Carmel Holidays

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Your Carmel Holiday

Book a customised Carmel holiday package that includes only the things you need and nothing you don't. Good for markets, shopping and culture, think about staying in the neighbourhood of Downtown Monterey. A trip to Carmel is an excellent opportunity to do a bit of sightseeing. Be sure to look around well-known attractions like Monterey Bay Aquarium, Fishermans Wharf and Carmel Beach. Whoever you're heading away with and whatever your bank balance, your ultimate Carmel holiday is just clicks away with Expedia.

Our guide on where to stay in Carmel

Find the best Carmel areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Carmel
A coastal residential area with houses along the shoreline, rocky cliffs, and dense trees in the background.

Downtown Carmel

1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

If you're spending some time in Downtown Carmel, Carmel Plaza and The Doud Arcade are top sights worth seeing.

A beach with waves, a clear sky, and a tree on the right.

Golden Rectangle

1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

While visiting Golden Rectangle, you might make a stop by sights like Carmel Beach and Carmel Plaza.

A crowded beach with people and dogs near the water.

Northeast Carmel

While Northeast Carmel isn't home to many top sights, Carmel Beach and Carmel Plaza are some notable places to visit nearby.

A traditional half-timbered building with ivy-covered trees and a red flower border.

Northwest Carmel

If you're spending some time in Northwest Carmel, Carmel Beach and Carmel Plaza are top sights worth seeing.

A rustic wooden building with a staircase, surrounded by tall pine trees.

Southeast Carmel

While visiting Southeast Carmel, you might make a stop by sights like Forest Theater Guild and Mission Trail Nature Preserve.

Carmel Holiday

Things to do in and around Carmel

Carmel, California, is a picturesque destination perfect for outdoor and beach vacations. Visitors can enjoy activities like golfing at renowned courses, exploring scenic rock pools, and participating in day surf camps. The town also offers school tours and is conveniently located near charming cafés, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and adventure.

Shopping

Carmel Plaza offers a delightful shopping experience with a mix of boutiques and eateries in a charming atmosphere. The Barnyard also features unique shops and dining options, perfect for families. If you're up for a drive, The Doud Arcade provides a vibrant shopping scene with various entertainment choices.

Recreation

At Pebble Beach Golf Links, enjoy world-class golfing amidst breathtaking coastal scenery. Poppy Hills Golf Course offers a serene outdoor setting for a round of golf surrounded by lush landscapes. For cultural enrichment, the Sunset Center provides an intimate theatre experience, showcasing diverse performances perfect for families and couples alike.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, located 14.5km from Carmel. For family fun, venture to the Monterey Mirror Maze & Lazer Challenge, 6.4km away, or enjoy the scenic outdoors at Waterfront, just 4.8km from town.

Nightlife

Carmel's nightlife offers a charming blend of intimate wine bars and cozy pubs. Visit local favourites like The Cypress Inn for live jazz or head to the Sunset Center for engaging performances. The atmosphere is relaxed, with art galleries and boutique shops often open late to enhance your evening stroll.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in and around Carmel

Carmel, California, offers a delightful blend of outdoor and beach experiences, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Visitors can explore beautiful spots such as Carmel Beach, the Carmel Reserve, and Mount Carmel, while also enjoying the cultural charm of the local school. With stunning scenery and opportunities for adventure, Carmel is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and exploration in a picturesque setting.

  • Carmel Beach: Experience the stunning beauty of Carmel Beach, where golden sands meet the Pacific Ocean. Perfect for sunbathing, leisurely walks, or simply soaking in the beach vibes, this picturesque spot offers breathtaking sunsets and a tranquil atmosphere.
  • Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: Just 4.8km from Carmel, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a haven for nature lovers. Marvel at its dramatic coastal scenery, diverse wildlife, and scenic hiking trails that reveal stunning ocean views and unique geological formations.
  • Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Course: Nestled within Carmel, this golf course offers a friendly atmosphere and breathtaking views. Enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful landscapes, ideal for both seasoned players and beginners looking to improve their skills.

Best time to go to Carmel

The best time to visit Carmel is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April53.4°F (11.9°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May55.2°F (12.9°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June58.3°F (14.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
July60.1°F (15.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August61.2°F (16.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September61.9°F (16.6°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
October60.1°F (15.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
November55.9°F (13.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
December52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Carmel

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Carmel.
  • Consider traveling to Carmel during the low season (March and December to January) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Carmel Beach Holiday

If you're desperate to escape hectic city life, a Carmel holiday is just the ticket. There's no lack of beautiful views to take in during a trip to Carmel. Water lovers may already be familiar with Carmel Beach (0.80 kilometres away) and will probably prefer to stay close by. But don't worry if the closest accommodation options are full. A lot of visitors to the area also take advantage of Carmel holiday packages close to Carmel River State Beach and Garrapata Beach.

Things You Should Know About Carmel

  • Spend your getaway by the water and let the stresses of daily life drift away with the sea breeze. Book one of our Carmel beach hotels and discover beachside bliss.
  • Our private holiday homes, including Carmel Beach Hotel and Hyatt Holiday Club At Highlands Inn, are a hit with travellers of all types. Consider the facilities and get ready for your holiday in Carmel!
  • Our Carmel things to do page is a terrific place to check for activities around here. Of course, there's nothing like a bit of local knowledge. With a population of 4,400 inches Carmel, we're sure you'll meet a few people willing to pass on some tips.
  • Carmel holiday deals are a great way to save on fun experiences. Some ideas, including Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Course, Carmel Plaza and Carmel Mission Basilica, should be at the top of your to-do list.

Carmel Essential Information

Language
English
Currency
U.S dollars
Closest Airport
Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY)
Population
4,400
Max Temp Winter
13ºC
Max Temp Summer
21ºC
Top Sights
Monterey Bay Aquarium, Carmel Beach and Asilomar State Beach

Our pick of the best Carmel Hotel Deals

Carmel Mission Inn

Carmel Mission Inn

3665 Rio Rd Carmel CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
AU$307
13 Sept - 14 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,861 reviews)
"The hotel was clean and comfortable, although a bit noisy. It was not convenient to get in and out of the parking lot, although being so close to Carmel is great. The staff was very helpful, and we enjoyed our stay."

Reviewed on 20 Aug 2026

Carmel Mission Inn
Hyatt Carmel Highlands

Hyatt Carmel Highlands

120 Highland Dr Carmel CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
AU$687
31 Aug - 1 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very good! (1,001 reviews)
"Super nice place. Very quiet and well maintained. We loved our stay. Our balcony looked over the ocean and we had a kitchen which worked out great for us. Really a special experience."

Reviewed on 19 Aug 2026

Hyatt Carmel Highlands
Carmel Bay View Inn

Carmel Bay View Inn

Junipero Street Between 5th And 6th St Carmel CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
AU$316
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Carmel Bay View Inn
See all 499 properties in Carmel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Carmel attractions

A sandy beach with waves crashing onto the shore, a rocky outcrop, and a person walking.

Carmel Beach

9.6/10 (5,436 reviews)
Carmel Beach captivates with pristine white sands and cypress-framed Pacific views. Arrive for sunset when golden light transforms the shoreline into California's most magical coastal moment.
See properties
A golf course with sand bunkers, a flagstick, and a white golf cart.

Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Course

9.0/10 (367 reviews)
Pete Dye's only Northern California masterpiece offers dramatic elevation changes and panoramic vineyard views. Tee off alongside wildlife while navigating tactical challenges on this acclaimed 18-hole course.
See properties
An ornate church interior with a crucifix, altar, and religious paintings.

Carmel Mission Basilica

9.0/10 (720 reviews)
Founded in 1771, Carmel Mission houses Saint Junípero Serra's final resting place and showcases stunning Spanish colonial architecture. Explore its painted ceilings and serene gardens that transport you to California's early days.
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A pedestrian mall with shops and outdoor seating areas.

Carmel Plaza

9.4/10 (960 reviews)
This open-air shopping haven combines upscale boutiques with distinctive restaurants in city centre Carmel-by-the-Sea. Enjoy wine tasting rooms and beautifully landscaped courtyards.
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A bridge spanning a deep gorge with a coastal view.

Bixby Bridge

9.4/10 (1,551 reviews)
This iconic concrete arch spans dramatically above the Pacific, showcasing engineering brilliance against Big Sur's rugged coastline. Visit at sunrise for ethereal, golden-lit photos.
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A rocky coastline with vibrant vegetation and clear blue water.
Photo by Kirk & Lynn

Garrapata State Park

9.2/10 (156 reviews)
Dramatic cliffs meet redwood-filled canyons at this rugged stretch of Big Sur coastline. Hike the Soberanes Canyon Trail for an intimate encounter with California's diverse ecosystems.
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An outdoor seating area with tables and chairs, surrounded by trees and a building with a white facade.

Folktale Winery and Vineyards

8.6/10 (37 reviews)
This French-style château winery offers sustainably farmed vineyards and bright, acidic wines that showcase Carmel Valley's terroir. Enjoy tastings in the Wine Garden while live music enhances your sensory experience.
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Point Lobos Ranch

8.6/10 (8 reviews)
Point Lobos Ranch displays California's coastal splendour with dramatic cliffs and abundant marine wildlife. Explore trails where sea lions bask and grey whales migrate past this crown jewel of state parks.
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What to do in Carmel

Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour

Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour

AU$107
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise

AU$93
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Catamaran Sailing Cruise in Monterey

Catamaran Sailing Cruise in Monterey

AU$93
per adult
Catamaran Sailing Cruise in Monterey
See all activities in Carmel

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Carmel holiday package cost?
Offering great value package deals on Expedia, you'll be surprised at how little a holiday to Carmel costs! Expedia's packages simplify travel planning and maximise your savings.
What are the cheapest months to go to Carmel?
You're likely to find reduced prices and greater availability in January, February and November. Take a look at our cheap Carmel holiday packages and you could get some excellent off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Carmel?
Dedicate at least 2 days for your Carmel holiday in order to discover all that makes this destination unique. Explore key neighbourhoods, including Downtown Monterey and Monterey Vista. Then tick off top attractions such as Folktale Winery and Vineyards and Point Lobos Ranch. With a good itinerary, you'll be kept busy with room for some rest and relaxation too. Want to venture outside of Carmel? Consider fitting in a day trip or two.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Carmel?
Whether you're looking to explore key attractions such as Carmel Beach and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve on your Carmel holiday, or coming for its excellent coastal beaches, surfing and culture, there's something for everyone here. With so much to experience, you'll quickly learn why so many people think Carmel is a good holiday destination.
How to find the best Carmel package deals?
Begin your search for a Carmel package deal by entering your destination and preferred travel dates under our "Packages" tab. Then select a few filters, like "Guest rating" and "Property type," to fine-tune the results to your exact needs. You can also sort by "Package discount" and browse offers that come with huge savings. If you don't find the ideal Carmel package deal straight away, simply play around with your dates and search again. Remember that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Carmel adventure off to a flying start.
Is it cheaper to book a Carmel holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could land you considerable savings when compared to booking hotels and flights individually. Better still, you can tailor your Carmel trip to match your exact needs. Choose your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Browse our bundle deals and find out how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Carmel?
If you're considering a spontaneous Carmel adventure, browse our last-minute deals that can be booked up to a week before you go. Don't want to leave things to the last minute? You can score terrific deals on your hotels and flights by booking well in advance.
How to plan a trip to Carmel?
  1. Choose the perfect time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you like can all influence your decision on when to go to Carmel.
  2. Set a budget: Factor in costs like flights, food and transportation when calculating how much to save for your trip to Carmel. Then, choose a hotel that works with your budget, whether that's an affordable option or a high-end retreat.
  3. Decide how long to go away for: Now that you're up to speed on Carmel, you can figure out the ideal length of your holiday. Pull together a rough plan and give yourself enough time for all the things you want to do.
  4. Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in order, you can combine your car rental, flights, hotels and more into a personalised Carmel holiday package.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.