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Carmel by the Sea town

Ocean Avenue, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Description

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a town along California's Central Coast known for its natural beauty and artistic history. Several mayors have for instance been poets or actors, such as Perry Newberry (who tried to keep the town free of tourism...) and Clint Eastwood. Highlights include the Carmel Mission built in 1770-71, its white sand beach and trees, its art galleries, and some excellent restaurants Trivia: buildings have no street number so mail delivery isn't possible and residents go and pick up their mail at the post office.

Access & Transport

The town is just off CA-1, less than 10km south of Monterey and 120km south of San Jose (US-101/CA-1). Bus #22 makes the trip between Monterey and Carmel in 20mins.

Instructions & Recommendations

We suggest combining a trip there with a visit of Monterey (highlights include the Aquarium and the old wharf) or a walk in Point Lobos, 6km to the south.

Meta review

Extremely touristy town and recommended stop by most travel guides and bloggers when taking on the Big Sur drive. Besides the art galleries, the highlights for most visitors are the Carmel Mission and the beaches. Carmel River State Beach, just to the south of the main residential area, has excellent reviews. There are no lifeguards on duty but it is an excellent place for a walk (plenty of dog owners as well), has great natural environment, parking and restrooms. As for the Mission, comments mention the interesting history and exhibits about imperial Spain, the Franciscans and the state of California.

Environmental & Social

Environmentally neutral (no carbon footprint). Positive from a social perspective as tourism helps preserve the town's cultural heritage and provides economic activity to the community but there is a clear case of over-commercialization, and the town is expensive for residents.

Conclusion

Carmel is deservedly popular and, for those with spare time or in a slow travel mood, is worth staying a few nights to be able to explore the surrounding areas but also enjoy the town's atmosphere early morning and evening when tourists are not around. Lots of nice coffee shops, restaurants and art galleries to keep one occupied when not taking a walk.

Key positive

Gorgeous coastline and cypress trees

Buildings with lot of charm

Key negative

Expensive accommodation

Quite busy in the summer

Suitability

No restrictions

About this Rating

TYPE

Onsite

RESEARCHED IN

Updated in July 2023

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:0h 30m

est. visit time:3h 30m

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightNo

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

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