California is teeming with delightful beach towns, from San Diego’s scenic shores to NorCal’s underrated gems hugging the Oregon state line.
But there’s one coastal getaway oozing European vibes with fairytale streets and eye-popping architecture.
We all love to wander the main strips anywhere new, but here, it provides a unique atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the country.
For those seeking a blissful escape, look no further than Carmel-by-the-Sea, or more commonly known as Carmel.
Here, you’ll be delighted at every nook and cranny, from boutique shops, trendy restaurants, and tranquil beaches with splendid weather throughout fall and mild winters to enjoy the coast.
Bilbo Baggins, Is That You?!
Carmel is small by all standards, but it packs a big punch that will leave a lasting mark on you.
It’s been a quirky place both aesthetically and societally. For example, did you know Clint Eastwood used to be Carmel’s mayor?
Yep, Dirty Harry once ran the show here and formerly owned a great bar with a name you can’t forget – Hog’s Breath Inn.
Don’t worry; the aroma doesn’t match the name, but it’s a nice hang in the center of town. Although, when I visited, I was constantly on the go taking in the surrounding Lord of the Rings-esque sites from cozy inns, divey bars, and boutiques.
Walking around town, you’ll feel as if you knock on any door Bilbo Baggins may answer! Carmel is home to such unique architecture that you could only describe it as Hobbit-like.
Local builder Hugh Comstock is the mastermind behind the whimsical vibes, originally wanting to turn the story of Hansel and Gretel into real life.
What’s left is essentially one of the most storybook towns in America, showcasing some of the most creative styles from the 1920s and 1930s.
My personal favorite stopping point is the Tuck Box, but I recommend joining a walking tour to ensure no stone is left uncovered.
4 Airports Close-By
Some hidden gems remain hidden because they’re so hard to reach, but that’s not the case for Carmel.
This lovely town makes for an awesome road trip or an easy getaway from the hustle and bustle of the always-busy Bay.
Entering the town feels like stepping into a secret world. You pass through towering Pines and oddly shaped Cypress trees, which coincidentally match the allure of the charming structures.
Flying into Los Angeles makes for an epic road trip, especially along the famous Pacific Coast Highway, which takes a total of 5 hours.
The more convenient options are all roughly within a couple of hours from the airport.
These are the top 4 airports to conveniently reach Carmel:
- San Francisco (SFO)
- Oakland (OAK)
- San Jose (SJO)
- Monterey (MRY)
Monterey is the closest at just 15 minutes away and offers more flights than you’d think from popular hubs like Dallas, Las Vegas, and Denver.
Travel Tip: If flying into MRY, make sure to stop at the Monterey Bay Aquarium perched seaside. It’s the third largest aquarium in the world!
An Idyllic Escape To Relax And Indulge
Carmel may be a far cry from the likes of the bustling Bay, but it’s actually an idyllic escape away from the bustle of San Francisco.
Here you’ll discover peaceful beaches to enjoy the views. The best way to enjoy the coast is by taking the area’s 7 Mile Drive.
Just as it sounds, you’ll visit some of the prettiest coastal views in Northern California, including famous Pebble Beach.
While there are plenty of name-brand hotels in the region, offering the most memorable stays would be Carmel’s mom-and-pop style Bed & Breakfasts, such as the Carmel Country Inn.
Most importantly, you better arrive hungry as rhere are so many places to indulge in world-renowned cuisine.
Ranging from Mediterranean to New American, you can hop around place to place to taste the world.
One of the most popular, and my personal favorite is Dametra Cafe, a Greek restaurant that transport your tastebuds on a trip to Athens.
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