Carmel Point Travel Guide
Explore the best of Carmel Point with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, food and drink scene, local culture, safety tips, and more.
- Introduction to Carmel Point
- List of Places to Visit in Carmel Point
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Carmel Point
- Best Things to Do in Carmel Point: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Carmel Point
- Food and Drink Scene of Carmel Point
- Where to Stay in Carmel Point: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Carmel Point: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Carmel Point
- Best Time to Visit Carmel Point
- Do’s and Don’ts of Carmel Point
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Carmel Point: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Carmel Point
- Where to Go Next from Carmel Point: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Carmel Point
Nestled in Monterey County in the Central Coast region of California, Carmel Point is a hidden gem that boasts a thriving art scene, a rich history, and a stunning natural landscape. Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or an adventurer seeking new experiences, this place has something to offer. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through some of the top attractions, things to do, and places to stay in Carmel Point.
List of Places to Visit in Carmel Point
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Start with a visit to the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum, a historical Catholic mission that dates back to 1771. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and artwork, the museum offers a glimpse into the rich history of the area. Next, visit the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, where you can learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as the history of Monterey Bay.
Natural Attractions of Carmel Point: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
For those seeking a taste of the outdoors, head to the scenic Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, where you can hike along the coast while enjoying stunning views of the ocean. For an even more adventurous experience, try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding at the nearby Elkhorn Slough Reserve.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Carmel Point
Biking enthusiasts will love taking the 17-mile drive to explore the scenic beauty of the Pebble Beach coastline. The route takes you through scenic vistas, historic structures, and the iconic Lone Cypress. The beach trail at Garrapata State Park, winding through a rugged coastline, offers excellent hiking opportunities. You can also hike the Soberanes Point Trail, offering some of the best views of the Carmel coastline.
Best Things to Do in Carmel Point: Activities and Tours
From wine tasting tours and food walks to art gallery tours and beachcombing, there’s plenty to do in Carmel Point. You can also take a whale watching or dolphin sighting tour with Monterey Bay Whale Watch or go on a sunset sailing tour with Discovery Sailing Tours.
Week-Long Itinerary for Carmel Point
Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long stay in Carmel Point:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit Carmel Mission and explore Carmel Village |
| 2 | Hike the Soberanes Point Trail and dine at a local restaurant |
| 3 | Go on a wine tasting tour in the Carmel Valley |
| 4 | Kayak at the Elkhorn Slough Reserve or bike along the scenic 17-Mile Drive |
| 5 | Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row |
| 6 | Take a day trip to Big Sur and explore the redwoods |
| 7 | Relax on the beach and enjoy seaside activities |
Food and Drink Scene of Carmel Point
Must-Try Dishes
Some of the must-try dishes in Carmel Point include the fresh seafood at the Beach House at Lovers Point, the traditional Italian food at La Balena, and the California-style cuisine at Aubergine.
Local Beverages
Wine lovers should head to Bernardus Winery and Vineyard, known for its elegant tasting room and world-class wines. You can also visit the Carmel Valley Ranch to enjoy some local craft beers and cocktails.
Where to Stay in Carmel Point: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Carmel Point offers a variety of lodging options catering to different budgets and preferences. The picturesque Carmel Valley Ranch is an upscale property that boasts a golf course, spa facilities, and beautiful gardens. The Hyatt Carmel Highlands is another luxury hotel perched atop the mountains, offering stunning views and excellent amenities. For budget-friendly options, consider the Comfort Inn Carmel by the Sea, the Colonial Terrace Inn, or the Happy Landing Inn.
What to Buy in Carmel Point: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Shop for unique souvenirs, local wines, and artisanal crafts at the Carmel Plaza, Carmel Beach Village, or the Crossroads Shopping Village. The Carmel Cheese Shop, Trotter’s Bakery, and The Secret Garden are also excellent places to buy some local delicacies to bring home.
Local Culture and Customs of Carmel Point
Carmel Point is known for its laid-back and tranquil lifestyle, where the arts and nature are cherished. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local culture, traditions, and environment. It’s also worth noting that Carmel Point has a leash law that requires dogs to be on a leash when in public areas.
Best Time to Visit Carmel Point
The best time to visit Carmel Point is during the shoulder seasons (March to May, September to November) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. However, be prepared for some rain during these months, as the area does receive some precipitation. Summer is the peak tourist season, with warmer temperatures and more activities to enjoy.
Do’s and Don’ts of Carmel Point
Do:
- Explore the scenic coastline and natural reserves
- Try the local food and wine
- Be respectful of the local culture and environment
Don’t:
- Leave trash on the beaches or trails
- Let your dogs run loose on the beaches or streets
- Ignore the leash law for dogs
Safety and Health
Safety in Carmel Point
Carmel Point is generally a safe place to visit. However, take necessary precautions while walking along the trails and beaches, especially during low tide. Be careful while walking or biking on the narrow roads, as they can get quite busy during peak season.
Health in Carmel Point
Carmel Point has excellent healthcare facilities, including the Community Hospital of Monterey Peninsula (CHOMP) and the Natividad Medical Center. Make sure to carry your necessary medications and health insurance cards with you.
Getting to Carmel Point: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Carmel Point
The nearest airports to Carmel Point are Monterey Regional Airport, San Jose International Airport, and San Francisco International Airport. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach your accommodations in Carmel Point.
Bus Stations Near Carmel Point
The Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) operates several bus routes connecting to Carmel Point from Monterey and Salinas.
Other Options
Alternatively, you can drive to Carmel Point via Highway 1 or the scenic 17-Mile Drive. Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available in the area.
How to Get Around in Carmel Point
While walking is an easy way to get around Carmel Point, there are several transportation options available for tourists. You can choose to rent a car, take a taxi, or use ridesharing services like Uber. Bicycle rentals are also available for exploring the nearby trails and parks.
Where to Go Next from Carmel Point: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Some of the nearby destinations and excursions that you can explore from Carmel Point include:
- Monterey: Visit Cannery Row, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and Fisherman’s Wharf.
- Pacific Grove: Explore the Butterfly Sanctuary and Asilomar State Beach.
- Big Sur: Enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring the redwoods.
- Santa Cruz: Visit the boardwalk, beaches, and surf museums.
Conclusion
Carmel Point is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. From the scenic coastline and natural reserves to the cultural attractions and food scene, this place sure to impress even the most discerning travelers. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and make the most of your stay in Carmel Point.
