Carmel-by-the-Sea Tours & Experiences - Carmel Mission

Its official name is Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo, but Carmelites just call it "the Carmel Mission." This architectural and cultural gem is one of the most authentically-restored of the chain of 21 California Missions, originally built in 1770 and brought back to its original glory in the 1940s. Nine of those missions were founded by Saint Junipero Serra while he served as "Father Presidente" of the northern California missions, based in Carmel. His remains lie in the Carmel Mission under a sepulcher designed by Carmel artist Jo Mora.

Tours are available for groups of 15 or more, but a self-guided tour will take you back in time to the 18^th century when the Carmel Mission was literally the only building to be seen in this area. This is an active parish and mass is held regularly.

Please be sure to check the Carmel Mission website for visting hours updates. As a working church, there are sometimes weddings and other special events taking place that may limit access.

Hours of Operation:
Monday & Tuesday, CLOSED
Wednesday & Thursday, 10:00 – 4:00 pm
Friday & Saturday, 10:00 – 5:00 pm
Sunday, 11:30 – 5:00 pm
Mission grounds close 15 minutes prior to Store