The best kept secret in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-By-The-Sea is one of those idyllic towns that is loved the whole world over. There is no denying its charm, the blissful lifestyle it offers, and its spectacular beach. Residents take full advantage of the gently curving walk underneath tipsy tree branches. A walk on Scenic Drive before or after breakfast has benefits similar to those of a sunrise yoga class (although can you imagine sunrise yoga on this beach); the ideal way to begin the day in the face of beauty, to the beat of the waves, to the scent of firs and ocean air. Neighbors hold coffee mugs as they watch their dogs run free in the sand. Sunny afternoons are prime for school children, who, along with the dogs, never tire of playtime at the water’s edge. Evening is a popular time for surfers, who strap on their wetsuits to catch the last rays of sun, or perhaps for a brisk walk before or after dinner. If I lived in Carmel, I would join those who dig their toes in the sand to watch the phosphorescent sunsets; the oranges, pinks, and yellows setting the whole town aglow. The surfers trickle back up to Scenic Drive, and the dogs, sandy and salty, return home to rest so that they can be up for sunrise.

Sunset surfing

Dogs rule in Carmel, from sunrise to sunset

Wind-beaten trees in the shadows

Sunset lovers

Afternoon walks

At the point

Early evening

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Morning walks

Warm colors are abundant

Succulents are also abundant.

Spectacular sunsets

Final dog walk of the evening

Last surf

Buona notte Carmel