Location: Carmel
Top Things to do in Carmel
10 Things to do for Honeymoon in Carmel That You Shouldn't Miss
The first thing you need to know about Carmel: Clint Eastwood used to be the mayor, so don’t come here if you’re a hooligan. But if you’re after a romantic getaway to a seaside, art-filled village, Carmel might be perfect for you. You can even bring your dog—Carmel’s hotels, restaurants and galleries are remarkably Fido-friendly.
Restaurants in Carmel
1. Point Lobos
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4,751 reviews
Watch whales in winter and sea lions all year round at this Bay Area nature reserve, which offers hiking, walking, bird watching, scuba diving and magnificent views.
Reviewed By travelerfromsj - San Jose, United States
This park is called the crown jewel of California’s State Park System, and rightly so. It’s one of the most beautiful places in California, equivalent IMHO to the National Parks, Lake Tahoe and Big Sur. Moreover, it’s small enough to see in a half day visit, and very visitor friendly to boot, with easy and well-groomed trails (many accessible) and restrooms scattered throughout the park. We went on a sunny weekday in December, parked at Whalers Cove, and hiked the coast trail counterclockwise around the peninsula to the southern tip of the park at Bird Island, taking every offshoot trail and climbing Whalers Knoll. We then walked straight back to our car. This was about a 5.7 mile loop, with 700 feet of elevation change. In general the trail is easy, packed dirt and sand, plus occasional stairs and some rocks to climb at the overlooks. The only real climb is at Whalers Knoll, which goes up about 180 ft., but you can bypass this via North Shore Trail. Highlights on the walk were the beautiful twisty trees on Cypress Grove Trail and the bird-covered Bird Island. The walk out to Sea Lion Point was closed, possibly because of high surf. No whale sightings, but we did see harbor seals lying out on one of the beaches near Bird Island. Some quick tips if you decide to visit: 1. If you’re a local, check the weather and wait for a sunny weekday to visit, preferably in the off season. If you do, the park will be fairly empty and parking is easy, except possibly near Sea Lion Point. A docent told us that on a sunny day in the summer, parking is full by 9 am, and the park is then closed to cars. 2. Entry is $10, $9 for seniors, plus $2 for the trail map (well worth it). You can get in for free by parking along Highway 1 and walking in. 3. Bring a picnic lunch. There are 3 picnic areas, 5 flush restrooms, and many drinking fountains, but no food for sale. 4. Bring binoculars for a close up look at the birds and marine mammals. 5. Bring a face mask or buff that you can pop on quickly when passing hikers on the trail. Mask usage here was very good. If you’re sick and tired of being stuck at home, visit Point Lobos; it’s the perfect antidote.
2. Carmel Surf Lessons
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 192 reviews
Teaching surfing in Carmel, Monterey and Pacific Grove since 1986, professional instruction, professional grade gear. Trusted by all three surf shops on the Monterey Peninsula. Parties, groups and privates lessons offered almost daily all year around. All equipment included all ages and abilities welcome.
3. Scenic Road Walkway
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 510 reviews
Reviewed By bargingal - Atlanta, United States
My husband and I enjoyed a run on the Scenic Road early one morning during our trip. Wish we had more time to have enjoyed this Road more than once, it is beautiful. Plus a Frank Lloyd Wright house.
4. Carmel Food Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 610 reviews
ADDITIONAL TOUR OPTIONS AND AVAILABILITY ON OUR WEBSITE - CLICK 'MORE' ABOVE (DESKTOP) TO BOOK DIRECT. Carmel Food Tours® is a walking, tasting and cultural tour of beautiful downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea. Experience the most famous artist colony in California with a leisurely stroll through the heart of Carmel, taste a specially-selected variety of foods and wines from local restaurants and boutique shops, and become acquainted with the unique history and culture of this magical city.
5. Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Course
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 53 reviews
Tucked in the hills of Carmel Valley and bordering the river, this beautiful, lush green course has some of the most dramatic tee shots in California.
6. Tor House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 168 reviews
The historic home of the poet Robinson Jeffers is open to the public for group tours Fridays and Saturdays. First Tour at 10AM, last tour at 3PM. Tours last about 1 hr 20 minutes. Docents describe the life and times of Robinson and Una Jeffers, his poetry, philosophy, and accomplishments of building his home of sea-tossed granite. Wear walking shoes to cope with uneven ground and steep stairs. No photography during tours. Special events annually are the Spring Garden Party held the first Sunday in May when photography is permitted in Tor House and Hawk Tower. Jeffers Fall Festival is held the first weekend of October and includes discussions and presentations on Jeffers' poetry and his life in Carmel. Both are paid events. Check the Tor House web site for details near the time of event.
Reviewed By Z8070LNjeanf
A most enjoyable tour of the Poet's home Robinson Jeffers. Our tour guide was very engaging and interesting, and read a poem to enhance the experience.
7. Garrapata State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 364 reviews
This rocky beach is typical of the beautiful scenery along the Big Sur coastline.
Reviewed By meadef - Soquel, United States
Absolutely dramatic coast along with hiking trails through coastal brush and wildflowers. The beach is great for walking or even for sunbathing. Parking is easy on the wide dirt shoulder, room for many cars. It's a great way to sample Big Sur without a long hike.
8. Carmel River State Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,463 reviews
The water is brisk and the surf is hazardous, but the amazing views from the shore will draw you like a magnet to these striking white sand beaches for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
Reviewed By yusqueya - Nanaimo, Canada
Amazing spot to watch the sunset - we saw dolphins playing in the water too, which was utterly magical. The beach is lovely to walk on barefoot, which is something I rarely do, but enjoyed here. Lovely to watch the dogs having a great time and you can see all the way to Pebble Beach too. Very laidback vibe here - feels very safe and is a quick walk from the heart of downtown.
9. Signature Day Spa
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 144 reviews
Right smack in town! Voted #1 Personal Services in Carmel by the Sea. Beautiful new location Built of Wood, Metal, Glass and Stone. No Man made plastics, PVC or dangerous products used in our relaxing treatments. Organic, Eco, LEAD CERT, and preservative free in everything we do! VOTED BEST DAY SPA MONTEREY COUNTY 2020
Reviewed By Goddard13
Krystyne was amazing! I have been looking for a stylist for a long time since I moved to the area. My hair is Ethnic and ive gone all over the place and havent found someone who could work with my hair so well! she was able to make the experience fun and relaxing. I will constantly be going to her for my hair needs and highly recommend her to others.
10. Ocean Avenue
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 235 reviews
Reviewed By mnmcsls - Sydney, Australia
My wife and I are the big fans of succulent plant, and we found Carmel-by-the-sea has one of the most beautiful displays of succulent plant in the US (probably the world?). We have travelled the world and to our surprise this little town is probably one of the most charming we have visited. The charming area stretches from 5th Ave to 7th Ave from north to south, and Monte Verde St to Junipero St from west to east. If you happen to have limited time and have to choose between Carmel, Monterey or Santa Cruz, I reckon Carmel is your best choice (definitely lose Santa Cruz due to lack of character in comparison). We glad we have made the right choice!
