Nestled on the California coast just south of the Bay Area is a tiny town called Carmel-by-the-Sea. It has a year-round population of 3,104, yet sees over 8 million tourists a year—and for good reason. It’s a quaint, storybook-like town that looks straight out of a fairytale, with ivy-covered walls and individual cottages lining every street. Made to be a quiet getaway for visitors from near and far, the town is packed full of independently-owned shops, hotels, and restaurants, perfect for boutique experience-lovers.
It’s also a wine and art destination in its own right, so you’ll never be short on things to do, see, and drink. Plus, it’s considered one of the most dog-friendly destinations in the entire country, so it’s a great place to explore with your four-legged friend. Here’s your go-to guide to help you plan a trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Where to Stay
Stilwell Hotel
The perfect spot for a comfortable stay. The Stilwell is right in the heart of downtown Carmel, within walking distance to all of the town’s restaurants. It has a simple, elevated aesthetic, featuring a grayscale color palette accented by sophisticated textures, including woven rattan, marbled stone, wooden slats, and exposed concrete.
Le Petit Pali
With two locations walking distance from the town center, Le Petit Pali is a quiet escape bursting with character and European-inspired charm. The hotels (a 24-room one on 8th Avenue and a 34-room one on Ocean Avenue) are adorned with colorful decorations in botanical and striped patterns, from the lounge chairs in the spacious lobby to the headboards and wallpaper in the rooms. Both locations feature sunny patios, perfect for enjoying Carmel’s moderate weather.
Where to Eat
Grasing’s
This modern American restaurant is an institution in Carmel. It has been open for over 20 years, serving elevated takes of classic dishes. Expect homey, welcoming service, as well as generous accommodations if you choose to dine with your dog. Menu highlights include the scalloped potatoes, steak tartare, and their signature creamy peach mignonette that comes with their oysters.
Toro
Satisfy your sushi craving with a stop at Toro. They have a wide patio to enjoy when the weather is nice, and their curated menu includes rolls, a nigiri and sashimi selection, and hot Japanese entrees. To start, try their uni shooter — sea urchin and a quail egg suspended in seasoned sake (it’s just as weird and delightful as it sounds) — and the Piggly Wiggly Roll is a highlight from their specialty rolls menu.
Where to Drink:
Carmel Wine Walk
Curated by Carmel’s tourism board, this is a fun experience that allows you to try local wines from nearby Napa and the rest of Carmel Valley, rather than going to one specific place for drinks. Follow the map to take a stroll through the city and stop by different tasting rooms to sample the best of Carmel’s wineries.
Where to Visit:
Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea
This is the area where all the boutiques and art galleries are concentrated. It’s super walkable, and you’ll have fun getting lost in the winding alleys.
Cottage of Sweets
This old-school candy store is set in a storybook-like cottage house. Stock up on your favorite classic candies by the pound, and don’t skip their homemade fudge, which they’ve been crafting since the ‘80s.
The Mole Hole
No shopping trip to Carmel is complete without a trip to The Mole Hole. It’s the kind of boutique you can wander around for hours, featuring a mix of vintage and new collectibles. Their staff is so welcoming and helpful, you’ll be able to find gifts for everyone on your list.
Stationæry
Though Stationæry is a newer establishment in Carmel, it has quickly become a staple restaurant for hyper-local and seasonal brunch and dinner. They also have a bustling wine shop stocked with local favorites, and a really wide coffee and tea selection that you can order to-go if you’re not dining there. Don’t be surprised if you end up going there more than once during your trip — the food is really that good.
Carmel Beach
This dog-friendly beach is perfect for an afternoon stroll. You’ll see people playing fetch with their four-legged friends and picnicking in the sand. The water is quite cold, so you might not want to go for a swim, but it’s a beautiful view and a great place to spend time outdoors.
Carmel Mission Basilica and Museum
To learn more about Carmel-by-the-Sea’s history and culture, a stop at the Carmel Mission Basilica is a must. You can take a self-guided tour through the grounds and museum to explore the rich colonial history in the area. The basilica is home to California’s first library and is a beautiful place to explore the influence of Spanish architecture in the region.
