The Central Coast is a place for living. The Getaway’s ideal location on Ocean Avenue puts you in the middle of downtown with easy access to explore the surrounding area. Immerse yourself in the beautiful landscape of the coast or indulge in retail therapy and excellent eats in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea. Whether you want to drop some serious cash or none at all, soak up the Carmel scene with our top picks.
Known for its large white sand beach, Carmel City Beach is only steps from The Getaway. The beach offers a wide space for activities to satisfy every type of traveler, from hiking to kite flying, sunbathing to shell seeking, and beach bonfires to playing a game of fetch in the sand with your dog.
Only minutes from The Getaway, Carmel River Beach has all the makings for a fun day on the sand, without all the foot traffic. This 1-mile long pet-friendly beach also attracts visitors who like to explore the adjacent lagoon with endless photo ops.
Considered the “crown jewel” of the California park system, Point Lobos has family-friendly hiking trails, tidal pools, and exceptional views of the rugged coast. Spot pelicans, birds of prey, and a variety of marine mammals on the Cypress Grove Loop and Bird Island Trail.
Located seven miles south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Garrapata State Beach is proud of its unspoiled vibes. Visitors can explore the spectacular shoreline and if lucky, can spot migratory whales off the coast.
One of the most famous golf courses in the world, Pebble Beach Golf Links offers a wide array of options for golfers of every skill level. Rated the number one public golf course in America, this unique and iconic course offers breathtaking views along with 18-holes of challenges.
The famed driving tour in Pebble Beach takes you along a picturesque stretch of coastline as you weave through forests, beaches, and golf cart thruways. Explore seal habitats, the Lone Cypress, and the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links from the seat of your car.
The leading education, research, and conservation aquarium in Monterey offers an immersive experience through engaging programming. The exhibits are superb, with a variety of sea life including electric jellyfish, otters, penguins, sea turtles, and a touch pool.
Nestled in the heart of downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Plaza is home to one-of-a-kind fashion finds and specialty national brands, distinctive restaurants, gourmet shops, wine tasting rooms, wellness studios, and more— in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.
Princess Monterey Whale Watching offers exciting excursions off the Monterey coast to witness Blue, Humpback, Orcas, and Gray whales in their natural habitat. The year-round narrated whale watching tour is led by biologists and naturalists, ensuring it is as educational as it is exciting.
Carmel favorite: MGFA is a private fine art advisory service, assisting in the procurement and placement or art for commercial and residential applications.
One-of-a-kind boutiques, wine tasting rooms, salons, wellness studios, and eateries make up the ultra chic Carmel Plaza nestled along Ocean Drive and Mission Street. Relax between browsing the shops in the pet-friendly open-air courtyard, complete with cozy seating areas, outdoor firepits, gardens, and an annual Summer Live Music Series.
The beautiful stretch of coast south of Carmel-by-the-Sea is a natural wonderland. From Carmel, take Highway 1 south and make frequent stops at the vista points along the way for glimpses of towering bridges, seaside cliffs, waterfalls, and rocky inlets.
By land or by sea, explore the Monterey Peninsula (while getting in a killer workout) with Adventures by the Sea. The recreational company rents out kayaks, paddleboards, electric bikes, and four wheel surreys, with optional guided tours available.
Kick it into high gear with a retro electric bike rental from Mad Dogs & Englishmen. Traverse the Scenic Drive in Carmel, 17 Mile Drive in Pebble Beach, or Point Lobos trails from their downtown shop, only steps from The Getaway.
From a 1965 Ford Shelby Cobra to a 1938 Rolls-Royce Phantom III, take to the road with a classic car rental. Let Monterey Touring Vehicles transform your Big Sur or 17-Mile Drive tour into something truly special with their vast collection of vintage, luxury, and exotic classic cars.
Have that sweet tooth? Dutch Door Donuts sets the bar very high and our business will be built on quality, getting as close to 100% organic as possible, featuring local businesses & farmers, and taking all the feedback to heart so we can serve you the BEST DONUTS & COFFEE on the Coast.
Friendly ambiance, live entertainment, and spectacular service makes this charming space one of Carmel’s most beloved places to grab a bite.
Carmel-by-the-Sea calls for enjoying your libations on a rooftop under the sun or stars. After a meal of authentic pizza, housemade pasta, and Italian-Asian fusion sushi at Vesuvio, head upstairs to the Starlight Rooftop Lounge where you’ll walk out to a buzzing rooftop with firepits, music, and friendly bartenders.
Exploring the flavors of Oaxaca using the bounty of California’s Central Coast, Cultura crafts an unforgettable dining experience. The upscale Mexican bistro serves innovative mains, including ample vegetarian and vegan options, complete with a full bar specializing in seasonal cocktails and traditional mezcal.
From Alsace Muenster to Cave Aged Gruyere, The Cheese Shop’s selection of gourmet cheeses from around the world makes for the perfect edible souvenir. Visit the long-running shop in Carmel Plaza for their esoteric wine selection and more savory treats.
