12 Hours in Carmel-by-the-Sea

At just one-square-mile, Carmel-by-the-Sea is Monterey County’s smallest village, but for what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in excitement. This notoriously charming European-style town offers a plethora of activities and attractions including cozy bed and breakfasts’, art galleries, culinary delights, wine tasting rooms, performing arts venues and the famous white sands of Carmel Beach. Make the most of every hour in your day with the itinerary below.

9:30am

Start your ambitious 12-hour journey with a solid caffeine fix at one of the oldest businesses in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Carmel Bakery on Ocean Avenue offers a variety of beverages, grab-and-go snacks and baked goods like no other. Since you’re on vacation, mix things up and have dessert for breakfast: their homemade cannoli are simply divine!

10am

Time to shop! With your sugar rush in full swing it’s the perfect time to hit the charming storefronts along Carmel’s main drag, Ocean Avenue, and the surrounding side streets. Browse luxurious designer brands like Tiffany’s and Anthropologie at Carmel Plaza or take to the various specialty shops for one-of-a-kind jewelry, home goods, gifts and clothes.

Be sure to stop by a few of the many art galleries in the area. Get a slice of the overall art scene at the Carmel Art Association’s gallery on Dolores Street, where they showcase artwork from over 100 local artists. Just down the street, the Dr. Seuss Art Gallery is full of whimsical pieces that are sure to stir up nostalgic feelings from your childhood.

12pm

Immediately transport yourself to a quaint Florentine eatery and refuel at il Grillo. Tucked away on Mission and 4th Street, here you can choose your favorite type of homemade pasta accompanied by your choice of sauce - which isn’t easy with options like basil pesto, rustic Bolognese, lamb ragu and wild mushroom. Be sure to save room for their authentic Italian pastries and cookies!

1pm

Work off those carbs and take a stroll down to Carmel Beach. Take a breather and simply soak in the sights and sounds of crashing waves, dashing dogs and dolphins swimming in the surf. This iconic white-sand beach is particularly stunning at sunset, when locals and visitors alike come out to enjoy Mother Nature’s nightly show.

3pm

It’s 5 o’clock somewhere, right? Carmel-by-the-Sea has seen a recent boom in wine tasting rooms which is never a bad thing. Over a dozen tasting rooms are scattered throughout a one-square-mile radius, the hardest part is choosing which ones to try! Wrath Wines in Carmel Plaza offers an incredible Pinot Noir while Carmel Road, Carmel’s newest tasting room, serves up a luscious Chardonnay.

5pm

Round out your foodie experience with an early dinner reservation at Grasing's on Mission Street. Their coastal cuisine highlights the area’s exceptional local and organic bounties of produce, steak and seafood. Start off with their truffle and white cheddar popcorn, you will not regret it!

7pm

Once the sun sets, mosey on over to one of the local theatres for a taste of the performing arts scene. The architecturally stunning Sunset Center regularly plays host to world-class performances and live events including global music, comedy, rock shows, theatre, and dance. Looking for a more intimate venue? Watch the local talent in a rendition of a popular musical or play at the Golden Bough Playhouse.

8:30pm

Cap off your night under the stars at the Rooftop Lounge at Vesuvio. Take a seat by one of the fire pits and try one of Chef Pepe’s limoncello cocktails.

9:30pm

Wind down your busy day at a friendly inn or charismatic bed and breakfast. There’s a room and theme for just about any taste and budget: experience the genuine hospitality at Hofsas House, historic highlights at Pine Inn, stunning ocean views at La Playa, or high-end luxury at L’Auberge.