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When you visit Carmel-by-the-Sea this holiday season, you'll be transported to a Charles Dickens-inspired wonderland complete with secret passageways, hidden courtyards and fairytale cottages. This whimsical, walkable destination provides a picture-perfect backdrop for quaint strolls, surrounded by twinkling lights down Ocean Avenue.

Beyond the magical atmosphere of our seaside village, you'll be surrounded by plenty of shops, boutiques and local vendors, making it easy (and enjoyable!) to find something for everyone on your list. From small independent boutiques to the Carmel Plaza shopping center (home to fashion finds and specialty national brands), Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a shopping haven for every gift giver.

Looking for gifting suggestions? Here's just a sample of what we're adding to our carts:

• Pick up a gift card at Mad Dogs & Englishmen for an afternoon on e-bikes or to purchase biking accessories and gear.

• Don't show up to your holiday gathering empty handed - pick up a bottle of Monterey County wine from one of our Carmel tasting rooms (and sample a few while you're there!).

• Searching for a sustainable gift this year? Try Sea Bags Maine - a shop that designs handcrafted tote bags and accessories from recycled sails that have traveled around the world.

• Treat your loved one (or yourself!) to some self-care. The Soiled Doves Bath House is home to a variety of lotions, soaps and bath products for the ultimate relaxation bundle.

• There's no shortage of culinary gift options in Carmel-by-the-Sea. For honey gift sets sourced from hives throughout the Carmel area, Carmel Honey Company is the spot. Lula's Chocolates, a gourmet chocolate shop specializing in 100% organic, vegan, and fair trade products, is also a great alternative. For those hard-to-find stocking stuffers, try Cottage of Sweets for locally made chocolate and imported goods from Europe.

• Shopping for your coworkers? Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Co. offers wonderful gift sets for every caffeine craver.

• You can't leave Fido off your list - Diggidy Dog has plenty of tail-wagging finds your furry friend will love.

• If you're looking for something special for any leading lady in your life, we recommend Impressions Fine & Fashion Jewelry or Paloosh for chic apparel and beautiful accessories she's sure to love.

• Don't forget your main men - head to Khakis of Carmel or the Carmel Pipe Shop for classically inspired gifts.

Treat yourself during your shopping affair, and end your day with the L'Auberge Carmel Culinary Package where Executive Chef Justin Cogley, a Relais & Châteaux Grand Chef, and Executive Pastry Chef, Yulanda Santos prepare skillful, ingredient-driven cuisine that celebrates the bounty of the region.

Visitors can also take advantage of exclusive offers this season at many of the village's hotels and inns. Book the Carmel Winter Escape Package at Horizon Inn, where reservations for three or more midweek nights will be discounted by 20%. Wayside Inn, Candle Light Inn, Svendsgaard's Inn and Carriage House Inn are also extending their WonderFALL sale through December 23 with 30% off your stay. Additionally, those shopping in the area can cross wrapping their new gifts off the list - La Playa is offering beautiful gift wrapping for their guests, so you can leave your stress behind while enjoying up to 20% off your stay.

Schedule your next shopping trip for a full holiday experience. We can't wait to see you.