Location: Carmel
Top Things to do in Carmel
What to do and see in Carmel, California (CA): The Best Things to do Good for Kids
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. South Bay Surf Lessons
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 47 reviews
They provide surf lessons in the carmel and greater monterey area.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Mad Dogs and Englishmen
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 49 reviews
Mad Dogs & Englishmen is the premier family-owned bicycle shop in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea. We are just a few short blocks from the most scenic biking experience on the West Coast (A magical ride that winds along Carmel's famous Scenic Drive and the coastal part of 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach (roughly 24 miles round trip if you do both). We are also the closest bike shop to Point Lobos State Park and Big Sur. Hop on one of our premium bikes for an experience that will be the highlight of your trip to the area. As residents of Pebble Beach, we are familiar with the best biking areas and will share with you our favorite points of interest. We offer high quality bikes, both standard and electric (pedal assist)-all premium brands. We have options for riding with small children and even pets (after all, Carmel is the most dog friendly town in the US). Bikes can be picked up and returned to our shop or we can arrange delivery to remote locations. We also have a shop in Mill Valley.
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. 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.
