Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is very much an artistic community, going way back before famous resident Clint Eastwood really put it on the world map when he became the local mayor from 1986-88. Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson was one early visitor who lived in Carmel for a while, as did the acclaimed landscape photographer Ansel Adams. More recent celebrity residents have included actors Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston, and crime writer James Ellroy. It's a very popular tourist spot, a little like a California version of Aspen in Colorado.

There isn't actually a great deal to do in Carmel, as it has remained largely a village whose residents find it charming enough as it is. You won't find museums to visit – galleries, yes, for artists are still attracted to the place. There are fine, white sand beaches, a mission, some historic houses, and... well, that's about it. Fine dining as well, and some luxurious accommodation – but there are budget choices too, comparatively speaking, if you want to stay and get the night-time atmosphere rather than just pass through.

The Best Things to Do in Carmel
For what to do in Carmel, see our Best Things to Do in Carmel page.

Where to Stay in Carmel
The best places we’ve stayed at in Carmel and can therefore personally recommend are:
The Cypress Inn
The Lamp Lighter Inn
The Vagabond’s House Inn

FOR MORE CARMEL INFORMATION
For further information about Carmel-by-the-Sea visit the
Carmel Business Association website

Or read how to spend 36 Hours in Carmel-by-the-Sea,
according to the New York Times

Custom Search

Go from Carmel-by-the-Sea to the
main Pacific Coast Highway Places page