Things to do in Carmel

Activities, attractions and tours

A two-story building with a gabled roof, a flagpole with an American flag, and a sign that reads "Alain Pinel."
A coastal landscape with green hills, rocky cliffs, and clear blue waters.
A street with shops, including a gallery and a jewelry store.
A beach with waves, a rock formation, and a hilly landscape in the background.
A bakery with a sign reading "Carmel Bakery and Coffee Co. Since 1906" and a display of baked goods.

Things to do

Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour

Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour

P4,699
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Picture 9 for Activity Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour

Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour

P3,885
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour
Catamaran Sailing Cruise in Monterey

Catamaran Sailing Cruise in Monterey

P4,082
per adult
Catamaran Sailing Cruise in Monterey
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Anytime Admission

Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo

P1,444
per adult
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Monterey CA 17 Mile Self Guided GPS App Driving Tour

Monterey CA 17 Mile Self Guided GPS App Driving Tour

P752
per traveler
Monterey CA 17 Mile Self Guided GPS App Driving Tour
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide

Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide

P4,396
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Cannery Row

Monterey Self-Guided Walking Tour Cannery Row to Old Monterey

P626
per adult
Monterey Self-Guided Walking Tour Cannery Row to Old Monterey
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Top places to visit

1. Carmel Beach

Carmel Beach is a long stretch of soft, white sand in Carmel, a picture-perfect town just 15 minutes’ drive south from Monterey. Steady swells make this a popular destination with surfers, swimmers and kayakers. Rent a kayak and paddle out across the kelp beds. Bring a wetsuit, as the water is often cold except in the heat of summer.
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A sandy beach with waves crashing onto the shore, a rocky outcrop, and a person walking.

2. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Follow misty hiking trails through towering cypress trees along dramatic, craggy shorelines and down to secluded beaches. Once the home of whalers, sealers and fishermen, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and surrounding waters are now a protected wildlife and marine reserve.
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A coastal landscape with rocky shores, calm sea, and distant hills.

3. Carmel Mission Basilica

The Carmel Mission, officially known as Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Rio Carmelo, is one of the oldest and most beautiful missions in California. It’s easy to while away an afternoon strolling the grounds of this sacred place, especially if you appreciate architecture, gardens, history, or photography. Although it’s a Christian place of worship, most anyone will feel a sense of faith and spirituality in the tranquil surroundings.
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A historic church with a dome, bell towers, and an arched entrance.

4. Bixby Bridge

Bixby Bridge (aka Bixby Creek Bridge) is an iconic bridge along the famous Highway One. The bridge is one of the most photographed landmarks on the California section of the Pacific Coast highways. Bixby Bridge spans Bixby Creek, which cuts through a rocky canyon before emptying into the Pacific Ocean. Visit to admire the bridge’s imposing structure and the natural beauty surrounding it.
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A bridge spanning a deep gorge with a coastal view.

5. Sunset Center

The Sunset Center is a classic American theater located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, just a 15-minute drive from Monterey. Built in 1931 as a school auditorium, the center is now a major art institution and the creative hub of Monterey County.
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A modern building with a unique geometric design, featuring triangular roofs and beige walls.

6. Garrapata Beach

Garrapata Beach is the only sandy stretch along the rugged coastline of the Garrapata State Park. Relax for a day here poking around rock pools, spotting wildlife and picnicking on the sand.
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A coastal landscape with green hills, rocky cliffs, and clear blue waters.

What to do in Carmel

Stay near popular Carmel attractions

A sandy beach with waves crashing onto the shore, a rocky outcrop, and a person walking.

Carmel Beach

9.6/10 (5,436 reviews)
Carmel Beach captivates with pristine white sands and cypress-framed Pacific views. Arrive for sunset when golden light transforms the shoreline into California's most magical coastal moment.
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Where to stay in Carmel

Find the best Carmel areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Carmel
Learn more about Carmel
A street sign with directions to City of Carmel-by-the-Sea, HWY 1, Public Parking 2 Blks, Carmel Mission, and Sunset Center.

Downtown Carmel

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

A coastal landscape with rocky cliffs, a clear blue sea, and a mountainous backdrop.

Carmel Point

If you're spending some time in Carmel Point, Carmel Mission Basilica and Carmel Beach are top sights worth seeing.

A valley with houses, trees, and rolling hills.

Hatton Fields

While Hatton Fields might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Carmel Mission Basilica and Carmel Plaza.

A courtyard with a fountain, a church, and surrounding buildings.

Mission Fields

While visiting Mission Fields, you might make a stop by sights like Carmel River Lagoon and Wetland Nature Preserve and Hatton Canyon.

A house with a unique architectural style, surrounded by lush greenery and trees.

Golden Rectangle

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

A coastal landscape with rocky cliffs, dense green foliage, and the ocean.

Pebble Beach

A coastal landscape with turquoise waters, rocky cliffs, and a waterfall.

Big Sur

A sandy beach with footprints, a wooden fence, and a clear blue sky.

Monterey

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.

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