Carmel Beach (City Park)

Description:

• Carmel Beach is a picture perfect stretch of sugar-white sand and turquoise water set against a backdrop of cypress and pine trees with the emerald fairways of Pebble Beach visible in the distance. If you walk to the north end of the beach, you will actually arrive at the 9th hole of Pebble Beach and can uncover stray golf balls. The air is laden with the scent of pine and salty spray. Dogs are allowed to run free (off leash) and coexist in harmony with beach goers. Sunsets are dramatic but usually require a sweater. Once dusk turns to night, bonfires twinkle on the southern portion of the beach. Parking can be hard to find – if no spaces are available in the main parking area on Ocean or along Scenic Road, try San Antonio one street inland and find a walkway that cuts through the oceanfront estates. Public bathrooms and showers are located up the sandy hill at the end of Ocean Ave. The water is frigid, and the riptides can be treacherous, so bathing/swimming is a rare sight but surfers often crowd the lineup.
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