What to do in Carmel, CA

Activities, attractions and tours

Carmel showing a house and autumn leaves
Carmel showing a house and autumn leaves
Garrapata Beach which includes rugged coastline, general coastal views and tranquil scenes
Carmel featuring a city, signage and street scenes
Carmel showing a sunset, general coastal views and a beach
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Most fun & popular experiences in Carmel

Tours & day trips

See all 62 activities
Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour

Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour

Activity duration is 3 hours
9.6 out of 10 with 264 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is Rp1.041.724 per adult
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Adventure & outdoor

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Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental

Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental

Activity duration is 4 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 15 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is Rp924.110 per adult
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Private & custom tours

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Half Day Private Big Sur Driving Tour in California

Half Day Private Big Sur Driving Tour in California

Activity duration is 3 hours
9.0 out of 10 with 4 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is Rp588.070 per traveller*
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Food, drink & nightlife

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Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo

Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo

Activity duration is 1 day
9.0 out of 10 with 2 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is Rp386.278 per adult
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Classes & workshops

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Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
9.2 out of 10 with 7 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is Rp1.596.190 per adult
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What to do in Carmel

Explore areas of Carmel

View of Carmel Beach from Scenic Rd.

Golden Rectangle

5/5(11 area reviews)

While visiting Golden Rectangle, you might make a stop by sights like Carmel Plaza and Carmel Beach.

Golden Rectangle
Houses in Pacific Grove, California

Downtown Carmel

If you're spending some time in Downtown Carmel, Carmel Plaza and The Doud Arcade are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Carmel
Forest Theater Guild showing art and theatre scenes

Southeast Carmel

While visiting Southeast Carmel, you might make a stop by sights like Forest Theater Guild and Mission Trail Nature Preserve.

Southeast Carmel
Winter beach day in Carmel. #lifeatexpedia

Northeast Carmel

4/5(14 area reviews)

While Northeast Carmel isn't home to many top sights, Carmel Plaza and Carmel Beach are some notable places to visit nearby.

Northeast Carmel
Art galleries in beautiful downtown Carmel.

Northwest Carmel

5/5(12 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Northwest Carmel, Carmel Plaza and Carmel Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Northwest Carmel
A View of the California Coastline along State Road 1

Carmel Highlands

Carmel Highlands is noteworthy for its seaside views, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Point Lobos Ranch and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.

Carmel Highlands

Day trip destinations from Carmel

The Lone Cypress, seen from the 17 Mile Drive, in Pebble Beach, California.; Shutterstock ID 438920428

Pebble Beach

Carmel Beach which includes general coastal views, landscape views and a sandy beach

Monterey

Carmel Valley Road, Route G20, California

Carmel Valley

Frequently asked questions

Is Carmel worth visiting?
Known for its coastal beaches and surfing, discovering awesome things to do in Carmel is simple. Remember to add Monterey Bay Aquarium to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Carmel?
Start your adventures with a visit to Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row. Then, check out different areas of Carmel for a bite to eat and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Carmel?
The top tourist attraction in Carmel is Monterey Bay Aquarium, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Carmel?
Three days will give you plenty of time to check out the leading city highlights, like Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row and Carmel Beach. The average stay in Carmel is two days. If you have the urge to extend your holiday, Monterey isn't far away.
Is Carmel a walkable city?
With exciting neighbourhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Carmel is a good destination to experience on foot. Have fun wandering between Carmel Beach and Carmel Mission Basilica. Then take a stroll around Monterey Vista, located 3 kilometers from the centre, and Munras Avenue, which is roughly 5 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Carmel with kids?
If you are after activities and sights for all of your group, we've got some fabulous ideas for what to do in Carmel with kids.

What to do in Carmel for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or outdoor adventurer, there's no shortage of things to do in Carmel for adults including Folktale Winery and Vineyards and Ventana Vineyards Tasting Room.
Are there free things to do in Carmel?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Carmel. If you need inspiration, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Cannery Row is a top spot for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing activities.