Family Fun
While Carmel is a bit of a quiet town, what family doesn't like going to the beach. The whole family should go to a performance at the Outdoor Forest Theater –there are musicals every summer – take a picnic and sit near the outdoor fires.
Beach Fires
Fires can be built south of 10th Street on Carmel beach – watch a spectacular sunset and share the warmth of a fire with family and friends.
Point Lobos
One of California’s prettiest state parks is only two miles south of Carmel on Hiway 1. See live otters and sea lions. Small entrance fee per car. Get directions at the Visitor Center on San Carlos between 5th & 6th in Carmel.
Directory
Directory
Big Sur
If you are staying in Carmel for more than a day, fit in a trip to the spectacular Big Sur coast. If you don't have a car, take a tour with one of the tour companies or take a public bus during the summer.
Directory
Directory
Monterey Bay Aquarium
One of the best aquariums in the world. With a new aquarium exhibit opening every two years, each trip to the Monterey Peninsula should include a visit to the Aquarium.
Directory
Directory
Whale Watching
Different species of whales are going north or south through Monterey Bay at most times of year. Get your binoculars out and watch from shore or take a whale watching boat!
Directory
Directory
17 Mile Drive Pebble Beach
The world famous 17 mile drive begins at the bottom of Ocean Avenue on San Antonio Street and meanders through Pebble Beach. $9.25 per car.
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Directory
Carmel Beach is always voted one of the top beaches in the country and the dramatic surrounding coast makes Carmel a must-see coastal destination.
Golf
The world-famous golf courses of Pebble Beach and other public and private courses show off the spectacular beauty of the Monterey
Peninsula.
Directory: Golf Courses
Directory: Golf Shops
Directory: Golf Courses
Directory: Golf Shops
Sand Castle Contest
Whimsical and creative sand creations attract competitors and spectators on Carmel’s white sand beach. Held in September.
Calendar
Calendar
Surfing
Surf year-round or compete in the Surf-About Contest on Carmel Beach in June. Bring your wet suit!
Directory
Directory
Tide Pools
Kites Galore
Young or not-so-young, displaying your colors in the wind is a popular sport on Carmel area beaches. Bring your own or pick up a kite from a local merchant.
Dog-Friendly
A leash-free white sand beach, dog-friendly accommodations and dog-friendly restaurants and shops make Carmel the perfect driving destination for dog lovers.
Directory
Directory
Biking (Cycling)
Walking/Hiking
Whether walking the Recreation Trail along the Monterey Bay or hiking to ocean viewpoints in the Santa Lucia Mountains, every outdoors person will find the right adventure.
Visitor Information
Visitor Information
Scuba Diving
Discover the kelp forests and underwater canyons of Monterey Bay. One of the world’s favorite cold-water dive destinations.
Visitor Information
Visitor Information
Adventures
Activities
