Why Carmel-By-The-Sea is Even Better in Winter

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Carmel-By-The-Sea is renowned for its quaint architecture and world-class beaches. Similar to many coastal California towns, peak visitor season is in the summer. However, if you haven’t considered heading to this cozy beach paradise in the winter, you are missing out on a truly charming experience. The list of things to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea is endless, but here are a few of my favorite finds for the coziest winter weekend retreat.

Things to Do in Carmel-By-The-Sea

Explore the Village in Downtown Carmel

A stroll through the heart of Carmel is whimsical and charming at any time of year. However, the coastal winter weather completely enhances the magic of this little storybook town. The moss-embroidered bricks of the sidewalk and the mammoth succulent jardinières are gorged and vibrant from the frequent fog during this time. Gentle rain showers amplify the quaint downtown cottage vibe. Wherever you wander, be sure to allow plenty of time to peer down each alleyway- you never know which path will transport you straight into the pages of a fairytale.

Be sure to check out the ultimate Carmel-By-The-Sea food tour to complement your stay!

Reflect at Carmel River State Beach

World-renowned beaches lie just steps from Carmel Village. Even in the off season, you will find committed athletes braving the rough surf. However, the elements have to be the best part of Carmel beaches in the winter. From moody overcast skies to intermittent storms and gentle showers, Carmel beaches are at their most raw and natural state in the winter. If you’re not one for long walks by the beach in the rain, you can always shelter under an empathetic cypress that lines the beach trail.

Where to Stay in Carmel-By-The-Sea

The Hotel Carmel

If you want a truly boutique hotel experience, look no further than the Hotel Carmel. Mere steps from Carmel’s greatest attractions, it is impossible to miss out on anything this town has to offer with such a prime location. Private balconies garnished with succulents and spacious rooms complete the Carmel experience. To top things off, a complimentary wine hour awaits you each evening. Winter is the perfect time to sample a local glass by the firepit in the garden courtyard or to unwind in the mosaic-tiled hot tub.

Day Trips Near Carmel

Point Lobos State Park

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is the perfect park for an easy hike and even easier wildlife spotting. From seals to otters to falcons and even whales, Point Lobos is a true haven. Winter is the ultimate time to visit because the park closes at 5pm. If you want to catch the crepuscular sea otters in action, twilight is the perfect time to see them while they are out and about.

Garrapata State Park

I first discovered Garrapata by happy accident on my Central California Coast road trip. Located in between Point Lobos and Bixby Creek Bridge, Garapatta is a special because of the easy walking trails and incredible views. Be careful not to miss it as the parking lot is a small turnout on the Pacific Coast Highway shoulder without much signage.

Bixby Creek Bridge

The most photographed Pacific Coast Highway landmark stands just 30 minutes from Carmel. Bixby Creek Bridge is an incredible sight because of its iconic architecture and incredible depth. I love the tones and moods that golden hour creates with the arches and sheer rocky cliffs. Winter is a convenient time to visit because there are not as many road-trippers or crowds. Plus the earlier sunsets leave longer evenings to relax and cozy up back in Carmel-By-The-Sea.

I hope this post has inspired the perfect winter Carmel-By-The-Sea itinerary. Before you book check out Visit Carmel for exclusive rates and offers as well as a full listing of vendors and venues. And if you enjoyed this guide take a look at some of my other guides to the Central Coast.

Pin Carmel-By-The-Sea in Winter