connecting Highway 1 to the coastline. This is one of the most famous streets in Carmel-by-the-Sea, recognized for its beauty and charm of the picturesque buildings. You will find numerous shops, restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques to meander.
Peruse the art galleries
Some of the first residents of Carmel were artists, authors, and poets who lived in tent settlements near the coast. Then, just after the 1906 earthquake in San Francisco, the area became inundated with musicians, writers, painters, and other artists attracted by the budding artist colony. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or admirer, Carmel is an exploration of nearly 100 art galleries within one square mile, featuring the works of world-renowned artists like Thomas Kincade and some one-of-a-kind finds.
17 Mile Drive in Pebble Beach
Embark on a journey along one of the world’s most breathtaking drives. From boardwalks to coastal bluffs, there is tons of scenery to enjoy and nature to experience. Note: There is an admission fee but is reimbursed with a $35 purchase at any Pebble Beach Resort restaurant.
Visit Carmel Beach at sunset
I recommend walking to Carmel Beach as parking gets crowded at sunset. I love to start every trip with a sunset wherever I am because it sets the tone for your weekend and the Carmel sunsets are especially breathtaking.
Explore the charming courtyards and passageways
Carmel is well-known for its meandering courtyards and passageways, 41 of them to be exact. Below are some of my favorite finds from my trip to Carmel. They can help serve as a guide as you travel the small beach city by yourself. I enjoyed the Der Ling Lane passageway, the Secret Garden passageway, and the Tuck Box Courtyard. Click here for a list of all the passageways and courtyards in Carmel.
Visit the Carmel Shell Mural
The Carmel Shell Mural is public art that was sponsored by Visit Carmel and the Carmel Public Library. It’s located at the corner of 6th Avenue and Mission Street across from Devendorf Park. If you’re after all the Instagrammable things to do in Carmel, this is a spot you can’t miss!
Wine tasting in Carmel
Carmel can be the perfect spot to spend the afternoon hopping between the charming wine-tasting rooms strewn about downtown. There are countless tasting rooms but I recommend Galante Vineyards Tasting Room. This is a highly-rated wine bar with a cute patio and firepit in a cozy hidden courtyard. It features local, estate-grown wines, and it’s the perfect spot to hit between lunch and dinner.
Visit the Fairytale Cottages
You can’t visit Carmel without seeing the fairytale cottages. In fact, it’s always ranked as one of the top things to do in Carmel. The cottages were inspired by Hugh Comstock’s imagination who was a builder and toymaker. His wife collected dolls for her business. He was inspired to build a whimsical home for his wife where she could house her dolls, which eventually served as a studio for her. A couple of my favorite cottages are the Storybook Cottage, Hansel and Gretel houses, and Ober’s House. Stop in at the Carmel Visitor Center on Ocean Avenue between Junipero and Mission Street to pick up a map of the Comstock’s fairytale cottages.
Walk or hike the Mission Trail Nature Preserve
The Mission Trail Nature Preserve is one of the best things to do in Carmel that pertains to nature. It’s a 33-acre park that’s mostly undeveloped. There are five trails throughout the land that are ideal for working up a sweat. My favorite trails here are the Mesa Loop (1/4 mile) and the Serra Trail North Loop (1/2 mile round trip). For a longer hike, try the Serra-Flanders-Doolittle loop (1.5 miles round trip).
Don’t forget to download all your trail maps before heading out just in case you lose service. I use the AllTrails app to ensure I have access to maps offline. Get a discount on AllTrails+ with my promo code: eagertraveler30
Travel Itinerary for a weekend in Carmel, California
Day 1- Explore the Carmel Charm
Start your weekend with lunch at one of the local bistros in Downtown Carmel. I recommend Alvarado Street Brewery and Bistro.
Once you’ve had a minute to get settled, take a leisurely stroll through the enchanting streets of Carmel. Admire the unique architecture, quaint cottages, and boutique shops.
Now that you’ve had a taste of Carmel, try a wine tasting at Galante Vineyards for a sip of the local flavor.
Choose a restaurant for dinner with a romantic ambiance. Many places offer a variety of cuisines, from seafood to Italian.
Head to Carmel Beach for sunset, you may need to have dinner first depending on the time of year you visit.
Day 2- Cruise the Carmel Coast
Grab breakfast to go from your hotel or Tuck Box so you can start your day with a walk or hike through Mission Trail Nature Preserve.
If you want to sightsee while giving your legs a break, take a drive down the iconic 17-Mile Drive which is a scenic route showcasing some of the area’s most picturesque landscapes, including the Lone Cypress and Bird Rock.
Enjoy a picnic lunch or opt for a café along the way.
You could make a full day out of the 17 mile Drive in Pebble Beach but if not visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which is known for its captivating marine exhibits and conservation efforts.
Then it’ll be time to head back and you can enjoy dinner at one of my favorite spots, Seventh + Dolores
Now you are all set to plan your weekend trip to Carmel!
Looking for more coastal beach town inspiration? Check out this post to plan a weekend in Mendocino!
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