🌺 Carmel-by-the-Sea: Stepping Into a Fairytale in California…

Carmel-by-the Sea is one of the must-visit spots along California’s Highway 1 🚗💨 (and super family-friendly!). It’s also a perfect weekend getaway for Bay Area locals. This charming village is filled with storybook architecture 🏡, unique boutique shops, and Insta-famous restaurants… You won’t want to leave! Though compact, the town revolves around Ocean Avenue, with its surrounding streets offering endless exploration—vintage stores, art galleries 📚, luxury brands like BV and Tiffany, and chic concept stores. 🛍️ Must-Visit Spots in Carmel: 📍 Cottage Of Sweets – Candy & chocolate paradise 🍫 📍 PortaBella – Cozy Italian dining 🍝 📍 Dametra Café – Highly-rated Mediterranean/Greek restaurant 🥙 📍 Body Frenzy – Boutique with handmade soaps & gifts 🧼 📍 Church of the Wayfarer – Peaceful chapel with gorgeous garden 📍 Secret Garden – A creative little bookstore 📖 📍 Carmel Mission Basilica Museum – Historic mission with beautiful architecture 📍 Carmel Bakery – Century-old bakery 🥨 📍 Mission Ranch Restaurant – Owned by Clint Eastwood 🎬 📍 Flaherty’s Seafood – Fresh seafood with local vibe 🦞 📍 Little Napoli – Italian food with amazing atmosphere 📍 L’Escargot – Elegant French cuisine 🐌 📍 The Tuck Box – Looks straight out of Snow White! ❄️ A iconic brunch spot. 🌊 Walk west to the end of Ocean Ave, and you’ll reach Carmel Beach—wide, soft white sands meeting turquoise waves and ancient cypress trees. Unforgettable! 🌈 After exploring the town, extend your trip to: Monterey (just a short drive away) 17-Mile Drive (scenic coastal route) 🚙 Point Lobos State Reserve ( breathtaking hiking trails)🥾 Sunset at the beach – pure magic! 🌅 #HiddenGems #TravelGuide #USA #FamilyTravel #RoadTrip #TravelInspo #CarmelByTheSea