Carmel Beach
A stunning white-sand beach known for its dog-friendly shores, breathtaking sunsets, and proximity to a fairytale village.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Easier parking & fewer crowds
Carmel Beach
Best Time
Easier parking & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning white-sand beach known for its dog-friendly shores, breathtaking sunsets, and proximity to a fairytale village.
"One of North Cal’s finest, a gem so rare, with sand so clean, like silk in the air."
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be challenging, especially on holidays. Arrive early or on a weekday for better chances.
🧥 Layer Up!
It gets windy by the coast, even on sunny days. Bring layers for comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Carmel Beach Sunset
Carmel Beach
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific, painting the sky with vibrant colors. A truly magical end to a day.
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Fairytale Cottages
Carmel-by-the-Sea Village
Wander through charming streets lined with storybook cottages and unique architecture. Pure enchantment!
Dog-Friendly Shores
Carmel Beach
Bring your furry friends to enjoy the soft, white sand and ocean waves. Carmel Beach is a paradise for pups!
Scenic Road Walk
Scenic Road, Carmel-by-the-Sea
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Scenic Road for stunning coastal vistas and access to the beach.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Parking
Dress for Coastal Breezes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be challenging, especially on holidays. Arrive early or on a weekday for better chances.
🧥 Layer Up!
It gets windy by the coast, even on sunny days. Bring layers for comfort.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Carmel Beach is a fantastic spot for dogs! They'll love the sand and surf.
📸 Sunset Views
Don't miss the incredible sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. A photographer's dream!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be challenging, especially on holidays. Arrive early or on a weekday for better chances.
🧥 Layer Up!
It gets windy by the coast, even on sunny days. Bring layers for comfort.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Carmel Beach is a fantastic spot for dogs! They'll love the sand and surf.
📸 Sunset Views
Don't miss the incredible sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. A photographer's dream!
🚶♀️ Explore the Village
Combine your beach visit with a stroll through Carmel-by-the-Sea's charming streets and shops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Carmel Beach is widely praised for its stunning natural beauty, soft white sand, and breathtaking sunsets, making it a top coastal destination. Visitors appreciate its dog-friendly atmosphere and the charming, fairytale-like village nearby. Some find parking challenging during peak times and note the windiness of the coast.
"Great place to walk and enjoy the sunset. It is very windy so be sure to wear enough layers.
There maybe some cool bagpipes playing so watch out for that.
Also there’s quite a traffic jam if you go there during the holidays, so plan ahead for parking."
Samuel Teo
"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
At Carmel Beach, heaven meets the shore,
Waves whisper softly, yet beg for more.
One of North Cal’s finest, a gem so rare,
With sand so clean, like silk in the air.
Each step is gentle, pure and bright,
Snow-white grains gleam in the sun’s warm light.
Families laugh, horizons expand,
Perfection sculpted by sea and sand.
But oh—begin to chew a treat,
And winged companions join the feast.
Seagulls gather, bold and near,
Suddenly, best friends appear!
Carmel’s a treasure, calm yet grand,
The ocean’s song, the softest sand.
A five-star jewel—forever true,
Carmel Beach, we cherish you. 🌊✨"
Yarick Stolyar
"Awesome place to visit I would come here again. Quaint town with lots of food, coffee shops, and shopping. We did the 17 mile EBike tour which I highly suggest you try it's easy and fun. Also Pebble Beach Golf course is amazing!!!"
Eugene Okun
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Carmel Beach is located at the foot of Ocean Avenue in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. You can drive directly to the beach, but parking can be limited, especially during peak times. Many visitors find it convenient to park in the village and walk down to the beach.
Yes, there is street parking available along Scenic Road and nearby streets. However, it fills up quickly, particularly on weekends and holidays. Arriving early or on a weekday is highly recommended for easier parking.
While direct public transport to the beach itself might be limited, you can take local bus services to Carmel-by-the-Sea and then enjoy a pleasant walk down to the beach. Check local transit schedules for routes serving the area.
The drive from Monterey to Carmel-by-the-Sea is short and scenic, typically taking about 10-15 minutes. You can take Highway 1 South. Many visitors also enjoy the 17-Mile Drive, which connects Monterey and Carmel and offers stunning coastal views.
Absolutely! The iconic 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach is a must-do, offering breathtaking ocean vistas, famous golf courses, and the Lone Cypress. Highway 1 south towards Big Sur also provides spectacular coastal scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Carmel Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy its beauty and amenities free of charge.
Carmel Beach is open to the public year-round, from sunrise to sunset. There are no specific closing hours for accessing the beach itself.
No advance booking is necessary for Carmel Beach as it is a public access area. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
Generally, Carmel Beach is very welcoming. Dogs are allowed off-leash, and bonfires are permitted in designated fire pits. Always check local regulations for any temporary restrictions.
To avoid the largest crowds, it's best to visit Carmel Beach on a weekday, especially in the morning or late afternoon before sunset. Weekends and holidays tend to be much busier.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Carmel Beach is perfect for leisurely walks, sunbathing, picnicking, and watching surfers. It's also a popular spot for dog walking and enjoying the stunning sunsets.
While beautiful, the waters at Carmel Beach can be cold and have strong currents, making it more suitable for experienced swimmers or surfers. Many visitors prefer to enjoy the beach for its scenery and activities rather than swimming.
Yes, bonfires are permitted at Carmel Beach in designated fire pits. It's a wonderful way to enjoy the evening, but be sure to check local guidelines and safety precautions.
Yes, Carmel Beach is very dog-friendly! Dogs are allowed off-leash, making it a favorite spot for pet owners to let their dogs run and play on the sand.
Given the coastal location, it's advisable to wear layers. Even on warm days, the ocean breeze can make it feel cooler. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended for exploring the beach and the nearby village.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the charming village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, located just a short walk from the beach, offers a wide array of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
Absolutely! Carmel Beach is a perfect spot for a picnic. You can pack your own food or pick up some delicious treats from the many bakeries and delis in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Carmel-by-the-Sea boasts many charming eateries. For breakfast with a view, consider places near the beach. The village offers diverse options, including Italian cuisine and coffee shops. +1
While there aren't direct beachfront restaurants on Carmel Beach itself, many establishments in the village offer ocean views or are just a short walk from the sand, providing a lovely dining experience.
You'll find a variety of cuisines in Carmel-by-the-Sea, including American, Italian, French, and seafood. The town is known for its quaint cafes, bakeries, and fine dining establishments. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Carmel Beach itself offers stunning wide-angle shots of the coastline, surfers, and sunsets. The fairytale cottages in the village also make for picturesque photos.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography at Carmel Beach. Sunrise can also offer a serene and less crowded photographic opportunity.
Beyond the beach, the unique architecture of the fairytale cottages in Carmel-by-the-Sea is a major photographic draw. The iconic Lone Cypress on the 17-Mile Drive is also a popular subject.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for photographing surfers or distant wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies and seascapes.
Drone usage is subject to regulations. It's essential to check with local authorities and the FAA for current rules regarding drone operation in public spaces like Carmel Beach to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While swimming can be chilly and currents strong, kids often enjoy exploring the shoreline, watching surfers, and having picnics. The charming village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, with its fairytale cottages and unique shops, offers a delightful diversion for all ages. 🐶 Pet Owners
This makes it an ideal spot for your canine companions to enjoy the ocean and the beach alongside you. The village of Carmel-by-the-Sea also boasts many dog-friendly businesses, from cafes to shops, ensuring a welcoming experience for you and your pet throughout your visit. 🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Visitors can easily combine a visit to the beach with exploring the charming village, enjoying a scenic drive, or even a short hike in nearby Point Lobos. +1 Parking can be the main challenge, so arriving early or during off-peak hours is key for a smooth experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Carmel-by-the-Sea Village
+1 Wandering through the village, especially along Ocean Avenue, offers a delightful experience of boutique shopping, unique eateries, and a sense of stepping back in time. Many of the buildings have unique, whimsical designs, making every corner a potential photo opportunity. Beyond the visual charm, the village is known for being dog-friendly, with many businesses welcoming canine companions. This adds to the relaxed and welcoming vibe of the town.
For those interested in art, Carmel has a rich artistic heritage, with numerous galleries showcasing local and international talent. The lack of street addresses in some parts of the village adds to its unique character, with many places identified by cross streets or landmarks. The Magic of Carmel Beach Sunsets
+1 The wide expanse of the beach provides an unobstructed view, making it an ideal location for photographers and anyone seeking a moment of natural beauty. The sound of the waves and the cool ocean breeze enhance the serene experience. Many visitors recommend heading to Scenic Road for the best vantage points to capture the sunset. The soft, white sand of Carmel Beach is also a key element in its allure, creating a picturesque foreground for sunset shots.
While the sunsets are a major draw, remember that it can get windy, so dressing in layers is advised to fully enjoy the experience. Activities Beyond the Beach
+1 This drive offers numerous pull-offs for breathtaking views and photo opportunities. For nature enthusiasts, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a nearby gem, often described as the 'crown jewel' of the State Park system, offering incredible hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and dramatic coastal scenery. For those interested in wine, the Carmel Valley region offers numerous wineries for tasting experiences.
Visitors can also explore the charming shops and art galleries in the village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the coast. The proximity to Monterey also opens up possibilities like visiting the Monterey Bay Aquarium or exploring Cannery Row. 
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