C.Style

  • About
    • Bio
    • FAQ
    • Press
  • Personal
  • Life
    • Home
    • Entertaining
    • Food
    • Travel
    • Around Town
  • Style
    • Outfit Inspiration
    • Favorite Finds
    • Tips & Tricks
    • What I Wore
    • How To
    • Hair & Beauty
  • Shop
    • Shop By Category
    • Shop my Instagram
    • Shop My InstaStories
    • Shop C. Style Amazon Page
    • Gift Guides
  • #NSale 2020

Personal | July 31, 2017

What to Do and See in Carmel, CA

Carmel

Thank you for your nice comments on my “What I Wore: Carmel” post about wanting to see our itinerary and my Carmel recommendations. When I imagine you guys potentially going there with your loved ones, it makes me excited to share!

I tried to describe Carmel to a friend the other day and failed miserably. We both ended up laughing at my failed attempt. I’m hoping to make up for it here. Carmel-by-the-Sea, or simply “Carmel”, is a beautiful beach town in the middle of the California coast. The weather simply can’t be beat. A constant dry, cool breeze comes up from the waters of the Pacific Ocean. The surrounding areas have some of the most amazing coastlines you’ve ever seen, and there are lots of golf courses and national forests for you to take full advantage of the beauty! Carmel is extremely charming, with amazing art galleries (its main draw), pretty shops, markets, a quant bakery and a coffee shop or two lining the main street. The street ends at a huge sand dune that takes you down to a white sand beach. There are flowers everywhere, and there’s bougainvillea climbing practically every wall. It’s so charming that you’d think you have found a hidden gem, until you find out that the quant cottages (1-2 bedrooms) lining the neighborhood streets start at a million. But guess what? It has all that and is super laid back! In fact, there is a prohibition on wearing high-heeled shoes (read more here). Ha!

I’ve been to Carmel a few times, so I am going to try and be as succinct as possible. I’d like to avoid the very boring “relative’s slide show of their vacation” effect. Ha!

If you ask me, the highlights are in the checklist, but here’s a bit more information.

Stay:

We stayed at The Hideaway. I’ve also stayed at La Playa. Honestly, both are very comfy and you’re not really in your hotel room that much. I’d stay at both places again. I might check La Playa first because it’s closer to the beach. Oh, and of course, The Lodge at Pebble Beach is beautiful, too! Keep in mind that the The Lodge at Pebble Beach is not in the town of Carmel.

Eat and Drink:

Carmel

The Inn at Spanish Bay– There is a bagpiper that starts walking the shore line at 6. It’s the most picturesque scenery, and when the bagpiper started playing “Amazing Grace”, I couldn’t help but cry. We got there at 5 so we could grab a table.

CarmelMission Ranch

Mission Ranch– Mission Ranch has a spectacular view that overlooks sheep grazing in a pasture and just beyond in the cove. They don’t take reservations, so we got there a bit early to get our names on the list.

Casanova– Everytime I’ve been to Carmel, we’ve had dinner at Casanova. It’s a Carmel staple. It’s a romantic yet lively and charming Italian restaurant.  I love all the different rooms and outdoor areas, too. It’a sure bet.

Seventh and Dolores– It’s a new, refreshingly modern steakhouse in Carmel. I really enjoyed its white walls, airy vaulted ceiling, and the pop art by a local artist on the walls. The food was really good.

Carmel

Katy’s Place– We love Katy’s Place for breakfast. I love this place because it reminds me of my mom’s decorating in the 80’s, with shadow boxes and “Old Town Spring” country trinkets. The food is great, too. They have a variety of eggs benedicts and omelets, bottomless coffee (seriously, the service is extremely efficient), and freshly squeezed orange juice. I think it might be my husband’s favorite place to eat in Carmel.

Big Sur, CA

CarmelRocky Point

Rocky Point Restaurant– Rocky Point Restaurant is casual and delicious with amazing views of Big Sur. I loved my cheeseburger, and my friends all loved their food, too. It has lots of outdoor tables that are perched on a cliff! Plus, there’s also a lot of great spots to take photos on Rocky Point. We all got a wild hair and decided to hike out to the points that jutted out into the ocean. I don’t think it was very smart, but it was exhilarating and made for a great picture. I was so freaked! Can you see the worried look on my face? HAHAHAHA!

CarmelPost Ranch Inn

Post Ranch Inn– Post Ranch Inn is a beautiful, rustic looking resort. The restaurant and houses have grass roofs! In fact, you can barely see the restaurant in this picture! The restaurant is beautiful and has a stunning view of the ocean. We sat inside, and I wish we had sat on the deck. It’s on the dressier side.

To Do:

Carmel

CarmelHike Point Lobos– This hike goes along various fingers that jut out into the Pacific Ocean. This is one of my very favorite spots to hike ever. It’s cool, and you have a constant view but without any elevation! Doesn’t sound bad, does it? My husband and I hiked there on our 10 year. It’s definitely a must.

CarmelThe boys played golf, and you can’t pick a bad golf course to play- Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill, Spanish Bay and a variety of private courses. You name it, it’s good.

CarmelBird Rock

17-Mile Drive– Enjoy a drive on Seventeen Mile Drive. Be sure to stop at various points of interest along the way, like the Bird Rock and The Lone Cypress, or just listen to some jams and never get out of the car. Either way, you’re sure to love it!

CarmelThe Spa at Pebble Beach

CarmelThe Spa at Pebble Beach

The Spa at Pebble Beach– I love the Pebble Beach Spa at Pebble Beach, but I base my experience on three things and they might not be what you are looking for. I base my spa experience on the relaxation room, the quality of the massage (I love a knowledgable masseuse and a deep tissue massage), and whether they serve lunch on the property. If I’m going to spend that much money, I want to be able to spend the entire day there and enjoy all the amenities. They have the best relaxation room I’ve ever seen. It’s a hexagonal room that has (open) windows on each wall and a fire pit in the middle. I also love that the spa guests can enjoy lunch in a courtyard by the pool that is exclusive to spa guests. You don’t have to take off your robe!

Citizens of Humanity JeansPaloosh

Shop- I hit the Citizen of Humanity jackpot at Paloosh and GBG. My favorite jean brand is C of H and they are not widely offered, so I went a little nuts.I found out later that they are the largest C of H retailer in the United States! No wonder I went nuts! I also found an Anthropologie and J. Crew… some things just don’t change and my love for these two stores is one of them. I also enjoyed popping into a few vintage jewelry shops. My favorite was B&G.

Visit the Art Galleries- Stopping in various art galleries is a must. Heck, you may even end up with a painting to take home to remind of your trip!

CarmelWhale Watching– Whale watching in Monterey Bay is one of those life experiences I will never forget. This is an actual picture from our trip. At this point, I was holding my girlfriend’s hand because I thought we were all going to die from one of the whales tipping us over. Well, I’m still alive, and it’s one of my favorite memories! We used Sea Goddess (here).

Drive out to Big Sur– This part of the California coastline has views that are unobstructed! The entire time you look out on the prettiest, deepest blue ocean. It’s almost like you’re in a dream! We pulled off the road to capture this photo. Can you believe this is someone’s private property?!?

On a side note, I’ve never made it out to Pfieffer Beach or McWay Falls. Both are on my list, and they should be on your list, too!

Carmel is one of the prettiest (if not the prettiest) places I have ever been. I guess that’s why we keep going back! If I missed anything, please let us all know by commenting below. If you decide to visit any of these places based on my recommendations and want to make my ENTIRE YEAR, tag me or send me a picture. I love to feel connected to you guys. It makes me happy!

Happy Traveling!

If you’d like to see What I Wore in Carmel, click here.

Subscribe Via Email

Related

10 Comments

« What I Wore: Carmel, CA
How to Stay Comfy and Supported Under Tank Tops »

Comments

  1. Phyllis says

    July 31, 2017 at 5:52 PM

    My husband and I love Carmel and visit every chance we get. You nailed it with this guide ~ from the spa at Pebble Beach to Casanova’s to Big Sur. We haven’t been in a while and your guide is making me want to make reservations!

    Reply
    • Carly Lee says

      August 1, 2017 at 2:49 PM

      It’s such a wonderful place, isn’t it? I’m glad you like my recommendations, Phyllis!

      Reply
  2. Jeanie says

    July 31, 2017 at 6:11 PM

    I’ve been to Carmel many, many times since I’m a California (Sacramento) girl, but I don’t think I ever had as much fun as you did! My aunt and uncle lived in Pacific Grove for years, and my cousin’s in-laws live (or did) on the 17-Mile Drive. I’ve never seen the piper, but know I would cry if I did. Glad you had a good time.

    Reply
    • Carly Lee says

      August 1, 2017 at 2:52 PM

      Ha! I did have fun! I’m envious of everyone who lives in California! To live on 17-Mile Drive would be dreamy! You would love the piper!

      Reply
  3. Sandy says

    July 31, 2017 at 8:56 PM

    OMG, sounds amazing, just added Carmel to our must visit list!

    Reply
    • Carly Lee says

      August 1, 2017 at 2:53 PM

      Sandy, You would love it! We plan to take the boys with us next!

      Reply
  4. Kelly Savukinas says

    August 1, 2017 at 3:36 PM

    I moved from Houston to Monterey 12 years ago- started my family here and absolutely love it. We take our kids to Carmel for beach picnics all of the time! It is one of my favorite places. We often go to Mission or a few other spots for “date nights” because it is so special. Your list is great and I am so glad to see so many of my Houston peeps coming to vacation here. If you ever need any other tips, please let me know! Always happy to help!

    Reply
    • Carly Lee says

      August 21, 2017 at 9:09 AM

      Kelly, I’d love to hear your recommendations!

      Reply
  5. Lori says

    August 23, 2017 at 10:40 AM

    Great pics and breakdown! We spent two weeks in the Monterey area this summer and it was heaven.;) Love Carmel and we did the Point Lobos walk. Gorge. There is so much to do-from San Fran to Big Sur.

    Reply
    • Carly Lee says

      August 23, 2017 at 6:18 PM

      So fun! I want to spend two weeks in the Monterey area!

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

ABOUT

Carly Lee

Want to see more?

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest

Shop My Instagram

Popular Posts

  • An Honest Review of Sézane
  • An Honest Review: Rodan + Fields’ Lash Boost
  • Splurge vs. Steal (Fall Shoe Trend)
  • How To Protect Your Suede Shoes Without Changing the Look

Subscribe

Search C.Style

Where I Shop

  • C. Style Amazon Page
  • Anthropologie
  • Bloomingdales
  • Club Monaco
  • Gap
  • J.Crew
  • J.Crew Factory
  • Madewell
  • Neiman Marcus
  • Nordstrom
  • Old Navy
  • Saks Fifth Avenue
  • Sézane
  • Shopbop
  • Urban Outfitters
  • Zappos

Archives

  • Around Town
  • Entertaining
  • Family
  • Favorite Finds
  • Food
  • Gift Guides
  • Good Links
  • Hair & Beauty
  • Home
  • How To
  • Little Jollies
  • Outfit Inspiration
  • Personal
  • Tips & Tricks
  • Travel
  • Uncategorized
  • What I Wore
GIVEAWAY ALERT! The sun’s out, so let’s celebr GIVEAWAY ALERT! The sun’s out, so let’s celebrate with a GIVEAWAY! I know I could use a little pick me up this Monday morning! How darling is this new top by @emiliacollection.insta?! I love the feminine ruffles and handmade details. Whether you pair it with denim for a casual look or with a colorful skirt  for a dressier look, this top will make your outfit! I’m so excited to be teaming up with @emiliacollection.insta for a GIVEAWAY!  To celebrate YOU (our followers), we are giving away a top of your choice to TWO lucky winners!! To enter: 1) follow @emiliacollection.insta 2) follow me @cstyleblog and 3) leave a comment 4) for extra entries, tag a friend(s) as a comment. Each comment counts as an entry! We'll announce the winner on Thursday night!
You see the brown spots on the hydrangeas in this You see the brown spots on the hydrangeas in this picture? It's kinda embarrassing to admit that they’re all I could see at first when I was cutting these hydrangeas from my yard- all the ugly brown, dry spots. As I brought them inside to throw away, I saw them all in my arms and thought, “Wait, these are really pretty all together. How could I just dismiss these so quickly?” Well, it's no surprise to me why I could dismiss them so quickly being the enneagram 1/perfectionist I am, but this was such a good reminder that if I choose to see beyond all the little imperfections in my life how much richer and more beautiful my life becomes! I hope someday I won't even notice those brown spots, but I also have grown to appreciate that God gave me an eye to try and make my world  and life a better place. I just gotta keep it in check and not dismiss the whole lot of hydrangeas for the little brown spots. This is a really beautiful, loving life if I'm looking for it.
I woke up to an email from @anthropologie announci I woke up to an email from @anthropologie announcing their tag sale that starts today (an extra 30% off sale items) and noticed that this jumpsuit I purchased and have not had the chance to post was part of the sale. When I don’t feel like putting together an outfit, I gravitate towards one piece outfits- like a jumpsuit/romper or a dress, which seems to happen more and more during this time at home. Putting together two pieces to make an outfit feels like so much work these days! Plus, I look fully dressed without much effort, and you know I like that. Anyway, there are so many cute one piece options on sale! Then, I noticed that so many items I found and loved during this same shopping trip are included in the sale! The good stuff goes fast, so head to my stories for links to what else I found!  #myanthropologie #sponsored http://liketk.it/2QXVm #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKstyletip
Any baseball moms out there? ⚾️ Although it’ Any baseball moms out there? ⚾️ Although it’s hot and downright uncomfortable to be outside on metal bleachers, I love it! Do y’all feel the same? And I have missed it! To see your son and his buddies make a really great play just gets my mom heart. I actually got goosebumps last weekend after a play. I know, I am a total dork. Now, I know from experience that if you’re not prepared for the games, you can get quite uncomfortable. As you all know, I am practical to a fault. So in preparation for my next few weeks and weekends that will be spent at the ball fields, I thought I’d share on the blog and on stories today what I think are the 7 necessities to enjoy yourself despite the conditions. I hope they can be of use to you during these toasty summer days outdoors! http://liketk.it/2QUiC

#liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKspring #LTKstyletip #LTKfamily #houstonstylist #stylist #momstyle #summerstyle #warmweather #momlife #boymom #baseball #fashion #ootd #baseballmom #momstyle #styletip
For the last couple of years, finding a versatile For the last couple of years, finding a versatile cover-up has felt practically impossible. Especially since ruffles, puff sleeves, and bows are where it's at with swimsuits right now. It felt like I was trying to buy a cover-up for every swimsuit (ummm, no), which forced me to put on my thinking cap. I finally found my perfect solution!!! SCARVES (aka sarong's)! I'm calling them scarves because I love the idea of using the scarves I already have in my closet as cover ups! Or wearing the sarong you have as a scarf! Not to mention, there are so many more darling scarves out there than there are sarongs and cover ups, and in my mind, they are just waiting to be used as coverups! Plus, typically scarves are less expensive! When I saw this darling rainbow scarf, I knew that I wanted to wear it immediately with this swimsuit top.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
I’ve linked a few scarves I'm loving that I think would be great as a cover-ups. I didn't have a chance to check the measurements on all these scarves, so make sure that they're big enough! http://liketk.it/2QzmV #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKswim #LTKstyletip #stylist #houstonstylist #styletip #swim #coverup #swimcoverup #summerstyle
I have a new trick! I don't know about you, but I' I have a new trick! I don't know about you, but I'm in love with a lot of these statement swimsuit tops that are out right now. But, I am not in love with the price tag! So, I've come up with a solution! I buy the statement top, and then I buy my swimsuit bottoms from Old Navy! Their swimsuit bottoms fit well, and it's fun to be able to mix and match! In this picture, I'm wearing a designer swimsuit top with my Old Navy bottoms. And since Old Navy has so many different cuts and styles of bottoms, you can find the right fit for you and mix and match the bottoms with your favorite tops! For instance, if you have a red swimsuit top, how cute would they be with blue and white polka dot bottoms for the 4th? Or you could pair your red top with the red and white stripe bottoms. I don't think it matters much if there is a little color variation. Once the swimsuit is wet the colors change, anyway! I'm so excited about this trick, I can hardly stand it! Can you tell?! If you utilize this trick, please tag me or send me a picture. It would make my day!!!
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
For sizing reference, my personal favorite are Old Navy's bikini bottoms. I wear either a small or medium depending on how I feel that day. But like I said, they have all different cuts for bottoms, so you can find the one that's right for your body type. http://liketk.it/2Qzjx #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKstyletip #LTKswim #styletip #stylist #houstonstylist #summerfashion #fashiontips #stylehacks
You gotta love it when a plan works out! I bought You gotta love it when a plan works out! I bought this top after I posted about my favorite tops for summer on the blog. I know that off the rack clothing rarely fits perfectly. I usually end up returning online orders and go on the search for that perfect top, but unfortunately, that usually comes with a high designer price tag, not to mention hours of searching. Now in COVID times, returns are more difficult, and I don't have the liberty to just go in stores to search for that perfect top. It's definitely giving me a "make it work” attitude, which is really working out well for me! For instance, this top was shown on the model with an open back that tied with a bow and a bra looking front (swipe right). I used a tack stitch on the bottom of the bra part to provide more coverage and wrapped the bow to the front so my back is covered and my front has more coverage. I paired it with my sister's (@tellittoyourneighbor) and my new favorite high-waisted denim shorts. They're a great denim short option for all shapes, and if you want more length, you can keep them unrolled. And I love how my new favorite @espacio_popupshop MAC bracelets tie it all together! Now, let's talk about how I really want to get a hot glue gun out and make a dope mirror like this one! I don't have seashells. I wonder what else I could use? Hmmmm... http://liketk.it/2Qz5I #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKstyletip #stylist #houstonstylist #diy #diyfashion #freepeople #agolde @freepeople @agolde
I love the changes I see happening in our country, I love the changes I see happening in our country, and I don't want them to end. I don't ever want to go back to the way things were. All of this progress feels so right. I feel it so deeply in my soul. I'm all in on all of this kind of LOVE. I want to be a part of the change, and I plan to do so in my own little way, but I am taking a cue from @beabridgebuilder founder @latashamorrison and pressing the pause button. I will stand in a place of awareness and humility and learn. But one thing I've realized that I've done in the past that hasn't been helpful is staying quiet for fear that, out of my ignorance, my words would offend a Black friend and that I would be corrected. (In fact, I would always say "African American" for fear that "Black" was offensive. I learned that's not the case.) My silence didn't help anyone. So, I go forward knowing that out of my ignorance, I will make mistakes and will unintentionally offend, but I won't let my fear and self preservation get in the way of trying to help. If I make a mistake, I can learn and say I'm sorry. I'm a big girl now, and I want change. If the change leads to me being humbled, I'm ok with that. I won't stay silent anymore. 
Outfit linked —> http://liketk.it/2QpL7 
Bracelets by @espacio_popupshop 
#liketkit @liketoknow.it #change #georgefloyd #listening #learning #changeisgood #wontstaysilent #speakup pic by @tellittoyourneighbor

Contact

Interested in touching base regarding a blog post idea that you have, collaboration, advertising, or a general inquiry, get in touch.

Shop


Subscribe

Copyright © C. Style 2021 · design by Alpine Lane

Copyright © 2021 · C.Style on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in