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17-Mile Drive

This winding, gorgeous drive is considered one of the most scenic stretches of road in the country. Along the route, you'll see world-class golf courses, pristine stretches of sandy beach, dramatic rocky cliffs, crashing waves, lush forests, and luxurious mansions. Although there is a toll to access Seventeen Mile Drive (for cars only, not hikers or cyclists), the access to great hiking, golfing, famous California landmarks (i.e. the Lone Cypress, Bird Rock, Ghost Tree), and other recreational activities makes it worth it. If you're in the area, it's a good idea to take some time for this drive, as it offers some of the best photo opportunities around and a true feel for the beauty of the Monterey Peninsula. More »

Andrew Molera State Park

At the convergence of the Big Sur River and the Pacific Ocean, Andrew Molera State Park is a sprawling wilderness of mountains and windswept slopes. With 7.5 square miles of wilderness, 20 trails, and 24 walk-in campsites, Molera State Park is a beautiful glimpse of coastal California. The 3,701-foot peak of Pico Blanco's white gray marble juts out of the horizon over Big Sur offering breathtaking views. Or, find yourself on the beach next to the water where birds gather on sandbars and storm-polished driftwood finds land on the beach. Get lost in spectacular views of sweeping meadows and grasslands of this beautiful coastal escape. More »

Barnyard Shopping Village

Why shouldn't shopping feel more like an afternoon spent on your patio? The Barnyard Shopping Village is just that. The landscaped courtyards and attention to detail make this shopping area one of a kind. Complemented by its beautiful gardens, brick paths, copper detailing, and fireplace, the Barnyard is a place where one can shop without feeling like they're at the mall. Originally built in 1976, the shopping village has undergone renovations as recent as 2006 to update the look and keep the feel of the Barnyard. The Barnyard also boasts over 40 specialty shops, boutiques, and locally owned restaurants making it one of the best of its kind in California. More »

Bernardus Lodge and Winery

Considered to be one of the top hotels in the world, Bernardus is located in the beautifully scenic Carmel Valley. Be dazzled with the opulence of this rustic yet luxurious hotel that leaves nothing to the imagination. Bernardus has found its way on the top lists for Conde Nast Traveler, Travel+Leisure, Departures, as well as others for being one of the Top 15 hotels in the US and Top 100 in the World. Spend your time being pampered in one of the many available spa treatments or dine at the world class French nouveau restaurant, Marinus, voted one of the best restaurants of the Bay Area. Bernardus is the perfect complement of wine country charm and lavish hospitality. More »

Carl Cherry Center for the Arts

Following in the footsteps of early day Carmel artists and bohemians, the Carl Cherry Center for the Arts gives an intimate display of performances, art exhibits, concerts, and poetry readings. In the early days, artists used to meet in the salons of each other's homes to share ideas and perspectives ranging all topics of life in little Carmel. Don't expect large theater productions in this intimate hideaway just a few blocks off of Ocean Ave, but expect the extraordinary. The space allows a perfect venue for new ideas and experimental work by local artisans. Truly a unique look at the ever-changing world of art, the Carl Cherry Center is a great place to witness another side of Carmel. More »

Carmel Art Association Gallery

In 1927, with the Great Depression looming on the horizon, the Carmel Art Association (CAA) was founded "to advance the knowledge of and interest in art, create a spirit of cooperation, and fellowship between artists and the people." The CAA saw the union of some of the great California artists of their time, and continue to move forward today with the legacy set over 75 years ago. Today, the gallery provides a permanent home for its members while still providing a venue for lectures and events to serve the local community of Carmel. The Carmel Art Association boasts itself in being the second oldest operating non-profit artist co-op in the United States. A visit to this gallery will show you a wide display of styles and media in the month long exhibits featuring artists' work from those living on the Monterey Peninsula. More »

Carmel Beach City Park

Backed up on the ninth hole of Pebble Beach Golf Course is the Carmel Beach City Park, which stretches all the way down to Carmel Point. This is a great place to bring your dog and let him run off leash on the white sands that make this a beautiful scenic point. One of the great advantages of this beach is that it is right next to the downtown area, and is a short walk down to the waterfront. With the Cypress trees on the edge of the sand and the blue crashing waves, you'll soon realize why it's called "Carmel-by-the-Sea." More »

Carmel Plaza

Carmel Plaza prides itself in being the premier shopping area in Carmel, attracting the chicest specialty stores and restaurants available. This shopping plaza, catering to the affluent, is a three level open-air shopping area in the heart of downtown Carmel. Complete with concierge service, the outdoor plaza allows you to venture through stores at your leisure, or dine on the Courtyard Level in one of the charming full service restaurants. Carmel Plaza is one of the finest shopping areas on the Monterey Peninsula if you are looking for a collection of high-end stores and service. More »

Carmel River State Beach

Right next to the city, Carmel River State Beach offers ocean views without making you step too far outside your door. The convergence of the Carmel River and the Pacific Ocean take place here although the river seems to just melt away under the sand. Further down the coast is also Monastery Beach, which is considered to be a great place for experienced divers to explore the underwater depths. The park is also a popular destination for bird enthusiasts because of the featured bird sanctuary in a lagoon near where the Carmel River empties into the ocean. Come listen to the songbirds, or beach-comb through this quiet little park and lagoon that is conveniently nestled right between the city and the Pacific. More »

Carmel Walks

Get back to the personality and appeal of this quaint little town through the tour of Carmel Walks. Your tour guide, Gale Wrausmann, takes you on an intimate guide of the city, exploring all the little nooks and crannies where culture and history reside. Get a truly unique view of the city and its fascinating history. Attracting a multitude of people to the little city on the Monterey Peninsula for reasons ranging from arts, wine, and golf, you'll learn about the people and past of Carmel. The two-hour walk takes you through hidden courtyards, gardens, and homes, each revealing something about the spirit and charm of Carmel. More »

Chapman Gallery

This gallery is dedicated to local and regional artists of California from the past to the present. If you're lucky, you might chance on Gail Hodin Reeves painting in the parlor, or catch the Chapman's dog Marisa lounging nearby. The gallery features work from S.C Yuan, Hank Ketcham, and Keith Lindberg. Called "one of the hidden treasures of Carmel,” this gallery is well worth the visit. More »

Chateau Julien

Be whisked away to the French mystique of Chateau Julien in Carmel Valley. With breathtaking sunsets over the rolling Santa Lucia Mountains, the winery is situated on 16 acres of land capitalizing on the varietal flavors produced from the Monterey soil. Nestled in a green valley south of Carmel, the remarkable white French-Swiss chateau-style estate prides itself on its hospitality to its guests. You'll be invited into the cellar to drink wine at the large antique mahogany table instead of a tasting room. You'll be impressed with the buildings aesthetic charm with its open beam ceilings and grand fireplace, not to mention its wines. Since 1982, the winery has been committed to great wines and great people. More »

Classic Art Gallery

Exhibiting an impressive blend of Realism and Impressionism, this gallery also offers an exquisite look at Classical works in art. The Gallery claims to have one of the largest collections of 19th- and early 20th-century masters, making it one of the finest galleries in the country. Right in the center of the Art District, it should be one of the top of your list of places to go for fine art. In addition to having a great collection of masters, there is also an extensive collection of works made by contemporary artists spanning over the last 100 years. The gallery is also warm and inviting with ivied walls and a gabled front. More »

Conway of Asia

If you love Asian antiques and collectibles, you won't want to miss Conway of Asia during your visit to Carmel. This unique store is home to an ever-growing collection of exotic art objects from many countries throughout Asia including India, Tibet, and Nepal. Besides Buddha statues, the shop offers authentic Persian and Oriental rugs as well as jewelry from countries such as Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar (Burma). Stop by for a virtual visit to Asia and to pick up some unique art pieces for your home. More »

Crossroads Shopping Village

For one stop shopping, head down to Crossroads, one of Carmel's great shopping areas. Crossroads has a wide selection of restaurants and food specialty shops including a couple of supermarkets. Ladies will love the numerous jewelry and fashion boutiques while men can check out the Humidor cigar shop. There are also a whole variety of home decorative boutiques offering one of a kind fixtures and items to fill your home. Have the pooch with you? Don't worry, Crossroads is pet-friendly and you can take it into a pet shop for a treat or a bath, or bring it with you to lunch. At Crossroads, you can make a final stop to pick up some last minute buys before heading further down Highway 1, or exploring the rest of what Carmel has to offer. More »

Devendorf Park

Located in the heart of downtown Carmel, the Devendorf Park is a little nature oasis in the city. The park takes up a whole city block and gives passerbys a place to rest for a picnic or enjoy one of the many events that occur inside the park. Many public events including musical and theatrical productions are popularly held here and are a great way to see some of the local flavor of Carmel. The huge grassy area is surrounding by large trees providing shade or sun depending on your heart's delight. More »

Esalen Institute

Nestled in the arms of the Big Sur coastline and the Santa Lucia Mountains, Esalen Institute is an alternative learning center that blends eastern and western ideologies to maximize what Aldous Huxley called the "human potential." Built on the former home of the Native American tribe known as the Essalen, the landscape is a idyllic compliment to the spiritual and personal growth promoted by the institute. Complete with the scenic beauty of the coast and mountains, there is also a natural hot springs feeding the area. A multitude of pathways and options are available for those wishing to participate in this unique learning center. Esalen attracts people from all over the world, from philosophers to artists, who are seeking for a different model of academia that involves a union of soul, body, and mind. Whether you only want to stay overnight, or if you want to stay on a more long term basis, the institute will cater to your aspirations. More »

First Murphy House

Home of the Carmel Heritage Society, the First Murphy House is the first of many cottages built by Michael J. Murphy. Built in 1902, then 17-year-old Murphy originally built the house for his family. Murphy would soon thereafter become somewhat of a local icon as he helped influence the architectural flavor of the Carmel community. In 1990, the building was scheduled to be demolished when the Carmel Heritage Society saved in and moved it to its current location. The building now operates as the main office for the Carmel Heritage Society, and also is the starting point of cultural walks of Carmel offered through the society. More »

Forge in the Forest

A Carmel dining tradition for over 60 years, the Forge in the Forest's earliest incarnation was as the foundry for blacksmith Francis Whitaker, whose work graces many buildings and shops in Carmel to this day. Now a multi-level restaurant serving diners in one of a half-dozen unique locations, including an indoor section with Whitaker's hearth and anvil as its centerpiece, a dog-friendly outdoor patio and a private dining room and wine cellar with a King Arthur-inspired round table topped with a wrought iron chandelier. However, the most popular spot for dinner, drinks or dessert is the upstairs outdoor dining area, graced with two fire pits and heat lamps surrounded by historic brick and romantic flowers, open for year-round dining, weather permitting. More »

Galante Vineyards

The Galante family has a rich history tied to Carmel's earliest beginnings. Owner Jack Galante's great grandfather, J. Frank Devendorf, helped find the town of Carmel after discovering the glimmering white sand beach surrounded by Cypress trees on the western edge of the city. Today, this western-stylized vineyard plays homage to its "Rancho Galante" roots through its "cowboy-philosophy." Come taste Galante's selected wines from the Cachagua region in the upper part of Carmel Valley and say howdy to Jack. More »

Gallery Sur

With breathtaking photos of the Monterey coast as well as other examples of fine art photographs from around the world, Gallery Sur is a beautiful collection of awe-inspiring photographs. The photographs capture some of the beautiful moments of the Big Sur coastline and more for you to see. Featured at the gallery is the captivating work of Helmut Horn and the array of magnificent colors reflecting the California coast. You'll find both intriguing and fascinating photos here that you'll be dying to take home. Especially a must if you are on the coast and want to view Big Sur through another lens. More »

Garrapata State Park

With two miles of beaches, Garrapata State Park is a great system of trails that covers the ocean views to the towering redwoods further inland. Head out to Soberanes Point for a view of sea lions looking for a jutting outcrop of land to rest. With great hiking you'll want to spend most of the day exploring the oceanfront along the coastline, but be sure to make the 50-foot climb for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Garrapata is an escape into nature for those wanting to see the wild side of the rocky coast and explore the forests nearby the coast, all in the same day. More »

Golden Bough Playhouse

As described in Jack London's novel, The Valley of the Moon, Carmel has always been notorious for its number of artists of which it has always had a high influx in population. In 1905, the Carmel Arts and Crafts Club was created to cater to the increasing number of artists. In 1907 they created their first playhouse, The Carmel Arts & Crafts Clubhouse to foster a culture of arts in the little city. Today the Golden Bough Playhouse resides in the former location of the clubhouse, and is currently the home of Carmel's only professional theater group, the Pacific Repertory Theatre, which puts on productions at both the Forest Theater and Circle Theatre in addition to the Golden Bough. More »

Hanson Gallery Carmel

Where else are you going to find a Rembrandt, hanging next to a Picasso, hanging next to a Dr. Seuss? This gallery showcases a broad spectrum of art from classical styles to contemporary sculptures and photographs. For more than a quarter century the gallery has acquired a broad collection of art from all around the world through the help of their professional consultants. The gallery is a great place to get a broad sampling from artists both old and new from around the globe, exploring different subjects and styles. The only way that you can describe it is: variety, variety, variety. More »

Heller Estate

Located in the Cachagua region of Carmel Valley, Heller Estate is an award winning 100% organic winery. The region gets its name from a combination of the French word for hidden: cache, and Spanish word for water: agua to describe the underground natural springs that feed the vineyards of Heller Estate. Over the 120 sprawling acres of land in Cachagua, the winery specializes in the production of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and Pinot Noir. Thanks largely in part to its higher altitude and varied temperatures, the vineyard grows grapes of long aging quality. All of its wines are produced onsite and have done so since it started mass producing wines in 1976. More »

Henry Miller Memorial Library

Forget your library card at home --this is not your average library or bookstore. Instead, the Henry Memorial Library was established by friend Emil White as a tribute to his good friend and well-known writer, Henry Miller. Miller, best known for his controversial books, Tropic of Cancer and The Crucible, moved to the Big Sur area in the 1940s when he fell in love with the weather-beaten coast. Dedicated to a man who didn't believe in memorials, the library is more of a cultural center than a library. Come hang out, look at some of the art hanging on the walls, or check out a workshop or exhibit located on-site. The library is nestled in a little cove of redwood trees and grassy lawns, and makes a great place to lounge about. The library may not be for everyone, but it certainly is something that the avant-garde writer and reader will smile about. More »

Hog's Breath Inn

Come on now, you know you'd want to order a "Dirty Harry Burger" at least once in your life. Even those not star-struck by the most famous Carmel resident of all, Clint Eastwood, will enjoy this restaurant's hearty American fare and the outdoor patio, where the chill is downplayed with heat lamps and a fireplace. Now owned by friends of Mr. Eastwood, Clint's paintings still grace the wall and the Western themed decor might just... ahem... make your day. More »

Indoor Forest Theatre

Situated next to the Outdoor Forest Theater is the cozy, 60-seat indoor theater located downstairs. Unlike its older brother upstairs, the Indoor Forest Theatre has only been around since the mid-1960s, and is home to the Staff Players Repertory Company and Children's Experimental Theatre (CET); both of which put on productions as part of Carmel's longstanding contributions to local theater. The CET is a group that helps introduce children to theater while giving them a chance to develop their creativity and appreciation for the art. Along with theatrical productions, the theater also provides a concert series every year, and is a great opportunity to bring the community together. More »

It's Cactus and Beyond Borders

Each piece of art here is intricately hand-crafted from a unique assortment of materials and tools. Exquisitely detailed "trees of life" are cut out of 50-gallon drums, and wall vases are crafted out of recycled soda bottles. Covering places all over the Americas from Haiti to Guatemala, this unique store provides a collection of beautifully crafted unique pieces of art, and also helps the local people of those countries through fair trade. Owned and operated by Casey Riddell, she also spends her time traveling around finding these unique artifacts to bring back to Carmel. Come appreciate the beauty sprung from "useless" items, and hear the stories behind them. Bring home your very own one-of-a-kind piece of art. More »

Jones & Terwilliger Galleries

For over the past decade, Jones & Terwilliger Galleries has quickly risen to become one of Carmel's most popular galleries. The joint venture between Barbara Jones and Patricia Terwilliger includes over 30 years of experience in art, and have acquired a collection featuring over 50 nationally and internationally renowned artists of traditional works in oil and sculpture. You'll find a number of traditional subjects featured here ranging from landscapes to still life. The store on 6th Avenue is one of three Jones & Terwilliger Galleries located in the heart of the Art District, and each offers an intimate stroll through an impressive artistic collection of work. More »

Joullian Vineyards

The classical building just off the main stretch of Carmel Valley Road is home to the tasting room for the Joullian Vineyards. Opened in 2000, the tasting room is a short distance away from the actual vineyards and offers the vineyard's broad selection of wines to taste from. The outside appearance of the building is impressive with its stone walls and arched windows. The inside is equally impressive with its French Provincial motif. A great stop in Carmel Valley to uncork a bottle of Joullian. More »

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Named after Big Sur pioneer Julia Pfeiffer Burns, this state park is a unique spot overlooking the rocky cliffs and scenic ocean surf of the Big Sur coastline. A popular place for spotting critters big and small from the ocean, visitors can spend an afternoon looking for otters and sea lions, as well as gray whales as they migrate past down to the Baja in December and January. Take a hike over to see the 80-foot waterfall spilling off the granite cliffs into the ocean below. For more coastal views of the beautiful Big Sur, Julia Pfeiffer State Park is worth the pit stop for endless views and ocean breezes. More »

Lodge at Pebble Beach

Want to indulge in a world-class golf getaway? Pebble Beach Resort offers unparalleled resort living at the Lodge at Pebble Beach. While known for its unbeatable golf, Pebble Beach also offers unmatched ocean views and private fitness and recreation activities for its guests. While here, go to the private accessed Beach and Tennis Club or head up to the pool facilities for a quiet afternoon of exercise. After a day exploring Carmel, or world-class golf, unwind for a relaxing dinner at one of the resorts many restaurants located nearby. After a day spent overlooking the ocean, you'll see why so many people love this golf course and resort. More »

Mission Ranch

Part history--part entertainment and relaxation, Mission Ranch is a little cozy gem overlooking the sea on Carmel's western edge. Originally a sheep pasture (which still remains today) providing dairy products for the county as well as a local watering hole for the locals of Carmel, the ranch has long since been ingrained in the local history and culture of Carmel. Over time the ranch began to deteriorate into disarray with much needed repair. When Clint Eastwood purchased the ranch in 1986, he revamped the entire complex, saving it from being replaced by high-level condominiums. Come spend a night at the piano bar for drinks or rent one of the little cottages for an intimate escape. Eastwood, who spent some of his days in the military at the nearby base, has restored this charming little resort to be a delectable getaway on the rocky Carmel coast. More »

Monastery Beach

Monastery Beach is not for the faint of heart! While this beach is notorious for its dangerous surf, the scuba diving here is phenomenal. The entry and exit points for the dive can be difficult, but you'll find kelp forests and an impressive rock wash off the Monterey Trench. The underwater scenery is one of a kind. The south end of the beach tends to be a little calmer; however, it still has its dangers too. If you are a novice scuba diver, you may want to find another place to dive or talk to an expert first. If you chose to visit this beach for the views and not for the diving, then avoid the water. People have been known to be swept away by unreliable currents. Even with the often treacherous surf, Monastery Beach remains a beautiful place to set your sights over the Pacific Ocean. More »

Nancy Dodds Gallery

If it looks blurry, don't check your glasses. This gallery specializes in a number of French aesthetic movements including plein air painting and impressionist styles. Look for bright colors and landscapes using these styles when browsing at Nancy Dodds Gallery. The gallery is a nationally acclaimed gallery in contemporary artists using these styles. Also included are a number of statues and prints on various live subjects. More »

New Masters Gallery

Considered to be one of the best galleries found in Carmel, New Masters has won a number of "Best Gallery" awards under the direction of Jennifer Hill and her husband Bill Hill. Unfortunately, Jennifer Hill passed away leaving the sole ownership of the gallery to her husband, Bill. Despite the loss, the gallery continues to be successful through the professional staff and consultants that can help you pair up one of their diverse array of paintings for your home or office. The collection is truly remarkable offering a little of something for everyone. New Masters also contributes to the local community in supporting young artists exploring their creativity. More »

Outdoor Forest Theater

Drama by firelight! Preceded by only a few other outdoor theaters built east of Carmel, Outdoor Forest Theater is one of the oldest outdoor theaters in the country and certainly the oldest west of the Rocky Mountains. Built in 1910 in a small grove of pine and cypress trees, the theater has been serving the local community for nearly a century. Set between two pines that form the proscenium arch, the stage spans 60 feet and is corniced by two outdoor fireplaces that burn each night on either side of the stage. Locals use the theater to put on local productions of plays, and also offer an outdoor movie series available for the general public. Today the theater is still maintained by local volunteers and community members to preserve one of Carmel's historic gems. More »

Parsonage Village Vineyard and Art Gallery

With country home appeal, the Parsonage Tasting Room is a cozy place where you can try the estate wines and see owner Mary Ellen Parson's quilts. Mary Ellen and her husband Bill Parsons own and operate the Parsonage Village Vineyards in Carmel Valley, and Mary Ellen also has a knack for textiles, displaying her quilt collection at the winery. This family-run winery is located on just seven acres just outside Carmel Valley Village. The Parsons family's first harvest was in 2000, and each year has proven successful with a variety of vintages. More »

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Walk through Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park's impressive 1,006 acres of tall forests and open meadows. Go fishing nearby or take a hike to one of the great scenic overviews of the Big Sur Valley and Big Sur River Gorge. Camp in the quiet valley floor for a true outdoor experience next to the rushing Big Sur River. If you want more of the creature comforts of home while experiencing the great outdoors, The Big Sur Lodge is a great way to do so. Tucked away in the majestic forests of Redwood and conifers, the lodge has conference rooms, a cafe, and even a grocery store if you forgot to pack the s'mores! More »

Pilgrim's Way Bookstore and Secret Garden

This is not your typical Barnes & Noble. The Pilgrim's Way Bookstore and Secret Garden is a haven of everything alternative. Ranging from a broad variety of books concerning history to the metaphysical, Pilgrim's Way offers a unique selection of books normally not easily found in more mainstream bookstores. Owned and operated by the husband and wife tandem of Paul Fridlund and Cynthia Fernandes, the bookstore is one of the oldest in Central California, running for nearly 40 years, since 1969. Also found here are an eclectic selection of items such as statues, fountains, plants, and CDs on anything from tai chi to meditation. The narrow Secret Garden takes shoppers outside into the docile comforts of a peaceful garden filled with plants, statues, and fountains. More »

Point Lobos State Reserve

From the rocky coves jutting out of the sea is one of California's most adored parks, Point Lobos State Reserve. Unique in its 250 different species inhabiting the small area, the park offers a glimpse at the natural diversity of the area, as well as a breath-taking scenic tour of the rocky coastline. That's only half of it too! Another vastly interesting part of the Reserve is found under the blue horizon. Underwater is a richly diverse ecosystem harboring massive kelp forests and marine animals. If you are into SCUBA diving or free diving, you can attain a permit to explore the sea. Maybe you'd rather take a scenic walk along one of the many trails covering the coastline and take in one of the gorgeous sites of Carmel. More »

Point Sur Lighthouse

For nearly 100 years, the Point Sur Lighthouse has been sending its light out to sea from its position on the outcrop of volcanic rock jutting out of the sea. Lighthouse keepers and their families used to stay onsite at the station from 1889 when it was first lit until 1974 when a new automated system was installed. Beginning in the late '50s, the station used to be a part of the US military assigned with the task of tracking Soviet submarines in the sound. The lighthouse is one of the few remaining facilities on the west coast, and while today it no longer an active part of the military, the public can visit the lighthouse for an insight on the history and majestic ocean views that extend for miles. More »

Post Ranch Inn

Few resorts in the United States match the relaxed luxury of Post Ranch Inn, and a steady stream of awards cemented its position as one of the top hideaway hotels in the world. Less than four dozen guest cottages dot the hidden cliffside location along the coast of Big Sur. Accommodations range from the oceanfront Cliff House--with your own sea view hot tub, cantilevered deck and cozy fireplace--to the architecturally stunning Tree House--built nine feet off the ground with an enormous soaking tub and surrounded by magnificent Coast Redwoods. The top-rated Sierra Mar restaurant is in a cliffside setting so beautiful, you won't be able to decide which you like more, the food or the view. More »

Quail Lodge Resort and Golf Club

You may not be golfing at Pebble Beach, but you can pretend like you are here at this exclusive resort that offers much more than just golf. Quail Lodge is a luxury resort where you can hit the links by day and sleep in the upscale suites by night. There are a number of other amenities available including spa treatments and fine dinning. Become a member for a day golfing on a beautifully laid out course covering 850 acres of lakes and hills, and break for an outdoor lunch on the patio. Go explore the recreational possibilities that Quail Lodge offers such as off-roading or a game of bocce. This oasis on the way to Carmel Valley offers a variety of ways for you to kick back and enjoy resort living without having to lift a finger. More »

Rodrigue Studio

One of four studios located around the country (and one of two outside of Louisiana), the Rodrigue Studio is a collection of the widely popular work of George Rodrigue from the 70s, entitled Blue Dog art. The capricious series of paintings featuring a blue dog is a take on an old Cajun legend of the werewolf loup-garou, which is recognizable by its red eyes (Rodrigue would later decide to change the eyes to yellow). The Rodrigue Studio is a brilliant look at contemporary ideas of bold and bright colors melding together with Cajun mythology to create something that is visually appealing and striking to the eye. More »

San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo Mission

Named for Charles Borromeo, Archbishop of Milan, Carmel Mission was originally built in 1770 by Father Junipero Serra in Monterey. The mission of the Roman Catholic Church subsequently moved to its present location in Carmel to escape the political tensions building in Monterey at the time, and it would remain here for centuries. The Carmel Mission quickly became the favorite of Father Serra and quickly saw its numbers increase. Local natives and indigenous people were brought to the mission and taught to work as plowmen, shepherds, cattle herders, blacksmiths, and carpenters. In the nineteenth century the mission was destroyed and raided by the French until control was regained in 1863. The mission was repaired and maintained by the Catholic diocese, and is available today for people to experience its rich history. Visitors can see the exquisite decorations employed by native artisans in the Chapel and Basilica, or take in magnificent views from the bell tower. The Carmel Mission gives visitors an opportunity to step into California's past, and appreciate the history of eighteenth century California. More »

Signature Day Spa

Treat yourself to a day of relaxation at Signature Day Spa. From hot stone therapy massages to manicures and pedicures, this spa offers a wide selection of treatments. Take a break during your visit to Carmel, and enjoy a peaceful and relaxing afternoon of primping and pampering. Located in downtown Carmel, it is close to a number of galleries and sights on the town, and is a great way to take a little me time. Not only will Signature Spa make you look good, but they'll make you feel good too. More »

Spa at Pebble Beach

Maybe you don't need to change your swing. Instead go to the Spa at Pebble Beach to feel the stress melt away and the years come back. Located in the heart of the Del Monte Forest, the 22,000-square-foot spa and salon is a perfect escape from the busy world to relax and give yourself a chance to really unwind. Offering a large number of services ranging from traditional massages to eastern herbal practices, find the best treatment that suits you and let the spa do the rest. Also among the variety of body wraps, scrubs, acupuncture and more, are golf-specific treatments to loosen primary muscles and joints to help you get to the top of your game. There's a little something for everyone here at the spa. More »

Sunset Cultural Center

The Sunset Cultural Center is a huge complex taking up two city blocks in the heart of Carmel's downtown. The center hosts a number of large events throughout the year including ballet and symphony performances. Sunset Center continues to be on top of the cultural pulse of what's happening in Carmel and the entire Monterey Peninsula. Be impressed by the large Gothic-style arches in the performance hall, which dauntingly arc to create the shape of the building. More »

Tor House and Hawk Tower

From the rocky shore of Carmel Bay, were the stones that American poet Robinson Jeffers would use to build his house on a craggy outcrop of rocks overlooking the ocean. By 1920, the house--set in the place that Jeffers referred to be he and his wife's "inevitable place"--was completed on the promontory by the bay. The quiet, cozy little cottage was a peaceful sanctuary for Jeffers, his wife, and twin boys, and was also the location where a majority of Jeffers' poetic work was written. Designed in an English Tudor-style farm cottage, the cottage is accompanied by a stone tower that Jeffers built himself as an escape for his wife and boys. Inside the granite walls protecting from the winter storms sweeping inland from the Pacific, it's easy to imagine yourself transported away to another time. More »

Tuck Box

Complete with candy red striped awning and sweeping curved rooftop, this little cottage is an escape from reality. The Tuck Box is an English style cottage serving tea and breakfast every morning. Taste one of their benedicts and be sure to order a scone with one of their popular marmalades and preserves. Their marmalades and preserves are handmade and are available to be mailed around the country for people to enjoy. The cottage was built in 1927 by Hugh Comstock, and has been a restaurant for the past 70 years. You'll love this quaint little place that feels like your more in a fairy tale than in a city by the sea. More »

Weston Gallery

A mecca for photographs from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries paired with contemporary works, the Weston Gallery is a must see for photography enthusiasts. Both local and international photographers are featured here, displaying a wide range of work with cultural significance. A majority of the work displayed is in black and white and sepia tones; however, there are a few photographs that exhibit color. Ranging from landscapes to portraits, the photographs explore the depth and space of art through photography. Claimed to be a world leader in vintage and contemporary photographs, the Weston Gallery is one of the oldest and most respected galleries of its kind. Its large collection of artists include Ansel Adams, Man Ray, and Edward Weston. The Weston Gallery is a testament to the culture of art that Carmel is so well known for. More »