Explore Carmel-by-the-Sea

One of the best ways to see Carmel is on foot. You will discover over 60 hidden courtyards where many specialty shops and cafes are found. You will also find the special charms of Carmel-by-the-Sea as you discover secret pathways, award-winning gardens, and enchanting fairy tale cottages ... the homes, haunts, and history of famous artists, writers, and movie stars. Stroll along the white-sand beach. Or picnic on the bluff tops over looking Carmel Beach and the Pebble Beach golf courses and coastline.

Links to help you plan your visit

• Camel-by-the-Sea Calendar of Events.

• Things to do in Carmel Village and the surrounding area.

• Menu of Restaurants.

• Cultural Activities.

About Culture in Carmel

Carmel’s primary social and cultural facilities are the Sunset Community and Cultural Center, the Harrison Memorial Library, the Golden Bough Playhouse and the Outdoor Forest Theatre.

The Sunset Center is the forum or gathering place of Carmel and houses a wide variety of cultural events, including the world famous Carmel Bach Festival and the Monterey County Symphony. It is also home of Dance Kids and Carmel Performing Arts Festival, all offering world-renowned contemporary performers.

Founded in 1901, the City-owned Forest Theatre is truly an enchanted location. Trees surround stage and audience, with two large fire pits on either side, Point Lobos beckons in the distance, the mighty Pacific crashing against the shore. A summertime host to various community festivals, every fall this magnificent backdrop sets the stage for the Carmel Shakespeare Festival.

Established in 1907 as an Arts & Crafts Clubhouse, the Golden Bough Playhouse has a rich and exciting history. The first Golden Bough Playhouse, originally located on Ocean Avenue, burned down in 1935 during a production of “By Candlelight”. Relocated and rebuilt, the second facility burned again during a production of—you guessed it, “By Candlelight”. Rebuilt in 1950, the present building has stood the test of time. Live performances are also offered at the Indoor Forest Theatre and the Cherry Foundation, the former home of inventor Carl Cherry.