Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Have you ever visited a town so charming that you wish you didn’t have to leave? That is exactly how I felt when I strolled the adorable streets of Carmel-by-the-Sea! With only about an hour to explore this delightful village, I felt a familiarity that I only find when walking the streets of a European town!

Located just south of Monterey (about a 10-15 minute drive), sits the ever-charming seaside village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. This world-renowned, European-style village has been voted the “#2 Best Small City in the U.S.” and “One of America’s Best Beach Towns” by Condé Nast Traveler and National Geographic Traveler, respectively. Taking a casual stroll along the picturesque streets, visitors can see why Carmel-by-the-Sea has received so many accolades!

The charismatic streets invites visitors to peer into the numerous art galleries, shop at the many boutiques and high-end stores and taste the delicious international, regional and local cuisines at the various restaurants in the village. One of my favorite things about the town is that it has been rated the #1 Dog Friendly Town in America! Almost every shop, several restaurants, pet-friendly hotels and a dog-friendly beach allows pets to enjoy the seaside village with their owners. Water bowls and dog treats are freely given to visiting dogs, and special services like doggy massages, turn-down service, surf lessons and “yappy hour” all cater to our four-legged friends! I just wish I lived closer to enjoy this adorable village with my beloved pup, Izzy!

I wish we would have had more time to explore the Carmel Mission Basilica, Carmel Heritage Society, and Mission Ranch, take the self-guided historic walking tour, visit one of the many wine tasting rooms, and frolic in the sand at Carmel Beach!

With open green space, beautiful and rugged trees, and inviting benches that entice you to sit and watch the world go by, Carmel-by-the-Sea is the perfect place to enjoy the California sun! Celebrating its centennial this year, Carmel-by-the-Sea is the quintessential American small town with a laid back California vibe! I can’t wait for my next trip to California to explore more of the delightful Carmel-by-the-Sea!