Nothing beats spending a warm day seaside listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean. As beaches reopen across the country, visitors are still instructed to adhere to social distance guidelines. With various things to do at and around Carmel Beach, there are still many opportunities to enjoy the beach and surrounding area while staying safe.
Get Active With Your Household
Planning a day full of activities is a great way to ensure that your family remains distanced from other beachgoers while making the most of your beach visit. Hidden around the cove of Carmel Bay, the white sandy shores of Carmel Beach offer a secluded yet breathtaking stretch of scenery for you and your family. Take a long walk along the shore, set up a spot to picnic or sunbathe, or bring a Frisbee to toss around.
If there are younger ones in your family (or those that are young at heart), make sure to bring along buckets, shovels, and other sand toys. Challenge your family to create a beautiful sandcastle and decorate it with shells collected on the beach.
Enjoy a Hike
The Monterey Peninsula is also known for its fantastic hiking trails along the coast, rivers, and lakes. For a more adventurous day outdoors, the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail gives hikers an up-close look at the breathtaking scenery of the coast. If your family is up to it, enjoy the sky-high views of the Carmel Valley at Toro Park or the Skyline nature trail at Jake Peaks Country Park for more experienced hikers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Carmel good for outdoor-focused vacations?
Absolutely! Carmel offers miles of uncrowded beaches, expansive hiking trails, open-air wine tasting, and outdoor dining-perfect for nature lovers.
How crowded are Carmel's beaches?
Carmel Beach stretches for a mile of white sand, offering plenty of space. Even on busy days, you can find peaceful spots along the shore.
What outdoor dining options exist in Carmel?
Most Carmel restaurants offer patio or courtyard seating. The village's mild climate makes outdoor dining comfortable year-round.
Are Carmel's hiking trails spacious?
Point Lobos and Big Sur trails offer ample room on even popular paths. Early mornings and weekdays provide the most solitude.
Does the Green Lantern Inn offer outdoor spaces?
Our cottages are nestled in gardens, and our property offers peaceful outdoor areas to relax between adventures.
Take the Scenic Route
Looking for other beaches to visit and sites to see while in Carmel-by-the-Sea? Take your family on a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Route 1 and fit in a game of "I Spy." Make sure to pack a lunch basket and stop for a picnic in Big Sur State Park or for a moment of wildlife viewing at Point Lobos State Reserve.
Relax at Carmel Green Lantern Inn after a fun-filled, safe day at the beach and exploring the beautiful outdoors. Our charming, peaceful inn is tucked away and offers Family Suites, giving your family plenty of space to relax and recharge together. Book your stay with us today!
