Ultimate 3-Day Carmel-by-the-Sea Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Start your Carmel adventure with a stroll down Ocean Avenue, the heart of the village lined with fairy-tale cottages, boutique shops, and fragrant bakeries. Don’t miss the whimsical architecture and charming courtyards as you explore.

Ocean Avenue

Grab a delicious breakfast at the beloved Carmel Bakery, serving fresh pastries since 1899. Try their morning buns or the famous pretzels as you sip a coffee on their lovely patio.

Carmel Bakery

Wander over to the historic Carmel Mission Basilica, a beautifully restored 18th-century mission with tranquil gardens and fascinating exhibits on California history.

Carmel Mission Basilica

Break for lunch at La Bicyclette, a cozy European bistro known for its wood-fired pizzas and rustic French-Italian fare in a charming setting.

La Bicyclette

End the day with a sunset walk at Carmel Beach. This iconic white-sand stretch offers incredible views of the Pacific and the rugged coastline, perfect for a relaxing stroll or to watch local surfers.

Carmel Beach

Enjoy dinner at Il Fornaio, offering refined Italian cuisine and an excellent wine list in a warm, elegant space just steps from the beach.

Il Fornaio

Begin with a scenic drive along the legendary 17-Mile Drive, where you’ll experience dramatic coastline, windswept cypress trees, and famous stops like the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach.

17-Mile Drive

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with ocean views at The Bench at Pebble Beach, featuring locally sourced dishes and spectacular scenery overlooking the famed golf course.

The Bench

Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene at Carmel Art Association, the oldest artist-owned gallery in Carmel, showcasing stunning works by local talent in a cottage-style space since 1927.

Carmel Art Association

Have lunch at Treehouse Café, a local favorite serving global cuisine on a leafy outdoor deck, perfect for a relaxing midday break.

Treehouse Café

Catch a live performance or classic film at the historic Forest Theater, America’s oldest outdoor community theater surrounded by towering pines—a magical local tradition.

Forest Theater

Dine at the elegant Grasing's, where local seafood, California wines, and a candlelit ambiance make for a memorable evening meal.

Grasing's

Begin your day with a peaceful hike at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, where cypress groves, tide pools, and dramatic cliffs offer some of California’s most breathtaking coastal scenery and wildlife viewing.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Fuel up with breakfast at Katy's Place, a hidden gem famous for its eggs benedict and classic American breakfasts in a cozy, cottage-like setting.

Katy's Place

Experience Carmel’s wine culture with a tasting at Dawn's Dream Winery, a boutique spot known for its award-winning Pinot Noir and whimsical, dog-friendly atmosphere.

Dawn's Dream Winery

For lunch, try the historic Hog's Breath Inn, once owned by Clint Eastwood, offering hearty American classics and a rustic patio tucked away in a redwood-shaded courtyard.

Hog's Breath Inn

Discover the secret passageways and hidden courtyards on a self-guided walk through Secret Garden, a tucked-away oasis behind Pilgrim’s Way Bookstore filled with lush plants and tranquil benches—an enchanting spot off the beaten path.

Secret Garden

Savor your farewell Carmel dinner at Casanova, a romantic, Provençal-inspired restaurant set in a quaint cottage, beloved for its creative Mediterranean cuisine and legendary gnocchi.

Casanova