Location: Carmel
Top Things to do in Carmel
What to do and see in Carmel, California (CA): The Best Budget-friendly Things to do
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. 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.
2. California Legacy Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 72 reviews
Walking tours of Carmel, Point Lobos, Cannery Row and Historic Monterey are our specialty. We are passionate about the fauna, flora and history of the Monterey Peninsula and LOVE to share it with guests of all ages. We interpret in Spanish, French, German and English. Walks and hikes can be customized.
3. 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.
4. China Cove and Gibson Beach
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 112 reviews
Reviewed By aliciasM3431NZ - Roseville, United States
We really enjoyed this state park on our visit. We walked almost 6 miles. We were able to see lots of sea life. They have picnic tables in certain spots, great for lunch and a break in between hikes. Clean restrooms. We will be back to explore more. Great for children just be careful if they are small.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Gallery by the Sea Carmel
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 38 reviews
If you are looking for beautiful artwork of Carmel, Pebble Beach, Big Sur and the surrounding areas, please be sure to stop by Gallery-by-the-Sea Carmel. Located next door to The Hog's Breath Inn, the gallery has become a favorite of many people who have fallen in love with this remarkable part of the world. Gallery-by-the-Sea Carmel features gorgeous paintings and fine-art photography by best-in-class local artists. Among its many treasures, you will find spectacular artwork of Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill, Spanish Bay and other local golf courses, and a growing selection of unique and alluring abstract and contemporary art. "We do our best to create a fun and welcoming experience, and consider our clients to be the heroes of the story," say the owners Michael and Elizabeth Lynberg. "If you are on a quest to add beauty and inspiration to your home and office, we are here to be your helpful guides. Our goal is to add to your cherished memories of Carmel."
Reviewed By 863lyndac - Leicester, United Kingdom
Stunning scenery on 17 mile drive. October a very good time to visit, weather perfect and not too busy.
8. Del Mar Beach
9. San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo Mission
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 508 reviews
Established in 1771, this Spanish mission is one of the most beautiful in the state and worth a visit for its serene aura. The mission includes a working church, gardens and interior exhibits.
Reviewed By tinahN3641RS
I thought the grounds were gorgeous and the history very interesting, especially if you aren't stopping at other missions along the coast. The self-guided tour doesn't take long and is worth the stop.
10. Carmel Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 40 reviews
Available in the Visitor Center... - Carmel Maps - Monterey Peninsula Maps - California Maps - Restaurant Map - Inns Map - Wine Tasting Map - Postcards - Merchandise - Brochures for whale watching, aquarium, attractions, parks, wine tasting, recreation, bikes, kayaks, theaters, spas, tours ...and everything you want to know! We have friendly staff to help you!
