What to Do In Carmel:
Over the years, Carmel has become a favorite getaway since it’s an easy drive for us, incredibly good restaurants and plenty of things that keep Elin entertained as well. Here are some old favorites we do every visit and some new ones we discovered on this trip.
1. Dinner—Le Bicyclette, so intimate and the food is beyond, Cultura for an impressive Mezcal selection and high end Mexican dishes, and our favorite Italian spot, La Balena.
2. Strolling/window shopping on the main street. I always make it a point to stop at Girl Boy Girl, Paloosh, Heaven Childrens Wear, Carmel Bay Company and of course Cottage of Sweets.
3. Monterey Bay Aquarium, always a fun one to visit with Elin.
4. Breakfast at Stationaery, good coffee, creative dishes and a contemporary vibe. Every time we go I pick up a new journal from Alissa Bell, she has the best line of notecards and beautifully designed notebooks.
5. Afternoon/sunset drinks at Mission Ranch (pictured below) owned by Clint Eastwood and a classic Carmel spot. Elin ran around with other kids, saying hi to the sheep and coming back for Shirley Temple sips while we sat back and soaked in the view.
6. Earthbound Farm Stand, a new spot we discovered this last trip and was as hit with Elin. There’s an organic cafe and market, garden tours, herb and berry gardens you can pick from, seasonal events (great for kids, make sure to check their calendar) and various cooking classes.
7. An obvious one but make sure to grab a hot drink and bundle up for a walk on Carmel beach, it’s so stunning and peaceful, especially in the mornings. Carmel Valley Roasting Co is just a few blocks up, which is usually where we pit stop before a morning stroll.