The white sand beach at Carmel-by-the-Sea on a foggy day

Village and beach · Carmel

Carmel-by-the-Sea

A storybook village of cottages, galleries, and courtyards that ends at a white-sand beach.

Photo: Jelson25, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small village known for its fairytale cottages, art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and hidden courtyards. Ocean Avenue runs downhill through town to Carmel Beach, a wide crescent of white sand.

Nearby, the Carmel Mission is one of the most beautiful of California's historic missions, and Point Lobos and 17-Mile Drive are both a short drive away.

Good to know

  • Park once and explore on foot. The village is compact.
  • Carmel Beach is a popular spot for sunset and is known for being dog-friendly. Check current city rules.
  • Many homes have names instead of street numbers, so use business names in your map app.

For current hours, tickets, and conditions, check the official source: carmelcalifornia.com.