Carmel River State Beach, State Beach in Monterey County, United States
Description
Carmel River State Beach is a mile-long stretch along Carmel Bay with golden sand and a river lagoon at its mouth. The waterway creates a natural division between sand and the ocean that shifts with the seasons.
History
The area was once a settlement of the Rumsien people before Spanish explorers arrived in the 1600s. A cross marks their early presence in the region.
Culture
The lagoon and wetlands draw migratory birds year-round, making birdwatching a natural part of the visitor experience. The sight of herons, gulls, and seasonal visitors shapes how people interact with this stretch of coast.
Practical
The beach has parking, restrooms, and drinking water available for visitors. Explore during daylight hours, as the beach closes at sunset each day.
Did you know?
The Monastery Beach section contains underwater rock formations and kelp forests that appeal to scuba divers. This underwater landscape is unusual compared to other nearby beaches.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Monterey County).
Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo
1.2 km
Mrs. Clinton Walker House
1.1 km
Tor House and Hawk Tower
888 m
Butterfly House
842 m
Carmel River State Beach
296 m
Forest Theater
2 km
Driftwood Cottage
688 mSunset Center
2 km
Golden Bough Playhouse
2 kmPalo Corona Ranch
1.9 km
Enchanted Oaks Building
2.2 km
Tuck Box
2.3 km
Outlands in the Eighty Acres
1.9 km
Mary Dummage Shop
2.3 kmCarmel City Hall
2.2 km
Whalers Cabin
1.8 km
Seaburst House
1.1 kmT.A. Oakes Building
2.3 km
La Rambla Building
2.3 km
Garden Shop Addition
2.3 km
Lemos Building
2.3 km
Isabel Leidig Building
2.3 km
Seven Arts Building
2.3 km
Theatre of the Golden Bough
2 km
Monastery Beach
1.2 km
Percy Parkes Building
2.3 km
W. C. Farley Building
2.3 km
De Yoe Building
2.3 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes