Things To Do
17 Mile Drive
Located right next to Carmel. Follow 17-Mile Drive’s red-dotted line to arrive at an enchanting world full of dramatic coastal cliffs, snow-white beaches, mystical forests and iconic golf courses. Discover one of the most scenic drives in the world as you meet the inspiring Lone Cypress, ponder the giant trees at Crocker Grove, digest the untouched beauty at Fanshell Beach, behold the power of the Restless Sea at Point Joe, stroll the boardwalk above the beach at Spanish Bay, and much, much more. Admission to 17-Mile Drive is $12.50 per vehicle.
Galante Vineyards Tasting Room
Galante Family Winery ~ Carmel-by-the-Sea Wine Tasting is a cozy, western-themed wine bar located on Dolores Street between Ocean Avenue and 7th Avenue in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California Galante Family Winery ~ Carmel-by-the-Sea Wine Tasting. It offers a tasting menu of their bold, estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignons and red blends produced in the nearby Carmel Valley
Carmel Plaza
Nestled in the heart of downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Plaza is home to one-of-a-kind fashion finds and specialty national brands, distinctive restaurants, gourmet shops, wine tasting rooms, wellness studios, and more— in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is located about 10 minutes south of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Since the parking lot fills up quickly, it’s best to arrive early in the morning to secure a spot and give yourself plenty of time to fully experience the park’s scenic trails and coastal views.
Garrapata Beach
A scenic 20-minute drive south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this spot offers free roadside parking and stunning coastal views, making it a perfect stop to take in the beauty of California’s rugged shoreline just outside of Carmel.
Bixby Bridge
Enjoy breathtaking views of Bixby Creek Bridge, located about 25 minutes south of Carmel-by-the-Sea. While parking is free, spaces are very limited, so visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon is the best way to avoid crowds and secure a spot.
Big Sur River Inn
Big Sur River Inn is located about 40 minutes south of Carmel-by-the-Sea. If you’re heading toward McWay Falls or Pfeiffer Beach, it makes for a perfect stop to enjoy lunch or drinks while relaxing alongside the river.
Pfeiffer Beach
Pfeiffer Beach is located 1 hour south of Carmel. We recommend making a day trip down Highway 1 and stopping at Big Sir Inn Restaurant for lunch to break up the day. Pfeiffer Beach is a hidden coastal gem in Big Sur, California, famous for its purple-hued sand and the iconic Keyhole Arch just offshore
McWay Falls
Located 1 hour south of Carmel. McWay Falls is an 80-foot waterfall in Big Sur that flows directly into the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning views from the Overlook Trail and earning top ratings from visitors.
Monterey Jazz Festival
The 69th Monterey Jazz Festival is Sept. 25-27, 2026. 3-Day packages & Single-Day tickets