CARMEL BY THE SEA: A FAIRYTALE SEASIDE TOWN

outdoor seating in the courtyard of the Hog's Breath Inn

SIT HERE: Carmel by the Sea, CA
LOOK THERE: Hog's Breath Inn Courtyard
DRINK THIS: Carmel Road Pinot Noir Wine

I have been coming to Carmel by the Sea for over 40 years, not like most tourists to explore the beautiful seaside towns along the coast, but because of my connection to the Carmelite Monastery on Highway One, where my sister is a cloistered nun.  Each time I visit here, I discover something more beautiful about the fairytale like town on the Monterey peninsula.   

Carmel by the Sea is well known for its seaside views with fairytale cottages designed by Hugh Comstock, and endless art galleries.  There are the usual sites, driving Seventeen Mile Drive, strolling the streets of downtown, and putting your feet in the sand at Carmel Beach.  However, it is the hidden gems that deliver the best memories.  

I start early in the morning with breakfast at The Little Swiss Café, a favorite of the locals. While enjoying your morning coffee, notice the four season Dutch landscape murals painted by André Balyon.  Be sure to find the little characters painted into the murals. As you stroll through town wander through the secret passages and discover what awaits through the Looking Glass.  

Sit in the courtyard of the Hog's Breath Inn and enjoy a meal and a glass of wine under the beautiful trees at the pub that was once owned by Clint Eastwood, actor and former mayor of Carmel.  If you drive a little farther south down Highway 1, you will find Monastery Beach named after the Carmelite Monastery high up on the hill.  Enjoy the views but don't go in the water, it is nicknamed "Mortuary Beach" and considered one of the most dangerous beaches in California, appearing calm but with strong rip currents that will pull swimmers out to sea.  Finish your day with a walk just before sunset at Carmel Meadows Trailhead.  Sit on one of the benches and watch the sun go down and don't forget to bring your favorite cocktail and just take it all in.

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