Carmel Beach
In Carmel-by-the-Sea itself, right at the foot of Ocean Avenue, is Carmel Beach (not to be confused with Carmel River Beach, just a mile south). It's locally renowned for good surf and excellent dog-walking conditions, as well as breathtaking sunsets. An annual sandcastle contest is testimony to the quality of the silvery sands, which are punctuated by outcroppings of rock.
Evening sunsets are a community event at Carmel Beach; join the locals and bring a picnic meal and a bottle of wine while you watch the greatest show in Nature's evening schedule. Once the sun sets, light a bonfire and make s'mores under the stars.
Weddings and Events
Weddings and beach parties are a common sight at Carmel Beach. Planning an event with more than 50 people, catering, or bringing a generator? Make sure to contact the City of Carmel for the appropriate permits, as detailed on their website. Take away only beautiful memories, and leave only footprints.
Map and Parking
The beach is level with the modest parking lot on Ocean Avenue; steep staircases lead to the beach from the limited, free, on-street parking on Camino Real or Scenic Road. There are no public facilities at the beach, but restrooms, restaurants and shops are available up the (steep) hill in town.
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