The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Carmel-By-The-Sea
Imagine a beach town in California sprinkled with storybook cottages and charming alleyways. Can you believe a place like this even exists?! This weekend guide to Carmel-By-The-Sea highlights the perfect way to spend 36 hours in Carmel, California. If you like your weekend getaways to include nature, great food, boutique shopping, or all of the above, Carmel-by-the-Sea is for you!
Where to Stay In Carmel-By-The-Sea
Hotel Carmel
Hotel Carmel is an inviting boutique hotel just a short walk away from downtown Carmel and the beach. Enjoy the inside-outside living California is known for by relaxing near their cozy outdoor fireplace while enjoying the hotels daily complimentary happy hour featuring local wine. My personal favorite touch was their breakfast bagel bar, stocked with various types of locally made cream cheese and spreads. The local strawberry cream cheese was an absolute standout!
Cypress Inn
Located in downtown Carmel this luxury boutique hotel will have you right near the storybook cottages and art galleries that Carmel is best known for.
Top Things to Do In Carmel-By-The-Sea
There are so many things to do in Carmel- by -the- Sea but the perfect way to spend a long weekend in Carmel would include the following:
Explore Downtown Carmel
Take time to walk around admire the charming storybook cottages that make this beach town so unique. As you wander down Carmel’s alleyways you will find pretty gardens at every turn. Once back onto the beaten path, you can appreciate art at the various galleries and enjoy boutique shopping.
Watch a Sunset at Bixby Bridge (Big Sur)
The famous Bixby Bridge at Big Sur is a short 15-20 minute drive from downtown Carmel. This bridge area is not just used to cross the Bixby Canyon on Highway 1, but it is also the perfect backdrop to enjoy a sunset!
Hike Point Lobos State Reserve
Make sure to stop at Point Lobos State Reserve while you are visiting Carmel. Take in beautiful ocean views while spotting otters, whales and even sea lions sun bathing! This is more of a nature path than a hike so it is pretty much doable for most as long as you wear comfortable shoes.
Visit The Mission Basilica
Just a quick drive from Carmel is a beautiful Spanish inspired Mission Basilica. This historical landmark originally built in 1797 is the only basilica in California with its original bell and bell-tower still standing.
Enjoy a Wine Tasting at Folktale Winery and Vineyard
Folktale Winery has an insanely beautiful venue that resembles a fairy tale castle. They pride themselves in offering a laid back and fun wine tasting experience for all levels of wine connoisseurs.
Where to Eat In Carmel, California
Cultura – Comida and Bebida
Cultura offers Oaxacan style Mexican cuisine with a fun modern ambiance. Once you sit down expect to be greeted with chips, salsa, and crickets! I sampled the street tacos, chicken enchiladas, and the chile reselleno (my personal recommendation). If you make it here, do yourself a favor and do not leave without trying the Mezcal-White Chocolate Panna Cotta!
La Bicyclette
This cozy French Bistro offers a variety of options for lunch and dinner. Regardless of what time you visit, make sure you enjoy their elevated wood-fired pizza! Some of my favorites include the Champignons, Squash & Speck, and Margherita.
Brophy’s Tavern
A fun Irish pub with beer can art from floor to ceiling. Make sure to try the fish and chips and truffle fries here!
Stationary
If you are looking for a great Latte in Carmel, Stationary is your spot! Expect a very bright and energetic coffee shop serving beautiful lattes and brunch classics with a modern twist.
Village Corner
Village Corner provides your quintessential patio dining in downtown Carmel. Stop in for a delicious burger or salads and make sure to try their Olallieberry pie!
Hope this guide helps!
