20 Epic And Fun Things To Do In Carmel, California

The Carmel Mission, also known as the Carmel Mission Basilica, is a historic site founded in 1770. It's an active Catholic parish, museum, and school in a scenic coastal community. Visitors can take self-guided or guided tours to learn about its history.

Additionally, the mission hosts public events and is a popular wedding venue for Catholic ceremonies. It's recognized as one of the most authentically restored Franciscan missions and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you are looking for things to do in Carmel California, going for a relaxing stroll in Carmel beach which boasts stunning white sand and coastline views is a perfect thing to do. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the beach and nearby trails, soaking in the charming streets of Carmel.

Moreover, the town's walkability enhances the experience, making it perfect for exploring on foot and enjoying the coastal beauty. Overall, the beach offers a picturesque setting for leisurely walks and enjoying the scenery.

Experience the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, photography, and diving amidst breathtaking scenery in this unmissable place to visit in California.

But remember to stick to designated trails to safeguard the environment, and plan your visit for less crowded times like early mornings or weekdays. Immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of the California coastline at this renowned destination.

Birdwatching at the Carmel River Bird Sanctuary is a prime opportunity to observe a diverse range of bird species in a picturesque setting. Recognized as one of the top birding areas on the Monterey Peninsula, it boasts over 350 recorded bird species.

Additionally, with its mile-long beach and lagoon, the sanctuary offers sweeping views of the bay and diverse habitats that attract birds, especially during fall migration. Visitors are advised to bring binoculars for an enhanced experience in this peaceful environment.

Carmel-by-the-Sea Village, a weekend getaway is a charming European-style village known for its quaint courtyards, hidden passages, and enchanting architecture. Visitors can explore shops, galleries, and restaurants, and enjoy wine tasting rooms offering some of the best varietals.

Easily walkable, the village invites visitors to discover its unique charm. It's also home to Carmel's oldest house, built in 1846 by the Michael J. Murphy family which makes it a must-visit destination for everyone.

Embark on a journey along the 17-mile drive in Carmel, renowned for its picturesque coastal vistas, notable attractions such as the Lone Cypress, and renowned golf courses. Driving through this route is one of the most beautiful activities in Carmel.

This scenic route allows travelers to enjoy leisurely drives amidst the Pacific coastline's rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and opulent residences, providing a memorable exploration of California's captivating landscapes and allure.

Exploring the historic Tor House and Hawk Tower provides a captivating exploration of poet Robinson Jeffers' life and contributions. Guided tours offer insights into Jeffers' literary influence, allowing visitors to discover his former home, the remarkable Hawk Tower, and the peaceful old-world gardens.

This experience invites guests to delve into the scenic beauty of the California coastline while gaining a deeper understanding of Jeffers' significant role in shaping American literature.

Carmel River State Beach offers diverse activities such as birdwatching and wildlife spotting in the Carmel River Lagoon and Wetlands Natural Reserve. Kayaking is popular with easy access to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.

However, swimming is not advised due to dangerous riptides and a steep drop-off. Diving is preferred at Monastery Beach for its kelp forests and marine life. Hiking along the Beach Trail is also popular option in this state beach.

Carmel-by-the-Sea's Fairytale Cottages lets visitors explore 11 charming cottages, including the famous "Hansel" and "Gretel" cottages by Hugh Comstock. Visitors can buy a map or audio tour to guide them, taking about 30-60 minutes to finish.

The tour starts at Le Petit Pali Inn on Junipero Street and Ocean Avenue. Additionally, visitors can also enjoy the town's restaurants, shops, and art galleries as well as Carmel Beach, wineries, and the Basilica Mission.

Carmel boasts over 80 esteemed art galleries in just one square mile. These galleries feature renowned artists and visitors can enjoy a self-guided art walk tour using advanced technology to explore at their own pace.

Some notable galleries include the Classic Art Gallery, Edward Montgomery Fine Art Gallery, Jones & Terwilliger Gallery, and more. They offer a diverse array of traditional paintings, sculpture, photography, and avant-garde artwork.

Piccadilly Park in Carmel is a small park located south of Ocean on Dolores Street. Visitors can relax and enjoy the native plant species in this area, which is maintained by volunteers from the Carmel-by-the-Sea Garden Club.

Some species include the Gian Chain Ren, Red-flowering Currant, Coast Live Oak, Manzanita, Douglas Iris, Bush Anemone, and Catalina Ironwood. The park showcases drought-tolerant plants suitable for the Carmel climate, and public restrooms are nearby.

Visiting Whalers Cabin Museum is one of the best things to do in Carmel by the sea. Built around 1851 by Chinese fishermen it's now a museum showcasing the history of whaling in the area.

Here, visitors can see weapons and tools used for whale hunting and processing in the 19th century. The museum offers insight into local whaling history and the techniques and equipment used during that time, and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Garland Ranch Regional Park offers scenic hiking trails for all levels through diverse landscapes. Popular trails include Waterfall Loop, Siesta Point Loop, and Mesa Pond Loop for easy to moderate hikes.

For more challenging and beautiful views, try East Ridge Trail and Snivley's Ridge Trail. The park also allows horseback riding, birdwatching, and mountain biking. It's a great spot for leisure hiking, with stunning views of Carmel Valley.

Mission Ranch is a wonderful spot to watch the sunset. Their restaurant offers a stunning outdoor setting with views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and Point Lobos overlooking the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean.

Serving Classic American Cuisine at moderate prices, it's a popular choice. Locals also enjoy the late-night jazz bar for showcasing talents. Originally a dairy ranch from the 1850s, Mission Ranch now provides charming period-style rooms south of downtown Carmel.

The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History is one of the oldest natural history museums in the U.S., opening in 1883. It focuses on Monterey County's natural history, showcasing diverse flora, fauna, and historical artifacts.

Additionally, interactive exhibits include a butterfly garden and a fossil pit for kids. Visitors can learn about Pacific Grove's Chinese Fishing Village and enjoy special programs. It's a family-friendly destination in Carmel with a gift shop on-site

Garrapata State Park is a beautiful coastal park offering two miles of beachfront, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.

It's a great spot for a day trip, with options for hiking and picnics. The park is open from 8 am to sunset, and dogs are allowed on specific beach areas and trails. Nearby attractions include McWay Falls and Bixby Bridge, making it a top destination in Carmel.

Driving along the Big Sur coastline offers stunning views of cliffs, rocky coasts, and beaches. The 70-mile stretch south of Monterey Bay provides dramatic vistas, with the best views a few miles south of Carmel.

The drive showcases changing scenery and popular attractions like Point Lobos State Park, Bixby Creek Bridge, and McWay Falls. It's best enjoyed in summer, but the weather is pleasant year-round.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a popular attraction showcasing over 200 exhibits and 80,000 plants and animals, including sea otters, penguins, sharks, and jellyfish. Visiting this place is one of the fun things to do in California.

Here, visitors can explore the aquarium's various galleries, including the Kelp Forest, Open Sea, and Sea Otters exhibits. Additionally, the aquarium also offers live cams for those who cannot visit in person, making it a convenient place to visit.

Kayaking or paddleboarding in Monterey Bay is popular in Carmel, California. You can rent equipment from places like Monterey Bay Kayaks, Adventures By The Sea, and SUP with Mike. Adventures By The Sea offers rentals and lessons in Pacific Grove, where you can paddle through the kelp forest and along the shoreline.

Paddling in Monterey Bay offers stunning views of marine life and the coast, providing a unique way to explore and enjoy the Pacific coastline.

The Sunset Cultural Center is a top-notch performing arts venue with 718 seats, beautiful Gothic architecture, and excellent acoustics in Carmel CA. It hosts various high-quality performances and events, including concerts, comedy shows, theater, and dance.

The center is also associated with esteemed organizations like the Monterey Symphony and the Carmel Bach Festival. Visitors can experience a diverse range of performances here, making it a must-visit for arts and culture enthusiasts in Carmel.