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Many people found themselves putting their lives on hold in 2020, opting to stay home by forgoing important milestones like weddings, anniversaries, graduations, or just celebrating life with a loved one. With a new year ahead of us, we're dreaming of romantic getaways and time spent with the ones we love to make new memories. Now is the perfect time to plan your getaway, to give yourself the gift of a celebratory vacation to look forward to.

Book your private celebration in Carmel-by-the-Sea with these 10 intimate and romantic trip ideas, and check out our itineraries page for more things to do!

1. Book a romantic weekend in one of Carmel's historic boutique inns

Nothing is more romantic than a private stay for two at a picturesque, seaside inn. The "Grande Dame of Carmel," La Playa Carmel is an elegant historic hotel with a prime view of Carmel Beach, perfect for evenings spent gazing out at the sunset. And the elegant Relais & Châteaux property L'Auberge Carmel offers a Romantic Getaway Package, complete with a dinner and wine pairing for two at the critically acclaimed and Michelin starred Aubergine Restaurant.

Whether the occasion calls for luxury, or just a quiet evening in a lovely cottage, choose among 40 intimate inns on our lodging page.

2. Savor Carmel's Culinary Delights with a Food Tour

Carmel-by-the-Sea is home to a diverse range of culinary delights, with something to offer no matter the occasion. Whether you have a small group celebrating a graduation, or you want to spend your honeymoon eating delicious local cuisine, take a Carmel Food Tour to sample all the flavors of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

3. Cruise Through Carmel-by-the-Sea on Wheels

Carmel is known for its walkability and pedestrian-friendly streets, but for those who wish to cover lots of ground in style, taking an e-bike ride around Carmel is a memorable and fun experience. Mad Dogs & Englishmen is committed to providing travelers with a unique cycling experience, pairing you up with the perfect e-bike for your needs. Cruise along the Scenic Bluff Path above Carmel Beach with the seabreeze in your hair, and see more in one day than you could on foot.

4. Discover Carmel's Secret Passageways, Courtyards and Gardens

Exploring Carmel-by-the-Sea's 41 secret passageways, courtyards and gardens is a bonding experience, and an immersive way to uncover the village's best-kept and most enchanting secrets. Shop for plants together, enjoy your lunch in a secret garden, or just find a private place to spend some one-on-one time. There's so many hidden treasures around Carmel, just waiting for you to find them.

5. Enjoy one of Carmel's Many Wine Tasting Rooms

Gallivant from one wine tasting room to the next without having to worry about a driver. The one-square-mile village encompasses 17 wine tasting rooms, wine bars, and bottle shops. Spend the afternoon with a small group of friends, or with your loved one to celebrate a life well lived! Get to know the winemakers and savor full-bodied reds to effervescent sparkling wines. Raise a glass to your party, and let's cheers to memories being made that will last a lifetime.

6. Fall in Love with Carmel's Famous Fairytale Architecture

Many of us have dreamed of a storybook romance, but in Carmel-by-the-Sea, you can actually live it out! Take a Historic Walking Tour through the charming streets of Carmel and discover classic, European-style architecture that sets the mood for your Happily Ever After.

7. Soak up the Sun, Sand and Surf at Carmel Beach

With beautiful white sand and crystal blue waves, it's no wonder that Carmel Beach has such a strong appeal to travelers from all over the world! Go for a romantic stroll along the pristine white sand beach, or snuggle up to watch the sunset. If you're more of an adventurous type, Carmel Beach is known for its pitch-perfect surfing conditions.

8. Bring your Pooch for some Dog-Friendly Experiences

When it comes to four-legged travelers, Carmel treats them as VIPs! Take your furry companion to experience all that Carmel-by-the-Sea has to offer Man's Best Friend. From sleepy mornings in a dog-friendly hotel, to fetch and swimming at Carmel Beach, to treats galore, there's no reason that your pup can't have as much fun as you do.

9. Experience Carmel-by-the-Sea's Artistic Tradition

Since its inception, Carmel-by-the-Sea has been renowned worldwide as a creative hub for artists, and that is still true today. Home to more than 100 art galleries, boutiques and studios, embark on a Carmel Art Tour through one of the most famous artist colonies in the nation. Be inspired by some of the best works of art in Carmel, created by masters of their craft.

10. Relax and Luxuriate Together at the Spa

If the need to just get away from it all and be pampered is most tempting to you, book a blissful day at the spa together. Start off your relaxation vacation with a massage, facial, or scrub to set your mind and your body at ease.