Carmel-by-the-sea on the Coast of California is undoubtedly one of the cutest towns in the United States. This little seaside village is raved about as one of the “must visit” stops along the California Coast and the Pacific Coast Highway – also known as Highway 1. Not only is the Pacific Coast Highway one of the world’s most scenic drives (and subsequently attracts thousands of road trippers each year), but it also has more than enough stops along the way to interest and delight travellers passing through. With a population of less than 4,000, Carmel is quiet and unassuming, but don’t be fooled: this is one of the most popular tourist stops on Highway 1.
Carmel-by-the-sea is one such stop located on the fringe of Big Sur itself on California’s Monterey Peninsula. The adorable town is known for the museums and library of the historic Carmel Mission, and the fairytale cottages and galleries of its village-like center. If you’re wondering why the small seaside town is quite so pleasing to the eye, you will perhaps be just as pleased to learn that Carmel has always been a favourite for creative types – even having several famous mayors such as Clint Eastwood.
Check in to L’Auberge Carmel, Relais & Chateaux
Because of the popularity that seems to only grow year by year, Carmel-by-the-sea has some fantastic accommodations on offer. We suggest checking in to the luxurious L’Auberge Carmel, a full-service Relais & Chateaux hotel located in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea just blocks from the famed Carmel Beach. Originally built in 1929, the historic hotel is known for its graceful architecture, personalized guest services, European-style and elegance.
This is the perfect choice to rest after your journey, the staff were incredibly friendly and were more than helpful in outlining a range of dining options for the evening. The hotel includes 20 luxurious guest rooms all with four poster canopied or tufted beds, a separate walk-in shower, vanity, flat-screen TV, a music system, recessed lighting and radiant floor heating in the bathrooms. The individually designed guest rooms feature imaginatively decorated spaces that feature original antiques from the 18th, 19th, and 20th century. The hotel even has a Michelin-star, Forbes Five Star Restaurant, Aubergine.
If you’re looking for the perfect “special occasion” hotel whilst staying overnight in Carmel, we strongly recommend L’Auberge Carmel. And just when you think it couldn’t get any better (and don’t want to leave), you are welcomed to enjoy the generous Michelin-starred Aubergine’s signature breakfast before you hit the road for the next leg of your journey.
What to see and do in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Although a small town geographically, Carmel has a lot to offer. During our short time here, we did some (hands on) research to uncover the best of the best in Carmel. Here are our recommendations:
If you want to see the main sights
If you want to see the main sights Carmel has to offer, we suggest visiting the Carmel Mission which was established in 1771. The beautiful Carmel Mission is an active church and also houses an insightful museum with impressive artifacts, as well as being a National Historic Landmark. It has been painstakingly restored, and is the only Spanish mission in California that has its original bell tower and bell. Exploring the Carmel Mission, with its lovely chapel, museum, fountain, and gardens, is one of the top things to do in Carmel.
You can also stroll down Ocean Avenue, browse Carmel’s art galleries, and shop the one-of-a-kind boutiques. You can also enjoy wine tastings and olive oil tastings, as well as tour Tor House, which was the home of poet Robinson Jeffers and family from 1919 to 1999.
If you want to get lost in nature
Be sure to visit Point Lobos State Reserve, just 5 minutes from Carmel. Entrance to the Reserve is $10 per adult, and if you’re lucky that will include the chance to spot sea lions bathing at the beach below you.
If you enjoy great food
Dining at the hotel’s Michelin-starred Aubergine is an obvious choice, but for more local dining look no further than Dametra Cafe. People queue to eat here, so be sure to arrive early or expect a short wait. Dametra serve Mediterranean Cuisine for an exceptionally good price – you can have a fantastic dinner for two with drinks for around $50.
If you’re in search of great photo spots
Simply walk around the streets of the Carmel Village. Ditch the map and get lost, as the best photo opportunities will be found in hidden alleyways and side streets.
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Louise Walker is AGLAIA’s Editor in charge of all content creation and management. She splits her time between London and Miami, and can always be found at a swanky hotel bar sipping on a Negroni. Contact her for any questions or if you would like to become an AGLAIA Contributor: hello@aglaiamagazine.com
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