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This is the third in the series “Travel Destinations in the USA for Retired People” This destination starts with the letter ‘C’. This is Carmel by the Sea in Monterey County, California.
Carmel By The Sea is an idyllic small city nestled near the Pacific Ocean in Monterey County, California. If you are in the Bay Area, take a drive to Carmel, you won’t regret it.
Throughout the year this little town and seaside have a fairy tale setting, right from the charming old-world houses to the quiet beaches. Not many people outside of Northern California know about this beautiful weekend getaway.
Many of the hotels have spas, pools and other facilities to relax at. You can find a hotel near the beach so that you can just roll over to the beach in the morning or linger over the dazzling sunsets the Pacific is known for.
Shopping at the boutique stores on Ocean Avenue is a popular hobby. The shops have some exclusive decorative items that you will love. The clothes boutiques are something every woman must at least window-shop! Need a break from all that shopping? The locally-owned restaurants vary from upscale to casual. Stroll around and drop in at a restaurant you favor and rest those tired feet. And while you are there do try the seafood since you are so close to the sea!
The 17-Mile Drive and Pebble Beach
One of my favorite things to do is the 17-Mile Drive. Pay a toll and cruise along the beautiful coastline. Do get a map at the entrance and stop at the points marked on the map for awesome views from the cliffs.
Pebble Beach has some great small beaches and coves to spend a day in relative privacy. Enjoy the views from the cliffs looking down into the ocean. Pack a picnic lunch and make it a day.
Pubs and the Carmel Craft Brewing Company are great places to hang out in Pebble Beach. There’s something for everyone to enjoy – old and young! Moreover if you spend more than $35 at a restaurant at Pebble Beach, you can get a waiver of the initial toll (approx. $11)
Did I forget to mention the golf courses in 17 Mile Drive? Golfers will find the golf courses here top class. This area is a golfer’s paradise. For instance, Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spanish Bay Boardwalk and The Lone Cypress are iconic spots in this area.
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Visit the Carmel Mission Basilica to get a taste of the unique architecture dating back to the 18th century. There’s a museum that will give you an idea of the history of this region.
Outdoor Activities
Hiking, cycling, snorkelling, and diving are also activities for the adventurous here. One of my favorite is walking on the soft white sand and lying on a beach looking at the blue sky. As a result, I end up gazing at the sky till the stars come out…
Do remember that the sea can get rough at times, always keep an eye out for high surf and wave warnings and stay safe.
Stay safe and enjoy your retired life!
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Can you decide whether this place is eerie or stunning? – Read more here.
That is such a beautiful sunset. This looks like an interesting place to visit.
Absolutely beautiful sunset & location. 🙂
It’s a gorgeous place, really. Thanks for reading!