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Great Things To Do In Carmel

Carmel has something for everyone. Are you here for a solo retreat, a romantic couple's getaway, a family adventure, an outing with your dog, a family or group reunion? Carmel has an activity you will be sure to enjoy!

Here are some of our staff favorites...

Barefoot Walk on Carmel Beach

At the bottom of Ocean Avenue. Turn left on Scenic Road and find nearly a mile of beautiful white sands beach, plenty of parking and public access to the beach via various stairways.

After Dinner Stroll around Carmel-by-the-Sea

Window shop and feel the flavor of Carmel without the crowds.

Point Lobos State Reserve Drive and Nature Walks

Known as “the greatest meeting of land and water in the world”. Approximately 5 miles south of Carmel on Hwy 1. Entrance to the park is $10 if you drive in. Free if you park in designated area along Hwy 1 and walk in.

Be sure to take your camera

Drive Scenic Hwy 1 South to Big Sur

Check with the Front Desk for more information.

A 26-mile coastal drive with unparalleled views of our rugged coast.

Lunch at Nepenthe Restaurant, the Big Sur Bakery or the Ventana Inn or hike the beach trails at the end of Sycamore Canyon Road, one mile past Pfieffer State Park on the right. Additional day hikes can be found in the Julia Pfieffer Burns State Park 8 miles south of Nepenthe. This is a narrow winding road so please use caution.

Escape to THE REFUGE

Advanced Reservations Recommended

Located just 5 miles east off Carmel Valley Rd, multiple hot and cold pools, fire-pits, steam room and relaxation rooms. 4-hour day pass available starting at $55.

Check out their website www.refuge.com for further details and available packages

Visit Historic Carmel Mission Basilica

Newly Refurbished and celebrating their 250th Year Anniversary in October 2021

Be sure to check out the Old California Inner Plaza and Gardens

Pebble Beach / 17 Mile Drive

At the bottom of Ocean Avenue turn right on San Antonio Street and follow to the entry gate. $11.25 Entry Fee per vehicle, refundable with purchase of $35 or more at one of the local businesses. Visit scenic Pebble Beach Lodge. Consider lunch at the famous Tap Room or their new restaurant The Bench. From the Pebble Beach Lodge stay on the coastal road which will take you all the way to Pacific Grove and access to Cannery Row

Monterey Bay Aquarium (BY APPOINTMENT ONLY) / Historic Monterey & Cannery Row

World Renowned Sea Aquarium. Hotel passes good for 2 consecutive days. Many interactive exhibits. Great place to bring the kids. See historic Monterey, including John Steinbeck's Cannery Row, Fisherman's Wharf and early California historic buildings.

Carmel Wine Walk

Visit the many tasting rooms featuring Monterey County wines all within walking distance of the Inn.  Download the mobile Wine Walk App for a self-guided tour and discover exclusive experiences only available through the mobile guide.  Read more about how this new Carmel-by-the-Sea Wine Walk works.

Lunch and Wine Tasting in Sunny Carmel Valley Village

10 miles east on Carmel Valley Rd (off Hwy 1) Carmel Valley Village

Offers warm sunny weather, good restaurants, and many boutique tasting rooms all within walking distance of one another.