There really is something special about Carmel by the Sea. We popped over there for a few hours our last full day in Monterey.
It was strangely perfect, to be honest. As I was walking down the street, the outside air felt like air-conditioning on my face. It was spectacular. Must be all that West Cost, Pacific Ocean, Lemurian energy. At one point it rained and even the rain was a peaceful perfect mist.
But on to the other stuff. Like the shopping…
There is fabulous shopping. Like the perfect blend of shopping, in my opinion: Art galleries. Shop local boutiques. Non-cheesy t-shirt / postcard, get your Carmel sweater here, shoppes. A jewelry store with a long strand of the biggest pearls I’ve ever seen in real life. Beautiful quality clothing stores. And of course, Tiffany’s.
There seemed to be tons of non-pretentious, gourmet, fun little restaurants with lots of outdoor seating. And a beach that we’re told is the best place to watch the sunset — a dog friendly beach — in fact, the whole town seems really rather dog friendly.
You know what I’ve always said, the more expensive the place, the more welcoming they are to the tiny doggies!
In fact, our late lunch spot, The Tree House Café was very welcoming to our little Mia in her stroller. And her royal cuteness got lots of “awe she’s so cute” as we walked around town.
A few beguiling tidbits about Carmel by the Sea…
There are no addresses on the homes. It’s more charming that way. Everyone goes to the post office to collect their mail.
Clint Eastwood was the mayor. He eliminated the ice cream cone law that banned, well, ice cream cones.
Brad Pitt has a place there.
And it’s illegal to wear high heals above 2 inches without a permit.
Though I’m told it’s pretty easy to get a permit.
Heals, flats, sneakers, or sandals, I think it would be a great place to stay. There seemed to be several cute boutiquey hotels. But two things to keep in mind: It’s very hilly. And there are no accommodations with an ocean view.
As you know, we stayed in Monterey just a ten minute drive from Carmel by the Sea. And it was a perfect little day trip. If you’re in the Monterey / Pebble Beach area, I’d defiantly recommend carving out some time for Carmel.
I think it’s great for: Shopping. Dining. People watching. General merriment.
It’s definitely a spot I’d go back to!
Leave a Reply