Carmel-by-the-Sea｜Probably the Most Detailed Guide You’ll Find Online

Nestled on rolling hills surrounded by lush forests and overlooking a cypress-lined rugged coastline, this storybook-like town is home to countless art galleries, boutique shops, historic inns, cozy cafés, and fairytale cottages. Walking through this one-square-mile village, you’ll breathe in the scent of eucalyptus, pine, and jasmine 🌲✨, faintly hear the waves crashing against the shore 🌊, and discover residential streets almost hidden behind trees, blending seamlessly into the vibrant greenery. In 1900, James Franklin Devendorf and Frank Powers from San Francisco purchased most of the land here with a vision to create a haven for intellectuals and free spirits. They soon attracted artists, writers, and poets like Robert Louis Stevenson (author of Treasure Island) and Jack London 📚🎨. Fun Little Facts ✨ Bing Crosby (a classic Hollywood icon) once hosted a winter golf pro-am tournament here called the “Clam Bake” 🏌️♂️. 🌟 Clint Eastwood (my ultimate crush!! 😍) served as mayor from 1986 to 1988. During his term, he added public restrooms near the beach and repealed a ban on eating ice cream in public places 🍦(only in America…). 💫 Houses here still have no numbered addresses—only names! Residents have to pick up their mail at the post office 📬. Must-Visit Spots 📸 La Bicyclette 🥐 – An absolutely gorgeous brunch spot. Kris Kringle of Carmel 🎄 – A Christmas decoration store where I found a Hansel and Gretel-themed ornament. The owner kindly pointed me to the actual candy house-inspired cottage in town. Hansel & Gretel 🍬 – A fairytale cottage named after the famous Brothers Grimm story. The owner still lives nearby and visits occasionally! Hog’s Breath Inn 🍔 – Once partly owned by Clint Eastwood. Try the Dirty Harry burger! Normandy Inn 🇫🇷 – A half-timbered French country-style inn draped in flowers—extremely photogenic. Carmel Music Box 🎶 – Filled with vintage music boxes. A true gem for collectors. Also worth visiting: The Tea Rose Collection, Tuck Box, and Porta Bella. Nearby Attractions Pfeiffer Beach – Perfect for dramatic coastal views. Bixby Creek Bridge – An iconic photo spot along Highway 1. #UrbanRomanticSpots #RecordOfRomanticLife #FairytaleTown #SFBayArea #USTravel #CarmelByTheSea #HiddenGems