Art Enthusiast Getaway
Carmel is an Art Lover's Dream Come True
Spend a few days in this quaint yet cosmopolitan village and see what has inspired some of the world's finest artists to paint, sculpt, photograph, and write here. For art admirers, the artistic creations in Carmel-by-the-Sea provide tough competition for the spectacular beaches, oceans of flowers, and abundant Cypress trees-all bathed in Pacific breezes.
Steps away from your cozy B&B or inn, explore nearly 100 galleries in one square mile of charming streets and alleyways that feature the work of long-admired artists like painter Armen Hansen and photographer Ansel Adams—plus those you've longed to discover. The town is an open-air museum with days' worth of treasures and talent to canvas.
Browse a diversity of artist-owned working galleries and studios as well as A-list dealers with outstanding collections of classic and modern master painters from America and Europe. Meet local artists at opening receptions and exhibits in a casual, relaxed atmosphere. The Carmel Art Association Gallery provides an excellent overview of the current local scene.
The city's bohemian roots are nearly a century old, which makes Carmel's reputation as one of America's top art markets a deep one indeed. But you'll also find world-class shopping and dining, with the finest in fashion, jewelry, antique, gift, and furniture boutiques this side of the Riviera or St. Moritz. Not to mention a complete array of spa and beauty services.
Before, in-between, and after your aesthetic adventures, linger at one of our coffee houses, pubs, or casually elegant restaurants. From French to California Fusion, we've got it, along with some of the nation's finest chefs, who are artists in their own right.
You may also wish to take in a play or concert at the Sunset Center, Outdoor Forest Theater, or Pacific Rep. If all the world's a stage, there's no more dramatic setting to enjoy a performance than Carmel-by-the Sea, indoors or out.
Surely by now, we have painted an authentic picture of the exciting arts scene that is set against one of nature's most beautiful backdrops. We look forward to seeing you in Carmel-by-the-Sea, an art lover's paradise just hours from San Francisco or Los Angeles.