California's Cool, Overlooked Coastal City Offers A Pristine Beach Getaway

While California's dazzling coast is famous for the beaches that draw visitors from far and wide, the overlooked communities that call these spots home are well worth visiting as well. From this sandy gem with fresh seafood to a New England-style town with redwoods and cottages, the settlements along California's 840-mile-long shoreline are often ideal places to grab a meal, savor a drink, or just wander along the beachfront while soaking up the laid-back ambiance of it all. 

One such spot is Carmel-by-the-Sea. Situated on the central coast just south of the small city of Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its charming atmosphere, architectural gems, stands of Monterey cypress, and idyllic local beach. Overlooking the tranquil waters of Carmel Bay, this picturesque ocean enclave is also home to a number of top-tier restaurants, bars, cafes, and accommodations, making it the perfect weekend getaway or stop off on a road trip along the greater California coast.

Originally founded as a Spanish mission in 1771, Carmel-by-the-Sea wasn't incorporated until 1916. Its founders envisioned it as a retreat dedicated to art and nature, and today these bohemian roots are still visible in the town's fairy tale cottages, numerous boutiques, and more than 50 galleries — which are great for popping in and browsing while wandering the village's enchanting streets. Carmel also has some quirks that make it such a unique destination: There are no streetlights, street addresses, or chain restaurants, and high-heeled shoes are banned without a permit.

It should come as no surprise that — given its access to fresh produce, local seafood, and some of the best vineyards in the country — Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a terrific place to eat and drink. The town boasts at least 60 restaurants — more per capita than any other U.S. city — as well as 18 wine tasting rooms. Sample some European bistro fare at La Bicyclette, or dive into elevated comfort food classics at Nora's, which also features a dog-friendly patio. For wine, you can't go wrong with De Tierra Vineyards or The Annex Wine Bar, though to get the best idea of what grapes are on offer, jump on a tasting tour with Carmel Wine and Wandering.

Carmel-by-the-Sea made headlines in the mid-1980s when local resident and movie star Clint Eastwood was elected mayor. While he only served for two years, he has continued to play a large part in the community. In 1986, he purchased the historic Mission Ranch in order to save it from development, and today it's one of the town's premier hotels, with 31 rooms occupying 10 buildings on the 22-acre property. Other quality accommodations include Carmel Green Lantern Inn, L'Auberge Carmel, and Le Petit Pali at 8th Avenue.

One of the things that makes Carmel-by-the-Sea such an intoxicating destination is the ocean it sits beside. After all, it's in the name, and Carmel Beach is one of the nicest on the central coast — a mile-long stretch of soft, white sand bordered by groves of Monterey cypress trees. The beach is also home to a scenic path that winds along the sand and up onto the bluff overlooking the region, offering panoramic views of Pebble Beach to the north and Point Lobos to the south.

Carmel Beach is dog-friendly, which means pups are allowed to run along the sand and frolic in the surf leash-free. (Just make sure to pick up after them.) It also has great surfing, though due to the strong currents and tough conditions, waves are best tackled by experienced board riders. In addition, Carmel Beach allows fires, but only with user-provided propane devices. Burning driftwood or any kind of bonfire is prohibited.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is just under a two-hour drive south from San Francisco International Airport. While you're in Carmel, be sure to check out nearby Point Lobos, the "crown jewel of the California State Park system."