Few cities in California enjoy as high a reputation among travelers as Carmel. Despite its small size – about one square mile and just over 3,000 residents – the city and its surrounding area attract about eight million visitors each year.

Widely considered an artistic paradise, this small, picturesque town is home to nearly 100 art galleries. Additionally, residents enjoy year-round access to the Pacific Ocean with a wide selection of beaches including Big Sur Beaches, Monterey State Beach and Asilomar State Beach. These shores are some of the best on the entire Pacific Coast, offering pure, soft white sand and optimal wave conditions, making them a premier destination for surfers and beachgoers. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Just three miles from Carmel is the Pebble Beach Golf Links, widely considered one of, if not the best, golf courses in the world.

Heritage and origins

Before European settlers arrived, Carmel was inhabited by Native Americans. And although the exact time frame is unclear, archaeologists generally believe that people lived in the Monterey County region, where Carmel is located, about 10,000 years ago. The first European to discover the area was Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, who discovered Carmel’s pristine beaches and pine forests, but things really took off a few decades later when Sebastián Vizcaíno, another Spanish explorer, arrived at the Carmel River in 1602. He co-founded his colleagues set up a mission in the area and Carmel became part of New Spain.

The starting point for Carmel’s cultural development began sometime in the early 20th century, after it became a vibrant center for musicians, painters and other artists. How this happened can be traced back to the San Francisco earthquake of 1906, when the region was struck by a devastating natural disaster with a magnitude of 7.9, resulting in widespread destruction and casualties. This tragic event forced many people to move elsewhere and start their lives again. Here, James Franklin Devendorf, a pioneering real estate developer and philanthropist, emerges as a key figure in the history of Carmel and its storied art history. Historians consider him a lifeline for all the migrants he helped, with the latter generously offering plots of land often for as little as ten dollars or any amount, with the added benefit of no interest being charged.

Although they were not expected to do anything in return, the city’s new residents and their skills made Carmel a wealthy hub for art lovers. In the years that followed, organizations such as the Carmel Arts and Crafts Clubs grew and organized a wide range of arts-related events and venues. Some of the city’s earliest artists include Gene Baker McComas, Armin Hansen, Mary DeNeale Morgan and many more. Given the city’s love of the arts, the Carmelites appointed Clint Eastwood mayor of Carmel after he decided to enter politics and won election in 1986.

Events and traditions related to the history of Carmel

Carmel’s deep-rooted love of the arts can be experienced through a variety of celebrations and events that continue to captivate audiences on and off site. One of these events is the Carmel Art Festival, a vibrant celebration where the community comes together in mid-May to continue their beloved tradition. They successfully completed their 31st anniversary this year and want to continue it next year from May 16th to 18th, 2025 in Devendorfer Park (free of charge). Attendees can look forward to all things art, including live music, art exhibitions and an exciting competition where you compete against others and have to complete your paintings in under two hours.

Another feature of Carmel that is eerie to outsiders is the city’s steadfast commitment to no addresses, streetlights, and sidewalks outside of downtown. For example, to compensate for the lack of addresses, the residents came up with something interesting Names like “Dreamcatcher” or, even better, “Pinch Me”.

Attractions in Carmel

Carmel has no shortage of attractions to explore. From breathtaking views to historic landmarks to world-class art galleries, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re here for just one, two or three days, you’ll discover new wonders waiting to be explored and experienced.

Consider a guided tour by the fine folks at Gray Line San Francisco – the 11-hour adventure of its name Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile DriveIn addition to Pigeon Point Light Station, Bird Rock Vista Point and many other stops, it also offers you the opportunity to enjoy fascinating views of the Pacific waters along Highway 1. Another point of interest is the nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, just 4.1 miles south of town. The park has all the hiking trails you can tackle (each offers unique views), the chance to see towering pinnacles and rock formations, and even marine life from afar. Alternatively, Carmel Beach is another choice, offering a tranquil escape thanks to the cleanliness of the beach, soft white sand and stunning ocean views. What’s even more striking is that Carmel Beach offers unparalleled sunsets that are second to none.

And finally, what would a visit to Carmel be without a visit to art galleries? While there are countless galleries to choose from, two stand out: Gallery-by-the-Sea Carmel and Zantman Art Galleries. The former showcases a fascinating array of artworks related to the region’s geography through paintings, photographs and souvenirs, while the latter features paintings influenced by contemporary, classical and abstract art.

The legendary Pebble Beach Golf Links

Whether you’re a seasoned golf enthusiast or just appreciate the breathtaking views, Pebble Beach Golf Links is a must-visit. After all, it’s not too often that you find yourself near a golf course that is considered by many in the golf world to be one of the best courses in the country. Pebble Beach Golf Links offers fairways and greens that are meticulously maintained, and if you’re looking to refuel with a bite to eat, there are delicious options to choose from. But the overall experience of playing a round with friends and family against the backdrop of rugged cliffs by the sea makes playing here an unforgettable experience.

In summary, Carmel’s breathtaking natural beauty, rich artistic heritage, and picturesque beaches provide unique experiences that everyone can enjoy. The city’s evolution from a small community to one of the most vibrant cities in the United States, along with lively events like the Carmel Art Festival, make for an unforgettable experience that will be remembered for a lifetime. In short, experiencing Carmel-by-the-Sea is a privilege.