Explore beachside fun near Carmel-by-the-Sea vacation homes
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small beach city with an array of museums, cottages, galleries, and pristine beaches for a charming seaside getaway. Whether you want to unplug and recharge, hit the trails, or catch waves, cottage rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea put you right in the heart of this enchanting village.
Enjoy the culture around Carmel-by-the-Sea vacation rentals
Though Carmel-by-the-Sea has a variety of outdoor spaces for fun and recreation, it also has plenty of historic and cultural attractions to satisfy any interest. Vacation rentals can be found near such sites as the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum, an 18th-century church and museum with a serene courtyard and historic tours, and Carmel Beach, a sweeping, quiet beach with cypress trees and stunning sunsets. Nature lovers will also enjoy Carmel River State Beach, a scenic bird sanctuary with bird-watching and vibrant marine life for scuba diving. If you’re looking to golf in the sunshine, Pebble Beach Golf Links has a pristine course with gorgeous views of the surrounding landscape.
Seasonal weather in Carmel
If warm-weather activities are high on your list, September, August, July and October are the hottest months to visit, when temperatures average 65°F.
Exploring the beaches and other natural features in Carmel
Carmel is famous for its beautiful ocean views, pebble beaches and sunsets. Whether you're looking for exciting outdoor activities or just want to take in the scenery, Carmel is a great place to get out in nature. Here are some of the area’s most enchanting natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- Carmel Beach (0.5 mi / 0.8 km)
- Monterey Bay (17 mi / 27.4 km)
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (2.9 mi / 4.6 km)
- 17-Mile Drive (2.9 mi / 4.6 km)
- San Carlos Beach - The Breakwater (4.1 mi / 6.5 km)
- Asilomar State Beach (4.5 mi / 7.2 km)
Transportation to and around Carmel
The nearest airport is in Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY), located 4.8 mi (7.7 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you could book a flight to Salinas, CA (SNS-Salinas Municipal), which is 18.6 mi (29.9 km) away.
Getting around Carmel-by-the-Sea
With its small size, Carmel-by-the-sea is a highly walkable area, making it easy to travel from vacation rentals to the area’s attractions. Transportation throughout the village and to neighboring areas is an option with train lines, rental cars, rideshare, limousines, and taxis. The nearby airports also offer shuttles that connect to public transportation or make stops at common landmarks.
Culinary delight in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea restaurants and bars boast a range of international, regional, and local cuisine, along with the distinctive influences of the Monterey Bay and Salinas Valley areas. The result is a blend of old-world elegance, modern luxury, and artistic flair for a unique dining experience that’s both familiar and novel. Whether you want Chinese takeout, French fine dining, or anything in between, vacation homes give you easy access to whatever taste you crave.
Key facts for your stay at a Carmel-by-the-Sea summer rental
Carmel-by-the-Sea has a mild climate with warm temperatures and a population of 3,842 people, though it’s part of the larger Monterey Bay area. It’s a safe, friendly village with a low crime rate and few natural hazards, other than mild rain showers. It’s best to pack some cool-weather clothing to prepare for unexpected rain or cool spells. The Carmel Police Department and paramedics service the village and its vacation rentals, and there are hospitals and clinics nearby.
Kid-friendly fun in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a family-friendly destination with quiet beaches, nature preserves, and historic attractions to excite children and adults alike near vacation rentals. Point Lobos, a scenic, oceanfront nature preserve has nature trails to hidden coves, dramatic ocean views, and a local population of adorable sea lions, and Lone Cypress has a single cypress tree that offers an ideal lookout point for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The Tor House and Hawk Tower, once the home of poet Robinson Jeffers, is a spectacular architectural landmark that offers tours of the buildings and surrounding landscape. Children will also enjoy the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which has exotic marine life in naturalistic habits and touch pools for up-close encounters.