THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Carmel
Things to Do in Carmel
Check out must-see sights and activities:
Point Lobos, Carmel River State Beach, Art Galleries, Points of Interest & Landmarks. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
Point Lobos, Carmel River State Beach, Art Galleries, Points of Interest & Landmarks. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Book these experiences for a close-up look at Carmel.
Historical Toursfromper adult (price varies by group size)C$105
Full-day Toursfromper adultC$178
Food & Drinkfromper adultC$195
Historical Toursfromper adultC$49
Historical Toursfromper group (up to 15)C$14
Historical Toursfromper group (up to 4)C$1,368
Audio Guidesfromper adultC$21
Historical Toursfromper adultC$111
Adventure Toursfromper adultC$351- fromper adultC$139
Coastal state reserve with scenic trails through diverse ecosystems, cypress groves, and wildlife. Features include forested paths and picturesque sea lion habitats.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Historical site with a well-preserved church and museum, set within beautiful grounds, providing a reflective journey through the region's rich spiritual and cultural past.
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Historic site with intimate tours led by passionate guides through hand-built structures, revealing insights into a poet's life and maritime connections.
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Other Top Attractions around Carmel
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
What travellers are saying
- JimRiestererEdina, MN5,951 contributionsAn amazing natural area teeming with birds, flowers and awe inspiring views. We had a free morning so on the recommendation of our hotel, headed over to the park which is only about 15 minutes from Carmel.
After paying the $10 parking fee to drive in, we easily found parking in one of 4 small lots (park in the second one if you can). We arrived about 9 am on a foggy summer Friday so it wasn’t crazy busy as I’m sure happens. As there’s only one road-navigating by car is easy.
There are several beautiful and well-maintained hiking paths-most flat but there are some steps in places-but overall easy for most anyone. Our favorite paths were the sandstone path along the sea and the big cypress path that goes through a bit of woods. We spent about 3 hours there taking in the amazing array of colorful wildflowers clinging to rocky out croppings as well as trying to spot wildlife. Pelicans and cormorants were abundant and we say some basking harbor seals on a beach by the bird island path. Although we could hear them barking, the sea lions were obscured by the fog.
This is a must do for anyone interested in nature and scenic walks.Written July 13, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - DesertRose476 contributionsThe sand is soft and perfect for relaxing or taking a nice walk on the beach.
The water is clear and there is little seaweed however it is very cold so I personally wouldn't plan on swimming long. In fact when my husband I were there a jacket would have been nice even for a beach walk.
The parking was awful however so be prepared to park way up the street and walk.Written June 13, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - RonCentralCACapitola, CA663 contributionsFantastic historical site - a must see.
Having been born and raised in California I am well familiar with the chain of missions from San Diego in the south north, each about a day's foot walk apart (by intent). Though I have lived near Carmel for most of my life, this was my first visit. I was wowed by the care and presentation, and of course the burial location of Junipero Serra, the missionary who led creation of the mission chain.
Plan a few hours to absorb the sense of place and history.
Seniors 62 and over only $10 admission, otherwise $13 (as of April 2024).Written April 14, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Gary HMonterey, CA22 contributionsA charming visit to one of the loveliest and most interesting properties on the Monterey peninsula. The stone buildings and tower alone make for a rewarding day. The fascination is multiplied by the story of poet Robinson Jeffers and his family, who built it all and lived there for 50 years. The docents who guide the tours are all knowledgeable and passionate about this unique place.Written May 19, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- sam101645Walnut Creek, CA346 contributionsOcean air, sounds, and view, On the other side of the street there are unique homes for your viewing pleasure. Although the Pacific Ocean never disappoints.Written April 22, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- gosakaSan Jose, CA554 contributionsSo Point Lobos was closed for access road repairs so we were looking for a scenic and easy hike. Garrapata fit the bill - easily accessible from Carmel. To access the trail head you’ll need to park along the highway. Beautiful views and safe passage - not very much in the way of climbing. The trail follows the coast in both directions (north/south) from the trail head. There are also bathrooms and another inland hiking trail across the road. We were happy to have found this.Written June 14, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- WaddlerYork, UK12,103 contributionsIts a gorgeous cove and beach you can look down on from the Bird Island Trail. Its a very short walk from the Bird Island car park (not many car parking spaces, though we parked straight away at 4pm on a Tuesday).
For the full effect of the turquoise water you want it to be sunny so bear that in mind given that in summer mornings are often foggy in these parts.
Be sure to check the beach for sea lions - the chances of seeing them on the beach are good. Also look out for sea otters all along the trail, we saw them in two different locations right at the start of the walk and then just past Bird Island (but not in China Cove itself)Written September 7, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - food ePhoenix, AZ981 contributionsIf you want ocean, upscale galleries and shopping in high end style this is amazing. Beats everwhere in bel.air ,bests newpprt hands down. Excellent dinning. Ocean at rhe end of this higj rent street. There are several streets full to spend a day or week.
No hot dogs or can beer here. But if u want the best its here. Homes and cottages also great if u like history and design. Not for casual not for budget folks. Not a bar scene. Is high class and romantic. Almost dream like ... a must see 5 star place.Written September 7, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Jeri Jo SLongmont, CO73 contributionsThe most amazing view. Crystal clear water and soft sand between your toes. A lovely walk, nice people, lots of dogs but it can be quite windy and a little cool so bring layers.Written February 20, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- roy vTraralgon, Australia5,811 contributionsThe day we spent on Carmel Beach was very nice weather wise.
Nearly impossible to get a car park anywhere near the beach, eventually we found one on a little side street close to the beach.
Best to arrive early as Carmel is a very popular town.
The water was terrific, just right for the young Grandson to play with his boogie board, nice and safe, very busy.
Keep your eye on your kids especially when their in the waterWritten July 6, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - JOHN NSan Francisco, CA154 contributionsWe were visiting Monterey and learned of a country concert being presented at this location.
What a wonderful venue, great sight lines, comfortable seating and a helpful (volunteer) staff. (seating is about 750).Written March 31, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Viktoria A1 contributionThe stone-carvings art on display at this gallery is a testament to human craftsmanship. Very unique and collectible pieces like fountain pens in crystals and Ruby skull. I recommend this place 👌🏼Written November 22, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above hotel descriptions. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in one of these AI-generated descriptions is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
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