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May 10, 2022 · Carmel City Center is right by the Monon Trail and can be navigated on foot or by bike. The dominating Center for the Performing Arts grabs your attention, but there’s much to discover in the area, at a clutch of boutiques, independent eateries, a brewpub and fitness and yoga studios.
The Civic Square, home to the fire station and gazebo, is a great place to picnic.
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Why should you visit Carmel?
- Step Back in Time at the Carmel Mission. It’s no secret that the Carmel Mission is one of the top Carmel-by-the-Sea attractions. Also known as the Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Río Carmelo, this beautiful Spanish mission was built in 1797 and is now a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Take a Hike in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Located on the Pacific Ocean, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Plus, it’s located less than 10 minutes from the heart of Carmel, so it’s easy to reach if you feel like getting outside.
- Take in Spectacular Ocean Views on 17-Mile Drive. Taking a drive on the iconic 17-Mile Drive should be at the top of any Carmel-by-the-Sea bucket list.
- Check Out the Whimsical Fairytale Cottages. One of the best Carmel-by-the-Sea activities is to take a self-guided tour of the city’s famous fairytale cottages.
- Visit the Carmel Mission. The official name of the Carmel Mission is Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Río Carmelo. Established in 1771, the Carmel Mission was the second of the missions built in California by the Spanish missionaries led by Father Junípero Serra, who is buried here.
- Walk Carmel Beach. Carmel-by-the-Sea is home to not one but two beautiful sandy beaches. Carmel Beach, located at the bottom of Ocean Avenue, is long and sandy, and fringed with cypresses.
- enjoy Carmel River State Beach. Right around the corner from Carmel Beach is Carmel River State Beach. The crescent shaped mile long beach is quieter than Carmel Beach, but just as beautiful.
- Walk or drive Scenic Road. An oceanfront one-way road that runs parallel to Carmel Beach and beyond, Scenic Road makes for a wonderful drive. On one side is the ocean, and on the other side are beautiful Carmel homes.
There are a variety of ways to experience the City of Carmel! We take pride in providing our community, and those visiting, with opportunities to enjoy all that Carmel has to offer in food and drink, art, festivals, holidays, and more.
A family concert series at the Carmel Gazebo that encourages community vitality by providing a venue for families to enjoy arts and culture in our local community. Since the concerts are free, it is accessible to everyone in the community. *In case of rain, concerts will be at the Fire Station.
A range of free amenities are available within the Midtown Plaza area, including neighborhood green spaces, community tables and benches, shade structures and big screen entertainment including movies and live sporting events.
