Things to do in Carmel

Top Things to Do in Carmel, CA - Carmel Attractions

Things to Do in Carmel



Top Attractions in Carmel

These rankings are informed by traveller reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time.

Other Top Attractions around Carmel

Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.


Learn more about this content
Tours, activities and experiences bookable on Tripadvisor, ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, popularity, user preferences, price, and bookings made through Tripadvisor.

What travellers are saying

  • Jessica
    Dallas, TX4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    It doesn’t get more stunning than these coastal views! The drive/stop is a CA must!! We can’t wait to come back to Carmel.
    Written 7 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • ADXBS
    Paris, France980 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Do not miss the beautifully restored historical gem in Carmel. The buildings and grounds are a treat in themselves with some gorgeous landscaped gardens and the typical central courtyard. The church itself is a must-see and there is a very good collection of artifacts from the Spanish era of California.
    Written 14 August 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Tamara T
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    One of the most picturesque beaches in the world! Thunderous ocean and quiet bird-filled wetlands are separated by a perfect white sand beach. A must see in the Carmel/Monterey area!
    Written 1 November 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Seemore
    San Francisco, CA242 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Even if you nothing about Robinson Jeffers, this tour is a roller coaster of stories and architecture. Super entertaining guides. Easy to find parking on the street.
    Written 19 November 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • WillieMacfan
    Healdsburg, CA792 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The scenic road can be driven and/or walked. It is one way south beginning at Carmel Beach and going to the Carmel River. Parking is available at the north and south ends but there are not spaces along much of the way though when not crowded you can stop your car for a minute to take pictures.

    The Ocean views are outstanding. The architecture and other aspects of the houses facing the ocean are at least as interesting which is a primary reason for walking.

    If nothing else this is one of the "greatest drives" in the USA
    Written 5 May 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Trek37341208173
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    With the road work on Highway 1, the parking area was hard to find, but once we found it there was plenty of room. The hike was fabulous--great views, lots of early wildflowers, marine mammals and good trails.
    Written 4 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • food e
    Phoenix, AZ967 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    If you want ocean, upscale galleries and shopping in high end style this is amazing. Beats everwhere in bel.air ,bests newpprt hands down. Excellent dinning. Ocean at rhe end of this higj rent street. There are several streets full to spend a day or week.
    No hot dogs or can beer here. But if u want the best its here. Homes and cottages also great if u like history and design. Not for casual not for budget folks. Not a bar scene. Is high class and romantic. Almost dream like ... a must see 5 star place.
    Written 7 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Waddler
    York, UK10,391 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Its a gorgeous cove and beach you can look down on from the Bird Island Trail. Its a very short walk from the Bird Island car park (not many car parking spaces, though we parked straight away at 4pm on a Tuesday).

    For the full effect of the turquoise water you want it to be sunny so bear that in mind given that in summer mornings are often foggy in these parts.

    Be sure to check the beach for sea lions - the chances of seeing them on the beach are good. Also look out for sea otters all along the trail, we saw them in two different locations right at the start of the walk and then just past Bird Island (but not in China Cove itself)
    Written 7 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • adelaidiantraveller
    Adelaide, Australia15,445 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    During April 2023, I attended a concert at this charming venue - the Monterey Symphony Orchestra.

    If you are in this lovely part of the world, I suggest you enquire regarding whether any performances are taking place here during your visit.

    The venue is easy to find, and there is ample parking.

    And, the Monterey Symphony Orchestra was superb.
    Written 10 May 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jeri Jo S
    Longmont, CO68 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The most amazing view. Crystal clear water and soft sand between your toes. A lovely walk, nice people, lots of dogs but it can be quite windy and a little cool so bring layers.
    Written 20 February 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Viktoria A
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The stone-carvings art on display at this gallery is a testament to human craftsmanship. Very unique and collectible pieces like fountain pens in crystals and Ruby skull. I recommend this place 👌🏼
    Written 22 November 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • 3000calories
    Buffalo, NY896 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Nice beach at the end of the Carmel shopping avenue. Note that it is steep to get down to the beach and to get out. It is a bit crowded and most people come for a short time, not really a place people lounge about for long periods of time. The scenery here is gorgeous
    Written 11 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions about Carmel