What to do in Carmel, CA

Activities, attractions and tours

A two-story building with a gabled roof, a flagpole with an American flag, and a sign that reads "Alain Pinel."
A coastal landscape with green hills, rocky cliffs, and clear blue waters.
A street with shops, including a gallery and a jewelry store.
A beach with waves, a rock formation, and a hilly landscape in the background.
A bakery with a sign reading "Carmel Bakery and Coffee Co. Since 1906" and a display of baked goods.

Things to do

Picture 9 for Activity Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour

Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour

฿2,052
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1

฿662
per traveller
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
Half Day Private Big Sur Driving Tour in California

Half Day Private Big Sur Driving Tour in California

฿1,158
per traveller
Half Day Private Big Sur Driving Tour in California
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise

฿2,151
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Picture 1 for Activity Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise

฿3,144
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Anytime Admission

Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo

฿762
per adult
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Monterey Self-Guided Walking Tour Cannery Row to Old Monterey

Monterey Self-Guided Walking Tour Cannery Row to Old Monterey

฿331
per adult
Monterey Self-Guided Walking Tour Cannery Row to Old Monterey
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What to do in Carmel

Stay near popular Carmel attractions

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Carmel Beach

9.6/10 (5,436 reviews)
Carmel Beach captivates with pristine white sands and cypress-framed Pacific views. Arrive for sunset when golden light transforms the shoreline into California's most magical coastal moment.
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Where to stay in Carmel

Find the best Carmel areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Carmel
Learn more about Carmel
A quaint building with a turret, a window with a white frame, and a sign that reads "Hush House."
Photo by Aimee Bollinger
Open Photo by Aimee Bollinger

Downtown Carmel

If you're spending some time in Downtown Carmel, Carmel Plaza and The Doud Arcade are top sights worth seeing.

A coastal landscape with rocky cliffs, a clear blue sea, and a mountainous backdrop.

Carmel Point

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

A valley with houses, trees, and rolling hills.

Hatton Fields

While Hatton Fields isn't home to many top sights, Carmel Beach and Carmel Mission Basilica are some notable places to visit nearby.

A courtyard with a fountain, a church, and surrounding buildings.

Mission Fields

While visiting Mission Fields, you might make a stop by sights like Carmel River Lagoon and Wetland Nature Preserve and Hatton Canyon.

A beach with waves, a clear sky, and a tree on the right.
Photo by Bryce Karr
Open Photo by Bryce Karr

Golden Rectangle

While visiting Golden Rectangle, you might make a stop by sights like Carmel Beach and Carmel Plaza.

Day trip destinations from Carmel

A coastal landscape with turquoise waters, rocky cliffs, and a waterfall.

Big Sur

A sandy beach with footprints, a wooden fence, and a clear blue sky.

Monterey

Frequently asked questions

Is Carmel worth visiting?
Known for its coastal beaches and surfing, discovering awesome things to do in Carmel is simple. Remember to add Monterey Bay Aquarium to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Carmel?
Start your adventures with a visit to Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row. Then, check out different areas of Carmel for a bite to eat and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Carmel?
The top tourist attraction in Carmel is Monterey Bay Aquarium, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Carmel?
Three days will give you plenty of time to check out the leading city highlights, like Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row and Carmel Beach. The average stay in Carmel is two days. If you have the urge to extend your holiday, Monterey isn't far away.
Is Carmel a walkable city?
With exciting neighbourhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Carmel is a good destination to experience on foot. Have fun wandering between Carmel Beach and Carmel Mission Basilica. Then take a stroll around Monterey Vista, located 3 kilometres from the centre, and Munras Avenue, which is roughly 5 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Carmel with kids?
If you are after activities and sights for all of your group, we've got some fabulous ideas for what to do in Carmel with kids.

What to do in Carmel for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or outdoor adventurer, there's no shortage of things to do in Carmel for adults including Folktale Winery and Vineyards and Ventana Vineyards Tasting Room.
Are there free things to do in Carmel?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Carmel. If you need inspiration, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Cannery Row is a top spot for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing activities.