19 Best Things to Do in Carmel by the Sea, California

Carmel by the Sea is a playground for the rich and famous. In fact, Clint Eastwood was the mayor of this beautiful seaside town in 1986 and again in 2001. It’s no wonder Carmel is one of the most exclusive communities in the United States, this coastal town has been attracting celebrities and artists for decades. And tourists make a point to enjoy this little slice of California heaven as well. While we may not be able to afford one of its mansions, we can visit and these are the best things to do in Carmel by the Sea to include on your Big Sur road trip.

Best Things to Do in Carmel by the Sea

This charming village is only one square mile but it packs a huge punch. With fairy tale cottages, art galleries, and gorgeous ocean views, Carmel, California truly does feel like a storybook. When taking a road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles, Carmel California should be at the top of your list.

There are so many things to do in Carmel by the Sea from exploring the town center to taking day trips to explore the Pacific Ocean coast there’s something here for everyone. So let’s take a journey to this picturesque paradise and explore all of the best things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

1. Learn to Surf at Carmel Beach

When in California, how can you not give it a go? One of the best things we did in Carmel by the Sea was to take a surfing lesson at beautiful Carmel Beach. Carmel Surf Lessons offers courses, rentals, or just a fun day with an instructor to help you get on the board.

Become a true Californian and learn to surf on the sandy beach with easy waves. Your instructor will give you hands-on help to ride the waves and stand up on the board. We’ve tried surfing a few times around the world, and this was a great place for beginners.

2. Stroll Along Carmel Beach

If surfing isn’t your thing, no worries, Carmel Beach is located just steps from downtown Carmel and is a great place to hang out and enjoy the sun and sand. For a downtown beach, this is a large horseshoe beach with rocky outcrops and beautiful views of Pebble Beach and Point Lobos.

Carmel Beach is where we took our surfing lesson, but there were plenty of people simply taking a stroll with their dogs along this 1-mile dog-friendly crescent-shaped beach.

3. Carmel River State Beach

Another beach located just south of Carmel by the Sea is Carmel River State Beach. It is known for its long, sandy expanse and picturesque views of the Carmel River Lagoon. If you are a bird…