Carmel-by-the-sea is one of my favorite coastal getaways in California.
Nestled along California’s Monterey Peninsula, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a seaside village that feels like it’s been plucked straight from a fairytale. Known for its storybook cottages, windswept beaches, and charming streets lined with boutiques, art galleries, and cafés, Carmel is a must-visit for anyone seeking a peaceful yet vibrant coastal getaway.
Carmel-by-the-Sea is approximately 330 miles north of Los Angeles, which is about a 5.5 to 6-hour drive, depending on traffic.
From San Francisco, it’s about 120 miles south, typically a 2 to 2.5-hour drive. Both routes offer scenic views, especially if you take the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) for parts of the journey.
One of the most beautiful aspects of Carmel-by-the-Sea is simply wandering its cobblestone streets. The village’s unique architecture, inspired by European fairy tales, gives it a magical atmosphere. You’ll find charming cottages, each with its own quirky design and colorful gardens that seem to bloom year-round. There are no street addresses here, just whimsical names for homes and businesses, adding to the sense of stepping into another world.
Affiliate Disclosure: Please be aware that some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission through advertising or affiliate programs. There’s no extra cost to you, and I appreciate your support of my blog when you make purchases through these links!
Here are my recommendations for the top things to see and do in Carmel:
- Explore Carmel Beach
Enjoy the stunning white sands and turquoise waters of Carmel Beach. It’s perfect for relaxing, walking, or watching the sunset.
- Wander Through Downtown Carmel
Stroll the charming streets filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafés. Don’t miss the hidden courtyards and alleyways that add to the fairytale-like atmosphere.
Tuck Box
A charming and iconic tearoom known for its fairytale-like appearance and cozy atmosphere. They offer a delightful menu featuring traditional English tea service, scones, and light meals.
Cottage of Sweets
An enchanting candy store with fairytale exterior and wide selection of candies.
Frenzy Body
A shop that primarily sells skincare products, including luxury items like bath bombs and eye serums.
Pilgrims Way Community Bookstore and Secret Garden
A hidden gem that offers a serene and enchanting experience for book lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
The Xocolatl Garden
A hidden treasure that celebrates the rich history and cultural significance of chocolate. Located within the picturesque Secret Garden behind Pilgrim’s Way Community Bookstore, the Xocolatl Garden offers visitors an immersive experience in the world of artisanal chocolate. The garden’s name, “Xocolatl,” is derived from the ancient Nahuatl word for chocolate, reflecting its roots in Mesoamerican culture.
The Harrizon Memorial Library
A historic institution offering a vast collection of local history, including manuscripts, photographs, and digital archives.
- Explore the Fairy Tale Cottages
A visit to Carmel-by-the-sea isn’t complete without seeing the fairytale cottages. Walk or drive through Carmel to spot the whimsical, storybook-style cottages, many designed by architect Hugh Comstock, giving the town its iconic charm.
Hansel and Gretel Cottage
A tiny, storybook-inspired home on Torres Street
The Hansel and Gretel cottages in Carmel-by-the-Sea are whimsical, fairytale-style homes built in the 1920s by Hugh Comstock. Originally designed for his wife’s doll business, these charming cottages are renowned for their storybook architecture and quaint, picturesque surroundings, making them iconic landmarks in the village. Today, they are beloved private residences, adding to Carmel’s unique charm.
Obers or The Comstock House
Built in 1925 in Carmel-by-the-Sea, The “Obers House” is one of the original cottages designed by Hugh Comstock. This house is part of Comstock’s signature fairytale architecture, which features whimsical, storybook-like designs with steep roofs and charming details. The Obers House has undergone renovations over the years, including new landscaping and a garage addition, but it retains much of its original character.
The Storybook Cottage
The Storybook Cottage in Carmel-by-the-Sea, also known as the “Browne House,” is one of the enchanting fairy-tale homes designed by Hugh Comstock in the 1920s. With its whimsical architecture, steep shingled roof, and charming pink exterior, it embodies Comstock’s signature storybook style. The cottage has been updated over the years, including a lovely garden and fresh paint, but it maintains its enchanting, gingerbread-like appearance.
Exploring these cottages is like stepping into a fairytale, with their quaint details and enchanting atmosphere adding to the town’s magical allure.
- Visit the Carmel Mission Basilica
This historic mission, founded in 1771, is a beautifully preserved site with lovely gardens and a museum that showcases California’s Spanish history.
- Hike at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Just outside Carmel, Point Lobos offers stunning coastal hikes with views of cliffs, wildlife, and serene coves. It’s a haven for photographers and nature lovers.
- Explore Garrapata State Park for stunning coastal views and scenic hiking trails
Located just a short drive south of Carmel-by-the-Sea along Highway 1, is a breathtaking coastal park known for its rugged beauty and diverse landscapes. The park spans over 2,500 acres and features dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, coastal bluffs, and trails that wind through redwood groves, coastal chaparral, and wildflower-covered hillsides. It is also home to Garrapata Beach, a hidden gem with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Take a Day Trip to Big Sur
Just a short drive from Carmel, Big Sur offers rugged coastal views, scenic hikes, and landmarks like Bixby Creek Bridge.
Where to stay in Carmel-by-the-sea
Here are a few hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea that are within walking distance of downtown:
A charming and intimate boutique hotel offering cozy accommodations just steps away from the town’s quaint downtown and scenic beaches. Book a room here.
A luxury hotel just a few blocks from Ocean Avenue, offering fine dining and a relaxing European-style ambiance. Book a room here.
A stylish boutique hotel offering a cozy, elegant retreat just a short walk from the heart of downtown and the beach. Book a room here.
One of the oldest hotels in Carmel, Pine Inn combines historic charm with easy access to downtown’s art galleries and dining spots. Book a room here.
A charming boutique hotel that blends coastal style with modern comfort, located within walking distance of downtown and the beach. Book a room here.
Looking for more Big Sur inspiration? Click here to explore my blog on the best things to do in Big Sur, California!