Cozy & Romantic Carmel

Rated the "#3 Best City for Romance in the World" by Travel & Leisure, Carmel-by-the-Sea is clearly the ultimate romantic getaway. Whatever the occasion, Carmel-by-the-Sea makes the heart soar. Our secluded jewel of a village offers everything for a perfect romantic getaway. Roaring surf, gentle breezes, and world-class amenities set the mood for romance in this European-style beach town where the world is left behind.

There's no more heavenly place to anchor your stay than in a charming inn or B&B, combining upscale service with luxurious amenities. Why not start the day off with an early-morning walk along Carmel Beach, rated one of the nation's top sandy spots, as well as an ideal place to propose or to propose all over again. Here, countless couples have said, "I do."

Inspired by the fresh morning air, enjoy a leisurely coffee or breakfast at one of our many quaint breakfast nooks like the Carmel Coffee House, Katy's Place, or Village Corner, where you can plan the day's adventures. Afterwards, you'll want to explore the cosmopolitan shops, boutiques, and galleries packed into one square mile of cottage-style buildings that line our shady, green streets.

You'll find A-list fashion, jewelry, antiques, plus nearly 100 art galleries—they're all here, and as abundant as our Cypress trees or stunning views. Tucked into a stone-paved alleyway, The Secret Garden is among the unique, privately owned shops to find a romantic gift.

The morning flies by and you've only made a dent in the shops, but an elegantly relaxed lunch awaits at La Bicyclette, Porta Bella, Nora's or Little Napoli. These are just a few of the many notable establishments for which quaint yet cosmopolitan Carmel is famous.

What better time than early afternoon for a spin along Scenic Road, where every home affords a truly spectacular view? Heading out to Point Lobos, you and yours enjoy a walk or hike through dense groves of Cypress forest leading to hidden coves, beaches, and overlooks where the many shades of Pacific blues and greens will dazzle your senses.

On the way back to town, the Carmel Mission—one of America's first—offers a captivating glimpse of the city's Spanish-influenced history. Stepping into the past makes you thirsty, so the time has come for wine tasting at Galante Vineyards or a sparkling wine toast at Caraccioli Cellars just across from each other on Dolores Street.

Finish the day with a romantic sunset on Carmel Beach, followed by an incredible food and wine experience at Carmel's Wine Spectator-awarded restaurants Anton & Michel, Aubergine or Grasings.