Now that we’re officially into vacation season, it’s the perfect time to start planning those weekend getaways to dreamy destinations. To inspire you to explore the enchanting town of Carmel-by-the-Sea in Northern California, today’s travel guide shares the perfect weekend vacation itinerary, naturally, from a local’s point of view.
As a native of the Monterey Peninsula, I’ve spent my life exploring nearly every nook and cranny in this gorgeous little town, making me the ultimate tour guide to Carmel-by-the-Sea. Not only is this charming locale one of the most desirable places to visit (and live in) in California, it’s truly captured my heart for so many reasons.
From charming new restaurants that exude international flair to a romantic new European-inspired boutique hotel, discover several of the best places to stay and play in Carmel-by-the-Sea this season.
About Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Located on the picturesque Monterey Peninsula along Northern California’s majestic coastline, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a delightful city that is comprised of whimsical storybook cottages, gorgeous multi-million dollar homes, tranquil white sandy beaches, gourmet restaurants, award-winning wineries, unique boutiques, inspiring art galleries, and charming hotels and inns. As a town steeped in character and history, every aspect of Carmel-by-the-Sea is what dream vacations are made of.
In addition to being a beautiful coastal city that exudes warmth, heritage, and a sense of community, it’s also become a popular destination for locals, travelers, and even celebrities. As an example, in the 1980s, the Mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea was none other than Clint Eastwood, the legendary Hollywood film director and actor. To this day, Eastwood still owns multiple properties around the area, including the landmark hotel and restaurant, Mission Ranch.
How To Get To Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Located just 2-hours south of San Francisco and 5-hours north of Los Angeles, Carmel-by-the-Sea is relatively easy to get to by car or airplane. If you arrive by plane into the Monterey Peninsula, you can fly into the Monterey Peninsula Airport, located just 15 minutes away from Carmel-by-the-Sea. Or, as an alternative, you can fly into San Francisco or San Jose Airport, and then drive by car. Unless you stay in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea (which makes it easy to walk around on foot), you can either book an Uber ride to other nearby destinations or rent or drive your car, which is ideal.
Another wonderful aspect about visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea is that it’s located just a short drive away from other charming local towns on the Monterey Peninsula, including Pebble Beach (which is renowned for being a golf mecca), Carmel Valley (which has become a popular vacation destination and wine tasting region), and Monterey (which is famous for Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium).
Where To Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
While there are several upscale hotels and charming bed-and-breakfasts in Carmel-by-the-Sea (including La Playa Carmel, L’Auberge Carmel, and The Cypress Inn), a fantastic new boutique hotel to consider is Le Petit Pali, located on Ocean Avenue, just a short stroll away from designer boutiques, restaurants and cafes, wine tasting rooms, art galleries, and more.
This picturesque European-inspired hotel is situated in an idyllic location, and it’s easy to walk to everything in town just from the steps of the hotel. Not to mention – it feels like you’ve been transported to France the moment you step into the hotel’s chic and relaxing lobby.
From tastefully decorated hotel rooms that feature plush, comfortable bedding, enchanting floral and plaid accents, and cozy details (such as gas fireplaces), the hotel was designed to reflect the warm and inviting vibe of the brand.
The hotel also provides guests with a nourishing and delicious breakfast buffet each morning, including freshly made granola and pastries from the local award-winning artisanal bakery, Rise + Roam, in addition to fresh fruits, jams, and other delectable goodies.
Aside from the interior spaces (that are utterly enchanting and picture-perfect), the hotel also provides a couple of relaxing outdoor patios to unwind on. From striped umbrellas and comfortable Adirondack-style chairs to cozy firepits, the hotel has created a serene setting that beckons you to take it easy.
And, to top it off, during the weekends, the hotel hosts a Social Hour (which is their spin on a Happy Hour), by offering libations including sparkling wine and cocktails to hotel guests. It’s definitely a wonderful way to unwind after a busy day, while mixing and mingling with other visitors.
Where To Eat in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
While there are more amazing restaurants than one could explore during a quick weekend vacation in Carmel-by-the-Sea, to inspire you to expand your horizons, here are 3 new restaurants that are quickly becoming the ultimate hotspots in town.
To start your day, head over to the brand-new Mexican restaurant called El Bistro by the Sea. This outstanding eatery serves a variety of delectable breakfast, brunch, and lunch dishes in a picturesque setting. Offering both indoor and outdoor seating, the delightful restaurant has quickly gained a reputation amongst both locals and tourists as the ultimate brunch spot – as it has an expansive menu of both sweet and savory dishes.
The restaurant exudes a stylish, contemporary atmosphere juxtaposed by warm, traditional rustic European-inspired accents (such as the magnificent stone fireplace and sculptural wall detailing). If you choose to dine al fresco on the garden patio, you’ll be able to bring your four-legged friends too, as the restaurant is also dog-friendly.
The hospitable and friendly staff will ensure you are treated like a VIP guest, attending to your comfort while you dine. The restaurant has become such a popular destination since it opened in April 2024, that locals who I’ve spoken with have repeatedly dined here on multiple occasions.
When deciding on what to eat, your tastebuds will be tantalized the moment you glance at their menu. From the Berry Fountain Mimosa and Dulce de leche Latté to the Nutella Lava Cake French Toast, Churro French Toast, Praline Pancakes, Jardin Fraise Salad, and Birria Burger, you’re truly in for a treat when you dig into any of these scrumptious offerings. That’s not all! The restaurant also offers a “Secret Menu” which you can discover by following them on Instagram. When planning your visit, keep in mind that the restaurant is open daily, except Sundays (when they are closed).
Continuing on this gastronomic journey, another incredible new restaurant in Carmel-by-the-Sea is Nicolas Cocina de Herencia Mexicana, located in Carmel Plaza. This authentic family-owned and operated Mexican restaurant (created by the Alvarez family) opened in Fall 2023 and has rapidly become a fan-favorite amongst locals and visitors. With crystal chandeliers, vibrant fresh floral arrangements, luxe furnishings, and upscale stone accents, the gorgeous 5000-square-foot restaurant exudes glamour, sophistication, and international appeal, making it a dreamy place to dine, especially for dinner.
The restaurant is renowned for mouthwatering and flavorful dishes that are anything but ordinary. The restaurant prides itself on serving specialty Michoacán dishes, as well as other Mexican favorites, incorporating three generations of family recipes into its exceptional menu.
A few of my favorite dishes to enjoy are the Tetela Guacamole (that comes with avocado, cilantro, serrano pepper, red onion, pistachios, radish, and mozzarella), the Veggie Queso Fundido (which includes flamed cheese, creamy guajillo mushroom, and handmade corn tortilla), and Mole Blanco (including pan seared kabocha squash, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, pickled onions, epazote leaves, rice, and handmade corn tortillas). The restaurant also offers a variety of pork, shrimp, steak, and seafood dishes that guests are raving about.
Last, but certainly not least, is another new restaurant in Carmel-by-the-Sea called The Pocket which opened a couple of years ago and has turned into a lively hotspot for Happy Hour and dinner. The chic, contemporary ambiance combined with the bubbling atmosphere creates a captivating setting that exudes warmth, elegance, and style. The restaurant serves both indoors and outdoors, making it an idyllic setting for guests.
As the team is passionate about preparing exceptional dishes which are infused with rich flavors, and tantalizing textures, in addition to being beautiful to behold, the menu offers something for everyone. A few must-try dishes include the Burrata appetizer (which comes with Castelvetrano Olive Tapenade, Saba, Grilled Ad Astra Bread & Olive Oil, as shown above), Roasted Golden Beets (with Shaved Candy Striped Beets, Pepita Pesto, Goat Cheese Yogurt, Blood Orange & Orange Glaze), Crispy Brussels Sprouts (served with Smoked Shoyu Caesar Dressing, Breadcrumbs, Preserved Lemons & Grana Padano), and of course my personal favorite – Pan Seared Scallops (served with Carbonara Arancini, Nduja Butter & Fava Bean Purée). The restaurant is also renowned for serving outstanding steak dishes as well.
What To Do in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Aside from wining and dining, there are a number of fun things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea. From outdoor activities (such as frolicking at the beach, surfing and kayaking, and hiking along the wooded trails) to strolling through town enjoying the delightful art galleries, shopping at designer and home decor boutiques, you’ll surely feel fulfilled immersing yourself in the experience of what life is like in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
For a tranquil day spent at the beach, pack a picnic or grab a coffee and head down to Carmel River State Beach (pictured above). This is a quieter, yet incredibly beautiful, beach that overlooks Carmel Bay, Point Lobos State Reserve, Carmel Meadows, and offers a view of the rolling hills in Carmel Valley.
Whether you’re shopping for apparel, accessories, jewelry, or just mementos from your trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea, a must-visit boutique is Coast Carmel, which is owned by a local family. This delightful boutique carries a range of popular apparel brands (from Patagonia and 7 for All Mankind to Vuori, Faherty, and Blank NYC), in addition to offering a variety of charming gifts, books, and decorative accessories.
Other popular boutiques and retail shops in Carmel-by-the-Sea to visit are Paloosh, GirlBoyGirl, Augustina’s Designer Boutique, Anthropologie, and Fourtané Jewelers (which is a renowned, multi-generational family-owned and operated fine jewelry store that carries brands such as Rolex). During your visit, be sure to head over to Carmel Plaza, which is a stunning outdoor shopping center that has a variety of stores, including Cole Haan and Kate Spade New York, as well as restaurants, coffee shops, and more.
Naturally, when visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea, you’ll have to make time to visit the enthralling art galleries as well as the Carmel Art Association Gallery, which often hosts receptions and shows for local artists, as it is represented by 79 local painters, sculptors, weavers, and printmakers. Carmel-by-the-Sea has long been regarded as an artists’ colony, as it’s been home to many famed artists and photographers.
After strolling through town, take a walk down Ocean Avenue to enjoy a relaxing excursion to Carmel Beach – the famed white sandy beach that overlooks Carmel Bay and the Pebble Beach Golf Links. Here you’ll see playful pups frolicking in the waves, digging in the sand, and running alongside their four-legged friends, in addition to watching surfers, sunbathers, and the occasional pod of dolphins or whales swimming by.
Whether you come for a weekend getaway or stay for a while, a visit to Carmel-by-the-Sea, California is always a wise idea. From enchanting places to stay to dreamy destinations to explore, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in this breathtaking little town along the California coastline.
For a local’s view of the best places to experience around Carmel-by-the-Sea and the Monterey Peninsula, follow Christina-Lauren Pollack on Instagram. To discover more inspiring vacation ideas and travel tips, check out the Travel section on Inspirations & Celebrations. To learn about other incredible travel destinations, hotels, restaurants & lounges, and activities to enjoy in each destination, join 65k+ email subscribers and sign up to receive exclusive travel e-newsletters from I&C.
