Carmel Guidebook: Sea-renity

Chris
Carmel Guidebook: Sea-renity

Sightseeing

Must-see because it's so close, but parking is a pain so go early. Even when you go and there is a "parking lot full" at the front gate, you may be able to pay and drive through the park to the various parking lots further in, and you may find parking along the hiking trails.
309 locals recommend
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
62 CA-1
309 locals recommend
Must-see because it's so close, but parking is a pain so go early. Even when you go and there is a "parking lot full" at the front gate, you may be able to pay and drive through the park to the various parking lots further in, and you may find parking along the hiking trails.
Must see if you have time, and don't get dizzy with windy streets. People drive pretty fast, so if you want to sight see, pull over at the lookout points. There are great restaurants and the 2 state parks are amazing.
332 locals recommend
Big Sur
332 locals recommend
Must see if you have time, and don't get dizzy with windy streets. People drive pretty fast, so if you want to sight see, pull over at the lookout points. There are great restaurants and the 2 state parks are amazing.
27 locals recommend
17-Mile Drive
17 Mile Drive
27 locals recommend
668 locals recommend
Monterey Bay Aquarium
886 Cannery Row
668 locals recommend

Food scene

We loved this restaurant and have been going for the past 18 years. But, recently they have been rising prices more and more, so this may be a bit over priced. Amazing wine menu though...
46 locals recommend
Casanova
5th Avenue
46 locals recommend
We loved this restaurant and have been going for the past 18 years. But, recently they have been rising prices more and more, so this may be a bit over priced. Amazing wine menu though...
Great place to have lunch after a walk on Ocean Beach. They have indoor and outdoor dining options. We have tried their burger, sandwiches, sand dabs, and sauvignon blanc.
14 locals recommend
Portabella
Ocean Avenue
14 locals recommend
Great place to have lunch after a walk on Ocean Beach. They have indoor and outdoor dining options. We have tried their burger, sandwiches, sand dabs, and sauvignon blanc.
Charming little restaurant, with indoor and outdoor dining. Great pastas.
8 locals recommend
Il Tegamino
8 locals recommend
Charming little restaurant, with indoor and outdoor dining. Great pastas.
Just a cute little place to get fudge, and all kinds of candy from around the world.
Cottage of Sweets
Ocean Avenue
Just a cute little place to get fudge, and all kinds of candy from around the world.
Literally the most amazing place to taste and buy cheese from around the world. Make sure to be prepared to wait in long queue.
19 locals recommend
The Cheese Shop
Junipero Street
19 locals recommend
Literally the most amazing place to taste and buy cheese from around the world. Make sure to be prepared to wait in long queue.

Conveniences

128 locals recommend
Safeway
815 Canyon Del Rey Blvd
128 locals recommend
23 locals recommend
CVS
6 The Crossroads
23 locals recommend
22 locals recommend
Costco Wholesale
801 Tioga Ave
22 locals recommend

Traveler advice

Book before you go

Many restaurants you need to make reservations

Make reservations for dining ahead of time.
What to pack

Swim suits, water toys, personal toiletries

We have beach towels and beach chairs, but bring your own beach toys and tent if you want to hang out.
Traveling with kids

Carmel Point Beach NOT for swimming

The surf can be strong, so do not swim here. Go to Ocean Beach if you like to play in the water, or go to the River.