Why Carmel-by-the-Sea Has Been on My Bucket List for Years
This October, hubby and I are headed to Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, a trip that’s been on my bucket list for quite some time. I’ve been drawn to this enchanting coastal town for its fairytale cottages, serene white-sand beaches, nearby wineries, majestic redwood forests, and some of the most breathtaking scenery on California’s Central Coast. From scenic drives along the Pacific to charming streets lined with art galleries and flower-filled courtyards, Carmel seems like the perfect place to slow down, soak in the beauty, and be inspired. I can’t wait to experience it all and take you along as I share highlights from our adventure.
Here are some of the things I’m looking forward to. And if you’ve been there yourself, let me know what some of your favorite attractions or activities were.
After looking through several lodging options on Airbnb and VRBO, I opted to stay at the Green Lantern Inn located in the heart of town. Normally I stay away from inns and hotels, but this one is so charming and was cheaper than a lot of the Airbnbs I found. The exterior is so quaint – it’s like a series of attached cottages with courtyard space for outdoor lounging. (Following three photos courtesy of Green Lantern Inn).
We’re staying in the Cypress room which has a loft with a second bed so we can spread out if we want. So, it’s very similar to an Airbnb. I definitely wanted something within walking distance to restaurants, coffee shops, and the beach.
There’s even a fireplace and since we’ll be there in October, we may use it for the cooler evenings. I was so happy to find this place.
I have a feeling that some parts of Carmel-by-the-Sea are going to remind me of my trip to the Cotswolds. The cottages seem to have the same kind of vibe, along with the downtown area.
L’Auberge Carmel is a pricey hotel with a two-star Michelin restaurant. It looks like an inn that you’d see in Europe and I’m sure the food is fabulous, but dinner is $285 per person!
One of the attractions on my must-see list in Carmel-by-the Sea is the nearby historic Carmel Mission, just one mile from the Inn so it’s an easy walk.
There appears to be a range of architecture throughout the area, so I’ll be taking lots of photos of cute houses like this one.
Or grander homes like this. Note the detailed tiles on the staircase.
Even the condos are cute in Carmel-by-the Sea with courtyards and brick pathways.
While in Carmel, I’d also like to take a drive on Highway 1 that National Geographic Traveler calls the drive of a lifetime. In addition there’s also the scenic 17-Mile Drive with several points of interest along the way. Have you driven either of these?
Let me know if you’ve been to Carmel-by-the-Sea. We’ll also explore Monterey, Big Sur, Pebble Beach and a few of the local vineyards. I’d love to hear about your favorites – including restaurants!
On a side note, I haven’t shared my Japan trip yet, but plan to do so soon!
You might want to check out nearby Pacific Grove. Many years ago my husband and I drove up the coast from LA and stayed at the Green Gables Inn. It is an old Victorian situated right on a cliff overlooking the Pacific with gorgeous views. Pacific grove was a restful break from the crowds in Carmel and Monterey.
Best road trip ever! The best part of the trip was the drive down route 1 and stopping for the views and roadside stands, breathtaking. Do not miss having a lunch at Pebble Beach Golf Club, which is open to the public, and sip your favorite drink as you gaze out at the ocean and perhaps watch a golfer on the putting green,
Carmel is sweet and I still remember being blown away by the outside escalator which brings you up to shops or down to the best small outside restaurants, Carmel is cozy and there are not too many places like it anymore.
I had taken a Greyline tour from the hotel a few years before and made up my mind to go back and wander through the streets at my pace.
Wishing you the best vacation!
Thank you for your post on Carmel by the Sea and the Costwolds. I have been to both places and love their quaintness. Danielle
While there drive to Monterey. Great town.
Enjoy!
This looks great Jennifer, can’t wait to see your photos and those of your Japan trip.🇯🇵
We hope to get back to the states one day.
Cathie🇨🇦
Have a great time, lots to see!!
I’m so happy for you! This is one of my very favorite towns! You really can’t go wrong there, as there are so many great places to eat and fun things to see. Don’t miss the gorgeous Carmel Beach at the end of Ocean Ave. The 17 mile Drive is so fun too and if you make stops along the way it will take you awhile, which is totally worth it. I also recommend Pacific Grove and walking to the beach through Asilomar. There are good restaurants there too. Point Lobos to the south is also fun for hiking. Feel free to email if you need any more ideas!
A great restaurant and nice views it’s located in the Hyatt Carmel Highlands and the name of the restaurant is called Pacific’s Edge, great food and the wait staff was very attentive. We are going to be there in October also! A great place to get a cinnamon roll! Patisserie Bossier be aware they do run out of them, but have many other pastries to munch on! Great cup of coffee as well! Here’s hoping the weather holds out for us and the beaches don’t get closed.
I have been but I was in Carmel for a day it is quaint and well kept. You will love it. Monterey is also very pretty and the Big Sur beaches amazing. I do wonder if these area’s have changed so can not wait to see your pictures.
It’s worth every minute to drive up to Carmel by the Sea. I used to live in Newport Beach and we drove from Newport all the way and it was majestic. Stopping in towns as we went. Santa Barbara, the best.
We lived in Monterey for many years and know the area well. Carmel by the Sea is utterly charming though can be extremely crowded in the summer. You chose very well with your Inn, being able to walk almost everywhere will make the trip so much less stressful. As you drive up the coast, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is worth the drive. In Big Sur, in the tiny little downtown, there is a restaurant that is right on the river and just a delight with delicious food. You can sit in bent willow chairs right in the river before or after dinner. All restaurants in Carmel are pricey, there are a few French Restaurants where the food is actually worth the price. If you get a chance, drive out to Carmel Valley – Bernardus Winery and Inn, with their own cafe will make you feel so California in all the right ways. Mellow, sun gilded, delicious and always the perfect temperature. I hope you enjoy your trip. Are you flying into Monterey? Or landing in San Jose and driving up the coast. If you are driving up the coast from San Jose, there are a few lighthouses that are more than worth stopping at.
We visited there about fourteen years ago. We took a day trip tour from San Francisco while we were on vacation. We were driven through the beautiful Pebble Beach Golf Club and 17 Mile Dr. Loved the gorgeous scenery and we stopped several times for photos. Carmel by the Sea is a lovely town, and we walked among the shops and some pretty homes.
We also visited Monterey and had lunch. The main street of shops, restaurants and the aquarium has beautiful views of the bay.
The scenery on Highway 1 is
gorgeous, and we made several stops for photos.
Enjoy your trip!