Named The Most Beautiful Small Town In Northern California, Take A Closer Look At Carmel-by-the Sea
By Lysa Allman-Baldwin|Published July 18, 2022
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Lysa Allman-Baldwin
Author
For over 25 years Lysa Allman-Baldwin has fed her wanderlust for “everything the world has to offer” by passionately writing travel and feature articles for numerous global print and online publications. A Digital Nomad, Lysa is also a professional speaker, workshop facilitator, and author.
There’s a danger in picking a favorite anything, as someone or something is always going to be left out. But then again, the one that takes the top spot is always elated! That’s the case with Carmel-by-the-Sea, as it’s the only place in California that made Condé Nast Traveler’s “27 most beautiful towns in America” list for 2022. Come along as we explore this picturesque town and enjoy all that it has to offer.
Situated along California’s beautiful Pacific Ocean coastline, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a spectacular Northern California gem.
Its boutique size—just one incorporated square-mile within the larger Monterey County boundaries with only 3,789 full-time residents—is part of its charm and what has attracted people here for decades.
Although its full name is Carmel-by-the-Sea, it is commonly called just “Carmel.”
Its history dates back to the early-1700s when the San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo Mission was founded by one of several Spanish Franciscan monks who eventually had 21 missions built throughout California. It remains today as a National Historic Landmark Basilica Church, school, and museum.
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There are numerous historic structures dotted throughout Carmel, each possessing its own unique character and story.
The Harrison Memorial Library was designed by well-known architect Bernard Maybeck. Its adobe façade and red tile roof are among its most notable features. Inside, the library is a wonderful resource for literary works and community-based programs.
Accommodation options in Carmel-by-the-Sea are plentiful, encompassing everything from boutique hotels to charming bed and breakfast inns, and swanky resorts.
Built back in 1929, L’Auberge Carmel exudes European-style and elegance at every turn. This historic property encompasses 20 spectacular guest rooms, as well as a Forbes Five-Star restaurant – Aubergine.
Artistic expression plays a major role in the cultural landscape here. This is evidenced by the over 100 art galleries gracing the picturesque streets.
Places like Dawson Cole Fine Art (pictured above) are reflections of the incredible talent and unique expressions of the many artisans who live and work in town as well as in the surrounding Monterey County area.
One of the biggest draws to Carmel-by-the-Sea is the gastronomic scene.
Many of the restaurants in town are consistently rated among the most well-known A-List publications in the country. La Bicyclette, for example, focuses on traditional yet creative European Country Cuisine using only the freshest local ingredients.
Another charming aspect about Carmel-by-the-Sea is its very unique "no street addresses" thing. There is a central post office, but neither homes nor businesses have a specific address. If you ask where something is located, the answer will be something along the lines of, "Go down two blocks to the bank on the southwest corner, turn left, go up three houses to the beautiful peach cottage with the flowers in front, then hang a right."
This is just the beginning of the beauty and charm that draws you into Carmel-by-the-Sea, one of the most beautiful towns in America.
Have you been to Carmel-by-the-Sea? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experience there.
If you’re looking for something sweet while in town, be sure to stop by the Cottage of Sweets.
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