Discover Carmel's Top 10 Sights
Explore Carmel-by-the-Sea's Top 10 Sights
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a place that tempts you to get delightfully distracted — to turn down a passageway, linger in a courtyard, stop to savor an impromptu coffee or sip a glass of deliciously local wine. This is the allure of one of the most walkable coastal villages this side of Europe. But during this exploration there are certain sights you really should make a point to visit. Here are the top 10 sights throughout the village that are a must-see for any Carmel-by-the-Sea visitor. Happen upon them during a leisurely stroll, or make a point to stop by them before you leave. You'll be glad you did.
1. Carmel Beach
Take an early morning stroll along pristine Carmel Beach, where stately Cypress trees frame sugary white sand. Ranked as one of the nation's cleanest and most beautiful, this crescent-shaped stretch of shoreline is paradise for long walks on the beach, scenic photographs to share, relaxing in the sun, and playing in the surf.
2. Ocean Avenue & Off Ocean Shopping
Continue along famous Ocean Avenue and experience a delightful parade of art galleries and carefully curated boutique shops. This tree-lined thoroughfare is the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea's vibrant village, and will lead you to secret passageways, charming courtyards and historic, fairytale-like architecture. Venture off Ocean Avenue to discover more unique items at over 100 shops along the side streets and secret passageways.
3. Quintessential Carmel Restaurants
Visit the quintessential restaurants that have put Carmel-by-the-Sea on the culinary map. From Casanova's French-Italian cuisine and legendary wine cellar to Porta Bella's mouth-watering European cuisine with a touch of Mediterranean set in a fairytale setting, you will see the originality, history and culinary pedigree that has fueled the town's culinary reputation. Taste the rack of lamb for two, carved right alongside your table at Anton & Michel, sample the bistro fare that has made Village Corner a local favorite since 1948, or stop in for coffee and fresh-baked goods at Carmel Bakery, a local institution since 1899.
4. Scenic Bluff Trail
The stunning meeting of land and sea takes center stage along the Scenic Bluff Trail, a beautiful coastal path that weaves between Cypress trees overlooking the white-sand of Carmel Beach with the rocky-coastline of Carmel Point to the south and the legendary Pebble Beach golf course to the north.
5. Clint's Eastwood Former Office — City Hall
Stop by City Hall, to see where Carmel's movie-star-turned-mayor, Clint Eastwood, once handled the city's affairs. Originally built in 1921 as All Saints Church, the building became a little busier when Mayor Eastwood took office in 1986. You'll find City Hall on Monte Verde Street between Ocean Ave. and Seventh Street.
6. The Carmel Courtyard Tour
Take a fascinating self-guided Courtyard Tour through the less-explored parts of enchanting downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea. The tour will have you discovering hidden fountains, walking down secret passageways and popping out into public patios and squares — all hidden away from the main streets of downtown. Don't be surprised to step into completely unique painter, sculptor and mixed-media studios around every corner.
7. Carmel Plaza
Explore Carmel's premier, luxury shopping and dining destination, Carmel Plaza, where four-star shops await, such as Kate Spade, Khaki's of Carmel, and Tiffany & Company, along with asian-fusion cuisine at Jeju Kitchen and locally brewed ales at Alvarado Street Bistro & Brewery.
8. Carmel Mission
Tour the beautifully restored Carmel Mission, a historic landmark dating back to 1771. The Basilica Church's stunning architecture and wonderfully gardened grounds are steeped in early California history. "Mission Carmel," as it came to be known, was Saint Junipero Serra's favorite of the California missions and, because it was close to Monterey, the capital of Alta California, he chose it as his headquarters.
9. Cottage of Sweets
Stroll down famous Ocean Avenue and you'll find the whimsical architecture and decadent treats of the Cottage of Sweets irresistible. Recognized by USA Today as one of the top 10 candy shops in America, this beautiful cottage hosts a dreamlike assortment of confections under its curlicued roof and storybook architecture. Try the homemade fudge or chocolates or browse a surprising array of candy.
10. Wine and Art
While not a specific spot within Carmel-by-the-Sea, combining wine tasting with art gallery browsing is a must-do while in Carmel-by-the-Sea. The village offers 18 tasting rooms within easy walking distance, and over 50 art galleries dot the village streets. Sample award-winning vintages from Monterey County before taking in the astounding range of oil paintings, watercolors, sculptures, and mixed media art that fill the village's galleries. And keep your eyes open for public art along the way.
