Where to Eat

  • Rise and Roam is a cozy coffee shop serving thoughtfully sourced coffee alongside delicious, freshly baked goods. It’s the perfect stop to slow down, sip something warm, and enjoy a sweet treat.

  • Mad Dogs & Englishmen is a cozy, British-inspired, dog-friendly coffee shop serving expertly crafted coffee, teas, and house-made treats. With its welcoming atmosphere for both people and pups, it’s a charming spot to spend a relaxed morning or afternoon.

  • Carmel ValleyCoffee Roasting Co. is a cozy, neighborhood coffee spot serving a wide variety of baked goods and delicious drinks.

  • A classic Carmel breakfast spot known for hearty plates and cozy atmosphere. Don’t forget to bring cash as they do not accept card payments!

  • El Bistro by the Sea is a charming café known for its fresh and flavorful dishes (especially their incredible French toast and fluffy pancakes). With a warm, inviting atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast or brunch!

  • Village Corner is a welcoming café known for its amazing breakfast burritos and comforting morning favorites.

Coffee/Breakfast

Lunch

  • A cozy, family-run Mediterranean spot in Carmel-by-the-Sea serving flavorful Greek and Middle Eastern dishes.

  • Stationæry is a charming café known for its exceptional coffee, inventive toasts, and beautifully crafted baked goods. With its warm, welcoming vibe and thoughtful details, it’s a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.

  • A bright, health-forward café in Carmel offering fresh salads, sandwiches, and baked goods made with locally sourced ingredients.

  • A casual Carmel deli serving classic sandwiches —perfect for packing on a hike or taking to the beach.

  • Earthbound Farm in Carmel Valley is set in a charming hacienda, offering fresh organic produce, seasonal events, and a casual spot to enjoy lunch on-site.

  • Jeju Kitchen serves Korean-inspired comfort food with a modern twist, from bibimbap bowls to tasty Korean-style burgers.

Dinner

  • Anton & Michel is a long‑standing favorite blending creative California and classic continental cuisine with attentive service in a cozy, elegant setting.

  • La Bicyclette is a beloved Carmel bistro famous for its wood-fired pizzas, rustic European dishes, and cozy, inviting atmosphere.

  • Vesuvio serves hearty Italian classics in a lively, colorful setting, with a rooftop bar perfect for drinks and sunsets.

  • The Pocket is an intimate, contemporary Californian restaurant known for seasonally driven, artful dishes and a thoughtful wine and cocktail selection.

  • Mission Ranch is a historic Carmel spot with cozy dining, scenic views, and its famous flock of sheep grazing the property.

  • Hogs Breath combines classic comfort food with refreshing cocktails and beers, with an inviting bar and fire-lit patio.

Where to Drink

Wineries

  • Folktale Winery & Vineyards invites guests to enjoy handcrafted wines, seasonal California cuisine, and live music, all set amid scenic vineyards and beautifully landscaped gardens.

  • Bernardus is known for its refined wine portfolio and welcoming tasting experiences, where visitors can sip standout local varietals and learn about the winery’s deep roots in Carmel Valley.

  • De Tierra Vineyards is a charming, coastal winery in Carmel-by-the-Sea offering small-batch, handcrafted wines in a relaxed and inviting tasting room.

Bars

  • A longtime Carmel-by-the-Sea staple, Brophy’s serves classic comfort food in a relaxed, inviting setting.

  • Buds Bar is old-school, with classic drinks and a laid-back, timeless vibe.

  • Alvarado Street Brewery is a lively neighborhood brewpub in downtown Carmel Plaza serving fresh, pilot‑brew craft beers alongside California coastal‑inspired cuisine.

Where to Visit

    • Point Lobos Loop Trail: Moderate ~6–7 mi loop with gorgeous coastal panoramas and mixed terrain

    • Carmel Beach Walk: Take a nice walk with a stunning view, along Carmel beach.

    • Cypress Grove Trail: A scenic, easy 1 mile hike featuring iconic cypress trees and beautiful ocean views.

    • Carmel Beach: Enjoy the stunning beach in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea with a nice picnic or stroll along the water.

    • Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Visit Stillwater Cove for a guided kayak tour or stand up paddle board. Keep an eye out for some fun sea creatures!

Outdoors & Adventure

    • The Hay: small par-3 golf course with stunning views. Stop by Hay’s Place afterward for a snack or drink to cap off your round with some fun.

    • Links Club: in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea is a vibrant sports bar and entertainment venue where guests can play golf simulators while enjoying a delicious bar menu, and sip local craft beers, wines, and cocktails.

    • The Refuge: A rejuvenating spa with cold plunges, hot pools, and saunas.

Recreation & Relaxation

  • An open-air shopping destination in the heart of downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, featuring upscale boutiques, art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and locally loved dining spots just steps from the ocean.

  • A charming, Western-inspired village in Carmel Valley featuring boutique shops, wine tasting rooms, and relaxed local eateries set against a scenic countryside backdrop.

Shop & Explore