The Ultimate Carmel-by-the-Sea & Carmel Valley Travel Guide: Weekend to Weeklong

• Morning coffee in Carmel-by-the-Sea
  Grab a cup of coffee at Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Co., located in the charming main square of Carmel-by-the-Sea, just a short walk from the water. It’s the perfect way to start your day before exploring the town’s storybook streets and ocean views.

• Exploring Carmel’s art galleries and boutiques
  Wander through Carmel’s fairy-tale streets, popping into art galleries and boutique shops along the way. When you need a break from shopping, step into one of the many wine tasting rooms for a relaxing sip and a moment to pause.

• Wine tasting in Carmel Valley
  Spend the afternoon sampling some of the valley’s best wines. Favorites include Bernadus, Folktale, I Brand, and Joyce. Stop for a casual lunch at Corkscrew Café to enjoy fresh, locally sourced fare between tastings.

• Golf at a Pebble Beach Resorts course
  Tee off on one of the world-renowned courses at Pebble Beach Resorts, where fairways hug the dramatic Pacific coastline. After your round, head to The Bench’s patio for a drink or bite to eat, watching groups finish the 18th green—a perfect blend of action and relaxation.

• Scenic 17-Mile Drive
  Cruise the iconic 17-Mile Drive, taking in dramatic cliffs, cypress groves, and legendary golf courses. Stop at highlights like Lone Cypress or serene ocean coves, and enjoy the ever-changing views of the Pacific.

• Monterey Bay Aquarium
  Spend a few hours exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium, home to a stunning variety of marine life. From playful sea otters to massive tanks showcasing local ocean ecosystems, it’s an immersive experience that highlights the richness of the California coast.

• Dining in Carmel-by-the-Sea
  The town’s main square and surrounding streets are full of culinary delights. Enjoy breakfast at Katy’s Place (cash only) or Stationæry (try the cinnamon roll), and for lunch or dinner, indulge at La Bicyclette, Portabella, or The Pocket, where fresh, seasonal ingredients are always on display.

• Relaxation at Carmel Valley resorts and spas
  Treat yourself to a restorative stay at Carmel Valley Ranch or Bernadus Resort & Spa. Amenities may include pools, tennis courts, full-service spas, and trails through the valley’s golden hills—a perfect way to unwind after a day exploring the coast.

• After-dinner drinks at Bud’s in La Playa Hotel
  End the evening at Bud’s, a historic bar that celebrates Carmel’s bohemian past. Classic cocktails, warm wood interiors, and an intimate atmosphere make it the ideal spot to toast the day and savor the town’s timeless charm.

• Hiking at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
  Explore the rugged beauty of Point Lobos, where cliffs meet hidden coves and ocean views stretch for miles. Trails wind along the coastline, offering opportunities to spot sea lions, harbor seals, and a variety of birds—a perfect mix of exercise, inspiration, and nature immersion.

Carmel-by-the-Sea and Carmel Valley are as much about the table as they are about the view. From morning coffee to after-dinner cocktails, here are the places worth lingering.

Dining

• Katy’s Place: A cozy, cash-only spot beloved for hearty breakfasts and classic comfort food. A local favorite for starting the day.

• Stationæry: A refined yet welcoming café known for thoughtful dishes and excellent coffee. Don’t miss the cinnamon roll.

• La Bicyclette: Rustic European-inspired bistro with wood-fired pizzas, seasonal salads, and hearty entrées in a charming setting.

• Portabella: A romantic Ocean Avenue favorite with a flower-filled patio and cozy interiors. The menu draws from Italy, Southern France, and Spain, offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes with seasonal flair.

• The Pocket: Relaxed Californian dining with fresh, seasonal ingredients and creative, approachable flavors.

• The Bench at Pebble Beach: Overlooking the 18th green at Pebble Beach, this lively spot offers wood-fired dishes and a stellar cocktail list, best enjoyed on the patio.

• Bud’s at La Playa Hotel (after-dinner drinks): A historic bar honoring Carmel’s bohemian past, serving timeless cocktails in a warm, wood-lined space. The perfect way to end an evening in Carmel.

Wineries

• Bernadus Winery: A sophisticated tasting room featuring estate-grown wines with depth and character.

• Folktale Winery: A picturesque property offering approachable wines, often paired with live music or community events.

• I Brand Wines: Boutique winery known for thoughtful, small-batch wines with a sense of place.

• Joyce Vineyards: Family-owned and welcoming, with excellent pinot noir and chardonnay crafted from Monterey fruit.