The Carmel Mission grounds, museum, and gift shop are open to the public for visits Wednesday through Sunday. Sometimes red-throated Anna's hummingbirds can be seen fluttering about the grounds. In keeping with the mission's purpose of serenity, the garden in the Munrás Courtyard is planted with lush flowers and leafy palm trees. In one of the mission's historic buildings, visitors can see where Father Junipero Serra lived. The Carmel Mission Museum includes several different collections that feature treasured artifacts and present the monument's history. Displayed throughout the Basilica are many fine pieces of Spanish Colonial liturgical art. Equally impressive are the sanctuary's tunnel-vaulted ceiling and 30-foot-tall gilded reredos behind the altar. Spend some time admiring the lovely exterior with its garden courtyard and Moorish-style domed bell tower. Unlike most Spanish mission churches, which are unadorned, the Carmel Mission Basilica has a highly decorative interior. Renovations approximate the original building. The centerpiece of the Carmel Mission is the Basilica, which was completed in 1797 and is listed as a National Historic Landmark. Founded in 1770 by Father Junipero Serra of Spain, the Carmel Mission is still an active parish church. The San Carlos Borroméo de Carmelo Mission is one of the most interesting and beautiful Spanish mission sites in California. Carmel Mission Carmel Mission | Photo Copyright: Lisa Alexander Location: Scenic Road, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CaliforniaĢ. The trail winds up at Carmel River State Beach, although many people only walk a short portion of the path to take advantage of the ocean overlooks or watch the sunset. Multiple stairways lead between the beach and the path. Running parallel to the beach, the 3.5-mile Scenic Bluff Path affords vistas of Carmel Bay and the coastline from Point Lobos to Pebble Beach. Instead, it is an excellent place for nature walks, sunbathing, and playing volleyball or frisbee. You should be aware that this is not a beach for swimming (rip currents, rogue waves, and lack of lifeguard supervision make it dangerous). Monterey Cypress trees punctuate the shoreline, which has its own distinctive look that is much different from the nearby beaches in Santa Cruz. This beach has a secluded feel, with its pristine shoreline, rocky bluffs along the coastline, and crashing Pacific waves. Carmel Beach and Ocean Avenue Carmel Beach | Photo Copyright: Lisa AlexanderĬurving around a cove of Carmel Bay, this magnificent stretch of soft white sand is one of the most beautiful beaches in California. Discover the best places to visit in this enchanting resort town on California's Central Coast with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Carmel.ġ. If you're spending several days in Carmel, then you should also explore the attractions of nearby Monterey, just four miles away, or take a drive along Highway One through Big Sur to admire the dramatic ocean views.Ĭarmel is a favorite day trip from San Francisco, especially for romantic getaways and seaside vacations. The quaint accommodations tend to have a cozy style, ideal for chilly evenings when the summertime fog rolls in. You can choose from upscale bed-and-breakfasts, historic inns, and luxury hotels. After strolling for a while, you'll stumble upon charming hidden passageways and quiet courtyards that conceal outdoor cafés and small boutiques.īesides its adorable downtown and gorgeous sandy beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its romantic ambience and lodgings. Heading in any direction leads to the discovery of artisan shops, one-of-a-kind locally owned stores, world-class art galleries, and inviting restaurants. It's a delight to wander around the town at leisure. The tree-shaded streets are lined with handsome Spanish-style buildings, elegant Victorian homes, and little storybook cottages. Far removed from the real world, this coastal village has the appearance of a fantasy European hamlet. Visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea feels like stepping into a fairy-tale wonderland. Author Lisa Alexander is originally from the San Francisco Bay Area and has explored much of California, including Carmel.
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