Girlfriends’ Weekend Away: Carmel-by-the-Sea

Afternoon

Once you’ve checked in and dropped off your suitcases, take a walk down Ocean Ave. to Carmel Beach. There’s a path along the road, and you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the famous cypresses, crashing surf, and beautiful homes that line the shore.

After breathing in all that fresh sea air, head back up the hill for a pre-dinner drink. If you’re staying at one of the Petit Pali properties, they have a complimentary social hour from 5–6 where guests can sample local wines, cheeses, and other refreshments from local purveyors.

Evening

Then head to dinner at one of the many standout local restaurants. The Pocket is a perennial favorite, with a seasonal menu of fresh California fare and an award-winning wine list. Don’t be afraid to sit outside—the patio is warmed by a fireplace and heaters for those chilly coastal evenings.

Carmel is not a late-night town, so after dinner head back to your hotel for a nightcap and a good night’s rest.

Morning

Make your way to La Bicyclette for classic breakfast dishes with locally sourced ingredients (the avocado tartine is a must).

From there, drive about 10 minutes out of town to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. This “crown jewel” of California’s state park system has several coastal trails trimmed with fragrant sage, mint, and cedar, and is one of the richest marine habitats in the world. Bring a pair of binoculars to watch rare (and adorable) sea otters gamboling in the kelp forests.

• Pro-tip: Getting there before noon makes it more likely you’ll be able to park on site.

Afternoon

You’ll be hungry after all that walking, so head back to Carmel for lunch at The Treehouse Cafe or charmingly retro Little Swiss Cafe.

Spend the afternoon browsing the shops and art galleries. The Carmel Art Association features local artists with pieces at affordable prices, and the shops are a mix of high-caliber national retailers and local boutiques. If art isn’t your thing, pick up some locally produced olive oils or wine to take home.

Evening

If you have time before dinner, visit one of the many tasting rooms throughout the downtown area to sample some of California’s finest wines.

For an elegantly casual dinner, head to neighborhood favorite Stationæry. Or, just a few blocks away, Chez Noir offers a seafood-forward menu and an inviting dining room.

Morning

Opt for a slow start by joining a local yoga class—some of them even offer sessions on the beach!

From there, it’s time for a leisurely breakfast or brunch. Try Carmel Belle, Mission Ranch Restaurant, or Stationæry if you didn’t make it there for dinner.

Afternoon

No trip to the Monterey Peninsula would be complete without taking in the legendary 17-Mile Drive, a stunning stretch of highway that hugs the coast and offers some of the most dramatic views of the cliffs and cypress trees that only grow in this corner of the world.

You can go by car or (if you’re feeling adventurous) several companies offer guided bicycle tours… including an optional sidecar for your pooch! There are stops at many points along the drive for pictures, wildlife viewing, and contemplating how fortunate you are to explore one of the most beautiful spots in the world.

Say goodbye

By now, your weekend is winding down. At the end of the drive, head back to Carmel for one last coffee and a snack at the Carmel Coffee House and Roasting Company before heading home.