Skip to Content

Top 8 Reasons To Visit The Charming California Town of Carmel

Share The Article

Last Updated


Carmel-By-The-Sea, often simply called Carmel, is a charming small town on the Californian coast. Home to fairytale-esque cottages and surrounding by stunning natural landscapes, Carmel is the perfect destination for a getaway. Here are 8 reasons to consider visiting this summer.

1. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a gorgeous natural area located just outside of Carmel, California. The area is home to countless things to do that are sure to satisfy all kinds of nature lovers. Popular activities include scuba diving, hiking, and photography. The preserve is also home to a small museum, where you can learn more about the history of the area.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

2. Charming Local Shops

Carmel is home to countless local shops, offering visitors a great way to find some truly one of a kind gifts and souvenirs while also supporting small businesses. If you’re looking to get some shopping in, check out the shops on Ocean Ave, as well as Carmel Plaza. For some specific local gems to explore, check out the selectin of antiques at Wittpenn’s Antiques, pick up a new book at Pilgrim’s Way Community Bookstore & Secret Garden, or find a gift for loved ones back home at Carmel Bay Company.

3. The Town's Slow, Peaceful Pace

One of the best reasons to visit Carmel is, without a doubt, its peaceful atmosphere and slower pace. While there’s no shortage of cities along the Californian coast, Carmel offers guests reprieve from the hustle and bustle they may find in many of the larger cities such as Los Angeles. This makes the town not only a great option for those looking for a beachfront getaway, but also those looking for a low-stress vacation destination.

The Town's Slow, Charming Pace

4. Beautiful Beaches

There are several stunning beaches near Carmel, California that are perfect for a wide variety of beachgoers. As previously noted, Point Lobos State Natural Preserve offers scuba diving at spots such as Whaler’s Cove. You also won’t want to miss out on lounging on the white sands of Carmel Beach, or enjoying a walk along the mile-long Carmel River State Beach.

Beautiful Beaches

5. Charming Places To Stay

Another great reason to visit Carmel are the options for places to stay. The Vagabond’s House, for example, is a charming boutique hotel that offers guests uniquely decorated rooms, as well as an on-site spa. Candlelight Inn, meanwhile, is a beautiful downtown inn perfect for guests that are planning to explore the local shops, restaurants, and art galleries, and it also features a gorgeous outdoor seating area perfect for relaxing in front of a fire in the evenings.

Charming Places To Stay

6. Countless Photo Opportunities

Thanks to its beautiful, historic buildings, laid-back atmosphere, and all the beautiful scenery surrounding it, Carmel-By-The-Sea is an amazing place to visit for those looking to take plenty of pictures. Whether you’re a photographer looking for stunning landscapes or the perfect background or simply looking for some fun Instagram pictures, Carmel won’t disappoint.

Countless Photo Opportunities

7. A Rich History

Carmel-By-The-Sea offers guests a rich and varied history. From learning about whaling in the areas in centuries gone by to the town’s continuing modern-day tradition of having no chain restaurants to its historic mission, Carmel isn’t just a small town by size – it also serves as a true and charming example of small-town America.

A Rich History

8. One-Of-A-Kind Memories

All of these pieces come together to form the largest reason to add Carmel-By-The-Sea to your travel itinerary: you’re sure to make some one-of-a-kind memories. Whether you enjoy exploring the nearby natural reserve, shopping at local stores, or learning more about the past of the area you’re visiting, Carmel has something for you. It also has a variety of experiences you won’t find anywhere else. For example, the village made a law against wearing heels higher than 2 inches without a permit decades ago, supposedly to prevent people from tripping over tree roots and uneven payment. While the law isn’t enforced today, you can still pick up a free permit at the City Hall to have a fun story to tell friends about.

One-Of-A-Kind Memories

Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19

7 Off The Beaten Path Things To Do In San Diego California

Top 10 Small Towns On The West Coast To Visit In 2022

↓ Elevate Your Travel↓

Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!

✈️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!


SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path's latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.