Carmel is easily one of California's most scenic cities - and we're not just talking about the golf course. Located in the Monterey peninsula, Carmel's quaint neighborhoods and dreamy beaches hold some of the best spots in the state.
If you're planning on spending a few days in this beautiful beach city, here are a few tips:
STAY
The Lodge at Pebble Beach
The Lodge at Pebble Beach is the top golf resort in America, with their three courses overlooking the coastline. Along with their on par (no pun intended) holes, The Lodge offers a serene resort for your stay, along with one of the most relaxing spas on the coastline.
Hotel Carmel
This boutique charmer has a little something for everyone. Spend an evening around your own fireplace or on your private balcony, enjoy a beautiful afternoon in the hotel's courtyard, or enjoy a complimentary Wine Hour daily.
Cypress Inn
Jointly owned by the late Doris Day, the Cypress Inn is pet-friendly so your best friend can travel comfortably. With quick access to the animal-loving city, this is the ideal stay for you and Fido.
DINE
Casanova Carmel
Casanova is not only home to some of Carmel's finest dishes, but also holds Vincent Van Gogh's Auberge Ravoux table. Chef Bryan Smith hosts private events allowing guests to enjoy a curated meal personal to them, gathering around Van Gogh's table. Worth it.
La Bicyclette
This European style restaurant uses locally-sourced ingredients to bring its dishes to life. The menu changes weekly surrounding seasonal availability, but with dishes such as Canard de Printemps and Linguine Pescatore, you can't go wrong.
The Forge
If you're looking for a beautiful outdoor dining experience, you've come to the right place. The Forge, formally known as Forge in the Forest, allows guests to enjoy brunch, lunch, and dinner on their string-lit courtyard. Have dinner by the fire or under their large oak tree for a night in nature.
SHOP
For him: Patrick James in The Barnyard
Our carmel location is set in the picturesque outdoor shopping center, The Barnyard. Stop by our store for the latest in men's fashion, and then take a stroll around the village during one of their events for a true Carmel experience.
For her: Paloosh Boutique
Treat her like the queen she is and send her to Paloosh Boutique, located on Ocean Ave. Paloosh is the perfect fit for everyone, with a selection of the latest trends. She'll feel like royalty.
PLAY
Pebble Beach
Like we mentioned before, this spot is the ideal playground. Stay at this beautiful resort and spend your days on the course for a total hole-in-one.
The Links at Spanish Bay
The Links include courses overlooking the coastline, through white sand dunes, and throughout beautiful greenery that make any visitor feel like they're in Scotland.
EXPLORE
Art Galleries
Since the beginning of the century, Carmel has been a place of inspiration for famous artists. Today, Carmel has over 100 art galleries all within one mile of each other. Whether you're an art enthusiast or just taking an afternoon stroll through the town, these galleries are worth paying a visit.
Carmel Beach
At the bottom of Ocean Avenue, Carmel Beach is the perfect place to take in the beautiful West Coast scenery. Soak in the sun and feel the ocean breeze while your pup or children get their toes (or paws) in the sand.
Wine Tasting
Whether you make the drive up to Carmel Valley or choose to stay in town, Carmel offers numerous tasting rooms and wine bars. Enjoy a glass of wine from the best of Monterey County while soaking up the chic European charm of Carmel.