Carmel-by-the-sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea, usually called simply Carmel, is a small town in Monterey County, California, United States, founded in 1902 and incorporated in 1916. Situated on the Monterey Peninsula, the town is known for its natural scenery and rich artistic history.

Carmel-By-The-Sea is a beautiful oceanside town along California's Highway 1, complete with dramatic views, white beaches, friendly locals and great food. A mostly upper-class destination for adults, the town itself is small - you can walk across it in five minutes - but filled to the brim with art galleries, cafes, restaurants and inns. Every evening, visitors gather on the pristine beach to watch colorful sunsets.

Temperatures in September are perfect - 70 to 80 degrees F during the day and 50's at night. Bring sweaters and dress in layers for all-day activities.

Carmel Valley is the valley formed by the Carmel River, flowing some 20 miles from the Santa Lucia mountains to the Pacific Ocean. The town of Carmel Valley is located 12 miles inland from Highway 1, on Carmel Valley Road. Quite often, when Carmel-By-The-Sea is fogged in, Carmel Valley is sunny and warm.

The town and nearby beach can be seen on foot, but you'll need a car to explore the coastline. Street parking is generally free for a couple of hours at a time. There is also a garage at Carmel Plaza (Ocean & Junipero). Many area hotels offer parking spots to guests, but be prepared for a tight squeeze. Bicycling is an option but should be undertaken with care, as many of Carmel's streets can be hilly, windy, or leave little room to pass.

Walk along the beach, play golf at Pebble Beach, visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, explore Big Sur, shop, listen to live music, enjoy one of the local spas and much much more.