Famous Carmel Beach and Scenic Road

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Carpeted with soft-white sand, Carmel Beach is on the bucket list of beach-lovers everywhere. Generations have gathered at the foot of Ocean Avenue to catch a few rays, play in the surf and revel at nature's sunset spectacular. Carmel Beach is also canine-friendly, so dogs and their humans come every day to leap for joy at this California treasure.

A stroll in either direction 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.

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.

Local's Tips

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 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.

 

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

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