Things to do in Carmel

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Carmel Travel Guide

Carmel featuring a house and autumn leaves

Garrapata Beach which includes rugged coastline, general coastal views and tranquil scenes

Carmel featuring a city, street scenes and signage

Carmel showing a sunset, general coastal views and a beach

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What to do in Carmel

Discover the most popular places to visit in Carmel

Carmel Beach

4.5/5(1,826 reviews)

Spot birds or catch waves, then spread out a picnic by a campfire and enjoy the views at this picturesque beach.

Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Course

4.5/5(16 reviews)

Enjoy a round of golf in Carmel at Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Course. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the seafood restaurants while you're in the area.

Carmel Plaza

4/5(13 reviews)

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Carmel Plaza during your visit to Carmel. Discover the seafood restaurants in this walkable area, or seek out the golf courses.

Carmel Mission featuring interior views, a church or cathedral and religious aspects

Carmel Mission Basilica

4.5/5(169 reviews)

This tranquil 18th-century stone mission and museum offers a fascinating look into 200 years of spiritual and everyday life in Monterey County.

Bixby Bridge

4.5/5(527 reviews)

This single-span bridge is a magnificent feat of engineering that provides incredible views of one of the finest stretches of U.S. coastline.

While driving South between Monterrey and Big Sur along the rugged coastal highway 1, Lynn and I saw a picturesque trail winding down to the ocean cliffs. This is one of the 100s of pictures we took along this short hike. Perched on this bluff was a nesting seagull and the flowers were blooming along the entire coast.
#Nature
#Trovember

Garrapata State Park

Enjoy a trip to Garrapata State Park and popular activities like golfing in Carmel. Discover the area's beautiful sunsets and seafood restaurants.

Point Sur Lighthouse

Spot sea life and admire the breathtaking coastal scenery of the Big Sur region from the top of this 19th-century lighthouse.

Sunset Center

4.5/5(2 reviews)

Catch local up-and-coming acts and international superstars in one of America’s most intimate theaters.

Folktale Winery and Vineyards

You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Folktale Winery and Vineyards during your travels to Carmel. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the seafood restaurants while you're in the area.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Carmel

Golden Rectangle

5/5(186 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Golden Rectangle, Carmel Plaza and Carmel Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Carmel

If you're spending some time in Downtown Carmel, Carmel Plaza and The Doud Arcade are top sights worth seeing.

Forest Theater Guild which includes theater scenes and art

Southeast Carmel

If you're spending some time in Southeast Carmel, Forest Theater Guild and Mission Trail Nature Preserve are top sights worth seeing.

Winter beach day in Carmel. #lifeatexpedia

Northeast Carmel

4.5/5(192 area reviews)

Though Northeast Carmel might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Carmel Plaza and Carmel Beach.

Art galleries in beautiful downtown Carmel.

Northwest Carmel

4.5/5(159 area reviews)

While visiting Northwest Carmel, you might make a stop by sights like Carmel Plaza and Carmel Beach.

A View of the California Coastline along State Road 1

Carmel Highlands

Carmel Highlands is noteworthy for its seaside views, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Point Lobos Ranch and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.

Popular day trips from Carmel

Pebble Beach

Salinas

McWay Falls featuring rocky coastline, a beach and a bay or harbor

Big Sur

Carmel Beach which includes general coastal views, landscape views and a sandy beach

Monterey

Carmel Valley

Del Monte Forest

Frequently asked questions

Is Carmel worth visiting?

Known for its coastal beaches and surfing, discovering awesome things to do in Carmel is simple. Remember to add Monterey Bay Aquarium to your trip itinerary when here.

How do I spend a day in Carmel?

Start your adventures with a visit to Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row. Then, check out different areas of Carmel for a bite to eat and some retail therapy.

What is the top tourist attraction in Carmel?

The top tourist attraction in Carmel is Monterey Bay Aquarium, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.

Is three days enough to stay in Carmel?

Three days will give you plenty of time to check out the leading city highlights, like Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row and Carmel Beach. The average stay in Carmel is two days. If you have the urge to extend your vacation, Monterey isn't far away.

Is Carmel a walkable city?

With exciting neighborhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city center, Carmel is a good destination to experience on foot. Have fun wandering between Carmel Beach and Carmel Mission Basilica. Then take a stroll around Monterey Vista, located 3 kilometers from the center, and Munras Avenue, which is roughly 5 kilometers away.

What are some activities to do in Carmel with kids?

If you are after activities and sights for all of your group, we've got some fabulous ideas for what to do in Carmel with kids.

What to do in Carmel for adults?

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or outdoor adventurer, there's no shortage of things to do in Carmel for adults including Folktale Winery and Vineyards and Ventana Vineyards Tasting Room.

Are there free things to do in Carmel?

From relaxing in parks to strolling around exciting neighborhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Carmel. If you need inspiration, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Cannery Row is a top spot for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing activities.