What to do in Carmel, CA

Activities, attractions and tours
Carmel featuring a house and autumn leaves

Carmel Attractions

It's no wonder so many tourists keep coming back to Carmel each year. This appealing city is full of tempting things to do. Whether you're fond of visiting local attractions or trying more exhilarating experiences, you won't have a dull moment here.

If you're ready to explore Carmel, join one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have a local expert show you the most popular tourist attractions. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {39 fun activities in Carmel fun activities in Carmel} are also worth browsing through.

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Most fun & popular experiences in Carmel

Adventure & outdoor

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Food, drink & nightlife

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History & culture

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What to do in Carmel

Free Things to Do in Carmel

They say the best things in life are free. Discover the following around Carmel:

Cherry Center for the Arts - This is a terrific place to get your culture hit and find out about the vibrant local arts scene.

Tor House - If you're eager to explore the region's history through its landmarks, put this one on your sightseeing list.

The Carmel Business Association - Stop here and discover the significance of this place to the local community.

Carmel Mission Basilica - Spend a bit of time in prayer or meditation at this peaceful sacred place.

Carmel Beach - Breathe in the fresh sea air and watch the waves splashing against the shore at this beautiful coastal spot.

Palo Corona Regional Park - Arrange a picnic date and enjoy a relaxing stroll around the gorgeous plant life.

Things to Do in Carmel with Kids

There are plenty of amazing experiences in Carmel that the entire gang will love. Here are a few of the best family friendly experiences around.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Carmel? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Read travel guides and advice on visiting Carmel

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Frequently asked questions

Popular places to visit in Carmel

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Carmel Beach

Spot birds or catch waves, then spread out a picnic by a campfire and enjoy the views at this picturesque beach.

Carmel Beach
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Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

This wildlife sanctuary, a magnet for nature lovers and artists, is a jewel of the California State Park system.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
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Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Course

Hit the links in Carmel at Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Course, a popular golf course. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the seafood restaurants while you're in the area.

Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Course
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Carmel Mission Basilica

This tranquil 18th-century stone mission and museum offers a fascinating look into 200 years of spiritual and everyday life in Monterey County.

Carmel Mission Basilica
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Carmel Plaza

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Carmel Plaza during your visit to Carmel. Check out the must-see aquarium and seafood restaurants in this walkable area.

Carmel Plaza
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Sunset Center

Catch local up-and-coming acts and international superstars in one of America’s most intimate theaters.

Sunset Center
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Bixby Bridge

This single-span bridge is a magnificent feat of engineering that provides incredible views of one of the finest stretches of U.S. coastline.

Bixby Bridge
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Garrapata State Park

Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore Garrapata State Park, a lovely green space in Carmel. Stroll along the pebble beaches or visit the must-see aquarium in the area.

Garrapata State Park
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The Barnyard

You can search for that perfect souvenir at The Barnyard during your stay in Carmel. Stroll along the marina or seek out the golf courses.

The Barnyard

Explore areas of Carmel

Carmel featuring signage, a city and street scenes

Golden Rectangle

If you're spending some time in Golden Rectangle, Carmel Beach and Sunset Center are top sights worth seeing.

Golden Rectangle
Carmel featuring signage, a city and street scenes

Northwest Carmel

While visiting Northwest Carmel, you might make a stop by sights like Carmel Beach and 17-Mile Drive.

Northwest Carmel
Forest Theater Guild featuring theater scenes and a park

Southeast Carmel

While Southeast Carmel isn't home to many top sights, Carmel Beach and Sunset Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

Southeast Carmel
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Northeast Carmel

Though Northeast Carmel might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Carmel Beach and Carmel Plaza.

Northeast Carmel
Carmel Mission which includes a house, a fountain and skyline

Carmel Point

If you're spending some time in Carmel Point, Carmel Beach and Carmel River State Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Carmel Point
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Hatton Fields

While Hatton Fields might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Carmel Beach and Carmel Mission Basilica.

Hatton Fields
See our Where To Stay guide

Day trip destinations from Carmel

Asilomar State Beach showing signage, tropical scenes and a sandy beach

Pebble Beach

National Steinbeck Center which includes interior views

Salinas

McWay Falls featuring rocky coastline, a beach and a bay or harbor

Big Sur

Monterey featuring general coastal views, a sandy beach and landscape views

Monterey

Carmel Valley

Carmel Valley

Carmel Highlands

Carmel Highlands