If you’ve ever dreamt of visiting somewhere that feels like a cross between a fairytale village, a beachside escape, and a rugged adventure then Carmel, Monterey, and Big Sur are your places.
We spent a few days exploring this little slice of coastal heaven as part of our California road trip, and we can confidently say: it’s as good as everyone says it is.
Here are our top 10 things to do, including a few that weren’t on our radar until we got there.
1. Wander the Fairy-Tale Streets of Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel looks like it’s been plucked straight out of a storybook. No street numbers, just adorable cottages, art galleries, flower boxes, and ocean air.
Take a slow walk, browse the boutique shops, and don’t be surprised if you start looking at property prices on your phone by the end (we did – and we came back down to earth pretty quickly).
2. Catch the Sunset at Carmel Beach
This might just be our favourite beach of the entire trip. It’s one of the only beaches in California where you can legally have a drink – for us, there’s just something about having a lil beer or wine on the beach, watching the sun set into the ocean.
It’s honestly one of our all-time favourite travel moments. Pure magic.
3. Stop by Carmel Bakery for That Chocolate Chip Cookie
If you’ve read any of our other posts, you’ll know we take cookies seriously. And the one from Carmel Bakery was hands-down the best cookie we’ve ever had. We’ve been chasing that standard ever since.
Do yourself a favour: get the cookie. Always get the cookie.
Ps – if you do fancy something else, there is a whole host of lovely things in the bakery!
4. End the Night with Drinks at The Star Bar (Vesuvio)
For a cosy, relaxed evening in Carmel, head to The Star Bar at Vesuvio. Great drinks, a warm atmosphere, and the perfect way to round off a dreamy coastal day.
5. Drive the 17-Mile Drive
It’s a classic for a reason. You’ll pass through cypress groves, white-sand beaches, rocky coastlines, and golf courses that’ll make you wish you played golf.
Don’t miss the Lone Cypress – it’s one of the most photographed trees in the world! Yes, it’s a tree on a rock, but’s a really pretty tree on a rock.
6. Explore Monterey’s Waterfront
Just a short drive from Carmel, Monterey has a charming seaside town feel. Walk along Cannery Row, spot sea lions lounging by the shore, and take in the ocean views.
7. Go Whale Watching in Monterey Bay
If you’ve got time, this is a must. Seeing whales in the wild is something you’ll never forget and Monterey is a great place to do it. If you’re lucky like us, you’ll get a 2-in-1 and be able to watch the sea lions following the whales. We also spotted an otter sunbathing in the waves too!
8. Take the Scenic Drive Through Big Sur
The stretch between Carmel and Big Sur is unreal (provided you don’t go too early in the day when the marine layer is hanging about!) dramatic cliffs, turquoise waves, and views that will make your camera roll explode.
Stop at Bixby Bridge for that classic California photo.
9. Lunch at Nepenthe
Perched high above the cliffs, Nepenthe is the perfect lunch stop. We made the rookie error of going too early when the fog hadn’t lifted, but when it did, the views were spectacular.
Pro tip: Go in the afternoon when the sky clears – you’ll thank yourself later.
10. Slow Down and Soak It All In
This stretch of the California coast isn’t about rushing. It’s about being there. Grab a coffee, take the long way, and stop at random beaches just because you can.
You’ll leave feeling calm, full of fresh sea air, and probably thinking about moving to Carmel (again, guilty).
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