Carmel Beach, Coastal beach in Carmel-by-the-Sea, United States
Carmel Beach is a sandy coastal area along the Pacific Ocean in Carmel-by-the-Sea with light-colored sand and clear turquoise waters. Cypress trees and limestone cliffs frame the shoreline and rise dramatically above the water.
The beach gained prominence in the early 1900s when artists and writers arrived in Carmel and made it their creative center. This artistic community helped shape the area's identity and continues to influence its character today.
Each October, local artists transform the beach into an outdoor gallery with sand sculptures that reflect the creative spirit of the community. This annual event draws visitors who want to watch the artistic process unfold.
Visitors can find free parking along Ocean Avenue and Scenic Road, with public restrooms located at the main entrance and Santa Lucia Avenue. The pathways to the water are generally accessible and easy to walk.
This beach has designated fire pits where visitors can light evening campfires, creating a distinctive way to experience the coast. These pits are managed under strict environmental rules to protect the local ecosystem.
Location: Monterey County
GPS coordinates: 36.55028,-121.92917
Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:05
California's beaches stretch from the southern coast to the northern shores, each with its own character. Santa Monica features a historic pier and boardwalk, while Venice Beach buzzes with artists and street performers. Laguna Beach impresses with its cliffs and hidden coves, and Pfeiffer Beach stands out with dark volcanic sand. The coastline varies greatly from one place to the next. You'll find everything from busy urban beaches with piers and restaurants to wilder stretches with rock formations and protected marine areas. Malibu has secluded coves tucked between cliffs, Big Sur offers raw, rugged landscapes, and the northern coast near San Francisco brings bigger waves and local wildlife. Southern spots like San Diego and Coronado feature wide, sunny sandy beaches that feel more welcoming and open. Whether you want to swim, surf, or simply walk along the water, these beaches offer something for everyone. Some buzz with activity and people, while others feel remote and untouched. Each place has its own feel and its own appeal.
Forest Theater
394 m
Sunset Center
723 m
Golden Bough Playhouse
492 m
Enchanted Oaks Building
737 m
Tuck Box
735 m
Carmel Arts and Crafts Club
763 m
Mary Dummage Shop
684 m
Carmel City Hall
635 m
Carmel-by-the-Sea World War I Memorial Arch
763 m
El Paseo Building
786 m
Blue Bird Tea Room
698 m
T.A. Oakes Building
748 m
Las Tiendas Building
786 m
La Rambla Building
695 m
Reardon Building
786 m
Garden Shop Addition
684 m
Lemos Building
684 m
Isabel Leidig Building
770 m
Schweninger Building
770 m
Seven Arts Building
684 m
Amelia Gates Building
684 m
Carmel Weavers Studio
714 m
Fee Building
782 m
Theatre of the Golden Bough
458 m
Percy Parkes Building
748 m
W. C. Farley Building
758 m
De Yoe Building
737 m
Draper Leidig Building
768 mReviews
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