Are you longing for the best weekend escape the chaos of city life and reconnect with the beauty of nature? Look no further than an unforgettable weekend getaway along the Pacific Coast Highway from Carmel to Big Sur. And get to experience the rugged grandeur of Big Sur and the idyllic charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea. With just two days, you can stroll the shops and galleries of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and enjoy a memorable coastal drive.
This post may contain affiliate links. Opinions shared are my own and I only endorse products I support. By clicking on any of the links below, I may get a small commission if you make a purchase at absolutely no additional charge to you. I appreciate your support.
Whether you are undecided in visiting Carmel or Big Sur or want to Visit Big Sur you can’t miss the charming town of Carmel. You will be amazed by both for different reasons. If you have come all the way here so there are so many things you need to know. Once is that they are so close to each other really you would drive juts 40 minutes.
We love visiting Big Sur and Carmel on weekends. Living in Santa Cruz we are close to these two California gems. It is a great choice for weekend getaways. We stayed in Carmel or in Monterey, but we prefer Carmel because is so charming and beautiful. And definitely a different experience and from there we explore Big Sur the next day.
Exploring Carmel by the Sea
Carmel by the Sea is a small, charming town with a mind-blowing signature Carmel Style, reminiscent of European villages. It has so much for all your senses. Yes, the beautiful artwork, clothing, and baubles in the shops are expensive but you don’t need to buy anything – just enjoy window shopping!
Step into a European postcard when you arrive in Carmel. This charming town boasts picturesque houses and mesmerizing ocean views that have lured celebrities and elevated the real estate market. Don’t be fooled by the adorable and unassuming appearance of the multimillionaire’s tiny house – this town is filled with low key affluence. The abundance of top-notch restaurants, art galleries, and shopping centers make exploring Carmel a day-long adventure. And let’s not forget about the stunning white sand beaches that transport you to the Caribbean. As if that weren’t enough, the breathtaking Point Lobos is just a short distance away. Carmel truly has it all for travelers seeking a luxurious and picturesque destination.
How to Get to Carmel:
Take Highway 1 if you’re coming from the north (San Francisco area) or the south (Los Angeles area). The scenic drive along the coastline offers breathtaking views.
Where to Stay in Carmel
Here are few places we have stayed and others that I recommend:
This is a gorgeous hotel with the Mediterranean style and stunning ocean views, located few blocks from Carmel beach the one with the white sand! You can walk from the hotel to Carmel beach and enjoyed the amazing sunset on its pristine white sand. We stayed at this hotel when we visit during our anniversary .
We stayed at this hotel when we visited with the whole family including our dog! This hotel has a great pool and even that is a it far from downtown is close to Point Lobos.
With a variety of accommodations to choose from, including elegant guest rooms, spacious villas, and private cottages, you can find the perfect home away from home. Our impeccable service and attention to detail will make you feel pampered and taken care of throughout your stay.
Mission Ranch Hotel and Restaurant
Is an acclamation hotel owned by Clint Eastwood, the longtime Carmel resident and one-time Carmel mayor. It stands on the property of a dairy farm that operated in the 1850s.
The Restaurant at Mission Ranch offers gorgeous views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and Pacific Ocean.
Address: 26270 Dolores Street, Carmel, California
for travelers seeking peace, serenity, and luxury. Nestled among the rolling hills and lush vineyards of California’s Central Coast.
Where to Eat in Carmel
Hog’s Breath Inn bar/restaurant
This used to be owned by the legendary Client Eastwood. Its atmosphere and food is good, and it isn’t a tourist trap. Most importantly, the drinks didn’t disappoint us. 🙂
Seventh and Dolores ($$$)French and American cuisine
We had dinner at Seventh and Dolores when we visited during our anniversary. Amazing food, everything there was good! Our favorite was beef tartar with foie gras – such a delicacy! We ate so fast sorry pic is not pic but we highly recommend it.
Located at seventh and dolores Street!
La Bicyclette ($$) European and Frech Bistro
Dolores St &, 7th Ave
Casanova ($$$) European restaurant
5th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921
It has different budget options. We had lunch at Rio Grill that has American food.
243 Crossroads Blvd, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
Tuck Box ($$)
The Breakfast Heaven Teahouse. Super cute and good for breakfast. Vintage eatery in a 1927 cottage offering classic American fare, afternoon tea & specialty foods.
Dolores Street between Ocean & 7th Ave, Carmel-By-The- Sea, CA 93921
Italian little Napoli ($$) Italian cuisine
This is a fun restaurant. You feel like in Italy! With Generous portions of rustic Italian cuisine & by-the-glass Chianti served in cozy quarters.
Dolores St, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921
Carmel’s bistro Giovanni ($$) Californian and Mediterranean cuisine
Long-standing restaurant with a cozy atmosphere preparing Mediterranean-Californian cuisine.
San Carlos between 5th &, 6th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921
Pangaea Grill ($$)
Casual restaurant serving cocktails & Asian fusion eats in a warm dining area that has a patio.
Ocean Avenue Between Lincoln Street And, Dolores St, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921
Unique Places in Carmel
What to do while in Carmel
Visit Carmel Mission
Carmel by the Sea is a seaside jewel and is close to a lot of other great things to see. One of the famous sights in the immediate vicinity is the beautiful Carmel Mission. It worth exploring. Carmel Mission is one of the most beautiful in the country of this Spanish missions. Built by San Carlos Borroméo de Carmelo.
Check out the Cheese Stop
You can visit the Cheese Shop for snacks located in Carmel Plaza (lower level). They are savvy merchants, offering free tastings of a wide variety of cheeses they have from around the world. They also have wine tasting there too to go with the cheese, but the wine isn’t free alas.
Shop
From there you can visit tons of different shops, one of my favorites is Robin’s Jewelry, located inside the “Doud Craft Studios” on Ocean and San Carlos. Her pieces are stunning, and I got a costume jewelry there many years ago during one visit.
Play Golf
If you are a golf person, I recommend you explore Pebble Beach Golf Links, this is considered the country’s premier public golf course, and six United States Open Championships have been hosted here. A must visit!
📍Address: 1700 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, California
Wine tasting
Another wonderful place Carmel Ranch winery is in a prime location in the hills of Monterey County wine country, The Ranch is an ideal spot for wine-tasting getaways.
Check the Sunset at Carmel Beach
next Carmel beach around a cove of Carmel Bay, this magnificent stretch of soft white sand is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Unfortunately, this is not a beach for swimming, as dangerous rip currents and rogue waves are common, but is a great place for sunset views
Drive 17 miles
17 miles Drive Tourists marvel over the spectacular landscapes and dazzling ocean vistas at every turn of the curving ocean front route.
You could do a 2.5-Hour Electric Bike Tour Along 17 Mile Drive of Coastal Monterey
Explore Carmel meadow loop
Carmel meadows is a 0.6-mile loop trail. It takes an average of 13 min to complete. Great for hiking and walking and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
Hike Point Lobos
This is how you could end your day visiting carmel. Exploring Point Lobos that is located only miles from Carmel-by-the-Sea, a paradise for nature-lovers, photographers, and anyone looking for a breathtaking view. It is full of hikes and gorgeous any side you look at. Be aware that the parking lote gets full on weekend so either go early or at end of day to increase your chances to find parking. I recommend are lonely cypress and Gibson Beach. Check this blog post to choose among other hikes!
I suggest downloading Google Maps and saving Point Lobos on there.
Exploring Big Sur from Carmel
With its untouched coastline and rugged cliffs, Big Sur beckons you to explore its hidden wonders. As you venture deeper into this mesmerizing landscape, be prepared to lose yourself in the captivating charm of its untamed beauty.
Follow the Pacific Coast Highway as it winds through Big Sur, providing you with breathtaking views at every turn. As you drive along the rugged coastline, you’ll catch glimpses of turquoise waters crashing against dramatic cliffs. Big Sur is one of the MOST MEMORABLE sections of coastline on the planet.
Here is what you can do if you have one day to visit Big Sur
Bixby Creek Bridge
Scenic drive along the iconic Highway Stops at notable viewpoints like Bixby Creek Bridge
Grab breakfast by Big Sur River In and visit Pfeiffer Beach
Grab breakfast by Big Sur River In and go and start your journey to Pfeiffer beach. I recommend go early to find spot.
Grab lunch a Nepenthe at Big Sur
When you done exploring grab lunch a Nepenthe and keep your journey stopping at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Vista Point.
Here is what you see on this reel and you shouldn’t miss. You can do all this in 2 days. DM if you have any question and find more places and itineraries .
Where to Eat in Big Sur:
I mentioned before but here are my two favorite:
🗾Enjoy the views at the spectacular Nepenthe restaurant and enjoy a good sandwich.
🏞Enjoy Big Sur River Inn with restaurant seating by the river.
Where to Stay in Big Sur:
The Big Sur Lodge is a rustic yet comfortable retreat nestled within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, offering guests a serene getaway surrounded by towering redwoods and stunning natural beauty. With cozy cabins and cottages, as well as modern amenities like a restaurant, conference facilities, and a gift shop, the lodge provides the perfect base for exploring the wonders of Big Sur.
Perched atop the rugged cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Ventana Big Sur offers an unparalleled luxury retreat amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of Big Sur. Renowned for its exquisite accommodations, including elegant guest rooms, suites, and villas, each thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Here, guests can indulge in world-class amenities such as a rejuvenating spa, award-winning dining experiences featuring locally sourced ingredients, and outdoor activities ranging from guided hikes through ancient redwood forests to yoga classes overlooking the ocean. With its harmonious blend of natural splendor and refined comfort, Ventana Big Sur invites guests to immerse themselves in a truly transformative experience, where every moment is infused with a sense of serenity and wonder.
Nestled in the heart of the majestic Big Sur wilderness, Fernwood Resort offers a rustic yet charming retreat for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Surrounded by towering redwoods and serene creeks, this idyllic haven provides cozy cabins, campsites, and tent cabins, each providing a peaceful sanctuary amidst the beauty of the natural landscape. Guests can unwind at the onsite restaurant and tavern, where hearty meals and refreshing drinks await after a day of exploring the nearby hiking trails or wandering along the scenic coastline. With its tranquil ambiance and proximity to iconic attractions like Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and McWay Falls, Fernwood Resort beckons visitors to experience the enchanting allure of Big Sur in all its splendor.
What To Do in Big Sur:
Here are more things you must see places in Big Sur – Itinerary
Stop at the iconic Bixby Bridge for jaw-dropping views (major photo op!)
🪲Garrapata State Park. A great place for hikes.
🍃 Valley View trail
🥾McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Located near mile marker 35.8 on Highway 1, the park is 37 miles south of Carmel.
🌊Visit Limekiln Falls.
🅿️Visit Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park campground, one of the most gorgeous campgrounds ever. Reservations are recommended 6 moths in advance. Located near mile marker 47.2 on Highway 1, the park is located 26 miles south of Carmel.
Tip: most state parks charge you $10 per car entrance but The “Golden Poppy” Vehicle Day Use Annual Passes are $125
Big Sur McWay Falls California Coast One Day from Monterey Carmel
Here are more information about things to do in Big Sur
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Drive to Carmel (2 hours via US-101 S and CA-1 S) arrive and explore Carmel downtown, Visit Carmel Mission Basilica and 17 Mile Drive and Carmel Beach and hike Point lobos
Day 2: drive from Carmel to Big Sur (40 minutes via CA-1 S)stop by Bixby creek bridge, Mac way falls and Visit Pfeiffer Beach, explore Garrapata
Carmel to Big Sur conclusion
As we conclude this weekend journey through Carmel and Big Sur, it’s evident that escaping the ordinary leads to extraordinary experiences. From exploring the coastal treasures of Carmel to venturing into the enchanting redwood forests and uncovering hidden gems in Big Sur, this destination truly captivates the soul. Remember, it’s not just about the stunning scenery or the vibrant cultural scenarist’s about allowing yourself to be fully immersed in the magic that awaits. So, as you pack your bags and embark on your own adventure, let the beauty of Carmel and Big Sur unravel before you, leaving you in awe of the world’s wonders. As Pico Iyer once said, “We travel, initially, to lose ourselves; and we travel, next, to find ourselves.” Embrace this sentiment and let the enchantment and wonder of this weekend escape bring you both a sense of closure and curiosity, urging you to seek even more remarkable experiences in the future. Bon voyage!
Rocio