Discover the scenes that inspired Jack Kerouac's famous novel Big Sur with your own vacation home in Carmel. Your new abode might just overlook the Pacific Ocean, with gorgeous beaches like Carmel City Beach and China Cove. Hidden gems light up your stay in this mesmerizingly beautiful spot.
Lively Ocean Avenue
Ocean Avenue is another must-see. The heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea is a charming avenue, boasting a small town atmosphere, speciality shops, restaurants and charming cafes. Unique buildings line the street, making strolls down its length one Carmel's most romantic attractions.
Admiring the sea
See more of Carmel with a road trip or a bike ride down Seventeen Mile Drive. Spectacular vistas of the ocean and craggy coast are exhilarating. The drive winds around past three luxury golf resorts in Pebble Beach, and there are hundreds of photo opportuities to pick from. One of the best includes an elm tree that is over 250 years old. From the pretty clubhouses on the rolling green golf courses to the mighty Pacific, there's no better place to be!
Carmel's premier attractions
Point Lobos State Reserve
This nature reserve is the crown jewel of California's state parks. Delicate flowers adorn its landscapes, which are home to herds of deer as well as seals. On the coast, you can see cormorants among the crashing waves. Download the free app for children, which teaches them all about the natural world.
Carmel City Beach
Popular with locals and international visitors alike, Carmel City Beach has its own unique atmosphere. Catch a wave, loll on a sun lounger or play with your pet on the dog-friendly stretches. One of the best times to see the beach is at sunset - stroll along its sands after stopping in at the artists village near Monterey.
San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo Mission
This remarkable edifice from 1770 features a star-shaped rose window emblazoned on its elegant facade and a small dome. Come and experience its unique atmosphere, which is especially magical when the choir is singing.
Garrapata State Park
You've read Big Sur; now explore this State Park and walk in the footsteps of Jack Kerouac for the day. Hike up fifty feet from the two mile beachfront for incredible views of the Pacific. Grey whales, sea lions and seals can be spotted from this vantage point. Perhaps you too will be moved to poetry or song!
China Cove
This cove is an absolute must-see. Considered by many to be the pinnacle of Point Lobos, China Cove is an emerald gem of a cove. You might just spot a peregrine falcon as you picnic at China Cove, and you're likely to see seals and their pups playing in the turquoise blue water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical availability of vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
We found 1,148 vacation homes in Carmel-by-the-Sea available for your next trip.
What are the most popular vacation home amenities in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
The most popular amenities for rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea include vacation homes with Pool, Pets allowed, or Internet.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
If you're travelling with a dog, over 44% of vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea are pet-friendly.
What's the best month to visit Carmel-by-the-Sea?
If you're looking for balmy weather, September and October are typically the hottest months in Carmel-by-the-Sea with temperatures around 21 °C. January and December in Carmel-by-the-Sea are the coldest, with 6 °C on average.