36 Hours in Carmel
There are so many things to do in the area!
Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Do the 17 mile drive
The 17-Mile Drive leisurely winds its way through one of the most scenic roads in the world. You’ll drive through Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach, much of which hugs the Pacific coastline; passing by famous golf courses and grandiose mansions along the way. Gates are open to the public from sunrise to sunset.
Hike Point Lobos
Drive to Point Lobos State Reserve, 2 miles south of Carmel; the crown jewel of the State Park system. Walk or hike through dense groves of Cypress forest leading to hidden coves, beaches, and overlooks. Enjoy great hiking, perfect picnic spots, vistas, and wildlife.
Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium
Frolicking sea otters, fast-swimming sharks, pulsating jellies and waddling penguins — our world-class exhibits and breathtaking scenery instill a love of the ocean in our visitors. With over 200 exhibits and 80,000 plants and animals, the Aquarium is a window to the wonders of the ocean.
Visit historic Laguna Seca Raceway
Laguna Seca Recreation Area is located about 10 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean and the beautiful town of Monterey, 15 minutes from downtown Carmel and sunny Carmel Valley. Visitors from around the world visit this scenic destination to sample its fine wines, incredible restaurants, golf courses, beaches and our iconic and historic road course.
VISIT THE CARMEL MISSION
See the historic Mission San Carlos de Borromeo de Carmelo, built in 1771. Saint Junipero Serra founded it as part of a chain of missions built along the coast of California.
Explore downtown Carmel
Explore the charming, European-style streets of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Find the almost 40 courtyards created by Carmel's founders and check out the cute boutiques, coffee shops and art galleries throughout town.
SCUBA Dive Monterey Bay
Trained divers can experience the spectacular and world-renowned Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary from beneath the kelp! With numerous dive shops, there's no need to bring your own gear!
GO TO THE BEACH
Enjoy the sun and take a walk on the beautiful white sand of Carmel Beach. Scan for dolphins in the surf and, at low tide, explore the tide pools at the north end of the bay.
Taste Some Wine
While most people think of Napa and Sonoma for wine tasting, there is actually a fantastic wine scene in Carmel. You can find numerous tasting rooms, wine bars, and even a self-guided wine walk in downtown Carmel. There are also stunning vineyards you can visit in the Carmel Valley (we love the pizza at Folktale Winery!)