Famous Carmel Beach

Iconic Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its many attractions, but perhaps none more so than its splendid, white-sand beach. Whether remaining above on the path along the picturesque, Cypress tree-lined Scenic Road, or feeling the sand beneath your feet, Carmel Beach remains awe-inspiring to visitors who are seeing it for the first time, or locals making their daily pilgrimage.

Find Your Bliss at Famous Carmel Beach and Scenic Road

Rated One of America's Best Beaches, Carmel Beach is on the bucket list of beach-lovers from around the world. Generations return to Carmel Beach year after year to revel in the scenic beauty, take in the amazing sunsets, and let the sea set the pace while staying at a charming Carmel-by-the-Sea hotel or inn.

White Sand and Waves

The sugary white sand of Carmel Beach is one of its iconic features, framing the emerald green, turquoise and deep blue hues of the Carmel Bay in beautiful contrast. The beach's sand actually comes from the quartz-like rock underlying the coast called Santa Lucia granodiorite.

Stop to admire the surf, watch surfers catch waves, or if you are an adventurous surfer, paddle out yourself. You'll definitely see pelicans soaring overhead, and if you are lucky, you may even see dolphins or whales breaching offshore.

Paws in the Sand

Carmel-by-the-Sea is renowned for being dog friendly, and the beach is no exception. Expect to see four-legged beachgoers off-leash frolicking in the whitewash, and following their owners up and down the beach. If your dog has come along for the trip, bring them with you to experience this spectacular section of California coast. Just remember to keep your canine under voice control and pick up after them.

Surrounded by Sea, Fringed by Fairways

While the natural beauty of the coast is the main draw at Carmel Beach, there are unique examples of man-made beauty that many visitors stop to admire. A stroll in either direction down Carmel Beach is rewarded with a rare treat. To the south is a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home and at the northern end are the storied Pebble Beach Golf Links, home to the AT&T Pro-Am and the U.S. Open.

Coasting Down Scenic

For those who prefer to view the ocean from their car, a cruise down Scenic Road is just the ticket. Each curve opens up a new vista, from the blue Pacific to the silhouette of Point Lobos. If you'd prefer to take in the scene while walking or jogging, there's a meandering path on the bluff that follows Scenic, studded with aptly-placed benches perfect for contemplation and people-watching.

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Getting There

Parking at Carmel Beach can be scarce, especially on busy weekends. It's a short walk from town, so you might consider leaving your car at the hotel. If that's not a possibility, consider parking a block up from Scenic Road on San Antonio Avenue. There are walkways to Scenic Road between houses.

At the end of Ocean Avenue, there is a small parking area at the beach as well as free parking on Ocean Avenue just west of San Antonio. Additional limited parking is available along Scenic Road which parallels Carmel Beach. There are no restrictions on day parking at this time.